Hidden European Style Wedding Venues in Washington, DC

Your epic wedding venue may be closer than you think. What if I told you that you don’t have to go far to find the wedding location of your dreams? Check out my list of hidden gems in the DC Metro Area that will whisk you away without having to go too far. If you’re looking for a European style wedding venue that you wouldn’t expect to be in and around Washington, DC—I’ve got the spots!

If you’ve always dreamt of a European wedding, but you don’t have the funds or time to get there, we can still make this dream happen! There are so many locations that provide all of the European vibes right in Washington, DC’s backyard! These are some of my favorites.

1. Tudor Place

Located in the Washington, DC neighborhood of Georgetown, the gardens and elegant pink Historic House provide a perfect backdrop to intimate moments on the grounds in that gorgeous white dress! Even though Tudor Place is right in the middle of historic Georgetown, it feels like a secret estate. I personally enjoy the grounds for first looks and couple photos in the garden and around the estate. Sitting on over five acres of tree-surrounded property, the grounds have several different gardens, ivy, stone steps, florals, and lavender. Additionally, the indoors are just as beautiful, offering a variety of Victorian-era rooms and adjacent gardens for intimate ceremonies.

2. Meridian House

An elegant wedding venue in Washington, DC, the Meridian House provides a perfect blend of a vintage feel with modern taste. Built in 1921, this historic manor sits on three acres of gardens and is decorated with “a collection of 18th century French drawings and Oriental porcelains and screens.” The indoors also include a massive library that works as a perfect backdrop to a First Look.

The grounds of Meridian House are so breathtaking—from the epic double staircase to the backyard terrace and garden spaces. It feels like like a secret destination wedding location with Italian vibes right in the middle of Adams Morgan! This location is perfect for couples who want a Washington, DC wedding with outdoor options (including dinner under trees lit with twinkle lights) that are tucked away from the busy city streets. 

3. Dover Hall

Ever think of having a castle wedding that isn’t outside of the U.S. or at Disneyworld? (both of which are great ideas BTW) Dover Hall, the English Tudor estate in Richmond, VA (about two hours outside of Washington, DC), may just be the castle of your wedding dreams! The stonework, vine-covered exterior, backyard terrace and reflection pool, flowering gardens, and vineyard make this location feel like a European castle both inside and out.

There are so many epic rooms with historic decor including grand fireplaces and a large tub fit for a bridal getting-ready space (also perfect for bridal boudoir!). The grand hall has THE tallest ceilings with floor to ceiling windows giving it a total Beauty & the Beast feel! I just can’t get over how magical this wedding venue is!!

4. Yours or a Friend’s House & Backyard

If you live in Washington, DC or you know someone who does, a backyard can be the perfect wedding location! This particular couple happened to be friends with the French Ambassador who offered them his home for their ceremony! This was followed by a tented reception surrounded by candles at their own house! This option really incorporates your story as a couple making your wedding day even more meaningful!

5. Goodstone Inn

This spot really checks off so many boxes that a couple may desire. Planted on 265 acres of rolling hills in the heart of Virginia wine country, Goodstone Inn & Restaurant has an outdoorsy feel while being a luxurious stay and experience. It is an all-inclusive wedding venue which means they only host one wedding at a time. They cater to weddings of all sizes from petite, intimate weddings, to grand wedding weekends (accommodating up to 200 guests).

Ceremony locations include the most epic and romantic wall of ivy with blush florals and greenery. The entire space gives off an enchanted vibe between the ivy wall and the intimate, ivy-covered courtyard. Receptions and ceremonies can be held indoors or outdoors, so it’s basically like having a first choice and back-up location all wrapped into one!

6. Tabard Inn

City streets + twinkle lights=the best setting for an intimate wedding. You can’t help but fall in love with the charming qualities of the historic Tabard Inn. This is a historic inn with a ton of personality! It reminds me of an inn you might find in Rome with its decor and grand ivy-covered patio. It is the perfect setting for a ceremony on the patio and having guests mingle and dance inside the Victorian townhouse. This is a great option for an intimate wedding space for couples who do want to incorporate being in the city! It is right off of Dupont Circle, so there is no shortage of beautiful photo spots!

Look no further for a unique, stylish wedding location than this 100-year-old boutique hotel!

7. St. Francis Hall & Gardens

St. Francis Hall sits right next door to the Franciscan Monastery which hosts beautiful gardens with a variety of archways and blooming flowers to explore. The gardens have such a European from the the architecture of the walkways to the covered arches and terracotta roof shingles. From the vast lush gardens to the stonework and high ceilings of St. Francis Hall itself, you aren’t going to find anything like it!

Seriously, what this Franciscan Monastery is doing in Washington, DC—I don’t even know!

8. Meridian Hill Park & Josephine Butler Parks Center

Meridian Hill Park, located in Adams Morgan in Washington, DC, is a wedding venue that echos the style of its Spanish steps with romantic alcoves throughout for private moments. The detailing of the architecture within the entire park is so European including overlooks, statues, the fountain, steps, and tree tunnel walkways. Couples can share a wonderful first look completely off the radar in this super green park. After taking a walk together before or after the ceremony newlyweds can pop across the street for more photos at the Josephine Butler Parks Center.

9. Airlie House and Farm

Airlie House and Farm has such a variety of open air spaces with a whimsical feel that just cannot be beat! This is a venue that does allow dogs so be sure to bring your furry friends to your wedding day! For indoor options, Airlie House and Farm hosts a beautiful space with large windows and twinkle lights that’s perfect for a backup rain plan.

A great ceremony option is the epic outdoor staircase that has all the European feels! These two used it for their couples photos and for shots with the bridal party. I just love this venue because of the variety of locations it offers. You can truly show your personality and transform the space!

Here are a few more bonuses to this Virginia wedding venue:

• Separate getting-ready spaces onsite. Not having to worry about transportation really makes your day more enjoyable. 
• Food served that is grown ON the property!
• 300 acres and only 50 miles outside of DC.
• Can stay overnight.

10. Oxon Hill Manor

This venue has so much to offer! Oxon Hill Manor sits on a hill overlooking the Potomac River and includes fountain-side, garden-side, and rose-covered grounds. The historic manor has a simple but grand feeling providing many options for ceremonies and first looks. Do you want to have your wedding in a beautiful garden just outside of Washington, DC? Then the elegant Oxon Hill Manor is the wedding venue for you!

If you still aren’t sure which Washington, DC wedding venue is for you, then let’s chat! I would love to help you find the perfect spot!