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Best Wedding Venues in Washington DC

by Julia Weyndling
Last updated on February 1, 2022

If you’re not from Washington DC, you may only think of this historic city for its politics, monuments, and epic museums. However, DC is actually one of the most picturesque locations to get married. With views of the Potomac River, stunning architecture and parks, and lest we forget the stunning cherry blossom season, DC is a diverse and beautiful location to plan a future wedding. While a great spot for outdoor weddings in Spring and Summer, you’ll have no problems finding a diverse selection of amazing places to get married (and engaged for that matter) all year long.

Memorials and Monuments

Connect with DC’s rich history on your wedding day!

DC War Memorial

This venue is most popular for smaller, more intimate weddings or elopements but it can also be situated to hold more people using the surrounding lawn.  The location is prime – the round, marble memorial is right on top of the National Mall, and it is surrounded by gorgeous large grove trees. It is also directly placed in the middle of the Reflection Pool and Independence Avenue, and just across the street from the Martin Luther King Jr. memorial. This gives the DC memorial the ability to be a quiet place in the center of all the hustle and bustle of a city — all while being a bit off the beaten path.

For a Modern Wedding 

If you want the charm of DC with a modern update, check out these venues.

The LINE DC

This venue was inspired by The District and it is housed inside a 110-year old neoclassical church. The compounded product of local chefs, artists, bartenders, and designers, The LINE offers rooftop cocktails and views of this stunning city that are not to be missed. The Banneker Ballroom is 4,000 square feet — fit to hold 500 people and absolutely breathtaking. The church that this hotel is the foundation of is even larger and can hold up to 850 guests, which is perfect for anyone with a large family and even more friends. 

Sequoia 

Located on the banks of the Potomac River, in historically beautiful Georgetown, Sequoia does everything to stun their guests with views of the city. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer magnificent views of Arne-Quinze’s large-scale sculpture in the garden, as well as the Kennedy Center Roosevelt Bridge, Roosevelt Island, Key Bridge, and even the Virginia skyline.  There are few places like this to say ‘I do.’ The main dining room features an art piece by Hitoshi Kuriyama, a neon and glass vacuum tube light installation.  Enjoy delicious food on the mezzanine, in the private State Room, or outside on the terrace for that gorgeous view. Sequoia also has a collection of contemporary art on display throughout their venue for a beautiful blend of modern art in this historic city setting.

Especially Unique Weddings

Stand out from the crowd with these truly special wedding venues.

Carnegie Institute for Science 

Located primely between Dupont Circle and Logan right in the heart of DC., the Carnegie Institute for Science offers brides and grooms an incredibly unique and creative space to tie the knot. Carnegie features multiple different open floor venues inside that are all sure to take your guests’ breath away. Just imagine saying the words ‘I do’ surrounded by romantic old-world architecture and numerous historical details. Whether you prefer the grand aspect of a great big ballroom or inviting aspects of the Rotunda, Carnegie has it all and you will not be disappointed.  If what you are looking for is an elegant, yet innovative setting to share your vows, then allow the Carnegie Institution for Science to make your wedding unforgettable.

The Larz Anderson House 

The Anderson House, located on Embassy Row, is the absolute perfect DC. venue for couples who want an elegant ambiance but also want their venue to exude warmth and intimacy, as a house does. The historic, neoclassical mansion was built in 1905 for Ambassador Larz Anderson and his wife, and after he died, the property was left to The Society and now serves as its headquarters. The Gilded Age house makes for the perfect backdrop for wedding portraiture.  The Anderson House Ballroom is a gorgeous sight to behold, with its high ceilings, ornate trim, and crystal chandeliers. The ballroom, as well as the archways and outdoor seating area, are a perfect location for a reception to celebrate your special day.