The Best Aquarium & Zoo Wedding Venues in Walpole, MA

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2 Wedding Venues in Walpole, MA

Aquariums, zoos
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Southwick's Zoo / Galliford's Restaurant 
Rating: 5.0 (4 reviews)
Mendon, MA
  • Up to 200 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor

Spanning over 200 acres Southwick's Zoo is New England's largest zoological experience. With several venues to choose from like our enchanting Deer Forest, Tented Pavilion overlooking the African Plains or the Daniel's Room with it's fire place adorned patio, you will be able to customize the perfect day for you and your guests. Food and service is provided by our onsite restaurant, Galliford's Restaurant & Tavern. Don't forget to book the Skyfari for your sunset cocktail hour!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Multiple event spaces
  • Natural elegance with open spaces
  • Full catering menu to choose from

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
  • No built-in audiovisual options
Awarded Best of Zola
“Forever grateful. Our intimate covid wedding was planned flawlessly in three weeks. The food was amazing. The cake was to die for! The deer forest was magical. And Sara in the events dept, was the cause of it all. Thank you so much. It was truly perfect.”
Robyn, 6 years ago
Quick responder
New England Aquarium 
Rating: 5.0 (2 reviews)
Boston, MA
  • Up to 275 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $8,500
  • Offer

With stunning settings, one-of-a-kind views, and a backdrop of awe-inspiring animals, the New England Aquarium is the perfect Boston location for an upcoming waterfront wedding reception. Capture the romance of Boston’s historic waterfront at one of the most unique and ethical wedding reception venues in Boston. Whether you’re planning a large-scale celebration of love or an intimate micro-wedding, we have you covered with options to rent the entire Aquarium or a smaller private area. From helping you pick the perfect venue to the perfect environmentally responsible menu, our event management team will assist you every step of the way. Each wedding at the Aquarium supports our animals, exhibits, and efforts to ensure a vital and vibrant ocean for all.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Handles all cleanup logistics
  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away
  • Full catering menu to choose from

Venue considerations

  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • No free parking
“Before you read this lengthy review, the short answer is: YES, get married at the New England Aquarium! We started our search looking for venues and wanted something fun and unique. The Aquarium made it onto our list, and the prices were comparable to other venues—it wasn’t significantly more expensive than renting out a restaurant with food and drinks. We read every review possible before we had our first meeting and toured the venue. Our biggest concern was catering because there were some older reviews on The Knot about this being an issue. At our first meeting, not only was there a representative from the New England Aquarium, but also a representative from the catering company. This was definitely a green flag for us, and it sounds like the Aquarium took the older reviews seriously and transitioned to a new catering team. Throughout the planning process, the team was wonderful. They kept in touch via email, gave us clear deadlines, and answered all of our questions. We did have to get pre-approval for all of our centerpieces and anything else we were bringing into the Aquarium because of animal safety. This was not an issue for us and was a very straightforward process. A few months before the wedding, we also had our food and wine tasting. This was definitely one of the fun parts of the planning process because all we had to do was show up! We knew we wanted buffet stations instead of a plated dinner, so we told them which entrees we wanted to try. The Italian dishes were really great, along with all of the salads. We also had some suggestions for a customized Indian station, and the team took very detailed notes, which was a great sign that they were listening to what we wanted. Amanda Solomon was the person we worked with very closely as we got closer to our wedding date. The week before, she sent us encouraging messages and made sure everything was on track. On the day of the wedding, she and her team made sure the setup was done correctly and that everything was ready for us. We didn’t have a wedding ceremony at the Aquarium—just the reception. Cocktail hour was inside the Aquarium, while dinner and dancing were outside in the tent. Everyone absolutely raved about the venue! One thing we loved was that guests had options throughout the night. They could hang out in the tent and dance, go inside the Aquarium to see the animals, or walk along the harbor. It made the whole experience feel really unique and gave people plenty to do. People also said they really enjoyed the food, which was the only hesitation we had when touring potential venues. We were so happy that we decided to go with the Aquarium and would highly recommend this venue to anyone looking for something unique, fun, and memorable!”
Peter W., 7 days ago

Location flexible? Discover venues near Walpole, MA

Dye House
Rating: 5.0 (1 review)
Providence, RI
Cambridge Boat Club
Rating: 5.0 (1 review)
CAMBRIDGE, MA
Villa 120
Middletown, RI
Wannamoisett Country Club
Rumford, RI
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OceanCliff Hotel
Rating: 5.0 (6 reviews)
Newport, RI
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Regatta Place
Rating: 5.0 (5 reviews)
Newport, RI
Quick responder
Willowdale Estate
Rating: 5.0 (182 reviews)
Topsfield, MA
Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
La Brasa
Rating: 5.0 (1 review)
Somerville, MA
New
The Bull Run
Shirley, MA
Quick responder
Hawthorne Hotel
Rating: 5.0 (3 reviews)
Salem, MA
Floriana
Rating: 5.0 (4 reviews)
Ipswich, MA
Quick responder
Southwick's Zoo / Galliford's Restaurant
Rating: 5.0 (4 reviews)
Mendon, MA

Event types for wedding venues in Walpole, MA

About wedding venues in Walpole, MA

## How Much Do Walpole Wedding Venues Cost?

You'll find that Walpole wedding venues typically range from $8,730 to $10,670, right in line with what couples spend nationally ($6,500-$12,000). Venues make up about 17% of your total wedding investment in this charming New England area. Your budget will naturally scale with your guest list: For 50 guests you're looking at about $25,244 total. With 100 guests that jumps to $41,920. Celebrating with 150 guests brings you to $57,593 while 200 guests moves your budget to $71,596. Larger celebrations with 250 guests cost around $85,599 and 300-guest weddings typically reach $99,602.

## When Should You Book Your Walpole Venue?

December sees the highest number of venue inquiries in Walpole. Most couples secure their venue about 17 months (527 days) before saying "I do." This extended planning window isn't just cautious; it's essential if you're dreaming of a fall wedding when New England's landscape transforms into a spectacular backdrop of autumn colors. Prime dates book quickly so start your venue search early.

## Which Walpole Venues Offer Outstanding Culinary Experiences?

Avenir on Main Street dazzles couples with its modern-glam ballroom featuring a stunning mother-of-pearl dance floor and custom pergola for outdoor ceremonies. While they don't spotlight specific chefs the venue's upscale atmosphere suggests high-quality dining options that will impress your guests. For more intimate celebrations WeBreathe Wellness offers a tranquil setting perfect for medium-sized weddings. Just outside Walpole you might consider the Renaissance Boston Patriot Place Hotel in nearby Foxborough. Their newly renovated event spaces often come with elevated culinary options that can take your reception dinner to the next level.

## What Accessible Wedding Venues Can You Find in Walpole?

You'll fall in love with Avenir's stunning ballroom that flows seamlessly to an enchanting outdoor ceremony space and cocktail terrace. While you should confirm specific accessibility features directly this Saphire Event Group venue is known for its luxurious yet accommodating settings. For waterfront charm The Lakehouse near East Walpole gives you a beautifully designed venue with dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows. Its wheelchair accessibility makes this an excellent choice if you're prioritizing comfort for guests with mobility needs.

## How Can Walpole Venues Accommodate Remote Participation?

Standard livestreaming is widely available but if you're looking for enhanced remote experiences ask Avenir about their technology capabilities. This upscale venue might accommodate advanced options like interactive live chats or comprehensive virtual event platforms that help distant loved ones feel more connected. Though not explicitly advertised most venues can arrange for VR/AR experiences or multi-camera setups if requested. These thoughtful touches help ensure everyone shares in your special day even if they can't be physically present.

## What Other Services Will You Need for a Walpole Wedding?

Beyond securing your dream venue you'll need to budget for other essential wedding services in Walpole: Florists take about 14% of wedding budgets at $7,931. Catering follows closely at 13% ($7,724) while bar services run about 11% ($6,179). Wedding planners typically account for 9% ($5,379) of your total. Photography services average 8% ($4,834) and videographers come in at 7% ($4,276). Music from bands or DJs represents just 3% ($1,939). Hair and makeup artists and cake/dessert providers each take about 1% of your budget at $727 and $672 respectively.

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