If you’re looking for the best places in Florida for a destination wedding, I’ve got you covered! As a Florida wedding photographer, I’ve traveled all over the state to photograph and have seen some of the best locations it has to offer. I’ve compiled a list of them in this blog to help couples like you determine which destination is best!
Jacksonville // Best Places in Florida for a Destination Wedding
Being the largest city in Florida (and where I’m based out of!), I had to include Jacksonville as the first place on the list. There are so many unique wedding venues that Jax has to offer, including historic homes, modern event spaces, and even waterfront parks! There is also an international airport here that offers direct flights to and from lots of major cities in the U.S. This is super convenient for your out-of-town guests, as they should be able to find flights from their closest airport!
As a Jacksonville wedding photographer, I have tons of knowledge and experience with the local wedding scene. I love providing you with personalized vendor recommendations, venue suggestions, and additional photo locations so that we can create the best wedding experience you can imagine!
My Jacksonville Wedding Venue Recommendations
Epping Forest
Epping Forest sits right on the bank of the St. John River, making for a beautiful waterfront wedding venue in Jacksonville. It was originally built in the 1920s, but has since then been restored to the charming venue that it is today! It has several indoor and outdoor spaces available, including The Grand Ballroom and The River Terrace & Garden. The Ballroom features these stunning crystal chandeliers and expansive windows with crazy views of the river. Can you imagine?? The River Terrace & Garden isn’t far off in allure with its cascading waterfall and equally scenic view of the river. Epping Forest can accommodate events of all sizes with a maximum capacity of 400 people!
The Glass Factory
We’re switching gears a little bit with our next venue, The Glass Factory! This modern industrial venue is located in Jacksonville’s historic and artistic district, providing an artsy and urban setting for your wedding day. It’s also (very conveniently) located not too far from the airport, so there will be plenty of accommodation options nearby for your out-of-town guests! In case you couldn’t tell, The Glass Factory is, well, a literal former glass factory, which totally explains the unique industrial vibe they have going on. The indoor space features exposed brick walls, concrete floors, and large windows that flood the interior with tons of natural light during the day. The Main Event Space (the largest venue onsite) can hold up to 250 people, while the outdoor courtyard is the more popular choice for more intimate weddings or even your cocktail hour!
The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens
This venue has everything you could ask for and is an art lover’s dream! The Cummer Museum is located in the historic Riverside neighborhood of Jacksonville; arguably one of the most scenic districts that the city has to offer. This is another waterfront venue that’s situated along the St. John’s River but gives off a totally different vibe than Epping Forest. The museum has an extensive (and very impressive!) art collection with pieces from various time periods and cultures. If you and your lover are into this kinda thing, you’d love this venue! Even the 2.5 acres of manicured gardens feature a variety of plants, fountains, and sculptures for us to explore and utilize as photo backdrops. There are several indoor and outdoor spaces to choose from here, with The River Garden Terrace being one of the most popular due to its beautiful view of the river. The museum can hold up to 300 guests in its various spaces!
St. Augustine // Best Places in Florida for a Destination Wedding
Moving onto our next Florida destination, we have St. Augustine! As the literal oldest city in the United States, St. Aug has such a rich history behind it and has the most charming atmosphere. As you can imagine, there’s a wide variety of wedding venues that include historic homes, some of the most beautiful gardens you’ve seen, and scenic waterfront locations. I’m telling you, it’s giving small coastal beach town vibes in the best way possible. This location is also a popular honeymoon destination for couples wanting a relaxed, laidback environment to spend their post-wedding days!
My St. Augustine Wedding Venue Recommendations
The Lightner Museum
The Lightner Museum is located in the heart of historic St. Augustine where most of the hotels, restaurants, and other attractions happen to be situated. This means that your guests will most likely be staying close by and will have endless things to do during their trip! The venue itself is housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, which was originally built in 1888. The building features stunning Spanish Renaissance Architecture (*swoon*), intricate detailing, and ornate chandeliers all throughout the space. When you book this venue, you also get access to the museum’s furniture and decor inventory! The biggest indoor space, The Grand Ballroom, can accommodate up to 400 guests, while the Mezzanine Level is better suited for smaller, more intimate weddings. There is also a Courtyard and Pool that you are more than welcome to utilize if you want to bring the party outdoors!
The White Room
Another St. Augustine wedding venue located in the historic downtown area, The White Room is situated on the waterfront and gives epic views of Matanzas Bay and the Bridge of Lions. There are three very distinct spaces at The White Room, and I’m almost positive you’d love at least one of them! The Loft is giving all of the modern and urban vibes with the exposed brick walls, industrial-style lighting, and those views of the Bay I mentioned earlier. The Grand Ballroom is more of a timeless and classy setting with the elegant decor and pretty grand chandeliers. Lastly, The Rooftop provides amazing views of the entire city, making it such a unique backdrop for your destination wedding! The highest capacity that The White Room can accommodate is in The Grand Ballroom with 350 guests.
The Oldest House Museum Complex
Listen to this: The Oldest House Museum Complex is the oldest surviving Spanish Colonial dwelling in Florida, dating back to the early 1700s. How cool is that!! The beautiful Spanish Architecture is very telling of its original time period, looking like it came straight out of a storybook. Between the romantic oak trees, stone arches, draping Spanish moss, and charming brick pavers, you’ll for sure feel like your wedding day is a real-life fairytale. The Museum has multiple indoor and outdoor spaces to choose from for your St. Augustine wedding, but it’s important to note that it can accommodate up to 100 guests in total! If you’re having an intimate wedding with your closest people, this would be the perfect venue for you.
Amelia Island // Best Places in Florida for a Destination Wedding
Located not too far from Jacksonville, Amelia Island is famous for its natural beauty and landscape. With 13 miles of pristine beaches, lush greenery, and picturesque marshes, there’s certainly plenty of scenery to choose from! The Island has quite a rich history dating all the way back to the colonial era. There are several preserved historic and architectural sites that make the area a unique and romantic destination for your Florida wedding. This spot is also known for its fresh seafood and Southern cuisine, which can provide a regional dining experience for you and your guests. You can also incorporate these local flavors and ingredients into your wedding menu!
My Amelia Island Wedding Venue Recommendations
The Bell House
The Bell House is located in downtown Fernandina Beach, another popular destination in North Florida! It’s a beautiful Victorian home originally built in 1882, featuring a wraparound porch, elegant interior decor, and an outdoor garden that you wouldn’t believe. This venue is definitely on the intimate side with a maximum capacity of about 100 people. This would be the perfect spot for a romantic backyard wedding vibe without actually using your own backyard!
The Ritz Carlton
For couples who want an upscale venue for their Amelia Island wedding, I definitely recommend checking out The Ritz Carlton! The luxe hotel chain has a location right on the Atlantic Ocean and 3 outdoor venue spots to explore. Whether you want a beachfront ceremony & reception or a luxurious ballroom dinner, they’ve got you covered! Because this is a hotel venue, you can of course reserve a room block for all of your traveling guests to stay at a discounted rate. They can accommodate weddings for up to 600 people, but can also make arrangements if you’re having a super intimate day as well.
The Barn at Cottonwood Ranch
This Amelia Island wedding venue is a little more secluded than the rest, located in a serene and rustic setting that will give you plenty of privacy. The Barn at Cottonwood Ranch is housed in a beautiful barn-style building with a super spacious indoor area, vaulted ceilings, and wooden beams. The modern floor-to-ceiling windows are something you don’t often see in barn wedding venues, but the amount of natural light they let in is amazing! The outdoor surrounding space seems to go on forever with acres and acres of grassy land, complete with meadows, ponds, and oak trees. Because you’re so secluded here, you’re free to party all night long with up to 200 guests!
Key West // Best Places in Florida for a Destination Wedding
Key West is typically one of the first locations that come to mind when people think “destination wedding in Florida.” Being the southernmost point in the entire United States, Key West has some of the country’s most stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and that island vibe atmosphere that almost makes you feel like you’re somewhere international. The Keys are known for their laid-back atmosphere and ultra-colorful architecture, which alone can inspire some epic and creative wedding photos. There are so many beautiful venues and countless activities to take part in for you and your guests!
My Key West Wedding Venue Recommendations
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
The Ernest Hemingway Home is located in the heart of Old Town Key West, one of the most coveted areas of the island. This home holds a lot of history behind it dating all the way back to the 1850s. The Spanish-colonial style is really what makes it a stunning venue with its picturesque gardens, historic architecture, glimmering pool, and unique interior decor. The property still houses Hemingway’s personal belongings and artwork, so you really are getting a piece of history at this venue! You can have up to 150 of your people here at Hemingway Home.
Audubon House and Tropical Gardens
Can you tell how much Key West loves its old historic homes? The Audubon House is no exception, dating back to around the same time as the Hemingway Home. The real highlight of The Audubon House is the one-acre tropical gardens that are home to orchids, bromeliads, rare tropical palms, and crotons. You could easily get lost (in the best way) in these gardens, and your guests are more than welcome to roam during cocktail hour! The venue is centrally located right across from Mallory Square, making a quick trip to catch some sunset photos super convenient. You can also book a private tour during your wedding if you’re interested in learning about the history behind the venue and its original owner!
The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Okay… who wouldn’t want to get married at a butterfly and nature conservatory in Key West of all places! Keep in mind that this is a super intimate venue with room for up to 20 of your closest friends and family. The Conservatory is a glass-domed building with an extensive collection of tropical butterflies and beautiful exotic birds. The lush gardens would be the perfect setting for tropical wedding photos surrounded by flowers and greenery!
Miami // Best Places in Florida for a Destination Wedding
The infamous, vibrant city of Miami has so much to offer as a wedding destination, even if it’s not typically the first location that comes to mind for tying the knot. Of course, the nightlife scene would make for an unforgettable wedding weekend with your favorite people if you’re up for the party. Although there are countless luxury resorts and beaches in Miami, there are also some unique, hidden-gem wedding venues that are definitely worth checking out!
My Miami Wedding Venue Recommendations
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a stunning and historic wedding venue located on Biscayne Bay in Miami! Housed in the most beautiful Italian Renaissance-style villa (that you’ve ever seen) dating back to the early 1900s, the venue features elegant gardens, fountains, and a breathtaking waterfront view. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens offers multiple luxurious indoor and outdoor spaces to choose from, accommodating up to 300 guests. Getting married here will no doubt give a unique and unforgettable experience for both you and your guests with its historic charm, European style, and stunning waterfront view!
Deering Estate
This 450-acre estate in Miami is home to a 1920s Mediterranean-style villa that you can rent out for your destination wedding! The property is to die for with a total of 4 locations you can host your event. There’s the Stone House Museum, complete with unique artwork, checkered floors, and crystal chandeliers that create such a modern but elegant feel! The rest of the spaces are outdoors, including the Front Lawn with ocean views, The Courtyard, and the Royal Palm Grove. They have options no matter what vibe you’re going for, so I know you won’t be disappointed with any of these spaces.
The Ancient Spanish Monastery
When I tell you that this venue is one-of-a-kind, I absolutely mean it. This venue is a 12th-century Spanish monastery that was originally built in Segovia, Spain. It was completely dismantled and brought to the United States, where it was rebuilt in its current location in North Miami Beach. How freaking cool! The building still has all of the original architecture and character, along with a courtyard, chapel, and banquet hall for you to utilize for your wedding day. The Ancient Spanish Monastery can hold up to 250 guests!
Orlando // Best Places in Florida for a Destination Wedding
Next up on our list of best places in Florida for a destination wedding is the city of Orlando! Orlando is a super centrally located spot due to the international airport, so similar to Jacksonville it will be pretty convenient for your guests to fly into. The weather here is also not too shabby, with sunny skies and warm temperatures most months of the year. It’s also a very central spot for theme parks and attractions if you’re looking to really have some fun during your destination wedding weekend, or if your guests want to make a vacation out of their trip!
My Orlando Wedding Venue Recommendations
Bella Collina
There is something about Bella Collina that I am just so in love with. This venue is technically just outside of Orlando, situated in the rolling hills of Central Florida. The 1900-acre estate will give you all the seclusion and privacy you could ask for, but the Italian-inspired design is by far the biggest aesthetic highlight. The clubhouse, the lake, the gardens, and every aspect of this venue will transport you to Europe without having to leave the country! The team at Bella Collina goes out of their way to provide an upscale and luxurious experience for their couples. You could absolutely honeymoon here as well, as the property also offers lakefront condo vacation rentals! Whether you’re having an intimate wedding with 50 people or a lavish celebration with 250, Bella Collina has you covered.
The Acre Orlando
This venue is described as a “whimsical oasis nestled in Orlando,” and to be honest, I wholeheartedly agree with that description. The Acre is unlike any other venue in this blog, giving the ultimate backyard secret garden party wedding vibes. Who wouldn’t love that!! There aren’t a ton of technical details on their website, but there are plenty of photos so you can get a feel of what your destination wedding could look like here.
Cypress Grove Estate House
I’m such a huge fan of venues like Cyrprus Grove Estate House… you have an entire building to yourself, plus the acres of property surrounding the main venue. This estate embodies the true essence of Southern charm while still remaining classy and modern! The lakeside gazebo, brick-paved walkways, Spanish moss, and romantic string lights all come together to create a warm, inviting, and polished atmosphere for your big day. If you’re having a more intimate wedding, then the Grove House might be a little more up your alley! It’s a charming cottage-style venue that can host up to 50 of your family and friends and can be rented by the hour if you’re keeping things short and sweet.
Palm Beach // Best Places in Florida for a Destination Wedding
Palm Beach is known for its luxurious amenities and venues, making it perfect for couples who are planning an upscale destination wedding. This city is rich in both history and culture with its historical landmarks, museums, and galleries that can double as unique wedding venues! Along with those indoor options, the crystal clear waters and lush tropical foliage make Palm Beach an ideal location for an outdoor destination wedding (and honeymoon!) location.
My Palm Beach Wedding Venue Recommendations
Flagler Museum
The Flagler Museum isn’t just any museum… no, it’s actually deemed a national historic landmark and described as “more wonderful than any place in Europe, grander and more magnificent than any other private dwelling in the world” by The New York Herald in 1902. So I’d say it’s definitely worth checking out as a wedding venue! Every single event space at the museum is more luxurious than you could probably imagine. Taking inspiration from the Gilded Age, all of the architecture and intricate detailing is extravagantly designed beyond belief with hints of European influence in each of the spaces.
Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens
If you’re looking for a venue that’s a little more urban but still has an upscale design, Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens will not disappoint. There are two main event spaces to choose from; the open-air space in the gardens (for small or large weddings) or the indoor home & gallery (for weddings under 70 people). Your guests will have the best time roaming the grounds and seeing all of the unique artwork on display throughout the property! Which, by the way, will also be a fantastic setting for your wedding portraits.
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is a stunning destination wedding venue, perfect for couples looking for a unique and peaceful atmosphere on their big day. The Japanese-inspired design of the venue features beautiful gardens, tranquil ponds, and peaceful waterfalls that create an unforgettable backdrop! The blend of traditional Japanese and modern elements creates a one-of-a-kind ambiance that will provide a serene and tranquil experience for both you and your guests. The venue offers several indoor and outdoor spaces, providing flexibility for various wedding sizes and styles, with a maximum capacity of 150 people.
Ready to get married in Florida?
I’d be honored to capture your most special day at one of these Florida destinations!! If you’re feeling like you might be ready to do the damn thing or want some more personalized information, you can fill out my inquiry form and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible. In the meantime, feel free to stalk me on Instagram. That’s where I am most active in sharing my most recent work and personality!! I can’t wait to see you there.
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