New Bedford, with its historic waterfront and rich maritime heritage, offers a captivating setting for weddings. The city’s whaling-era charm is evident at venues like Merrill’s on the Waterfront, where couples can enjoy harbor views and a blend of intimate, personal spaces and larger event areas. The Waypoint Event Center, housed in a refurbished 1830s building, adds a touch of historic elegance with its exposed stone and woodwork, making New Bedford an appealing choice for couples seeking a celebration infused with maritime history and charm.

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Best Wedding Venues in New Bedford

Cotali Mar Restaurante

Cotali Mar Restaurante in New Bedford, MA, is a captivating venue ideal for weddings, offering a blend of elegance and coziness. The Grande Ballroom, with its luxurious setting, can accommodate up to 275 guests, while the intimate Adega wine cellar is perfect for smaller gatherings of up to 110 guests. The venue features a Tuscan dining setting, a cozy fireplace, an outdoor terrace with a marble fountain, and a private bridal suite. Known for its impeccable service and authentic Portuguese cuisine, Cotali Mar provides a sophisticated and enchanting atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for a wedding celebration that is both refined and heartfelt.

Flying Bridge Restaurant

The Flying Bridge in Falmouth, MA, offers a stunning waterfront venue perfect for weddings. With its grand stairway entrance, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a wraparound deck overlooking Falmouth Harbor and Vineyard Sound, it provides breathtaking views. The venue features a luxurious marble-top bar, a spacious dance floor, and ample room for live entertainment. The seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces, thanks to accordion glass doors, makes it an ideal choice for couples seeking a beautiful and versatile setting for their special day. The excellent food, professional staff, and customizable options ensure a delightful and well-organized wedding celebration.

Merrill’s on the Waterfront

Merrill’s on the Waterfront in New Bedford, MA, is an ideal venue for weddings, offering stunning harbor views and a unique atmosphere. Located in historic Downtown New Bedford, this venue boasts multiple event spaces, including the luxurious Harbor View Room and the versatile Chart Room. The Chart Room can accommodate up to 200 guests and features a bar, patio access, and ample space for dining, mingling, and dancing. With exceptional food, attentive staff, and dedicated event coordinators, Merrill’s ensures a seamless and enjoyable wedding experience. Its handicap accessibility and various amenities make it a perfect choice for couples seeking a beautiful and comfortable setting for their special day.

The Nelson Event Center

The Nelson Event Center at Lang’s Bowlarama in New Bedford, MA, is a beautifully renovated mid-century modern space ideal for weddings. This venue can comfortably seat 75 guests for a traditional seated event or accommodate up to 100 for a cocktail-style gathering. The space offers a full bar and a range of catering options, from pizza to filet mignon, tailored to fit any budget. With its chic and elegant atmosphere, the Nelson Event Center provides a unique and sophisticated setting for a wedding, ensuring a delightful and enjoyable experience for the couple and their guests. The rental fee is $400 for the first 3 hours, with additional hours available at $75 each.

New Bedford Whaling Museum.

The New Bedford Whaling Museum in New Bedford, MA, offers a unique and captivating setting for weddings. Nestled among historic homes and cobblestone streets, the museum provides breathtaking waterfront views and a rich maritime history. The venue features several distinctive spaces, including the Harbor View Gallery with its panoramic harbor views and spacious terrace, the Lagoda Room with its impressive ship model, and the Cook Memorial Theater for ceremonies. With its stunning works of art, unique collections, and historic charm, the museum creates an unforgettable atmosphere for wedding celebrations, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a distinctive and elegant wedding venue.

Rachel’s Lakeside

Rachel’s Lakeside, located on the shores of Lake Noquochoke in North Dartmouth, Massachusetts, offers a picturesque and elegant setting for weddings. This venue boasts a versatile facility with several event spaces, including the Gazebo, Bellagio Room, Venetian Room, and Mediterranean Room, accommodating guest capacities ranging from 60 to 300. The beautifully landscaped grounds and European-themed rooms provide a serene and sophisticated backdrop for both outdoor ceremonies and indoor receptions. The highly skilled function coordinators customize special menus and handle every detail, ensuring a seamless and enchanting wedding experience. The venue’s lakeside location and attentive staff make it an ideal choice for couples seeking a beautiful and well-organized wedding celebration.

Sea Crest Beach Hotel

Sea Crest Beach Resort, located in North Falmouth, Massachusetts, is an idyllic wedding venue that offers a tranquil Cape Cod setting overlooking Old Silver Beach. This coastal resort provides ample space for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions, including an elegant ballroom and a breezy outdoor terrace. The venue is renowned for its stunning beachfront views, exquisite cuisine reflecting the local seafood, and exceptional service. With a dedicated wedding team, including professional coordinators, the resort ensures a seamless and enjoyable planning process. Guests can also take advantage of on-site accommodations, making it an ideal choice for a comprehensive and enchanting wedding experience.

Whaling Museum

The New Bedford Whaling Museum offers a distinctive and elegant setting for weddings, nestled among historic 18th and 19th century homes and cobblestone streets. This venue provides unparalleled harbor views and a unique blend of classic maritime and modern elegance. Couples can choose from various ceremony options, including the historic Seamen’s Bethel, the Museum’s Plaza, or the Cook Memorial Theater. The Bourne Building, featuring the world’s largest ship model, and the Harbor View Gallery with its panoramic waterfront views, make ideal spaces for cocktail hours and receptions. The venue’s historic charm, stunning views, and interactive exhibits ensure a captivating and unforgettable wedding experience for guests.