Wilmington is a captivating destination that melds Southern charm with modern sophistication. Along the Cape Fear River, historic buildings like the VonKampen Building, home to 128 South, offer Victorian facades and ornate details, while venues such as Wrightsville Manor blend indoor and outdoor spaces with oak trees draped in Spanish moss. The city’s eclectic mix of historic landmarks, waterfront views, and vibrant downtown areas creates a rich backdrop for any wedding vision.
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Best Wedding Venues in Wilmington
128 South
128 South in Wilmington, NC, is a historic wedding venue located on the banks of the Cape Fear River. Housed in the historic VonKampen Building, it boasts a Victorian facade with ornate details, including original stained-glass windows, exposed brick walls, and hardwood floors. The venue features a two-story interior with an open floor plan and a mezzanine, as well as a private River View Deck offering stunning views of the river. This charming setting, combined with its Southern hospitality and exceptional in-house catering, makes 128 South an ideal choice for weddings, providing a beautiful and intimate atmosphere for both ceremonies and receptions. The venue’s proximity to downtown Wilmington’s shops and restaurants adds to its appeal, making it a perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience.
Airlie Gardens
Airlie Gardens in Wilmington, NC, is a captivating wedding venue set against the backdrop of formal gardens, historic structures, and natural beauty. This 67-acre coastal oasis features several unique settings, including the Pergola Garden with its three-tiered fountain, the Bradley Creek Lawn offering stunning water views, and the Airlie Oak Lawn with its 467-year-old live oak. The Minnie Evans Bottle Chapel provides an intimate setting for smaller ceremonies. With its picturesque grounds, seasonal blooms, and historic charm, Airlie Gardens is an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic and elegant wedding celebration. The venue accommodates up to 300 guests and offers a dedicated wedding technician to ensure a seamless and enchanting experience.
Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center
Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center is a charming and modern wedding venue in Wilmington, NC, offering unparalleled water views and a rustic chic design with exposed red bricks, large arched windows, and industrial-style overhead lights. This all-inclusive hotel venue provides over 10,000 square feet of versatile event space, accommodating up to 370 guests. It features luxurious accommodations for overnight guests, on-site catering and bar services, and flexible function spaces that can be tailored to suit individual needs. The venue’s scenic location and creative food and drink options make it an ideal choice for a personalized and elegant wedding celebration.
Bakery 105
Bakery 105, located in the heart of Downtown Wilmington, NC, is a historic wedding venue that offers a captivating blend of industrial charm and historical allure. Originally part of the American Bakeries complex from the 1920s, the venue features a 4,500 sq. ft. indoor space with exposed brick walls, wood ceilings, and steel girders, along with a 3,400 sq. ft. garden courtyard adorned with planter boxes, bench seating, and lush foliage. This versatile venue, with its natural light from a large monitor skylight, provides an inviting atmosphere for weddings. Its proximity to The Cottage on Orange Street, a charming bridal suite, and its ability to host up to 250 guests make it an ideal choice for couples seeking a unique and elegant wedding setting. The venue’s modern amenities and professional staff ensure a seamless and enjoyable wedding experience.
Beau Rivage Golf & Resort
Beau Rivage Golf & Resort in Wilmington, NC, is a picturesque wedding venue that exudes romance and elegance. Nestled in a private community with panoramic views of a lush golf course, this resort offers a serene and intimate setting for wedding ceremonies and receptions. The venue features various event spaces, including a recently renovated clubhouse with a sunset veranda, ballrooms, and outdoor areas, allowing couples to customize their special day in a unique and distinctive style. With on-site lodgings, full kitchen facilities, and in-house gourmet catering, Beau Rivage provides a convenient and luxurious backdrop for exchanging vows and celebrating with family and friends. Its neutral color palette and stunning natural scenery make it an ideal choice for both intimate gatherings and grand affairs.
Bellamy Mansion Museum
The Bellamy Mansion Museum in Wilmington, NC, is a stunning example of antebellum architecture, built between 1859 and 1861. This 22-room mansion, designed in Greek Revival and Italianate styles, boasts grand porches, Corinthian columns, and intricate iron work. The venue offers a unique and traditional vibe, making it an ideal choice for weddings. Its elegant rooms and beautifully restored 19th-century gardens provide a picturesque backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions. The historic charm and well-preserved architecture create a sophisticated and enchanting setting, perfect for couples looking to infuse their wedding with a rich historical ambiance.
Brooklyn Arts Center
Brooklyn Arts Center in Wilmington, North Carolina, is a historic and iconic wedding venue located near the Cape Fear River and downtown Wilmington. This 130-year-old venue features a restored church with majestic cathedral ceilings, exposed brick and plaster walls, arched windows, and LED-lit drapes. It offers two event spaces, a private garden, and a bridal suite, accommodating up to 250 guests. The venue’s historic charm, beautiful architecture, and unique picture spots make it an ideal choice for weddings, providing a romantic and evocative setting for ceremonies and receptions. The professional and attentive staff ensure a seamless and enjoyable wedding experience.
The City Club
The City Club of Wilmington offers a picturesque and historic setting for weddings, located in the heart of downtown Wilmington, just two blocks from the Cape Fear River. This 181-year-old building, built in 1842, exudes traditional southern hospitality with its warm and inviting atmosphere. The venue can accommodate 10 to 150 guests, making it ideal for intimate ceremonies and receptions. The beautifully restored St. Thomas Preservation Hall, part of the City Club, features exposed brick walls, stained glass windows, and high ceilings, creating a unique and enchanting setting for wedding celebrations. This venue provides superb food, impeccable service, and exclusive amenities, ensuring a flawless and captivating wedding experience.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront
Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront is an elegant wedding venue located in Wilmington, North Carolina. The venue features the Riverfront Grand Ballroom, offering nearly 3,000 square feet of event space with a sizable dance floor and large windows providing stunning sunset views. It can accommodate up to 200 guests and offers a neutral color palette, allowing your details to stand out. The hotel provides comprehensive services, including event planning, catering, and setup and cleanup, making the planning process seamless. Guests can enjoy the convenience of staying at the hotel, with complimentary breakfast and a discounted room rate, making it an ideal choice for weddings with out-of-town guests. The picturesque riverfront location and beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces enhance the overall wedding experience.
Ironclad Brewery
Ironclad Brewery in Wilmington, NC, is a captivating wedding venue nestled in a historic building dating back to 1925. This 10,500-square-foot space, with its authentic brick walls and rustic aesthetic, offers a unique and charming setting. The venue features two floors, each equipped with large bars, and a 4,500-square-foot upper level designed as a veranda with balcony-like views. It can accommodate up to 250 guests and provides tables, chairs, a full bar, and other essential amenities. The experienced staff, particularly known for their exceptional service, ensure a seamless and enjoyable wedding experience, making Ironclad Brewery an ideal choice for couples seeking a beautiful, historic, and elegantly rustic wedding venue.
Little Drum Landing
Little Drum Landing is a waterfront wedding venue in historic downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, offering a unique and picturesque setting along the Cape Fear River. It is the only outdoor river venue in the area, providing breathtaking views and an exquisite backdrop for wedding ceremonies and receptions. The venue can accommodate up to 200 guests and features a spacious deck, a bridal suite, and neighboring restaurants with indoor and outdoor private dining spaces. Known for its award-winning cuisine and professional service, Little Drum Landing ensures a flawless and enchanting wedding experience with included amenities such as tables, chairs, linens, and china.
Maven Monroe Wedding and Event Venue
Maven Monroe Wedding and Event Venue in Wilmington, NC, is a uniquely charming and elegant space ideal for weddings. Originally built in the 1950s as a church, the venue has been meticulously restored to maintain its historic charm while offering modern amenities. The all-white interior features an open floor plan, high ceilings, and five striking chandeliers, creating a sophisticated ambiance. The outdoor courtyard, adorned with a beautiful white tent and soft lighting, serves as a picturesque backdrop for cocktail hours. With a spacious bridal suite, a groom’s den, and a dog-friendly policy, Maven Monroe comfortably accommodates up to 100 guests, allowing couples to host their ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception in one enchanting location. Its thoughtful design and serene atmosphere make it an exquisite choice for an intimate and romantic wedding celebration.
Riptide Stables
Riptide Stables in Castle Hayne, NC, is a picturesque wedding venue set on a 17-acre family-owned farm and horse ranch. This rustic yet elegant setting offers an indoor-outdoor barn with a manicured lawn overlooking woodlands, perfect for romantic vows. The venue features a 42x30 covered pavilion with custom lighting and soaring ceilings, as well as a charming cottage for overnight stays. The property is home to friendly horses, ponies, and miniature donkeys, adding a unique and enchanting element to the wedding. With its natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and exclusive use for your event, Riptide Stables creates a magical and intimate atmosphere ideal for weddings.
The River Room
The River Room in Wilmington, NC, is a picturesque wedding venue located right on the Cape Fear River in the heart of downtown. This charming space boasts breathtaking waterfront views, beautiful exposed brick, natural lighting from large bay windows, and cozy Edison string lighting. The venue can accommodate up to 100 guests and offers various locations for ceremonies, cocktail hours, and indoor receptions. It includes a spacious bridal suite with waterfront views, a catering prep kitchen, and ample seating and table arrangements. The outdoor deck, perfect for ceremonies or cocktail hours, adds to the venue’s allure, making it an ideal choice for intimate and elegant weddings. The attentive and helpful staff ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for couples and their guests.
St. Thomas Preservation Hall
St. Thomas Preservation Hall, a beautifully-restored 1847 venue in the heart of historic downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, offers a unique and elegant setting for weddings. Formerly a Catholic church, it features exposed brick walls, stunning stained glass windows, and high ceilings, along with a balcony loft. The venue can accommodate up to 200 seated guests and includes a full bridal suite, a separate groom room, and both indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies, cocktail hours, and receptions. Its historic charm and versatile spaces make it an ideal choice for couples looking for a picturesque and convenient wedding location.
Sycamore Bend
Sycamore Bend in Wilmington, NC, is a picturesque wedding venue set on a 12-acre historic property. This venue combines equestrian countryside charm with coastal elegance, featuring a beautifully restored 1818 farmhouse, pristine horse pastures, and sprawling green fields surrounded by white fencing. The grounds include a stable, a covered concrete driveway that can seat 125 guests, and ample space for larger gatherings with tents. The historic manor offers a luxurious bridal suite and a unique groom’s lounge. With its serene walking paths, hydro-clay tennis court, and stocked fish pond, Sycamore Bend provides a captivating and idyllic setting for a wedding, ensuring a beautiful and enchanting celebration for the couple and their guests.
The Terraces on Sir Tyler
The Terraces on Sir Tyler in Wilmington, NC, is a premier wedding venue that exudes high-end elegance in a private, coastal setting within the prestigious Mayfaire area. This venue offers a 4,000 sq. ft. ballroom and a 1,085 sq. ft. rooftop terrace with stunning views, perfect for taking in sunsets or dancing under the stars. The venue is equipped with a caterer prep/service kitchen, complimentary Wi-Fi, audio-visual facilities, and ample parking. The bridal suite and outdoor settings with a natural wooded background provide ideal spaces for photography and relaxation. Its luxurious amenities and beautiful views make it an ideal choice for creating an unforgettable wedding experience.
Wilmington Hilton Riverside
Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront is an elegant wedding venue offering a Riverfront Grand Ballroom with nearly 3,000 square feet of event space. The modern architecture and contemporary furnishings create a sophisticated ambiance. The venue provides a seamless planning process with a dedicated catering event manager, hospitality rooms for preparations, and a sizable dance floor. It is ideally located within walking distance of downtown Wilmington’s attractions and offers stunning river views, making it an excellent choice for a wedding with both indoor and outdoor options. The hotel also provides inclusive packages, catering services, and accommodations for guests, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Wrightsville Manor
Wrightsville Manor in Wilmington, NC, is a captivating wedding venue that exudes enchanting old-world charm. This 5,000-square-foot historic building features soaring 18-foot ceilings, a large exposed brick and stone fireplace, and beautifully furnished areas. The venue includes an elegant bridal suite, an outdoor patio veranda, and a spacious garden lawn with a historic oak tree and garden fountain. Its central location, proximity to the beach, and neutral tones make it an ideal choice for weddings, offering a versatile backdrop for any theme. The exceptional staff and seamless coordination ensure a delightful and hassle-free wedding experience.