The Best Small Wedding Venues in Alexandria, VA

The Best Small Wedding Venues in Alexandria, VA

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2 Wedding Venues in Alexandria, VA

Beaches, waterfront settings
Up to 50 guests
Available on September 13, 2026
Barca Pier & Wine Bar 
Alexandria, VA
  • Up to 200 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor

BARCA is Old Town Alexandria's premiere riverfront neighborhood restaurant with a festive coastal vibe. Located in Robinson Landing, BARCA (Spanish for boat) styles shipyard chic and Catalonian coastal influence into a waterfront Pier and Wine Bar. Both indoor and outdoor locales serve up Spanish-Mediterranean small plates, wine, sangria, and cocktails plus weekend brunch. ‍ The Pier was built on a commercial shipping pier and is anchored by an industrial freight container that doubles as the bar. Sip, nosh, and soak up the sun along the majestic Potomac River against the backdrop of the Nation's Capital in the distance.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Multiple event spaces
  • Handles all cleanup logistics
  • Full catering menu to choose from

Venue considerations

  • No on-premises lodging options
  • On-site parking not available
  • Dance floor not included
Ada's on the River 
Alexandria, VA
  • Up to 160 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor

An homage to 19th-century mathematician Ada Lovelace, Ada’s offers panoramic Potomac River views and features wood-fired prime steaks, fresh seafood and vegetarian fare. ‍ The spacious, contemporary restaurant features 160 indoor seats, including a 32-seat private dining room, and 100 seats on the outdoor patio. The stylish interior provides a warm, modern feel with 15-foot floor-to-ceiling windows and inviting booth seating. A unique wood-burning grill is the central component to the open-concept kitchen, nestled under sweeping hull-like wood paneling, and accented with vibrant red tiles. Original art features Ada, her father, the poet Lord Byron, and other literary figures such as Jane Austen, Mary Shelley, and Emily and Charlotte Bronte. ‍ Ada's talented culinary team has created a variety of delicious, made-from-scratch menus. Options range from delicious hors d’oeuvres to decadent buffets to multi-course plated meals.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Provides catering services
  • Flexible event spaces

Venue considerations

  • No free parking
  • No on-site bridal suite
  • No on-premises lodging options

Location flexible? Discover venues near Alexandria, VA

About wedding venues in Alexandria, VA

Alexandria gives you the perfect blend of historic Virginia charm with beautiful Potomac River waterfront views for your wedding day. You'll find everything from cozy art galleries to sprawling historic estates throughout the area, and if you're planning ahead, October tends to be the most popular wedding month here.

What Makes Alexandria a Premier Wedding Destination?

Alexandria's Colonial-era architecture and those charming cobblestone streets in Old Town create an instantly romantic backdrop for your big day. It's just 7 miles from Washington DC too, giving you metropolitan convenience with small-town character. The Potomac River offers gorgeous natural scenery for your ceremony with sunset views that look amazing in photos, especially from spots like River Farm. Your venue options stretch from historic mansions full of character to modern spaces like Above ALX Community where you'll get stunning 360-degree views of the area.

How Much Should You Budget for an Alexandria Wedding?

Wedding venues in Alexandria typically cost between $8,400 and $10,200 with most couples spending around $9,310 on their venue. That's about 18% of your total wedding budget. Most people book their venues about 11 months before the wedding date so you'll want to start looking early.

Guest CountTotal Wedding Budget
50 guests (small wedding)$22,956
100 guests$38,252
150 guests$52,630
200 guests$65,479
250 guests$78,327
300 guests (large wedding)$91,175

Which Wedding Venues in Alexandria Capture Historic Elegance?

River Farm offers impressive grounds that work beautifully for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Their tented patio can handle up to 260 guests with pricing starting at $4,500. You'll love the beautiful gardens surrounding the property and the manor house provides various ceremony settings for weddings of different sizes.

Where Can You Find Urban Sophistication in Alexandria?

The Morrison House in Old Town features stunning Federalist-style architecture that looks amazing in wedding photos. Their intimate Watermark Ballroom accommodates up to 80 guests, perfect for smaller gatherings. The on-site restaurant specializes in locally-sourced cuisine that your foodie friends will appreciate, all within an elegant setting that blends historic charm with modern sophistication.

What Should You Consider When Booking Alexandria Venues?

Plan to book your venue about 11 months (or 343 days) before your wedding date to secure your preferred location. Carlyle House Historic Park offers one of the more budget-friendly options starting at just $950. You'll have access to beautiful gardens and the Magnolia Terrace which can handle ceremonies and receptions for up to 100 guests.

How Can Alexandria Venues Accommodate Remote Participation?

The Alexandrian creates wonderful experiences for guests who can't attend in person with its elegant ballroom and outdoor courtyard serving as perfect backdrops for virtual streaming. Above ALX Community gives you state-of-the-art A/V equipment that's essential for good quality streaming. Morrison House can integrate specific technology to make remote participation feel more personal for your distant loved ones.

Where Can Culinary Enthusiasts Find Outstanding Wedding Food in Alexandria?

Elaine's Restaurant crafts Mediterranean cuisine using seasonal ingredients with delicious Middle Eastern French and Greek influences. The Victorian setting accommodates up to 100 guests for an unforgettable culinary experience. Cedar Knoll Restaurant provides waterfront dining with stunning views while Blackwall Hitch can handle larger gatherings of 300+ guests with chef-driven menus that will impress even your most discerning food critics.

Which Alexandria Venues Best Address Accessibility Needs?

Carlyle House Historic Park features wheelchair-accessible gardens and Magnolia Terrace so all your guests can enjoy the beautiful setting. The Garden Alexandria offers a modern open floor plan with plenty of parking and it's close to public transportation, making it ideal for guests who have mobility considerations or prefer not to drive.

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