From a private social club to a luxury resort-style hotel, there are a myriad of luxury wedding venues in Washington, DC. Explore 9 of the best options and narrow down your top few to book a tour with.
Omni Shoreham
A luxury hotel that is seen as a DC icon, the Omni Shoreham offers resort-like amenities with a spa, pool, fitness center, and fine dining. Their lawn is recommended for ceremonies with space for up to 400 guests. With views of the Rock Creek National Park, this luxury wedding venue in DC offers an escape from the city without leaving. Even the Rolling Stones have been here, witnesses to the lush garden, cascading fountains, and grand ballrooms. If you view their brochure, you’ll see a multitude of options and even menu ideas!
Dumbarton House
Completed around 1800, this venue is also a museum — home to an impressive art collection and oversized white columns. There are options for indoor and outdoor ceremonies with the North Garden taking the cake when it comes to the best of both worlds. Imagine cocktail hour on the Upper Terrace and then a reception in one of the ballrooms or even the Lower Terrace. Up to 200 guests can be hosted, but 80-150 is best for seated events. Here, the overall color palette is warm and cozy with a brick facade and vine-covered walls.
Washington National Cathedral
Fitting for religious ceremonies, the Washington National Cathedral is the 6th largest cathedral in the world — an unmatched luxury wedding venue in DC. Located on 57 beautiful acres and with iconic European architecture, even the walk down the aisle is a dream with a distance of one-tenth of a mile. The Nave and other indoor locations are options for seated receptions, a unique feature that lets you say your vows and stay on-site for the celebrations that follow. Outdoor options are also available, giving you the natural light and the awe of the cathedral all in one.
Willard InterContinental
With a New-York-style street facade (think covered entrance and lobby with bright, vaulted ceilings), Willard InterContinental embraces events with concierge service and ballroom-style weddings. This intricate property is perfect for wedding weekends thanks to the on-site accommodations, delicious cuisine, and convenient location. To note, this luxury venue was also named one of Washington, DC’s “Very Best Wedding Vendors” by Washingtonian Bride & Groom.
DAR
A social landmark with an outdoor patio, library, and even the option to host your ceremony in the Rotunda, DAR is filled with nearly a century of history. Built in 1929, it’s a gorgeous destination for vows, dinner, and dancing. Inside, the white ceilings are intricately carved and vaulted for a spacious feel that maintains a cozy, chic essence.
Perry Belmont
A spacious and stunning hotel wedding venue in DC, this location is filled with decadent finds — German wood, Italian marble, and metal fixtures from France. The staircases are worthy of any entrance, but especially that of a wedding. Surely, the Perry Belmont Hotel is a gorgeous choice for a wedding with a hint of the Gilded Age.
Anderson House
A luxury DC wedding venue with a reflecting pool, marble staircase, walled garden, and two floors of artwork — this setting is breathtaking and honestly, hard to beat. There is room for up to 130 guests and each and every corner is rich with history. For private portraits, they typically require a staff member to be present given the priceless antique furnishings you’ll find throughout the space. As expected, it’s a privilege and iconic opportunity to get married here.
Meridian House
Another 1920 jewel with an architect celebrated for his work here at the Meridian House and the National Gallery of Art. Even the fountain is worth mentioning — a marble masterpiece straight from Italy. Large, arched windows bring in floods of natural light for indoor ceremonies. Meanwhile, ceremonies on the lawn are of course an easy and beautiful option for spring and summer weddings thanks to the 80-year-old Spanish linden trees that the light gently filters through.
Cosmos Club
A private social club with availability only for members (or sponsored by one), the Cosmos Club is breathtaking. Even the ceiling is a masterpiece with a mural that softly catches your eyes with pastel blues and pinks. The gardens are perfect for portraits and the location is just as heavenly as it sounds.
Chic, but comfortable
Enjoying the recommendations? As a DC wedding photographer, the best venues for my couples are often those that feel like home away from home — something indulgent but also easy and comfortable. A luxury estate often fits those needs beautifully. Find more inspiration on Instagram and check out my recommendations on other DC wedding venues.
