Phenomenal Philly: 7 Iconic Wedding Venues in Philadelphia
To be iconic, you've got to be memorable, groundbreaking, and distinctive... Three adjectives that perfectly describe Philadelphia. This vibrant city has long been considered the heart of American self-determination (ahem, U.S. Constitution) and invention (Ben Franklin with a key and a kite, right?), and as a gathering place for some of the most important people in the world. To get married in Philly with your most important people is to join that fabulous legacy... and this collection of venues, ranging from historic mansions to beloved museums to reimagined boutique hotels, is your guide to the most iconic spots in this icon of a city.
Stotesbury Mansion
Philadelphia, PA
Venue Superpowers:
Historic Mansion
Multiple Event Spaces
Rittenhouse Square Location
Fab Features: 1870 landmark on picturesque Walnut Street • say "I do" against a grand columned backdrop, accented by glowing chandeliers and an intricately carved ceiling, followed by cocktails in the chic Mirror Room and Bar• unique historic features abound, including a gorgeous fireplace that was once located in Fist Lady Dolly Madison's White House
What Makes It Iconic: Originally built for a descendant of a signer of the Declaration of Independence, this gorgeous spot was considered the prime "party house" in its day... your celebration will be right at home!
Catering: Preferred listPrice: $ • $$
The Notary Hotel
Philadelphia, PA
Venue Superpowers:
Indian Weddings
Luxury Vibes
All-Inclusive
Fab Features: this historic hotel reflects the posh grandeur of the 1920s while offering plenty of modern amenities and full-service planning • the Juniper Ballroom boasts ornate plasterwork, large windows, and a dramatic illuminated glass ceilings • its location in the heart of Philly's Historic District puts you and your guests in easy reach of some of the nation’s most important historical sites
What Makes It Iconic: You won't be the first person to make it official here: this former City Hall Annex used to be where notaries would stamp the paperwork to signify the start of a new business, company... or marriage!
Catering: In-housePrice: $$ • $$$
The Deacon
Philadelphia, PA
Venue Superpowers:
Unique Boutique Hotel
Original Stained Glass
Overnight Accommodations
Fab Features: former 1906 baptist church-turned-boutique hotel • the innovative multi-use space seamlessly blends historic features with modern amenities • the interior impresses with vaulted ceilings, arched windows, blonde wood flooring, and sculptural light fixtures
What Makes It Iconic: Located in the former home of the First African Baptist Church, it's been a hub for Philly's Black community for over a century. The original stained glass windows throughout are a reminder of this amazing legacy!
Catering: Preferred list, BYOPrice: $ • $$
The College of Physicians of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, PA
Venue Superpowers:
Beaux Arts Glam
Herb Garden
Important Medical Landmark
Fab Features: magnificent 1908 Beaux-Arts building • al fresco celebrations in the tranquil Medicinal Herb Garden and Veranda designed with aromatic herbal plants, colorful blooms, pebble walkways, and sweetheart benches • one-of-kind photo ops under the Marble Rotunda, the lush garden, and the paneled parlors
What Makes It Iconic: If you've ever seen a doctor (or become one!), you owe a lot to this spot, considered the "Birthplace of Medicine": though the current building was constructed in 1908, it's known as the the home of the oldest medical society in the country (founded in 1787!).
Catering: In-housePrice: $ • $$ • $$$
Ballroom at the Ben
Philadelphia, PA
Venue Superpowers:
Palatial Ballroom
Creative Cuisine
Timeless Elegance
Fab Features: fabulous downtown location in the heart of Philly, surrounded by top-tier restaurants, bars, and markets • fabulous, turn-of-the-century-inspired ballroom with soaring arches, ornately decorated pillars, and magnificent chandeliers • topnotch event planners and an experienced caterer join together to produce a flawless event
What Makes It Iconic: You'll be joining the company of some of the nation's best at this former hotel. Don't miss your chance to snap a photo on the Lincoln Balcony, where Honest Abe himself once spoke!
Catering: In-housePrice: $ • $$ • $$$
Knowlton Mansion
Philadelphia, PA
Venue Superpowers:
Gothic Revival
Delicious Catering
Gorgeous Gardens
Fab Features: stunning 19th-century Victorian estate restored to showcase its original splendor and bring it into the modern day • a chic, contemporary conservatory opens onto expansive cocktail terraces, a ceremony pergola, and 13 acres of perennial gardens • delectable in-house catering options from Conroy Catering
What Makes It Iconic: This gorgeous mansion was designed by famed architect Frank Furness, but for our money, its most iconic achievement was being the home of Robert MacKay Green II, the son of the inventor of the ice cream soda!
Catering: In-housePrice: $$
The Franklin Institute
Philadelphia, PA
Venue Superpowers:
Interactive Exhibits
Rooftop Deck
Dazzling Classical Architecture
Fab Features: this beloved science museums, built in 1934, offers host of unique spaces and interactive exhibits for your guests to explore • the dramatic circular Benjamin Franklin Hall is inspired by the Roman Pantheon, with a dazzling domed ceiling, sixteen marble columns • say "I do" on the rooftop deck surrounded by the sparkling skyline
What Makes It Iconic: If you're from anywhere within a 100-mile radius of Philly, we're pretty sure you already have a history here: it's not just the leading science center in the nation... it's the most visited museum in Pennsylvania!
Catering: In-housePrice: $$ • $$$
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