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 list
Price: $ • $$
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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-house
Price: $$ • $$$
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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, BYO
Price: $ • $$
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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-house
Price: $ • $$ • $$$
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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-house
Price: $ • $$ • $$$
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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-house
Price: $$
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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-house
Price: $$ • $$$
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