The Best Wedding Venues in Thurman, IA

The Best Wedding Venues in Thurman, IA

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21 Wedding Venues in Thurman, IA

250-300 guests
Quick responder
Castle Unicorn 

5.0

Pacific Junction, IA
  • Up to 250 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $12,500

Castle Unicorn is located on a 400-acre private estate in the Loess Hills of Iowa and is located only 20 minutes from downtown Omaha. The Castle and outdoor Pavilion provide a breathtaking backdrop for both your wedding and reception. At Castle Unicorn, we have inclusive packaging that includes nearly everything you will need to make your planning and your wedding day less hectic.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Rustic-chic setting
  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe
  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not for you if you prefer a more modern aesthetic
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
Awarded Best of Zola
Personally, I don't think there was a better place to have a wedding. John and Rey were 2 of the best guys to work with on such a monumentous occasion. The venue is beautiful. All the employees were so helpful. And I am a it neurotic and John or Rey always picked up and walked me through whatever I had questions about. So I would I am so glad my husband and I choose this venue as it is one of the best looking venues in Iowa or Nebraska and so much was included. The price also wasn't bad for the venue and perks that we git. 10/10 would definetly renew my vows here in the future.
Sean, 3 years ago
Venue 1883 

5.0

Plattsmouth, NE
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $5,000

Nestled in the heart of historic Plattsmouth, Venue 1883 is a timeless space where love stories come to life. Built in 1883 and rich with history, our venue blends rustic charm with modern elegance — offering couples a warm, welcoming backdrop for their most meaningful moments. With stunning indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces, private bridal and groom suites, and the option to turn your celebration into a full wedding weekend, Venue 1883 is designed to make your day as effortless as it is unforgettable. From the moment you arrive until the last dance, every detail is thoughtfully curated with heart, heritage, and hospitality. We offer flexible, all-in-one packages that can include bartending, DJ/MC services, photography, videography, custom lighting, photo booth, and even overnight accommodations in our charming Carriage House. Whether you're dreaming of an intimate gathering or a celebration filled with energy, we’re here to bring your vision to life.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Bridal suite on site
  • Space for a large guest list
  • Creates a sense of togetherness

Venue considerations

  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
  • Does not allow pets
  • No free parking
We had a great time both working with the team, plus hosting our family and friends at Venue 1883! Thank you for the hospitality and unique venue space in the Omaha metro area!
Sarah M., 4 months ago
Venues At The Granary 

5.0

Ralston, NE
  • Up to 350 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor

An early 20th century industrial granary building turned 21st century modern luxury event space. We personally craft a luxury experience that celebrates life and the joy of entertaining. Venues At The Granary is an event venue open to weddings, private events, and corporate parties. The venues feature unique architectural elements that merge the past with present and historic with modern, making it an unparalleled backdrop for your event.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Handles all cleanup logistics
  • Pets can join the celebration
  • Flexible event spaces

Venue considerations

  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • Dance floor not included
  • Best for events with big guest lists
The team at The Venues At The Granary were a pleasure to work with from start to finish. Their communication was always quick, helpful, and polite, which made the planning process so much easier. The venue itself is large, beautiful, and an incredible value. They were very attentive, keeping us on a detailed timeline and helping us create the perfect floor plan for our reception. We would highly recommend The Granary to any couple looking for a stunning wedding venue with plenty of space and beautiful photo spots. The staff was so professional and made our special day run seamlessly.
The P., 8 months ago
GemHidden gem
Lauritzen Gardens 

4.8

Omaha, NE
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $5,000

Important moments in life call for memorable settings. Lauritzen Gardens offers a variety of stunning indoor facilities and ever-changing outdoor settings that celebrate the brilliance and elegance of nature and combine to create an incredibly vivid experience. Our beautiful gardens and rooms are available for weddings, receptions, cocktail hours, engagement/prenuptial dinners, rehearsal dinners, and bridal showers, ranging from the intimate to the elaborate. Choose the perfect space or combination of spaces for your utterly unforgettable event. Abraham Catering is our exclusive caterer and offers inspired menu selections for your food and beverage needs. Don't need a venue? Lush, romantic backdrops for engagement and wedding photography may be found throughout the garden. Sessions can be done during regular business hours, or private sessions may be booked after hours for $125.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Versatile for various event styles
  • Classic, vintage atmosphere
  • Surrounded by beautiful vineyards

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • No in-house lighting and sound packages available
  • Does not allow pets
Awarded Best of Zola
The staff at Lauritzen Gardens are fantastic - they have a wonderfully responsive, direct, and honest communication style that makes planning your wedding a breeze. The quality of their work is truly unparalleled, with the venue offering a unique, beautiful, lush, and classic setting that is unlike any other in the Midwest. I have planned many weddings at Lauritzen Gardens, and there is simply no other venue that can match their level of service and the sheer beauty of their grounds. Go check it out for yourself - you will not be disappointed!
Dawn B., a year ago
Quick responder
Venues by Abraham Catering 

5.0

Ralston, NE
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $950

For pricing and inquiries, please visit venuesbyabrahamcatering .com Omaha’s most loved venues for weddings & events by Abraham Catering. Our five Omaha venues are designed to make every event extraordinary with full-service catering, beverage packages, and hands-on coordination from the very start.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides event staff
  • Bridal suite on site
  • Space for a large guest list

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Not wheelchair accessible
Thank you, Chad at @abrahamcatering & @pellaatblackstone, you brought us so much joy and laughter and made everything so easy and run so smoothly. Also, the BEST catering food EVER. I had so many people come up to me at the wedding and after, saying it was the best wedding food they've ever had and kept going back for seconds!
Hanna W., a month ago
GemHidden gem
The Woolworth Event Center 

5.0

Omaha, NE
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $3,900

Located in the heart of downtown Omaha, The Woolworth Event Center offers a timeless and elegant setting for your wedding day. Surrounded by the city’s vibrant energy and charm, our venue is the perfect backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate celebration or a lively evening with all your favorite people, our thoughtfully designed wedding packages make it easy to bring your vision to life.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has onsite accommodations
  • Provides setup and cleanup
  • Multiple event spaces

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • On-site parking not available
  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
The Woolworth was/is my dream venue. The white-painted brick and hardwood floors are so dreamy, and we loved how guests could look out onto the Old Market. We loved having our wedding in one of Omaha’s best areas and showing our guests why we love the city. The venue team was responsive, informative and patient — no venue drama here! Highly recommend The Woolworth for a gorgeous wedding.
Elizabeth R., 3 months ago
Founders One Nine 

5.0

Omaha, NE
  • Up to 400 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $2,500

Built in downtown Omaha in 1920 at the corner of 19th and Jackson Streets, Founders One • Nine is on the National Register of Historic Places. Its name is derived from the corner it resides on. History says that Jackson Street was named in honor of James A. Jackson. Jackson, one of Omaha’s original town site founders and founder of Omaha’s first department store, Tootle and Jackson. The mid-century modern building was formerly the Roy A. Ralph Printing and Lithograph Co. as well as Fisher Fixture Company and has been reimagined as Founders One • Nine. Founders One • Nine has been a venue since 2016 hosting hundreds of events and winning 2025 Best of Omaha for Best Venue category. If your looking for a venue that will have your guests raving about how incredible your event, the food and the service was for years to come - then this is 100% the venue for you!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Full catering menu to choose from
  • Provides setup and cleanup
  • Flexible event spaces

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Does not allow pets
We had our wedding reception at Founders One Nine in Omaha and it was truly everything we could have hoped for — and more! From the moment we walked in, the space was absolutely stunning, but what really set the night apart was the incredible food, bar, and especially the staff. The food was phenomenal — beautifully presented and absolutely delicious. Our guests couldn’t stop talking about how much they loved the meal. The bar service was equally outstanding, with an amazing drink selection, fast service, and bartenders who were friendly, attentive, and kept the energy going all night. But what impressed us the most was the entire Founders One Nine staff. Every single person we interacted with was professional, welcoming, and clearly committed to making sure our reception was seamless and stress-free. Their attention to detail, calm demeanor, and genuine hospitality made such a difference. We were able to relax and enjoy every moment, knowing we were in such good hands. If you’re considering Founders One Nine for your wedding or event — do it! The venue, the food, the drinks, and the amazing team made our night unforgettable. Thank you to everyone there for making our big day so special!
The F., 4 months ago
Quick responder
Scott Conference Center 

5.0

Omaha, NE
  • Up to 500 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $8,500

Engaged? Let us help you plan your perfect wedding - it’s what we LOVE to do! The Scott Conference Center is the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable reception. From the moment you step inside we will handle the details - that way you can enjoy your special day and all the days leading up to it. Beautiful, versatile space for up to 500 guests | Professional staff on site from event-planning to clean up | Complimentary dance floor, on-site parking, and cake cutting service | Choice of table linens and 20 napkin colors | Tables, chairs, gift table, sign in table, cake table, china, and silverware all included | Your choice of Reception: plated, buffet, appetizer, or dessert

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a dance floor for celebration
  • Handles all cleanup logistics
  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe

Venue considerations

  • Does not allow pets
  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
The planners at the Scott Conference Center were amazing to work with for our wedding reception. Jerrica and Robyn went above and beyond to make our day absolutely perfect. They were always very responsive to my questions as well as very accommodating to my request. They always found the answer to every question I had and really made the process goes as smooth as it possibly could. I would highly recommend using the Scott Conference Center for any event. Our experience with them was more than amazing.
Alli & C., 4 years ago
The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel 

5.0

Lincoln, NE
  • Up to 500 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor

At The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel, host your celebration in elegant ballrooms and event spaces for ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners or showers of all sizes. We have Wedding Menus focused on fresh, vibrant flavors to create a memorable experience for you and your guests, and offer convenient room blocks for overnight accommodations. Making your special day flawless from start to finish is our most important job, which is why our wedding planners are Marriott Certified to provide distinguished service and attention to your every detail. We invite you to contact us and see everything The Cornhusker has to offer you and your guests on your special day!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a glamorous vibe
  • Offers convenient lodging options
  • Wheelchair accessible

Venue considerations

  • No in-house lighting and sound packages available
  • No free parking
  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
I’d highly recommend The Cornhusker as a wedding reception venue. It’s a beautiful space and the staff is great. If you are open to having your reception at hotel in Lincoln NE, The Cornhusker is definitely one of the top to consider!
Amy S., 3 years ago
Quick responder
Falconwood Park 
Bellevue, NE
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $1,200

Falconwood Park sits on over 200 acres of shaded green space with 3 venues and over a dozen ceremony sites. There are also pavilions, outdoor patios, and fire-pits to gather around. Plus, a playground for the kids and lawn games galore. After exchanging vows in a wooded glen or wide-open green space, retire with your loved ones a 6,000-square-foot lodge for dinner and dancing. The two indoor venues have exposed wood beams and hand-crafted chandeliers. Each indoor venue comes with a bridal suite, a bar with a liquor license, and a fully equipped kitchen welcome to outside caterers. For your ease and convenience, reception tables and chairs, expert staff, and bartenders are all included in your rental. Onsite glamping cabins are available for your morning or overnight needs. Packages can range from ceremony only to a full experience with ceremony, reception, and glamping. The venue invites you to get in touch and learn how you can create your magical day in this beautiful space.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Classic seating dinner
  • Private area for the wedding party
  • Both indoor and outdoor options

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
Courtyard by Marriott - Bellevue, NE 
Bellevue, NE
  • Up to 550 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $1,000

Host your next corporate event, wedding, or social gathering at the Beardmore Event Center located in Bellevue, Nebraska. Looking for the best venue for your event, where you can meet, celebrate, relax, and have fun all under one roof? Our modern and spacious event center is conveniently connected to the Courtyard by Marriott Omaha Bellevue and features 18,000 square feet of flexible event space. Customized menus prepared by our executive chef and attention to detail provided by our on-site event planner are just a few perks you’ll receive when you host your event with us.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Space for a large guest list
  • Full catering menu to choose from
  • Has a dance floor for celebration

Venue considerations

  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
  • No on-premises lodging options
  • No built-in audiovisual options
Magnolia Hotel Omaha 
Omaha, NE
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor

Welcome to the Magnolia Hotel, Omaha’s hidden gem, where timeless elegance meets modern luxury. Established in 1924 and lovingly restored, our boutique hotel offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that will make you and your guests feel right at home. Weddings are our specialty! As a full-service venue, we provide everything you need to make your special day flawless. From exquisite catering and attentive service staff to all the essentials like tables, chairs, linens, place settings, and more, we help make wedding planning a breeze! Treat your bridal party to a unique experience with our special rates on luxurious suites. Choose from four distinct suite options, ranging from 450 to 1,200 square feet - an unparalleled offering in Omaha! In addition to our historic brick Courtyard and elegant Ballroom, we offer versatile event spaces for your rehearsal dinner, welcome party, and farewell brunch. Enjoy a seamless wedding weekend at the Magnolia Hotel!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Handles all cleanup logistics
  • Has onsite accommodations
  • Classic elegance

Venue considerations

  • On-site parking not available
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Lighting and sound are not included
Quick responder
The Farnam, Autograph Collection 
Omaha, NE
  • Up to 250 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor

The Farnam is a luxurious boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Omaha. With over 5,000 square feet of customizable event space, we’re here to bring your wedding vision to life. Our Rosewater Ballroom can accommodate up to 250 guests and features stunning floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the Omaha skyline.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Offers full-service amenities
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests
  • Both indoor and outdoor options

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
  • On-site parking not available
  • Does not allow pets
Quick responder
DC Centre Banquet Facility 
Omaha, NE
  • Up to 1200 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor

DC Centre will simply take your breath away! Our exquisite 30,000 sq. ft. venue is unique to the Omaha area and designed to withstand the test of time. As you approach the entrance, beautifully appointed landscaping and ground lighting welcomes you to one of the most popular Omaha event venues. A large Porte-cochere extends outward to greet you and your guests in grand style. The addition of our outdoor Wedding Garden further enhances the scenery and provides a beautiful option for an outdoor Omaha wedding ceremony, vow renewal or commitment ceremony. Inside, the large, sweeping, marble-inspired entryway and 24-foot ceilings will impress guests. The lobby boasts a comfortable reception area appointed with fine leather furniture. Opposite of the reception area is a modern bar, which can be open, complete with tables and chairs and a flat screen television.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Space for a large guest list
  • Has a dance floor for celebration

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • No in-house lighting and sound packages available
  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
The Players Club 
Omaha, NE
  • Up to 300 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $6,000

Celebrate your wedding in style at The Players Club, a turn-key venue in Omaha, NE. The Players Club offers all-inclusive bridal packages, gorgeous photo opportunities, and exclusive rental of our private Clubhouse. This architectural gem offers a gorgeous indoor space to help you create a wedding that’s as beautiful and unique as you are. From the planning stages all the way through the execution, The Players Club staff are ready to assist you in cultivating the day of your dreams.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Flexible event spaces
  • Provides catering services
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Lighting and sound are not included
The Shed 
Adams, NE
  • Up to 400 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $3,500

The Shed, nestled in the heart of Adams, Nebraska, was designed with flexibility and creativity in mind. What truly sets The Shed apart is its unique features—especially the outdoor amphitheater-style seating, which creates an intimate and distinctive space for ceremonies. Another standout is the Grain Bin Bar, the venue's signature centerpiece. This repurposed grain bin was transformed into a stunning bar, a must-see attraction that adds character and charm to every event. Whether you're dreaming of a rustic, elegant, or unconventional celebration, The Shed offers a versatile space and personalized service to bring your vision to life.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Multiple event spaces
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests
  • Has a fun and festive vibe

Venue considerations

  • No venue-provided food services
  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
  • Not wheelchair accessible
Wilderness Ridge Country Club 
Lincoln, NE
  • Up to 300 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $3,000

From small, intimate dinners to gigantic show-stopping affairs, Wilderness Ridge is your premier event venue. Overlooking the natural beauty of the golf course, Wilderness Ridge is the premier location for Lincoln’s wedding receptions, corporate functions, retirement dinners, and all your special events! Created from harvested timber and constructed in Montana, the clubhouse carries out its "wilderness" theme with its handcrafted woodwork throughout, natural stone landscaping, and beautiful rustic artwork. Our impressive cedar deck situated on the rear of the building lets guests view surrounding ponds, streams, and views of holes from both courses. Wilderness Ridge is a venue for all functions. Wilderness has a unique ceremony space outside, Wedding Island, which is surrounded by breath taking views and one of a kind scenery. With seven private rooms designed to accommodate groups of varying sizes, we look forward to the opportunity to provide the host location of your special day.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Multiple event spaces
  • Flexible event spaces
  • Full catering menu to choose from

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
  • No on-site bridal suite
  • Does not provide event staff

Location flexible? Discover venues near Thurman, IA

About wedding venues in Thurman, IA

Iowa offers some truly exceptional wedding settings that you'll fall in love with, from historic mansions with character to beautifully converted barns that blend rustic charm with modern amenities. You'll find specialized venues across the state that cater to specific needs; places like River Center in Des Moines provides outstanding accessibility features while The Chateau in Cambridge delivers a culinary experience that your guests will talk about for years.

What Makes Iowa Wedding Venues Special?

Iowa's rich architectural heritage creates wedding backdrops you simply can't find elsewhere. Rollins Mansion showcases historic detailing that photographs beautifully while The Temple for Performing Arts features stunning stained glass skylights that create magical lighting throughout your ceremony. Des Moines is home to premier venues like Northbridge Event Center with excellent food partnerships that will impress even your foodie friends. If you're looking eastward, The Harmac in Eastern Iowa offers an industrial atmosphere with handcrafted cocktails your guests will love. You'll typically spend between $7,100-$8,700 for Iowa venues, which falls nicely below the national average of $6,500-$12,000; giving you more flexibility with your overall budget.

How Much Does an Iowa Wedding Cost?

For a more intimate celebration with 50 guests, you're looking at roughly $18,338 total. Your costs will scale up naturally with your guest count. A 100-guest wedding typically runs about $30,382 while 150 guests pushes that to $41,708. Larger celebrations with 200 guests average $51,835 and if you're planning a big gathering with 250 guests expect around $61,962. The largest weddings with 300 guests typically reach $72,089. These figures help you set realistic expectations as you begin your venue search.

Which Venue Types Can You Find in Iowa?

Iowa gives you diverse venue options from elegant mansions to charming rustic barns that suit any wedding style you're dreaming of. Bella Sala Event Center can accommodate anywhere from 50 to 650 guests and offers beautiful outdoor spaces including a waterfall terrace and patio that creates perfect photo opportunities. The Exchange On Vine hosts up to 320 guests with flexible configurations that adapt to your vision, while VOWS DSM specializes in creating magical intimate celebrations for up to 65 guests; perfect if you're planning a more personal gathering.

How Do Iowa Wedding Venue Costs Break Down?

Venue costs make up about 19% of your total wedding budget with the average Iowa venue running $7,910. This gives you good perspective as you allocate funds across different services. Catering typically runs $6,328 (15%) while bar services average $5,062 (12%). Photography investments average $3,982 (10%) with videography close behind at $3,555 (9%). Your floral arrangements will likely cost around $3,342 (8%) and planning assistance averages $2,133 (5%). Entertainment costs about $1,350 (3%) with cake and desserts running $692 (2%). Hair and makeup services are relatively affordable at approximately $518 (1%).

ServiceAverage Cost% of Total (150 guests)
Venue$7,91019%
Catering$6,32815%
Bar Services$5,06212%
Photography$3,98210%
Videography$3,5559%
Florists$3,3428%
Planning$2,1335%
Entertainment$1,3503%
Cake/Desserts$6922%
Hair & Makeup$5181%

Where Are Iowa's Most Accessible Wedding Venues?

The River Center in Des Moines stands out with excellent ADA accessibility throughout plus two spacious bridal suites, private patios and convenient in-house catering that simplifies your planning. Wilson's Orchard in Iowa City offers accessible pathways with paved parking that ensures all your guests can navigate comfortably. You'll appreciate Bella Sala Event Center's comprehensive ADA accessibility throughout the facility, while The Temple for Performing Arts combines necessary accessibility features with modern amenities that don't compromise on style or atmosphere.

Which Iowa Venues Offer Outstanding Culinary Experiences?

The Chateau connects directly to a winery and features exceptional in-house catering that will impress even your most discerning guests. Northbridge Event Center partners with best-in-class food vendors while also supporting college scholarships in Kenya; so your celebration contributes to something meaningful. Glen Oaks Country Club delivers all-inclusive packages with exceptional culinary service that removes the stress of coordinating multiple vendors, letting you focus on enjoying your day.

When Should You Book Your Iowa Wedding Venue?

Most couples secure their venue about 15 months before their wedding date; giving you plenty of time to plan other details once your location is confirmed. October ranks as Iowa's most popular month for venue inquiries, so start looking earlier if you're considering a fall wedding. Popular destinations like The Celebration Farm and Glen Oaks Country Club often book well in advance, especially for peak season dates between May and October. Starting your venue search early gives you the best chance at securing your first choice.

How Can Iowa Venues Accommodate Remote Participants?

The Celebration Farm offers highly customizable spaces that work beautifully for integrating digital elements to include loved ones who can't attend in person. The Heights Rooftop can provide impressive Jumbotron displays that create an immersive experience for remote interaction. Venues like Northbridge Event Center and Bella Sala can accommodate technical installations for virtual engagement through augmented reality features or interactive experiences that bridge the gap between in-person and remote guests, ensuring everyone feels part of your special day.

Iowa offers some truly exceptional wedding settings that you'll fall in love with, from historic mansions with character to beautifully converted barns that blend rustic charm with modern amenities. You'll find specialized venues across the state that cater to specific needs; places like River Center in Des Moines provides outstanding accessibility features while The Chateau in Cambridge delivers a culinary experience that your guests will talk about for years.

What Makes Iowa Wedding Venues Special?

Iowa's rich architectural heritage creates wedding backdrops you simply can't find elsewhere. Rollins Mansion showcases historic detailing that photographs beautifully while The Temple for Performing Arts features stunning stained glass skylights that create magical lighting throughout your ceremony. Des Moines is home to premier venues like Northbridge Event Center with excellent food partnerships that will impress even your foodie friends. If you're looking eastward, The Harmac in Eastern Iowa offers an industrial atmosphere with handcrafted cocktails your guests will love. You'll typically spend between $7,100-$8,700 for Iowa venues, which falls nicely below the national average of $6,500-$12,000; giving you more flexibility with your overall budget.

How Much Does an Iowa Wedding Cost?

For a more intimate celebration with 50 guests, you're looking at roughly $18,338 total. Your costs will scale up naturally with your guest count. A 100-guest wedding typically runs about $30,382 while 150 guests pushes that to $41,708. Larger celebrations with 200 guests average $51,835 and if you're planning a big gathering with 250 guests expect around $61,962. The largest weddings with 300 guests typically reach $72,089. These figures help you set realistic expectations as you begin your venue search.

Which Venue Types Can You Find in Iowa?

Iowa gives you diverse venue options from elegant mansions to charming rustic barns that suit any wedding style you're dreaming of. Bella Sala Event Center can accommodate anywhere from 50 to 650 guests and offers beautiful outdoor spaces including a waterfall terrace and patio that creates perfect photo opportunities. The Exchange On Vine hosts up to 320 guests with flexible configurations that adapt to your vision, while VOWS DSM specializes in creating magical intimate celebrations for up to 65 guests; perfect if you're planning a more personal gathering.

How Do Iowa Wedding Venue Costs Break Down?

Venue costs make up about 19% of your total wedding budget with the average Iowa venue running $7,910. This gives you good perspective as you allocate funds across different services. Catering typically runs $6,328 (15%) while bar services average $5,062 (12%). Photography investments average $3,982 (10%) with videography close behind at $3,555 (9%). Your floral arrangements will likely cost around $3,342 (8%) and planning assistance averages $2,133 (5%). Entertainment costs about $1,350 (3%) with cake and desserts running $692 (2%). Hair and makeup services are relatively affordable at approximately $518 (1%).

ServiceAverage Cost% of Total (150 guests)
Venue$7,91019%
Catering$6,32815%
Bar Services$5,06212%
Photography$3,98210%
Videography$3,5559%
Florists$3,3428%
Planning$2,1335%
Entertainment$1,3503%
Cake/Desserts$6922%
Hair & Makeup$5181%

Where Are Iowa's Most Accessible Wedding Venues?

The River Center in Des Moines stands out with excellent ADA accessibility throughout plus two spacious bridal suites, private patios and convenient in-house catering that simplifies your planning. Wilson's Orchard in Iowa City offers accessible pathways with paved parking that ensures all your guests can navigate comfortably. You'll appreciate Bella Sala Event Center's comprehensive ADA accessibility throughout the facility, while The Temple for Performing Arts combines necessary accessibility features with modern amenities that don't compromise on style or atmosphere.

Which Iowa Venues Offer Outstanding Culinary Experiences?

The Chateau connects directly to a winery and features exceptional in-house catering that will impress even your most discerning guests. Northbridge Event Center partners with best-in-class food vendors while also supporting college scholarships in Kenya; so your celebration contributes to something meaningful. Glen Oaks Country Club delivers all-inclusive packages with exceptional culinary service that removes the stress of coordinating multiple vendors, letting you focus on enjoying your day.

When Should You Book Your Iowa Wedding Venue?

Most couples secure their venue about 15 months before their wedding date; giving you plenty of time to plan other details once your location is confirmed. October ranks as Iowa's most popular month for venue inquiries, so start looking earlier if you're considering a fall wedding. Popular destinations like The Celebration Farm and Glen Oaks Country Club often book well in advance, especially for peak season dates between May and October. Starting your venue search early gives you the best chance at securing your first choice.

How Can Iowa Venues Accommodate Remote Participants?

The Celebration Farm offers highly customizable spaces that work beautifully for integrating digital elements to include loved ones who can't attend in person. The Heights Rooftop can provide impressive Jumbotron displays that create an immersive experience for remote interaction. Venues like Northbridge Event Center and Bella Sala can accommodate technical installations for virtual engagement through augmented reality features or interactive experiences that bridge the gap between in-person and remote guests, ensuring everyone feels part of your special day.

What types of wedding venues are in Thurman, IA?

What other Thurman vendors will I need?