10 underrated Virginia wedding venues for saying ‘I Do’ in style

Weddings are more than just ceremonies; they are reflections of a couple’s unique love story. Whether you dream of an extravagant affair or an intimate gathering, the venue sets the stage for your special day. 

Virginia, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, offers a plethora of hidden gem venues perfect for couples seeking a truly unforgettable wedding experience. Here are 10 underrated wedding venues in Virginia that promise to make your big day one to remember.

Taubman Museum of Art

Location: 110 Salem Ave. SE Roanoke, VA 24011

The Taubman Museum of Art offers a modern and artsy backdrop for those looking to tie the knot. Given the massive size of the museum, there are several options for where ceremonies can be held, including the atrium, auditorium, theater, lobby, café, patio, and balcony. For a grand wedding with many guests, opt for the auditorium where guests will be greeted by the grand lighted staircase and soaring glass ceiling. 

If you want to have a reception afterward, Blue Ridge Catering is the museum’s exclusive caterer. It prides itself on building experiences around original, imaginative menus.

Photo courtesy of Jared Ladia Photography.

Bristol Train Station

Location: 101 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Bristol, VA 24201

Built in 1902, the Bristol Train Station is a charming, old-world place for couples looking to wed in a unique way. The station’s Kegley Hall, the historic waiting room, features cathedral ceilings, Gothic-style architecture, original flooring, and classy chandeliers. A spacious balcony overlooks the hall, which offers the perfect location for the bride to toss her bouquet. 

Unlike some venues, the station has an event manager on staff to help you navigate all that goes into planning a successful wedding. You also aren’t tied to an in-house caterer; feel free to select your own who will have use of the caterer’s kitchen. The station’s capacity is 400.

Hippodrome Theater

Location: 528 North 2nd St. Richmond, VA 23219

If you’re looking to put on a big show with your wedding, there’s no better place in Richmond than the Hippodrome Theater and the Speakeasy. The actual theater gives off swinging 1930s vibes due to its Art Deco influences, including high ceilings, a bright 8-foot-wide chandelier, a mahogany bar, and a herringbone pattern dance floor. It can accommodate up to 552 guests. 

The Speakeasy is a unique option for the reception because it pays homage to the 1920s Prohibition era. Luckily, it has a full-service bar. 

Photo courtesy of The Hippodrome Theater via Facebook.

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Location: 717 General Booth Blvd. Virginia Beach, VA 23451

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is the perfect location for an under-the-sea-style wedding. The blue water and colorful fish provide the perfect backdrop.

Several venue options are available depending on what you’re looking for, but the Sharks & Sea Turtles Package should be at the top of your list if you want an intimate ceremony. Accommodating 55, the package will leave your guests speechless as they experience the natural behaviors of the magnificent creatures. 

Don’t worry about making reception arrangements because the aquarium has an in-house caterer, The Gourmet Gang. 

American Horticultural Society’s River Farm

Location: 7931 East Boulevard Dr. Alexandria, VA 22308

There’s no better place for a floral outdoor wedding than the American Horticultural Society’s River Farm. Located on 25 acres of lush gardens and woods overlooking the Potomac River — originally part of George Washington’s farmlands — the venue lends itself perfectly to having a highly Instagrammable wedding. Depending on what you’re looking for, you can say your vows against the backdrop of the manor-style house, formal and informal gardens, or sprawling lawn. 

The spacious slate patio offers the ideal reception location. Overlooking the river, it features retractable side walls with Palladium windows, crystal chandeliers, perimeter bistro lights, and a billowy ceiling liner that come together to create an elegant outdoor setting. The main tent accommodates 160 seated guests at tables. 

St. Luke’s Historic Church & Museum

Location: 14477 Benn’s Church Blvd. Smithfield, VA 23430

Those looking for a traditional church wedding but with a little something extra should look at St. Luke’s Historic Church & Museum, Virginia’s oldest church. The ancient church building presents a simple elegance that is rich with history. After tying the knot in the church, celebrate your wedding with a reception on the expansive grounds.

The various packages available can be found here.

Photo courtesy of St. Luke’s Historic Church & Museum.

First Landing State Park

Location: 2500 Shore Dr. Virginia Beach, VA 23451

What’s more romantic than a beach wedding? Instead of getting married on a busy commercial strip of beach, opt for the natural oasis that is First Landing State Park instead.

The Chesapeake Bay Center and Beach are recommended for those who want a sunset beach wedding because it is set against the backdrop of 1.5 miles of Chesapeake Bay shoreline. The park offers various options, including the use of the courtyard, which features a gazebo and amphitheater, along with chairs and tables. The courtyard can accommodate up to 300 guests.

The prices can be found here.

Natural Bridge

Location: 15 Appledore Ln. Natural Bridge, VA 24578

Those looking to wed against the backdrop of a natural wonder should consider The Natural Bridge Hotel because of its proximity to the 30-story-high Natural Bridge. The limestone gorge that is carved out by Cedar Creek will leave your guests speechless. 

After the wedding, hold your reception in the 4,902-square-foot Jefferson Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 350 guests. Pre-function cocktails can be had on the adjacent covered patio. If you have out-of-town guests, they can conveniently stay at the hotel.

A. Smith Bowman Distillery

Location: 1 Bowman Dr. Fredericksburg, VA 22408

For couples who love their liquor, there’s no better place to get married than in a distillery. Luckily, A. Smith Bowman Distillery opens its facility for various events, including weddings. The building is full of character, charm, and modern amenities that make it an ideal location.

The capacity is 150 seated and 200 standing. To keep your guests occupied, request complimentary tours and bourbon tastings. The barrel warehouse serves as a backdrop for wedding photos.

Morven Park

Location: 17195 Southern Planter Ln. Leesburg, VA 20176

Morven Park is the ideal venue for couples looking for a chic ceremony. The historic buildings; gardens of magnolia, holly, and boxwood; forested ridgeline; horse pastures; and 100-year-old brick walls that are punctured by wrought-iron gates ooze sheer elegance.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.