Best Places To Get Married In Wisconsin: Top Venues for Your Dream Wedding
Planning your wedding can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when choosing the perfect venue. Wisconsin offers a diverse range of stunning locations that cater to every style and preference. Whether you’re looking for a rustic barn, a chic urban setting, or a scenic outdoor spot, you’re sure to find a place that feels just right for your special day.
The best places to get married in Wisconsin combine beauty, convenience, and unique charm. From picturesque lakeside views to historic buildings, the state has plenty to offer. Exploring the variety of venues available can help you and your partner find a place that matches your vision and creates lasting memories for you and your guests.
1) The Enchanted Barn
Located in Northwest Wisconsin, The Enchanted Barn is a top wedding venue that blends rustic charm with modern amenities. Its stunning countryside setting creates a picturesque backdrop for your special day.
You’ll find much more than weddings here. The venue hosts regular events like live music, comedy shows, and art exhibitions. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Food and drinks are another highlight. The Enchanted Barn offers delicious stone-fired pizzas, smash burgers, and craft cocktails. Whether you’re a foodie or just love good eats, you’ll be impressed.
For those looking to stay overnight, there are beautifully appointed on-site accommodations available. This makes it easy for you and your guests to enjoy the celebrations without worrying about travel.
Rating: 4.7 (180 reviews)
Location: 1543 6 1/2 Ave, Hillsdale, WI
Contact: (715) 254-1557
Website: Visit Website
2) The Gardens Wedding Center
The Gardens Wedding Center is a charming wedding venue in Allenton, Wisconsin. Owned and run by a family, this venue is set within 3 acres of a historic complex. The site dates back to 1844 and features rich woodwork and original stained glass windows.
The church at The Gardens Wedding Center has been the backdrop for thousands of weddings. The iconic church bells add a special touch by ringing out for each ceremony. This makes every wedding feel unique and memorable.
The Gardens Wedding Center is conveniently located just 4 miles off I-41, making it easily accessible. It’s also a short drive from Milwaukee, Fond du Lac, West Bend, and Beaver Dam. This venue blends a rustic feel with a touch of elegance, making it a wonderful spot to tie the knot.
Rating: 4.7 (197 reviews)
Location: 7003 WI-175, Allenton, WI 53002
Contact: (262) 629-4411
Website: Visit Website
3) The Ivy House
The Ivy House is a unique event venue in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It’s perfect for weddings and offers a green-scaped ballroom and an ivy-covered patio. Whether you prefer an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the Ivy House has the space and experience to make your day special.
If you’re hosting a corporate or non-profit event, the Ivy House is equipped with a state-of-the-art audio system that ensures your message is heard. The venue is great for silent auctions, keynote speeches, and more. Make your event memorable and professional with their support.
Music lovers will appreciate the concert-friendly atmosphere at the Ivy House. With roots as a DJ company, they host live acts, both local and touring. Enjoy fantastic music supported by top-notch sound systems and on-staff audio technicians.
The Ivy House also provides a list of preferred vendors to complete your event. From catering and decor to photography and floral arrangements, you can choose from some of Milwaukee’s best options to make your event exactly how you envision it.
Rating: 4.8 (295 reviews)
Location: 906 S Barclay St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Contact: (414) 539-3339
Website: Visit Website
4) Mercantile Hall
Nestled in downtown Burlington, Mercantile Hall offers a charming urban-style wedding venue with a small-town feel. Conveniently located between Milwaukee, Chicago, and Madison, it’s an ideal spot for couples from various areas. The venue features both indoor and outdoor spaces, making it versatile for any season.
The indoor space showcases original brick walls and unique design features. The Urb Garden, an outdoor space, includes a beautiful cedar pergola, custom garden gates, and a vintage camper bar named Suesanna. This garden is perfect for cocktails, evening s’mores, and stunning sunset photos.
Mercantile Hall can host up to 220 seated guests for ceremonies and receptions. Their package includes tables and chairs, multiple lighting options, and coordination services. The staff is praised for their flexibility and helpfulness, ensuring your day goes smoothly.
Rating: 4.7 (173 reviews)
Location: 425 N Pine St, Burlington, WI 53105
Contact: (262) 758-6280
Website: Visit Website
5) The Wildwood Barn & Cottage
The Wildwood Barn & Cottage is a perfect place for couples looking for a unique and rustic wedding venue. It offers an authentic countryside experience, tucked away on 35 acres of wooded land in Waterloo, Wisconsin. The venue is a historic, family-owned farmstead, featuring a well-preserved century-old barn and a cozy cottage with a bridal suite.
The venue includes many charming features such as a Boxcar Bar, Groom’s Garage, commercial-grade wedding tent, and a record-size Silver Maple tree. There is also a pond that adds to the scenic beauty of the location. The space is thoughtfully decorated with vintage relics, creating an atmosphere filled with nostalgia and charm.
Couples will appreciate the complimentary Thursday rehearsal included with all Friday rentals. This allows you to start decorating and dropping off items a day ahead. With limited booking availability for 2025, early planning is recommended.
Rating: 4.9 (94 reviews)
Location: 915 Witt Ln, Waterloo, WI 53594
Contact: (608) 219-5937
Website: Visit Website
6) Vennebu Hill | Wedding Barn & Event Venue
Vennebu Hill is a charming spot for weddings, inspired by Norwegian heritage. The venue combines the rustic feel of a traditional barn with modern amenities. It’s perfect for couples wanting both an elegant and cozy atmosphere.
Located on a family farm, Vennebu Hill has stunning views of the Baraboo Bluffs and the Wisconsin River. The large property offers plenty of space for both indoor and outdoor events. This makes it a great choice for those who want a serene yet breathtaking setting.
The venue features two main indoor event spaces that can seat up to 300 people. There’s also a separate ceremony space, which offers seamless transitions for wedding celebrations. Its versatile design means you can use it for meetings, retreats, and other events too.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a company retreat, or a wedding, this venue has all the modern facilities you need. With excellent audio-visual capabilities and cozy meeting spaces, Vennebu Hill is sure to make your event unforgettable.
Rating: 4.8 (141 reviews)
Location: 360 Co Rd A, Baraboo, WI 53913
Contact: (414) 405-9545
Website: Visit Website
7) Harvest Moon Pond Wedding & Event Venue
Harvest Moon Pond in Poynette offers a charming wedding experience just 20 minutes north of Madison. This venue is known for its beautiful blend of history and modern comforts, providing you and your guests with a memorable experience. With 18 acres of picturesque landscape, it’s perfect for stunning wedding photos.
You’ll enjoy the indoor and outdoor ceremony options, making it great for any season. The venue includes cozy features like farmhouse tables, an indoor fireplace, and a modern bar. The outdoor patio and fireplace add a special touch for guests.
The owners are dedicated to giving you a stress-free wedding. They provide custom support tools to make planning easier. You’ll find no hidden fees, and the amenities ensure your comfort with heat and air conditioning.
Rating: 4.8 (229 reviews)
Location: Poynette, WI 53955
Contact: (608) 285-2536
Website: Visit Website
8) The Hidden Meadow and Barn LLC
Imagine stepping into a place where rustic charm meets romantic scenery. The Hidden Meadow and Barn LLC in Pepin, Wisconsin offers this and more. This venue is nestled in the valleys, presenting stunning views that can make your wedding feel magical.
As you drive down the tree-lined path and see the rolling hills, you might feel like you’re entering a fairytale. The impressive landscapes surround you, creating an enchanting atmosphere. It’s no wonder this place has been voted the top outdoor wedding venue in both Minnesota and Wisconsin.
The Hidden Meadow and Barn is perfect for couples looking to have a charming, picturesque wedding. It offers an unforgettable setting that captures the essence of your special day.
Rating: 4.8 (156 reviews)
Location: W9602 Balsam Ln, Pepin, WI 54759
Contact: (715) 448-0326
Website: Visit Website
9) Folk Song Farm Events, LLC
Folk Song Farm is a lovely place to hold your wedding. The barn is rustic and refurbished, making it perfect for special occasions. You can celebrate weddings, showers, reunions, and even corporate events here. The setting is beautiful and peaceful, creating a magical atmosphere for your big day.
Surrounded by 48 acres of alfalfa, prairie grass, and wildflowers, the farm offers lots of natural beauty. You can enjoy the clean country air and look out at the hills and pond. The sunsets are breathtaking, with views of Holy Hill’s spires in the distance.
Located just north of Milwaukee, Folk Song Farm is easy to get to. You can have a private country wedding but still be close to lodging and other conveniences. It’s an ideal mix of seclusion and accessibility.
Rating: 4.8 (115 reviews)
Location: 4811 Pioneer Rd, Richfield, WI 53076
Contact: (262) 224-5441
Website: Visit Website
10) The Rosewood Barn
Welcome to The Rosewood Barn! Nestled in the scenic Northwoods of Rhinelander, Wisconsin, this venue promises a rustic and charming backdrop for your special day. Imagine your guests surrounded by the natural beauty of the Harrison Hills.
This wedding venue offers a perfect blend of rustic elegance and breathtaking views. It’s ideal for everything from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations.
Whether you’re planning a birthday party or your wedding day, The Rosewood Barn is equipped to meet all your needs.
Rating: 4.8 (52 reviews)
Location: N10830 WI-17, Gleason, WI 54435
Contact: (715) 219-2679
Website: Visit Website
Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Wisconsin
Before you tie the knot in Wisconsin, you need to take care of a few legalities. Here’s what you need to know about applying for a marriage license, meeting residency requirements, and understanding the waiting period and fees.
Marriage License Application Process
To get married in Wisconsin, you and your partner must apply for a marriage license at the county clerk’s office. Both of you need to appear in person. You will need to provide the date of your wedding and the name, phone number, and address of your officiant. Be ready to show valid IDs, like a driver’s license or passport.
You also need proof of residency if one of you lives in Wisconsin. If neither of you are residents, you need to apply in the county where the ceremony will take place. The marriage license is valid for 30 days, so plan accordingly. Make sure all names match on your documents to avoid any issues.
Residency Requirements
Wisconsin doesn’t require you or your partner to be residents of the state. This means that even if you live outside of Wisconsin or are not a U.S. resident, you can still get married here. If at least one of you is a resident, apply in the county where you live. Non-residents must apply in the county where they will hold the ceremony.
This flexibility makes Wisconsin a great destination for weddings, whether you live in the state or are planning a destination wedding. Just ensure you follow the county-specific rules and have all needed documents ready when applying.
Waiting Period and Fees
Once you apply for a marriage license, Wisconsin imposes a mandatory waiting period of six days before you can use the license. This means you need to plan ahead and apply well before your wedding day. If you are in a hurry, some counties might waive the waiting period for an additional fee.
Speaking of fees, the cost of a marriage license in Wisconsin ranges from $50 to $120, depending on the county. Make sure to check with the county clerk’s office for the exact amount and acceptable payment methods. Bring extra money in case of any additional fees, such as for processing or copies.
By understanding these legal requirements, you can make your wedding planning process smoother and more enjoyable.
Seasonal Considerations
When planning a wedding in Wisconsin, you’ll want to think about the best time of year along with the weather and climate concerns that could impact your big day.
Best Time of Year for Weddings in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, the busiest wedding months are from May to October.
This period offers the most predictable weather, ideal for both indoor and outdoor events.
Spring and early fall are popular because of their mild temperatures and stunning natural scenery.
During these months, you can take advantage of blooming flowers in the spring or the vibrant fall foliage in September and October.
Winter weddings, though less common, can be equally magical with snow-covered landscapes and cozy indoor venues.
Weather and Climate Concerns
Wisconsin’s weather can be quite variable.
Summer months can be warm but are also prone to rain.
You should always have a backup plan, such as an indoor venue or tent, in case of unexpected weather.
During spring, while the temperatures are pleasant, late freeze or sudden rain showers may occur.
Fall provides a beautiful backdrop but can bring cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings.
Winter, though perfect for a snowy wedding, presents challenges like road conditions and heating needs for your venue.
Planning ahead for these potential weather issues ensures your wedding goes smoothly no matter the season.
Unique Wisconsin Marriage Customs
Wisconsin’s wedding customs are rich in cultural traditions and feature local cuisine that is both hearty and delightful.
Cultural Traditions
In Wisconsin, many weddings incorporate unique cultural rituals. One special tradition is the “Grand March,” popular at Polish and German weddings. Couples lead a fun dance line with their guests, creating a lively atmosphere.
Another interesting custom is the “Dollar Dance.” Guests pay a small fee to dance with the bride or groom. This is a fun way to raise money for the honeymoon and engage everyone at the reception.
You may also encounter the “Oplatki” ceremony, especially in Polish families. During this ritual, thin wafers are shared among family members, symbolizing forgiveness and unity.
Local Wedding Cuisine
Wisconsin weddings often feature a scrumptious display of regional foods. One staple you’ll see is cheese—from cheese curds to an elaborate cheese board, this dairy state takes pride in its local varieties.
You might also find Friday fish fry on the menu. This popular tradition often includes battered fish with sides like coleslaw and rye bread.
For dessert, it’s common to see kringle, a flaky pastry filled with fruit or nuts. It’s a sweet way to add a local touch to your celebration with this Danish treat.
Pair these dishes with local craft beers, and your guests will leave with a true taste of Wisconsin.
