Beach and Waterfront Wedding Venues in Ames, IA

Parks Marina on East Lake Okoboji was established in 1983 when Leo “Butch” Parks purchased the then Gibson Sporting Goods. What was once a small fishing boat sales and repair facility. Parks Boat Club is located in Okoboji, Iowa, with views overlooking spectacular East Lake Okoboji. This one of a kind lakeside venue is the perfect location to host any wedding, with facilities to have your rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception, and more! Our venue boasts indoor and outdoor access to the panoramic views of East lake Okoboji, making it perfect for weddings in all seasons.

The Museum & Aquarium can help you create all the details for the perfect event, from beautiful tables to a delicious menu served by our exclusive caterer. The Museum & Aquarium includes ideal settings for indoor or outdoor ceremonies, mingling over cocktails, or dancing the night away. Located on the Mississippi River in charming Dubuque, Iowa, the Museum & Aquarium is also ideal for wedding showers, rehearsal dinners, baby showers, anniversary parties, and corporate events.

Just one hour away from Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, and Ames, Pilgrim Heights is one of the many hidden gems in Central Iowa. With 100 acres of wooded bliss, 80-acre private lake, a stunning outdoor chapel with an envious view, a 3-story reception venue, and lodging for up to 90 people, Pilgrim Heights offers a completely unique experience second to none for couples looking to celebrate their love.

Carper Winery is a rural venue just minutes from the Metro! The property comprises of 40 acres, complete with not only the Venue but a lush Vineyard, Willow trees, two ponds and tall golden prairie grass. Outdoor ceremony lawn with Pergola. Ceremony site overlooks the large pond, vineyard and beautiful hillside to create a picturesque backdrop. Guests will enjoy the outdoor patio lounge space during your welcome hour, cocktail hour, and well into the evening when the sun sets and the bistro lights create the perfect outdoor space. The climate controlled indoor space can seat up to 300 of your friends and family members to enjoy a beautiful dinner in your honor. The space is set with an overlooking mezzanine and loft to create a very intimate feeling for your event. Complete with bistro lights and chandeliers for the perfect ambiance as you enjoy your first dance as Husband and Wife.

Beautiful lake front venue in small town Panora, Iowa. We do outdoor wedding ceremonies with the capability to move inside or rent an outdoor tent with notice. Buffet style menu that is diverse and customizable. Attached to a 22 room hotel with outdoor pool. Some wedding packages include hotel stays as well.

Off Shore Event Center has recently undergone an extensive renovation to bring you one of the most beautiful venues in the area for your special day. Not only do we offer this state-of-the-art facility, we also have a hotel onsite. This will allow your out-of-town guests to arrive in advance and settle in before your event. Guests who arrive early or want to stay an extra day will also be thrilled with the excellent food and service featured at our on-premise restaurant, Off Shore Bar and Grill. During the summer months, we also offer a state-of-the-art outdoor aquatics area which is included with each hotel stay. The Off Shore property features all the accommodations you and your guests will require for a perfect wedding day or an extended weekend experience. You will find a complete package of guest accommodations typically found only in large city convention centers – but tucked away in a relaxing, picturesque, small river town setting.