Iowa Outdoor Wedding Venues

Iowa is famous for its rolling hills and lush agricultural landscapes, but did you know that there are many stunning Iowa outdoor wedding venues that are perfect for ceremonies throughout much of the year? These venues provide both indoor and outdoor spaces to suit your preferences. Check out some of our favorites!

The Heights Rooftop

Photo: Hunter Berry Photography

Some Things We Love About Heights Rooftop:

  • 🌆 Panoramic rooftop views set the scene for a one-of-a-kind outdoor wedding in the heart of Iowa City.

  • 🏟️ Iconic local touches like displaying your name on the Kinnick Stadium Jumbotron make your ceremony truly unforgettable.

  • 💫 Versatile, modern venue that blends skyline views with the energy of a vibrant city, perfect for couples who want a celebration with personality.

Address: 901 Melrose Ave • Iowa City, Iowa 52246

The Harmac

Photo: ElKlein photography

Some Things We Love About The Harmac:

  • 🏙️ Modern industrial style combined with open-air charm creates a striking backdrop for your ceremony, reception, and unforgettable wedding photos.

  • 🍸 Craft cocktails and crowd-pleasing classics elevate the guest experience with high-quality drinks served throughout your celebration.

  • 🌇 Expansive rooftop space with room for up to 300 guests—perfect for a stunning outdoor ceremony and cocktail hour in the heart of Iowa.

Address: 411 6th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401

 

Des Moines Heritage Center

Photo: lauran nichole photography

Some Things We Love About The Heritage Center:

  • 🌿 Charming outdoor ceremony space with paved areas and lush greenery, perfect for timeless wedding photos.

  • 🏛️ Historic 110-year-old train depot backdrop adds character and charm to the heart of Des Moines’ Historic East Village.

  • 🤍 Support a meaningful mission by choosing a venue that benefits the Des Moines Heritage Trust and its work in preserving local history.

Address: 120 E. 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50309

 

Bella Terre Vineyard

Photo: courtney goff photography

Some Things We Love About Bella Terre Vineyard:

  • 🍇 Romantic outdoor ceremony space inspired by the gates of Lake Como, with serene views and vineyard charm.

  • 🍷 On-site vineyard and house wines from Bella Terre, served at a full-service bar to elevate your guest experience.

  • Italian fountain and circle drive set the scene for an unforgettable cocktail hour and sparkler sendoff.

Address: 23375 Barrus Rd, Glenwood, IA 51534

 

The Monroe

Photo: the bold americana

Some Things We Love About The Monroe:

  • 🤍 Timeless outdoor ceremony space featuring elegant brick pavers and walls that create a picture-perfect backdrop.

  • 🏛️ Bright white interior and sophisticated design offer a seamless blend of classic charm and modern style.

  • 🍷 Central open bar and convenient West Des Moines location make it a stylish and stress-free choice for your celebration.

Address: 1805 90th St, West Des Moines, IA 50266

Northbridge Event Center

Photo: Pecos Springs Photography

Some Things We Love About Northbridge:

  • 🌳 Scenic outdoor setting with views of a peaceful pond, fountain, and mature trees—just minutes from downtown Des Moines.

  • 💍 Relaxed suburban charm meets convenience, offering a beautiful natural backdrop without leaving the city behind.

  • 🤝 Exceptional service with heart from a dedicated team that ensures every detail feels personal and stress-free.

Address: 4530 East 46th St, Des Moines. IA 50317

Small Grand Things Wedding Estate

Photo: Torey Rohde Photography

Some Things We Love About Small Grand Things:

  • 🌿 Over 50 acres of outdoor beauty in Southeast Iowa with multiple ceremony sites and scenic photo backdrops that feel like a destination wedding.

  • 🏡 Private on-site Guest House with exclusive access to the Lux Lounge and two suites, perfect for getting ready and unwinding.

  • Fully stocked Design Room featuring centerpieces, candleware, arbors, and more to effortlessly elevate your outdoor celebration.

Address: 1903 W Point Rd, West Point, IA 52656

Little Lights on the Lane

Some Things We Love About Little Lights:

  • 🌾 Scenic “slice of Iowa” views overlooking Cedars Edge Golf Course and rolling green hills, perfect for an unforgettable outdoor ceremony.

  • 🍕 Multiple outdoor spaces, including a rain-backup porch, games area, beer garden, and the venue’s

  • 🍹 Luxury guest experience with a bar that serves through the porch, allowing guests to relax, mingle, and enjoy the space before your big entrance.

Address: 2 Ember Lane, West Branch, IA 52358

Willow on Grand

Some Things We Love About Willow on Grand:

  • 🌿 Elegant outdoor courtyard with bistro lighting offers a timeless setting for ceremonies, cocktail hour, or outside mingling.

  • Versatile outdoor space that can be tented to suit any weather, giving you flexibility and peace of mind on your wedding day.

  • 🏛️ Charm + modern convenience, featuring a grand room, private cottage, and beautifully maintained grounds just 7 minutes from downtown Des Moines.

Address: 6011 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312

The Gathering Grounds

Photo: Jenny Marie Photos

Some Things We Love About Gathering Grounds:

  • 🌅 A peaceful lakeside wedding venue in Southern Iowa, surrounded by trees and water views. Say your vows under a custom arbor with permanent bench seating for up to 300 guests, with extra seating options available.
  • 🎶 Easy audio setup for music or DJs. A quiet, natural location that’s perfect for outdoor wedding ceremonies beneath a custom-made arbor.
  • 🌿 This hidden gem is a perfect choice for couples seeking a spacious, secluded celebration space just outside the city. Perfect for golden-hour photo ops, this venue offers a storybook setting for weddings.

Address: 2125 Iowa Highway 5, Bussey, Iowa 50044

Glen Oaks Country Club

Photo: Shelby Sawyer Photography

Some Things We Love About Glen Oaks Country Club:

🌿 Elegant Setting: Scenic golf course views and manicured outdoor spaces offer a serene, upscale backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions.

🏛️ Timeless Interiors: Refined indoor event spaces with classic architecture and natural light create a sophisticated atmosphere for your big day.

🍽️ Full-Service Experience: On-site catering, full-service bar, and attentive event staff make planning seamless and stress-free from start to finish.

📍Address: 1401 Glen Oaks Drive, West Des Moines, Iowa 50266

With versatile ceremony and reception spaces, these Iowa outdoor wedding venues ensure your special day is both memorable and special. For even more wedding inspiration, be sure to explore our website!

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