Top Wedding Venues in Iowa: Your Dream Locations for the Perfect Day

Choosing the right wedding venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your big day. It sets the tone for your entire celebration and creates the backdrop for your cherished memories. If you’re planning a wedding in Iowa, you’re in luck—this state is home to a variety of stunning venues that can cater to every style and preference. Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic barn wedding, a sophisticated city affair, or a romantic garden ceremony, Iowa has something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of some unique wedding venues in Iowa to help you find your dream location.

1. The Celebration Farm – Iowa City

For couples seeking a rustic yet elegant setting, The Celebration Farm in Iowa City is a top choice. This unique venue offers two beautiful barns: the Double Round Barn and the Timber Frame Barn, both featuring stunning architecture and scenic surroundings. The outdoor spaces are perfect for a romantic ceremony under the sky, and the indoor areas provide a cozy yet spacious atmosphere for your reception. With its natural beauty and charming details, The Celebration Farm is ideal for couples who want a wedding that feels both timeless and unforgettable.

2. Salisbury House & Gardens – Des Moines

If you’re looking for a venue with historical charm and a touch of luxury, Salisbury House & Gardens in Des Moines should be on your list. This grand estate, inspired by 16th-century English architecture, offers an enchanting setting for your wedding. The beautifully manicured gardens provide a picturesque backdrop for your ceremony, while the grand interiors of the house make for an elegant reception. With its rich history and stunning aesthetics, Salisbury House & Gardens is perfect for couples who want a wedding that feels like a fairytale.

3. Rapid Creek Cidery – Iowa City

For a rustic, farm-to-table experience, Rapid Creek Cidery near Iowa City offers a warm and inviting setting. Nestled among the rolling hills and apple orchards of Wilson’s Orchard, this venue combines the beauty of nature with the comfort of a modern barn. The barn’s exposed beams, large windows, and string lights create a cozy, romantic atmosphere, while the surrounding orchards provide endless photo opportunities. Rapid Creek Cidery is perfect for couples who want a laid-back yet stylish wedding with a focus on great food and a relaxed vibe.

4. The Temple for Performing Arts – Des Moines

For a chic, city wedding with a touch of grandeur, The Temple for Performing Arts in downtown Des Moines is an excellent choice. This historic venue offers a blend of classical architecture and modern amenities, with its grand ballroom, ornate ceilings, and stunning chandeliers. The Temple’s elegant spaces can accommodate both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations, making it a versatile option for any couple. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that combines urban sophistication with timeless beauty, The Temple for Performing Arts could be your perfect venue.

5. Ashton Hill Farm – Cedar Rapids and Galena, IL

Ashton Hill Farm is a beloved venue for couples looking for a modern, barn-style wedding. With locations in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Galena, Illinois, this venue offers a blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance. The Cedar Rapids location features a white barn with large windows, a spacious patio, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Ashton Hill Farm is designed with weddings in mind, offering a bridal suite, groom’s room, and plenty of indoor and outdoor space to create the wedding of your dreams. It’s the perfect spot for couples who want a venue that’s both stylish and functional.

6. The Red Barn at Pine Creek Ranch – Marengo

For a true country wedding experience, The Red Barn at Pine Creek Ranch in Marengo offers a quintessential rustic setting. This charming barn is surrounded by lush fields, rolling hills, and scenic views that create a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. The barn itself is spacious and versatile, allowing you to customize the space to fit your vision. With its picturesque surroundings and down-to-earth vibe, The Red Barn at Pine Creek Ranch is perfect for couples who want a wedding that feels relaxed, natural, and full of rural charm.

7. Rollins Mansion – Des Moines

Rollins Mansion, located in Des Moines, is a historic venue that exudes old-world elegance and sophistication. The mansion’s stunning architecture, with its grand staircase, intricate woodwork, and beautiful gardens, provides a luxurious backdrop for both your ceremony and reception. Whether you’re planning a large celebration or an intimate gathering, Rollins Mansion offers a range of beautiful spaces to accommodate your needs. If you’re looking for a venue that combines historical charm with timeless beauty, Rollins Mansion is sure to impress.

8. Hidden Acre – Waverly

Hidden Acre is a charming, rustic venue located in Waverly, Iowa, perfect for couples who want an intimate and personalized wedding experience. This venue offers a beautifully restored barn with modern amenities, surrounded by rolling fields and woodlands. The outdoor ceremony site features a picturesque pergola, perfect for exchanging vows in a natural setting. With its laid-back vibe and stunning surroundings, Hidden Acre is ideal for couples who want a wedding that feels cozy, personal, and connected to nature.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right venue is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning, and Iowa offers a wealth of options for every style and vision. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of a historic mansion, the rustic charm of a barn, or the scenic beauty of a garden, there’s a venue in Iowa that’s perfect for your special day. Take the time to visit these locations, imagine your celebration unfolding, and choose the one that feels just right for you and your partner. Your dream wedding is within reach, and it all starts with finding the perfect place to say “I do.”