The Best Historic Estate & Mansion Wedding Venues in Iowa

The Best Historic Estate & Mansion Wedding Venues in Iowa

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14 Wedding Venues in Iowa

Historic estates, mansions
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
Quick responder
Tamory Hall 

5.0

Pella, IA
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $3,875

Tamory Hall, located in Pella, IA, is a refined full-service wedding venue. This luxurious space combines historical elegance with top-of-the-line modern amenities. Exposed brick walls are complemented by warm wooden floors, combining the industrial and the rustic. It is run by a team of creative professionals who are dedicated to helping you bring your dream day to life. When it comes to your wedding, everything from your rehearsal dinner to your reception is welcomed to an elegant indoor space. Tamory Hall contains 9,000 square feet of event space and happily welcomes celebrations with up to 300 attendees. The property features an elegantly appointed get-ready room for you to use with your wedding party, preparing for the day ahead in elegance and exclusivity. The hall is also within walking distance of Pella’s Central Park, for romantic outdoor photo opportunities. If you have guests who decide to stay in town for your wedding, they will have a wealth of hotels to choose from.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a dance floor for celebration
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Has a chic vibe

Venue considerations

  • Does not allow pets
  • No all-inclusive dining options
  • No on-premises lodging options
Awarded Best of Zola
We have such good things to say about Tamory Hall. Such a beautiful venue by itself. The old brick and natural light is stunning. It's so close to everything uptown, and a great location. The staff was WONDERFUL. Super flexible, helpful with details and kept things in order the whole night. The team was efficient, communicative and listened to what we wanted! We are very thankful for their dedication to make the day just what we envisioned! No question was a bad question in their eyes. Before we knew it, things were set up, cleared away, or where they needed to be -- the best behind the scenes team. Highly recommend Tamory for your wedding needs!!
Kaina, a year ago
Quick responder
The Renwick Mansion 

5.0

Davenport, IA
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $500

The Renwick Mansion is one of Davenport's most amazing historic locations. The beauty, elegance and history of the mansion are truly one of a kind. Sitting on 4 acres of land, with ample parking, as well as space for indoor and outdoor events. This Italian Revival Villa features a large indoor event space, bar, 4 balconies, a pa bridal suite, 8 bedrooms and a large lawn to accommodate events with up to 300 guests. A birds eye view of the Quad Cities and the Mississippi River can be enjoyed on the second story balcony or the fourth story tower.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Exudes old-world charm
  • Dressing room available
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests

Venue considerations

  • Does not allow pets
  • Requires outside catering services
  • Not wheelchair accessible
Awarded Best of Zola
This venue was everything we dreamed of and more. Sarah and Dane are two of the sweetest people we have had the pleasure of meeting. They truly went above and beyond helping us make our dream come to life. If you’re in need of a place to rent out for a party, a weekend getaway, or a special occasion of your own - we highly recommend checking their place out!
Taylor & T., 3 years ago
Quick responder
Salisbury House & Gardens 

5.0

Des Moines, IA
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor

Salisbury House & Gardens is a wedding venue and museum situated in Des Moines, Iowa. The original owner, Carl Weeks, founded liquid foundation and hypoallergenic makeup, so it is fitting that his 42-room mansion has received a magnificent makeover as a wedding venue and event center. The mansion was built in the 1920s and was inspired by The King's House in Salisbury, England, blending Tudor, Carolean, and Gothic architectural details. Today, to-be-weds can celebrate their romantic nuptials in style at this sophisticated estate. From intimate elopements to large-scale receptions, Salisbury House & Gardens is suitable for events of all styles and sizes. You can say "I do" in front of several beautiful indoor backdrops or outdoors, where tall trees envelope a traditional arbor and manicured garden spaces. Couples can curate their dream reception indoors, outside, or in an elegant marquee.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Flexible event spaces
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site

Venue considerations

  • Limited cleanup and setup services
  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • Does not have a dance floor
Unbeatable venue for a garden party style wedding. Beautiful, well-maintained, and a staff that was exceptionally helpful and easy to work with made this our dream location. Visit and you will fall in love.
Josh H., 9 months ago
The Prelude 

5.0

New Virginia, IA
  • Up to 165 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $6,500

prel·ude noun "An introductory performance, action, or event preceding a more important one." The Prelude was dreamed up by a couple who craved a feeling they had only experienced in far off lands and story books - They knew there were others out there who dreamed of running away to places that gave them that whimsical feeling again but couldn't see themselves ever doing it - So they decided to create a place that brought that whimsy and feeling to them - The result is one of the best & most unique venues in Central Iowa, located just 30 minutes south of Des Moines. The Prelude is for authentic people who crave a romantic dream from a vanished age. The Prelude isn't only a place that should be seen - It should be experienced.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides setup and cleanup
  • Offers convenient lodging options
  • Picturesque garden backdrop

Venue considerations

  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • No all-inclusive dining options
  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
We hosted my son's wedding at the Prelude and the entire experience could not have gone better. The venue is breathtaking! The view from The Prelude makes one feel like they're enjoying a Tuscan Vista. It was a wonderful backdrop for their art deco inspired theme. Ashley and Nathanael are the most attentive, detail oriented, and helpful hosts. Once the family and wedding party arrived, everyone was able to relax and enjoy the experience as Ashley and Nathanael ensured everything went smoothly. I would recommend The Prelude to any couple, or anyone searching for a venue for their special event.
Kathleen & P., 3 years ago
The Crane & Pelican Cafe 

5.0

Le Claire, IA
  • Up to 100 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor

Our mission at the Crane & Pelican is to provide our guests with the highest quality, full service, fine-dining experience, in our beautiful & historic location, The Dawley House. Proudly serving the Quad Cities since 2009, we are family-owned & operated, women-owned, & LGBT-owned. We opened the Crane & Pelican Cafe in 2009. Our vision was to make real handcrafted food, with a full-service top-shelf bar, in this beautiful location. Any changes we have made to the property have been to restore it to its original glory. We added live Jazz in 2021 and we look forward to making some amazing new memories here at the Dawley house.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Full catering menu to choose from
  • All-inclusive venue packages
  • Has a glamorous vibe

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Does not allow pets
  • On-site parking not available
The Crane & Pelican Cafe was an exceptional choice for catering. From the very first interaction, Mandy and her team were quick to respond, set clear expectations, and ensured we felt supported throughout the entire planning process. Their catering service was incredible - the food was delicious and beautifully presented, and the service was impeccable on the day of our wedding. We received so many compliments from our guests on the incredible dining experience. Mandy and her staff went above and beyond to make our special day truly memorable. We highly recommend The Crane & Pelican Cafe to any couple looking for an stress-free, top-notch wedding catering.
Nicole L., 6 months ago
The Tea Room 

5.0

Des Moines, IA
  • Up to 325 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor

Welcome to Iowa’s most historic and iconic venue. Located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, the restored elegance of The Tea Room is captivating and the perfect venue for your special occasion. Reserve your date at The Tea Room to create memories that will last a lifetime. Since reopening in 2017, The Tea Room has upheld its reputation of making hosts and guests feel welcome. The restored beauty of the space leaves brides and grooms with iconic wedding photos and memories that will last a lifetime.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Space for a large guest list
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Exudes old-world charm

Venue considerations

  • No venue-provided food services
  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
Our wedding was over a month ago and we still have guests reaching out to us to comment what a beautiful reception we had at the Tea Room. Maddie and her team worked tirelessly to make our day perfect! The space is so special, and we know we will cherish the memories we made there forever. We could not recommend the Tea Room more highly!
Julie K., 2 years ago
Quick responder
Bayliss Park Hall 
Council Bluffs, IA
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $1,000

The former Elk’s building was built in the colonial-revival style of architecture. Wide porches, supported by large columns, extend along the entire front of the building, with the upper balcony extending over the entrance in artistic architectural detail. On October 21, 1900, the cornerstone was laid for Lodge No. 531, B.P.O.E. on the north side of Bayliss Park in the heart of Council Bluffs. The inside of the building is furnished in classic Victorian style with rich burgundy and green hues. The original cigar stand and bundle counter is located immediately to the right of the front entrance. The grand oak stairway curves to the right and to the left and draws you up to the second-floor reception area and a ballroom that features a hard maple floor and mahogany-paneled walls. The second floor balcony provides guests with a breathtaking view of Bayliss Park and its beautiful fountain.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a glamorous vibe
  • Has a dance floor for celebration
  • Designed for grand celebrations

Venue considerations

  • On-site parking not available
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • Does not allow pets
Quick responder
Art Church Weddings 
Malvern, IA
  • Up to 75 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $1,200

1969 was the last Presbyterian service. In 2012, artist Zack Jones purchased this 1873 church as a artist live/work space. Today the studio apartment is available for the wedding party and preparations. Art Church Weddings is located in a 1873 de-sanctified Church in Malvern, IA. and is a permanent gallery to oil painter Zack Jones. Better known as Art Church Iowa, this unique building is coming back to life with exhibits, concerts, and private events.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a warm and cozy vibe
  • Offers convenient lodging options
  • Historic touches

Venue considerations

  • No venue-provided food services
  • Not for you if you prefer a more modern aesthetic
  • Limited cleanup and setup services
Cornerstone Wedding & Event Venue 
Burlington, IA
  • Up to 190 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $1,000

Looking for a wedding venue that's anything but ordinary? Our old church turned event space is the perfect choice! With its unique architecture, beautiful details, and romantic ambiance, it's the perfect place to start your new life together. Between our expert planning staff, on-site bridal and grooms suite, full stocked bar and bartending staff, on-site décor and linens, discounts with other local vendors, up-lighting, photobooths, dj services, shuttles, and SO MUCH MORE! We aren't just an old church. 😎 We are an expertly ran premier wedding venue that is here to make your wedding vision come to life.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Dressing room available
  • Provides setup and cleanup
  • Designed for grand celebrations

Venue considerations

  • Does not allow pets
  • Dance floor not included
  • Not wheelchair accessible
The Black Hawk Hotel 
Cedar Falls, IA
  • Up to 75 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $400

The Black Hawk Hotel is brimming with historic character! The Black Hawk Hotel is the second longest operating hotel in the country and features beautiful historic character that will wow your guests and be the backdrop for gorgeous photo opps. We're located in the heart of Downtown Cedar Falls, so your guests will love exploring the District's shops, bars and restaurants before and after your wedding. We are also the only locally-owned hotel the Cedar Valley, and pride ourselves on being local experts. Our guests routinely compliment our Midwestern Hospitality! We are nearly a one-stop-shop for your wedding festivities, and can check off the major services you need to host a celebration to remember. But, we don't require you use our services; just select what fits your vision. We offer rental of the lobby and bar in the historic hotel, catering services, cakes, bar service, event planning, day-of coordination, hotel room blocks, bridal/getting ready suites and honeymoon suites.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Classic, vintage atmosphere
  • Provides event staff
  • Creates a sense of togetherness

Venue considerations

  • No built-in audiovisual options
The Conrad Mansion 
Conrad, IA
  • Up to 400 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor

Why rush off? Turn your best day ever into your best weekend ever! Celebrating together for 4 days would be so much more fun! You’ll Love… 4 days/ 3 nights of mansion fun 40 friends & family stay & play all weekend full use of indoor basketball court exclusive use of the whole estate & venue decorate before & enjoy your day indoor & outdoor ceremony options choice of your own caterers Conrad mansion + carriage house venue = so much more fun! The Weekend Celebration Includes: Exclusive access to the charming Conrad Mansion for 40 friends and family to celebrate the weekend away, multiple spots for photos that will last a lifetime, tables and wedding chairs setup to your specifications, two beautiful dressing areas, ideal for pictures, professional parking lot with lights, Indoor bathrooms (wheelchair accessible), and a large bar area with refrigeration for drinks.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Unique barn setting
  • Offers convenient lodging options

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • No all-inclusive dining options

About wedding venues in Iowa

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.