Des Moines, Iowa, has a range of stunning outdoor venues perfect for hosting a wedding ceremony, reception or elopement. These scenic and beautiful, nature-filled backdrops offer a gorgeous setting. After searching the city far and wide, these are our favorite outdoor wedding venues Des Moines has to offer.
Des Moines Heritage Center
The Des Moines Heritage Center, situated in the heart of the Historic East Village, is one of the premier outdoor wedding venues in Des Moines. It features a paved ceremony space with charming pockets of greenery, creating stunning photo opportunities. A uniquely restored 110-year-old train depot adds a timeless and distinctive backdrop to your wedding ceremony. With convenient, ample parking, this venue stands out as an excellent option for your special day. By choosing to celebrate at the Des Moines Heritage Center, you’re also contributing to the efforts of the Des Moines Heritage Trust, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the rich history and culture of Des Moines.
The Monroe
As one of the top outdoor wedding venues in Des Moines, The Monroe combines elegance and sophistication in a timeless setting with a bright white interior. The outdoor ceremony space is highlighted by charming brick pavers and scenic walls, providing a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos. A central open bar and the welcoming atmosphere of West Des Moines enhance the venue, making it the perfect choice for your special day.
Northbridge Event Center
At Northbridge, they’re passionate about helping you celebrate life’s special moments with style and elegance. Located just five minutes from downtown, their suburban venue offers breathtaking views of a serene pond, fountain, and lush trees, making it one of the premier outdoor wedding venues in Des Moines. Their team is dedicated to ensuring every detail is handled with care and kindness, creating an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
Glen Oaks Country Club
Glen Oaks Country Club, located in the prestigious gated community of West Des Moines, is one of the most elegant wedding venues in Central Iowa. Surrounded by rolling fairways and beautifully landscaped grounds, it offers a private, upscale setting perfect for both indoor and outdoor celebrations. The venue features refined interiors, a spacious ballroom, and a picturesque settings ideal for ceremonies or cocktail hours. With full-service catering, professional event staff, and a serene atmosphere, Glen Oaks provides a seamless and luxurious experience for your special day.
Willow on Grand
Willow on Grand, nestled in the charming Waterbury neighborhood of Des Moines, is one of the most stylish outdoor wedding venues in the city. Its beautifully designed courtyard, complete with bistro lighting and lush greenery, offers a romantic open-air setting for ceremonies and cocktail hours. Inside, the Grand Room showcases vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, and floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the outdoors in, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow. With a private bridal cottage, customizable bar packages, on-site parking, and modern amenities throughout, Willow on Grand delivers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere for a perfect outdoor ceremony in Des Moines.
One of the best reasons to choose an outdoor wedding venue is because of the natural beauty of the location. It can minimize the logistics necessary to transform a space into your dream wedding venue. Each of these outdoor locations offers a beautiful backdrop.
Be sure to connect with these venues through their profile online to learn more, check availability, request pricing and to read reviews. Happy planning!
