Visit Florida: Explore the Sunshine State’s Top 12 Wedding Venues

Claire Grulick
| October 4, 2023 | 7 Minute Read
Wedding couple in front of the Lightner Museum Lightner Museum

When it comes to choosing the perfect Florida wedding venue, the state offers a plethora of options, each with its unique charm and character. From historic estates to hidden gems, here are some of the best wedding venues in Florida that are sure to make your special day truly unforgettable.

1. Bella Cosa (Lake Whales):

Bella Cosa in Lake Wales is an example of a stunning Florida wedding venue. A 1920’s renovated mansion, this locale exudes an air of old-world charm and elegance. Gracefully placed by the water's edge, Bella Cosa is perfect for hosting both your ceremony and reception, offering an exquisite setting for approximately 200 guests. With the added convenience of 11 beautifully appointed rooms available for accommodations, your guests are guaranteed a comfortable and stylish stay at this estate wedding venue throughout the weekend.

2. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens (Miami):

Located in Miami, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a sought-after dreamy destination for romantic weddings. Boasting stunning gardens, elegant architecture and breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay, this historic estate provides an enchanting backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions. The venue is perfect for couples desiring a fairy-tale setting, and it's tailored for small weddings, with the venue fee including tickets for up to 25 people (excluding the couple and the Vizcaya wedding team).

3. Cross Creek Ranch (Dover):

Nestled in Dover, just east of Tampa, Cross Creek Ranch is an all-inclusive wedding venue with exclusive access to the Carriage House Stable, which offers seating for up to 150 guests while serving as a canvas for the perfect Florida wedding. The package also comes with a dedicated outdoor cocktail area adorned with lawn games and a private cottage serving as a sanctuary for preparations. A concealed estate, Cross Creek Ranch reveals a tranquil greenspace that transforms from an indoor reception locale into a spirited dance floor. The rustic brick-lined pathways enhance the charm of this setting. For those seeking a more refined affair, the French Country Inn, nestled within the property, is equipped to accommodate up to 75 cherished guests.

4. Bella Collina (Clermont):

Bella Collina unveils an incredible venue infused with the essence of Tuscany. This refined setting, located in a country club and spa, hosts stunning vistas overlooking a scenic golf course. The stone-covered outdoor ceremony area and spacious green lawn offer a breathtaking canvas for your vows. When it's time to celebrate, the indoor ceremony ballroom awaits, providing an elegant setting for receptions catering up to 20 guests, encapsulating the essence of intimate central Florida weddings.

5. Lightner Museum

Wedding ceremony inside Lightner Museum Lightner Museum

Located in the oldest city in the United States, the Lightner Museum offers a truly one-of-a-kind wedding experience. The ceremony grounds fuse old-world charm with contemporary celebrations for a unique ambiance. The focal point of the ceremony is the historic indoor pool of the former Alcazar Hotel that operated from 1889-1930. The Lightner Museum curates weddings both simple and grand, with the capacity to host small ceremonies and receptions for up to 40 guests or opulent affairs accommodating up to 225 guests. Those seeking a close, yet inclusive, experience can opt for the Intimate Wedding Package, designed for gatherings of 40 to 100 guests, offering an all-inclusive option to simplify wedding planning.

6. Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando):

For couples seeking a Florida wedding straight out of a fairy tale, the Walt Disney World Resort offers a variety of enchanting venues. One option takes center stage with a ceremony package designed for up to 100 guests within the idyllic East Plaza Garden of Cinderella's Castle at the heart of the Magic Kingdom. An added touch of magic includes heralding trumpeters accompanying the bride's entrance as she gracefully traverses Main Street USA in Cinderella's iconic glass coach. Another option takes place in Epcot’s World ShowPlace Pavillion. The site’s charm delivers a realm of limitless possibilities, accommodating a spectrum of themes, decor and other event elements. The expansive World ShowPlace Pavilion seamlessly accommodates gatherings of up to 2,000 guests, situating attendees right at the heart of Epcot's wonders.

7. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art (Sarasota):

Wedding setup in front of The Ringling

Combining historical and artistic allure, the Ringling Museum of Art effortlessly weaves together threads of history and artistry. The venue's waterfront views and galleries, which are designed for leisurely exploration, eliminate the need for excessive decor, as the property itself creates a breathtaking backdrop for the day. The museum caters to weddings of diverse sizes, accommodating guest lists ranging from 50 to 400 attendees.

8. Secret Gardens Miami (Miami Beach):

A hidden gem nestled in Miami Beach, Secret Gardens Miami lives up to its name, revealing a haven of seclusion and beauty. This venue is ideal for smaller ceremonies and receptions and showcases a tranquil garden setting graced by crystal-clear waters, gently cascading waterfalls and iconic palm trees. A garden wedding event can be perfectly achieved with the Complete package, accommodating up to 30 attendees, encompassing the bride, groom and children. Additionally, the Elopement package allows up to 10 guests, ensuring an intimate affair for those seeking an exclusive celebration (additional fees apply).

9. Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum (Key West):

Steeped in literary history, the Hemingway Home presents a one-of-a-kind wedding experience. With its lovely garden setting and an al fresco reception area, the venue evokes a whimsical ambiance that beautifully honors the famous author’s legacy. Whether you're envisioning an intimate gathering or a festivity hosting up to 100 guests, the Hemingway Home emerges as the ideal locale for your Key West wedding celebration.

10. Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum (Winter Park):

Wedding reception set up at Case Feliz Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum

This Spanish farmhouse-style home in Winter Park offers a charming and intimate Florida wedding venue. Designed by the acclaimed architect James Gamble Rogers II in 1932, this award-winning wedding venue features exquisitely restored interiors and scenic gardens, providing a delightful escape from the pressures of the modern world. The brick-lined courtyards and lush gardens create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking an elegant, yet secluded, celebration. Accommodating up to 120 guests outdoors and 80 guests indoors, Casa Feliz houses a flexible space to suit your preferences. 

11. Luxmore Grande Estate (Winter Springs):

Luxmore Grande Estate, the epitome of classic weddings, effortlessly embodies the grace of Southern charm seen in Florida weddings. Its timeless appeal is accentuated by the breathtaking outdoor areas, which showcase the opulence of a fountain both in the front and rear of the estate, rendering an idyllic backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions. The venue presents an array of tailored packages to suit your special day: an intimate elopement package accommodating up to eight guests, a "Minimony" package for gatherings of up to 30 guests, and a comprehensive wedding package designed to host celebrations of up to 200 guests.

12. Sunset Key Cottages (Key West):

Sunset cottages on the water in the Florida Keys Sunset Key Cottages

For a truly exclusive and romantic Florida Keys wedding venue, Sunset Key Cottages offers a private island experience accessible only by boat. With white sand beaches, turquoise waters and luxurious cottages, this location creates an intimate and breathtaking setting for your special day. The venue requires a minimum booking of 25 guests, while its capacity extends to accommodate up to 100 attendees. While the beachfront ceremony steals the limelight, Sunset Key Cottages also has a covered outdoor space, as well as an indoor event area for a backup plan. 

From historic mansions to hidden gardens, Florida's diverse wedding venues offer couples the chance to create their own unique love story. Whether you're dreaming of a fairy-tale wedding, cozy intimate celebration or something in between, these venues showcase the best of what the Sunshine State has to offer.

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