Unique Wedding Venues in Philadelphia

In Philadelphia, despite its centuries-old history, can bring some obstacles when it comes to finding a truly unique wedding venue.

So, I’ve found them for you. Explore the most unique wedding venues in Philadelphia that are worth taking a tour of.

(See my favorite tented wedding venues in Philadelphia.)

American Swedish Historical Museum

South Philadelphia

Nestled on a historic 17th-century piece of land, this venue has the classic Philadelphia charm, but with the iconic staircase, vaulted ceiling, lush park, tented options, and original paintings too. Think art history and Cinderella, and then imagine even better than that. The American Swedish Historical Museum will take you back in time without losing the timeless feel.

• Indoor and outdoor ceremony options (tented option too!)
• Holds up to 200 guests
• Free parking
• Exclusive caterer
• Lush park
• Stunning architecture: vaulted ceilings, sweeping staircase, galleries, original furniture and textiles

Terrain Gardens at Devon Yards

45 minutes outside of Philadelphia

Opened in 2018, this venue is warm, a touch industrial and offers a wirework pavilion that serves as a perfect floral centerpiece that you can build archways with.

• Indoor and outdoor ceremony options
• Holds up to 140 guests
• Reclaimed barn wood floors
• Lush setting with flora year-round
• In-house catering with locally sourced ingredients
• BYOB — not limited to their options

Free Library on the Parkway

Downtown Philadelphia

Dance the night away under the towering city views of downtown Philadelphia. Or, stay warm and comfortable inside the elegant atmosphere of marble columns and impressive architecture. It all serves as a beautiful starting point for any wedding decor. 

• Indoor and outdoor ceremony options (can be tented too)
• Holds up to 250 guests
• Multiple rooms for a variety of events from the reception to dancing and even cocktail hour
• Sleek marble columns and a library for portraits
• Beaux-Arts architecture 

Elkins Estate

30 minutes outside of Philadelphia in Elkins Park

Designed by a distinguished French interior designer in 1898, you’ll feel transported to your very own French estate at Elkins Estate. Fall in love with the frescoed ceilings, stately marble columns, carved paneling, and sparkling crystal chandeliers — all accented by tasteful gold leafing. 

• Indoor and outdoor ceremony options
• Holds up to 300 guests
• 42-acre estate of rolling greenery
• Luxurious overnight accommodations for you and your guests
• Dressing room

Glen Foerd on the Delaware

30 minutes from downtown Philadelphia 

Impress history and art lovers with this mansion situated on the Delaware River. With timelessly furnished rooms and manicured grounds, you and your guests can be immersed in the elegant atmosphere of Glen Foerd. The best part? A complete art collection within the second-floor gallery, featuring works from masters like Monet!

• Indoor and outdoor ceremony options (can be tented too)
• Holds up to 300 guests
• Exclusive caterer
• 18 acres of riverfront property
• Dressing room

Water Works

Downtown Philadelphia

As the second municipal waterworks for the city, this 19th-century building overlooks the Schuylkill River and once provided water throughout the city. Now it serves as a striking historic landmark and unique wedding venue in Philadelphia. Combining its Neoclassical architecture and contemporary style, Water Works boasts lavish interiors and stretching city views.

• Indoor and outdoor ceremony options 
• Holds up to 400 guests
• Exclusive caterer
• Near the Philadelphia Museum of Art
• Ballroom and outdoor pavilion, original 19th-century architecture

Other Unique Wedding Venues in Philadelphia, PA & Nearby

• Cairnwood – mansion style
• Franklin’s view – tented, in the middle of the city
• Natirar – estate and garden style
• Oheka Castle – Huntington, NY “prized jewel” and historic hotel
• Switch house – brand new venue that just opened
• Hotel DuVillage – luxurious estate feel

Personalize your wedding experience

Still looking to connect with the right wedding photographer in Philadelphia? Learn more about me here, and follow my Instagram for more unique wedding inspiration.