Unique Minnesota Wedding Venues 

Unique Minnesota Wedding Venues 

 

As a Minnesota wedding photographer, I absolutely love exploring incredible spaces across the Twin Cities! I’ve created this collection of the best wedding venues in Minnesota to inspire you. From historic mansions to contemporary barns, each location offers something truly special. These unique venues provide endless opportunities for stunning wedding photography.

I’ve photographed weddings at many of these amazing spaces over the years. Consequently, I can tell you firsthand how magical each venue becomes on your wedding day! Whether you dream of an indoor celebration or an outdoor ceremony, Minnesota has it all. Every event space brings its own personality, ensuring you’ll find your ideal match.

Discovering your Unique Minnesota Wedding Venue

Searching for your ideal venue is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning! As your Minnesota wedding photographer, I understand how important this decision is. Each venue brings its own character and charm to your MN wedding photos. In fact, finding the right setting can transform your entire wedding vision into reality.

American Swedish Institute Weddings in Minneapolis, MN

2600 Park Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407

The American Swedish Institute is absolutely breathtaking for wedding photography in Minneapolis! Its historic Turnblad Mansion features gorgeous architectural details that photograph wonderfully. The contemporary Nelson Cultural Center offers a sleek contrast with clean lines. Indoor ceremony spaces feel intimate and romantic, while the courtyard transforms into pure magic at night. Slate and Stone Catering brings exceptional service to every wedding here. These two distinct spaces provide incredible versatility for your celebration. Couples can customize their day exactly how they envision it!

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM / American Swedish Institute Wedding Gallery 

Different spaces of the American Swedish institute Minnesota Wedding Venue in Minneapolis, top shows the Mansion and the bottom shoes the courtyard and details of the venue.

American Swedish Institute Minnesota Wedding Venue in Minneapolis


Bavaria Downs in Chaska, MN

2600 Park Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407

When I first photographed at Bavaria Downs, I couldn’t believe this European gem existed in Minnesota! So many couples are amazed when they discover this stunning estate. Rolling hills make the most romantic backdrop for outdoor wedding photos. The Edward Anne Estate combines historic elegance with luxurious contemporary amenities flawlessly.

Inside, the grand staircase and soaring ceilings offer dramatic photo opportunities throughout your day. Intricate woodwork and architectural details photograph exquisitely in natural light. The Grand Ballroom accommodates up to 250 guests with style and grace. This versatile space works wonderfully for both ceremonies and receptions, making planning easier!

Outside, expansive lawns and lovely gardens provide endless options for Minnesota wedding photos. Nature lovers especially appreciate how the venue blends sophistication with organic surroundings. Bavaria Downs remains an award-winning favorite among couples seeking elegance. The bridal suite and guest rooms add extra convenience for your wedding party.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM / Bavaria Downs Wedding Gallery

Front of the Mansion Bavaria Downs one of the best Minnesota wedding venues close to Minneapolis

Bavaria Downs Mansion, front of the building


Equestria West in Chaska, MN

3913 Bavaria Rd, Chaska, MN 55318

Equestria West quickly became one of my favorite new Minnesota wedding venues since opening! Bavaria Downs built something truly special with this charming sister venue. A contemporary building contrasts splendidly with the woodsy outdoor ceremony space nearby. The courtyard offers the most delightful setting for your cocktail hour celebrations.

This venue brings fresh energy to the Minnesota wedding photography scene! Bright and airy ambience inside makes ideal lighting conditions for stunning photos. Equestrian inspiration adds a unique character you won’t find elsewhere in Minnesota. Couples love having multiple ceremony options, from the spacious ballroom to the enchanting courtyard.

Natural surroundings at Equestria West rival anything at the Edward Anne Estate. Expect wedding photos showcasing Minnesota’s gorgeous landscape in every frame! With over 300 guests comfortably hosted, it’s excellent for larger celebrations. The sleek aesthetic appeals to couples seeking contemporary elegance with rustic touches.

Collage depicting different ceremony and reception spaces at newest Minnesota wedding venue Equestria West in Chaska


Modern Minnesota Wedding Venues with Natural Beauty

Woodland Glasshaus in Chaska, MN

3915 Bavaria Rd, Chaska, MN 55318, United States

Woodland Glasshaus represents the absolute newest trend in Minnesota wedding venues! Imagine a stunning glass tent offering an unforgettable outdoor experience with complete weather protection. Rolling hills and open sky views are simply breathtaking from every angle. While this venue operates seasonally, it makes every couple’s dream wedding come true! Natural light flooding through the glass makes magical conditions for wedding photography. Trees surrounding the space add romance and privacy to your celebration.


Machine Shop in Minneapolis, MN

300 2nd St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414

The Machine Shop holds a special place in my heart as a Minneapolis wedding photographer! This industrial space offers incredible natural light throughout the day. Its contemporary feel contrasts superbly with the building’s historic character and charm. The location near Stone Arch Bridge provides amazing photo opportunities before or after ceremonies.

Inside, spacious interiors work wonderfully for creative couples wanting a blank canvas. I love capturing weddings here because every corner offers something visually interesting! High ceilings and exposed elements bring that signature urban Minneapolis vibe everyone loves. Expect MN wedding photos feeling contemporary while honoring the building’s heritage.

WEBSITE / Machine Shop Wedding Gallery

 Industrial and ample space at the Machine Shop Wedding venue in Minneapolis


Como Zoo and Conservatory in St Paul, MN

1225 Estabrook Dr, St Paul, MN 55103

Como Conservatory brings lush greenery and vibrant colors to every Minnesota wedding celebration! This venue looks absolutely stunning all year round, regardless of the season. A variety of indoor and outdoor spaces gives couples incredible flexibility. Personally, the Sunken Garden particularly captures my photographer’s heart with its seasonal flower exhibitions.

You never have to worry about flowers when booking this gorgeous venue! Glass walls make the most delightful diffused light for photography. Wedding photos glow with natural radiance and vibrant color. Tropical plants provide an unexpected backdrop that feels nothing like typical Minnesota.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM / Como Zoo Wedding Gallery

Unique St Paul Minnesota Wedding venue the Sunken Garden is an indoor Conservatory at Como Zoo


Artistic and Historic Minnesota Wedding Venues

Minneapolis Institute of Art in Minneapolis, MN

2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404

The MIA remains one of my absolute favorite Minnesota wedding venues to photograph! Art-loving couples find endless inspiration throughout this incredible building. Its architecture alone provides dozens of unique backdrops for your wedding photography session. Every space means every photo captures something different and special.

Gallery halls bring dramatic settings you simply can’t find anywhere else. If you appreciate artistic environments and stunning architecture, this venue deserves your attention! Natural light streaming through certain galleries makes ethereal, museum-quality wedding photos. Your guests will remember the unique atmosphere throughout your celebration.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM


LakeWood Memorial Chapel in Minneapolis, MN  

3600 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55408

Lakewood Memorial Chapel remains one of Minnesota’s best-kept wedding venue secrets! Its architecture inside and out is absolutely unparalleled in the Twin Cities. Incredible gardens surrounding the chapel bloom exquisitely throughout the wedding season. The reflective pool adds a serene, artistic element to your outdoor wedding photos.

Inside, the chapel itself features stunning design details that photograph magnificently. Couples seeking truly unique and artistic Minnesota wedding venues should definitely visit! Architectural splendor combined with lush gardens makes for endless photo opportunities. Wedding photos feel timeless and elegant for generations to come.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM / Lakewood Memorial Chapel Wedding Photo Gallery

Minnesota Wedding Venue Lakewood chapel and memorial


Destination Minnesota Wedding Venues

Grand View Lodge in Nisswa, MN

Lake weddings hold a special magic that I absolutely love capturing on camera! Driving to Nisswa becomes part of the wonderful wedding day experience. Everything about Grand View Lodge brings the ideal relaxed yet elegant celebration atmosphere. The lakeside setting provides stunning natural backdrops for your Minnesota wedding photos.

Nisswa continues growing as a local destination for Minnesota wedding venues! Couples can offer their guests a mini vacation while celebrating their love. The lodge itself combines rustic charm with upscale amenities superbly. Your wedding weekend becomes truly memorable for everyone attending your celebration.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM / Grand View Lodge Wedding Photography Gallery

Ceremony at Grand View lodge Minnesota wedding venue


Reedemed Farm in Scandia, MN

21325 Meadowbrook Ave N, Scandia, MN 55073

Redeemed Farm absolutely takes the cake when it comes to contemporary white barns! This stunning venue features the most exquisite green spaces and flower-filled surroundings. Inside, the clean white interior makes an ideal blank canvas for your wedding vision. The farm setting provides that sought-after rustic elegance that Minnesota couples love.

Every corner of this property photographs magnificently throughout the entire day! MN wedding photos will showcase both architectural splendor and organic charm. The sleek barn aesthetic appeals to couples wanting contemporary style with rural character. Redeemed Farm continues growing in popularity among Minnesota wedding photographers like myself.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM / Modern Rustic Wedding Venues Feature

White Barn Wedding Venue in Minnesota

Redeemed Farm Wedding Photos


Hidden Greens Event Venue in Hastings, MN

12977 200th St E, Hastings, MN 55033

Hidden Greens offers a lovely escape just outside the Twin Cities metro area! This venue combines organic landscapes with convenient access for your wedding guests. Its event space provides flexibility for both intimate and larger wedding celebrations. Surrounding greenery makes peaceful, romantic backdrops for your Minnesota wedding photography.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM / Hidden Greens Wedding Photo Gallery

Hidden Greens MN Wedding Venue Spaces in Hastings


Garden Wedding Venues in Minnesota

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska, MN 

3675 Arboretum Dr, Chaska, MN 55318

The Arboretum will always remain one of my favorite unique Minnesota wedding venues! Its variety of ceremony spaces throughout the grounds is simply incredible. Each garden area offers completely different aesthetics and seasonal splendor throughout the year. Nature-loving couples find endless inspiration exploring the various outdoor ceremony locations.

Meticulously maintained landscapes photograph exquisitely in every season imaginable! Wedding photos will showcase Minnesota’s organic grandeur at its absolute finest. Different garden themes allow couples to design truly personalized wedding experiences. No two Arboretum weddings look exactly alike in photos.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM / Minnesota Arboretum Venue Feature

Wedding Ceremony at the Minnesota Arboretum Wedding Venue Garden


Unique Wedding Venues in Minneapolis 

Let’s explore the most popular and unique Minneapolis wedding venues together now! The city offers an incredible variety for every couple’s vision and style. Minneapolis venues tend to showcase industrial charm mixed with historic character. Couples can find plenty of amazing options around town.
 

The Luminaire

Minneapolis, MN

770 SE 9th St, Minneapolis, MN 55414

The Luminaire represents the newest addition to Minneapolis’s contemporary wedding venue options! Incredibly tall ceilings bring dramatic vertical space that photographs magnificently. Blank canvas white walls allow couples to customize their decoration vision completely. Natural light flooding through windows makes ideal conditions for stunning photography.

This venue splendidly balances simplistic elegance with fun industrial warehouse character. You get that sought-after Minneapolis building vibe without feeling cold or sterile! Soft and airy aesthetic appeals to couples wanting contemporary sophistication. The Luminaire continues attracting couples seeking stylish Minnesota wedding venues with flexibility.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM

Bride and groom pose in their wedding venue The Whim in Minneapolis


The Whim

Northeast Minneapolis

655 19th Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418

The Whim brings incredible warmth and charm to the Northeast Minneapolis wedding scene! Jenna and her husband built something truly special with this venue. Bright and versatile space feels simultaneously stylish and inviting. Warm string lights throughout bring that cozy atmosphere everyone loves for celebrations.

Inside, the getting-ready space is absolutely gorgeous for wedding photography! Skylights throughout the 14-foot ceilings provide amazing natural light all day. The indoor ceremony space features stunning floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the neighborhood. Minnesota wedding photos will glow with radiant natural illumination.

White canvas walls allow complete creative freedom for your decoration plans! Every wedding at The Whim feels personal and unique to each couple. With comfortable accommodations for up to 300 of your favorite people, you won’t have to sacrifice your guest list for this intimate feeling.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM / Wedding at The Whim Published in Minnesota Bride


Unique Minnesota Wedding Venue Map:


Hutton House

Plymouth, MN

10715 S Shore Dr, Medicine Lake, MN 55441

Hutton House remains everyone’s favorite hip Minnesota wedding venue year after year! Contemporary elegance combined with friendly ambiance brings ideal celebration energy. Sleek and stylish architecture photographs superbly from every angle. Chic furnishings throughout add sophistication without feeling pretentious at all.

That famous fireplace makes the most romantic ceremony backdrop imaginable! Winter weddings at Hutton House feel especially cozy and intimate for guests. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes everyone comfortable and relaxed. Minnesota wedding photos will capture genuine joy and authentic celebration moments.

Having a Hutton House wedding gives you a one-of-a-kind experience for your guests!

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM / Hutton House Winter Wedding Gallery

Hutton House Fireplace Ceremony Room


Urban Daisy

Minneapolis, MN

1621 E Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55414

Urban Daisy captures that hip Northeast Minneapolis vibe everyone loves nowadays! This stylish venue continues to impress both industry professionals and wedding guests alike. Urban-chic design provides a versatile backdrop for celebrations. Elegant simplicity allows your personal style to shine through wonderfully.

Flexible event spaces accommodate up to 270 guests comfortably and stylishly! Delightful, large windows flood the space with gorgeous natural light daily. Impressive 17-foot ceilings allow opportunities for dramatic installations and decorations. Couples wanting bright and colorful Minnesota weddings find excellent conditions here.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM


Unique Wedding Venues in St Paul 

The Lowlands

St Paul, Minnesota

 160 Wabasha St S, St Paul, MN 55107 

The Lowlands quickly became everyone’s latest favorite Minnesota wedding venue after opening! The creators of Paikka brought their exceptional vision to this St Paul space. Its distinctive West Coast vibe feels fresh and contemporary with exposed wood ceilings. Textured walls and cement floors bring an industrial yet warm atmosphere.

Natural light floods the venue, making it ideal for wedding photography! A custom stained-glass window adds a unique artistic touch to your ceremony backdrop. The curved grand staircase offers dramatic photo opportunities throughout your celebration day. Comfortably accommodating 250 seated guests or 400 standing, this venue works splendidly for cocktail receptions, too.

Outside, the terrace offers stunning downtown St. Paul skyline views. Your guests can enjoy both indoor elegance and outdoor fresh air easily! Lower levels feature a gorgeous plant paradise and a stylish lounge area. Creativity flows throughout every corner of this exceptional event space venue.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM

Lowlands Venue- Photo by Laura Alpizar Photography


A’BULAE

St Paul, MN

A’Bulae brings an incredible rooftop experience to St. Paul wedding venues! This unique space sits atop the historic Degree of Honor building, offering breathtaking skyline views. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the venue with natural light for stunning photography. The industrial-chic aesthetic appeals to couples wanting that urban sophistication.

The venue’s open layout provides flexibility for both ceremonies and receptions in one space! Exposed brick and contemporary design elements bring an effortlessly chic atmosphere. Your guests will love the panoramic city views throughout the celebration. A’Bulae works wonderfully for couples seeking a Minneapolis-meets-St. Paul vibe for their Minnesota wedding photos.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM / A’Bulae Rooftop Proposal Photo Gallery


Como Conservatory

St Paul, MN

1225 Estabrook Dr, St Paul, MN 55103

Como Conservatory remains a timeless favorite for St. Paul wedding photography! This lush, botanical paradise offers year-round greenery and vibrant floral displays. Multiple indoor and outdoor spaces give you incredible ceremony and reception options. The historic glass conservatory brings the most romantic, garden-inspired atmosphere imaginable.

The Sunken Garden becomes absolutely magical during seasonal exhibitions with thousands of blooming flowers! Wedding photos burst with color and organic splendor against this stunning backdrop. Glass walls throughout the conservatory provide gorgeous diffused lighting for photography all day long. Tropical plants offer an unexpected escape that transports you far beyond typical Minnesota settings!

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM / Como Conservatory Wedding Gallery


Paikka

This industrial warehouse provides an ideal white canvas for customization! Couples love the versatility this Minnesota wedding venue offers for their creativity. Both indoor and outdoor spaces work magnificently for intimate ceremony settings. The clean aesthetic allows your personal style to truly shine throughout.

The warehouse vibe appeals to contemporary couples seeking urban sophistication! Wedding photography will showcase clean lines and architectural interest superbly. The blank canvas approach means no two weddings look alike here. Paikka remains a favorite among couples wanting complete creative freedom.

WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM


Choosing your Unique Minnesota Wedding Venue

As your Minnesota wedding photographer, I understand how significant this venue decision becomes! Finding the right space sets the entire tone for your celebration and photos. Each venue on this list offers something truly special and unique. I encourage you to visit spaces that speak to your hearts.

Consider how the venue reflects your personality and relationship story together! Think about your guests’ comfort and the overall experience you want. The best Minnesota wedding venues provide both splendor and functionality seamlessly. Your wedding day unfolds smoothly while looking absolutely stunning in photos.

I’m always excited to explore new venues and capture love stories! Whether you choose one of these amazing spaces or discover something new, I’m here. My goal remains capturing authentic moments that become your first family treasures. Together we’ll design gorgeous and honest images that last forever.

Other Wedding Venue Guides Worth Exploring: 

If you’re looking for even more inspiration, I’ve created another amazing resource for you! Check out my Venue Guide for the Top 5 Luxury Venue Weddings in Minnesota to explore some of the most upscale and elegant event spaces in the Twin Cities. These venues bring that extra touch of sophistication and grandeur to your special day.

About Laura Alpizar Photography

Hola! I’m Laura, a candid Minneapolis & St Paul wedding photographer who moved from Costa Rica with the love of my life. For over thirteen years, I’ve found joy in documenting love and seeking those extraordinary moments where you glimpse someone’s real story. I capture authentic moments full of emotion while guiding you to natural portraits that become your first family treasures. We openly celebrate diversity, are proudly LGBTQIA+ affirming, and believe in creating genuine relationships because love is love! Learn more by visiting our website, and reach out so we can start working together.

Unique Minnesota Wedding Venues 

 

Reply...

I'M LAURA.

I document real life true love stories for the outdoor lovers, dance party initiators, and the ones who still believe in magic.

I anticipate and capture the candid moments full of emotion on your day, as well as guide you to the most natural portraits to create truly beautiful and honest images. These are the images that will become your first family treasures. 


Hola!

wedding experience

I am in love with people and the connections that bring us together

Documenting the pure joy of family and friends together
and all the candid moments in between. 

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