The Best Destination Wedding Venues in Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte has one of the world’s busiest airports, but since it’s also one of the best for staying on time, that just means lots of flight options for your guests. Getting to and from the airport is also a cinch since its only six miles from downtown, with the city’s transit system providing sprinter and airport connector options at regular intervals throughout the day and most of the night, so no running to pick up guests for you or your soon-to-be spouse. Charlotte’s diverse venue options allow you to go for the romantic vibe at a vineyard, or glam it up in a historic mansion. Or, choose from unexpected gems, nature-focused landscapes, or a luxury resort – Charlotte’s got all that and more when it comes to destination wedding venues.
The Duke Mansion
Garden Hotel
This historic bed and breakfast only hosts 25 weddings per year, so couples need to plan in advance if they want to get married at the lovely Duke Mansion. The huge Colonial Revival building and its 4+ acres of stunning gardens will ensure beautiful pictures, while the hospitable staff will make sure your wedding guests feel the Southern charm throughout the festivities.
Anne Springs Close Greenway
About 20 minutes south of Charlotte sits the small town of Fort Mill in South Carolina and the Anne Springs Close Greenway, a 2,100-acre nature preserve. Here, couples have several setting choices, including two rustic barns – their most popular option – along with a striking amphitheater and plenty of green spaces. Couples love having access to anywhere on the large property for photos, and your out-of-town guests might enjoy the many on-site amenities such as hiking trails, horseback riding, and kayaking.
The Lakes A Wedding & Party Place
Couples that want a hands-on venue should consider The Lakes as the venue’s owner has also been a wedding planner for over 20 years. An adorable white gazebo sits on a manicured lawn surrounded by flowers and a small pond, and optional add-ons include DJ services, wedding cakes, catering, and all your flowers and decor.
Hitching Post
For all-inclusive outdoor weddings, 1812 Hitching Post features packages for weddings from 20 to 200 guests. A tall white tent connects their outdoor space with the big yellow farmhouse that guests can come and go through, making everyone feel like they’re hanging out at your rich relative’s house. In fact, it’s considered “the only authentic antebellum plantation in the foothills of North Carolina dedicated exclusively to weddings.”
GoodRoad Ciderworks
How many people do you know who’ve gotten married in a cidery? Non-traditional venues can certainly make for a memorable destination wedding, and GoodRoad Ciderworks offers couples a private bar, patio, and room for up to 100 people in a rustic space that overlooks the fermentation tanks. The main taproom will stay open during your event, creating a fun, casual vibe.
Catawba Brewing Company
If you and your sweetie are beer people, then Catawba Brewing Company might be a better fit for your big day. Beautiful oak barrels line the walls of their 4,300-square-foot space that can accommodate up to 200 people. Stage configurations are available, and the hard-carved wood bar carries 12 beers on tap with wine and cider also available.
The Ballantyne, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Resort, Spa Hotel, Golf Hotel
Opt for The Ballantyne for a resort-style wedding with all the amenities that will please any guest. Choose from a handful of outdoor and indoor reception and ceremony options as well as several catering packages that include cocktail hours, open bars, and buffets or plated dinners. Did we mention the optional fireworks display?
Dennis Vineyards
Winery
The inherent romantic atmosphere built into the DNA of wineries makes Dennis Vineyards a perfect backdrop for a destination wedding in Charlotte. Choose to say “I Do” under a classic gazebo or towering trees surrounded by rows of grapes and a large pond. An on-site ballroom with Italian accents can also host the reception. Plus, they offer personalized labels which make for an extra special wedding favor.
The Mint Museum
Building, Museum
For an upscale affair, why not consider one of Charlotte’s premier museums? Choose from several settings, including renting out their auditorium or grand room, or just reserve part of the venue like the atrium, a theater, one of the galleries, or even add a tent on the front lawn for up to 400 people. The Uptown location and historic significance make weddings at The Mint extra special. Or, couples can choose to rent out the entire Randolph building, the first location of the United States Mint that has been transformed into a series of galleries and a library.
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Botanical Garden
With this venue, couples get the beauty of a botanical garden, 325 miles of Lake Wylie shoreline, in addition to bubbling fountains and hiking trails – the picture options are endless! The venue has made planning super simple, with daytime, afternoon, and evening packages, and they even give soon-to-be spouses a gift: a free year garden membership.