5 Unique Bay Area Wedding Venues
The Bay Area is filled with tons of gorgeous vineyards, hotels and country clubs, but for some couples, you may be looking for something a little more unique for your wedding day. As a San Francisco wedding photographer, I’ve had a lot of experience at all different types of venues across the county, and there are tons of great alternatives to the vineyard and country club venues. Take a look at some of my favorites!
Chabot Space and Science Center
One of my favorite spots in the Bay Area is the Chabot Space and Science Center. It’s an absolutely gorgeous venue and super unique. For anyone who appreciates the stars, it’s the perfect spot. As you can see above, the lighting is just magical here and the redwoods are close by too. You can fit up to 500 people depending on which area of the center you rent out, and you can even add on tours, shows, and demos for your guests to enjoy. Take a look at all of their offerings here!
UC Berkeley Botanical Gardens
Another one of my favorite unique wedding venues in the Bay Area is the UC Berkeley Botanical Gardens. This space is so beautiful, and full of tons of different backdrops. You can get married in the Redwood Grove and Amphitheater and take some fun photos over in the gardens. You can host a beautiful reception in the Julia Morgan Hall which has a really beautiful, rustic feel. This venue can host up to 200 guests depending on the space you rent out, and provides tables and chairs. Take a look at their rental FAQ here!
Gardens
For the garden lovers, there are a few great options throughout the Bay Area. My personal favorites include the Gardens at Heather Farm (pictured above), Ruth Bancroft Garden and Nursery, or Elizabeth Gamble Gardens. The Gardens at Heather Farm is very whimsical and quaint. The Ruth Bancroft Garden is more desert and succulent based, whereas the Elizabeth Gamble Gardens is more historic and romantic. All 3 venues are stunning for an event and make for a truly gorgeous and unique backdrop. You can’t go wrong with either one!
Image Courtesy of Aracely SF
Local Restaurants
If you have a smaller guest count or want to have a more intimate reception, try checking out local restaurants as venues. One of my favorites is Aracely on Treasure Island (as pictured above). It’s a great space with delicious food, and you get a gorgeous view of the San Francisco skyline. Local restaurants are wonderful places to host a wedding since you know there’s going to be fabulous food and all of your rentals are typically included.
Image Courtesy of Wine Train
Napa Valley Wine Train
Last but certainly not least, the Napa Valley Wine Train is definitely a unique wedding venue that is not easily forgotten. You can get married either inside the train or nearby and then enjoy a two hour train tour with dinner and, of course, lots of wine. It’s a really cool experience and makes for a super unique and fun take on a wedding reception if you aren’t a big dancing crowd. Plus, you can’t beat the views. You can fit up to 60 guests on the wine train. Take a look at their packages here!
Of course, you’re always free to do your own research and find other cool spots. If you have a smaller guest count, you can make lots of different places into venues! Boats, restaurants, museums, historic houses, etc.
Ready to book your own wedding photography? Contact me here to get started!
