Featured image: Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa
From rolling countryside estates and vineyards to historic hotels dripping with charm, the South is brimming with unforgettable wedding venues. Whether you dream of a romantic garden ceremony, a grand ballroom celebration, or a cozy rustic affair, each state offers unique Southern settings for every type of “I do.”
In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the South’s standout wedding venues, making it easy to find the perfect backdrop for your big day—no matter how you want to start your happily ever after.
Alabama
Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa
The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa is a beautiful and historic venue offering 550 acres of coastal scenery for weddings of all sizes. The venue features romantic outdoor settings, specialized wedding packages, and customized, locally-sourced catering. Plus, it’s idyllic, romantic, and exudes Southern hospitality.
Arkansas
Thorncrown Chapel
Say “I do” in a glass chapel tucked into the Ozark woods. With soaring ceilings and an indoor and outdoor feel, the glass chapel photographs beautifully in every season. It’s especially great for intimate ceremonies or a destination-style weekend with Eureka Springs’ charming lodging, dining, and a walkable small-town vibe nearby.
Florida
The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton
From intimate gatherings to vow renewals, couples at The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton can fall in love with ceremonies set in the property’s gazebo jutting out over the Atlantic Ocean. Signature touches arranged by the resort’s bridal team, including a private cigar roller, fireworks show over the water, or a larger-than-life customized sand sculpture made by the hotel’s Master Sand Artist, are just a few ways to kick off the festivities in true Key West style.
Islands of Islamorada
With 600-feet of private shoreline, the Islands of Islamorada is ideal for tropical, beachside vow renewals and intimate weddings of up to 50 guests, set against crystal-clear waters, swaying palms, and vivid Florida Keys sunsets. Couples can choose between two waterfront venues including the Ocean House lawn or the more secluded Sandy Point.
Dune House Hotel & Spa
Previously the One Ocean Resort & Spa, this Jacksonville property is currently undergoing renovations set to be complete in spring 2026. Dune House is a boutique, beachfront escape at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and Neptune Beach with 193 guest rooms and suites and three new food and beverage concepts. It’s the perfect coastal wedding weekend destination for couples of all ages.
La Siesta Resort & Villas
The boutique property offers unique accommodations, from neon-colored oceanside cottages to private villas that all come with the amenities of a tropical resort that are perfect for destination weddings. The resort’s most impressive wedding venue is Marbella Villa, a six-bedroom private home that features a stunning waterfront courtyard and private dock. Guests can arrive by boat and enjoy total privacy, surrounded by lush vegetation and stunning ocean views.
Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa
Located just off the famous Duval Street, Hyatt Centric Key West is a hidden waterfront oasis that’s perfect for couples looking to tie the knot in paradise. Imagine saying “I Do” in the middle of an outdoor dock, surrounded by a backdrop of pristine blue water. Encompassing 960-square-feet and hosting up to 80 guests, the altar is complete with tropical character and old-Florida charm. Plenty of romantic gestures are available throughout the stay including an Amour package which offers chocolate-covered strawberries, a bottle of Canvas Blanc de Blanc, and faux rose petals.
Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens
For a venue that is unique, Morikami offers serene gardens winding around a tranquil lake, blending natural beauty with cultural elegance. It’s a standout choice for couples seeking a romantic setting that feels both intimate and unexpected.
Grande Lakes Orlando
Grand Lakes Orlando, a 500-acre luxury resort nestled in the headwaters of the Florida Everglades, is anchored by two luxury hotels, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando and JW Marriott Orlando, and is surrounded by lush, enchanting lakes and landscapes. For any wedding size and type, the resort can accommodate the celebrations across several airy, indoor and outdoor venues, from tropical gardens and tranquil lakeside settings to sophisticated ballrooms.
Pier Sixty-Six
Newly reopened after a $1 billion transformation, Pier Sixty-Six has reemerged as one of Fort Lauderdale’s premier waterfront wedding destinations. The iconic marina-side landmark venue ranges from elegant indoor ballrooms with sweeping water views to expansive outdoor terraces overlooking the marina and skyline. A standout option for cocktail hour or receptions is Pier-Top, the area’s only rotating bar on the 17th floor.
The Biltmore Hotel Miami-Coral Gables
Since opening in 1926, the hotel has hosted some of Miami’s most notable celebrations, known for its Mediterranean architecture and grand scale. Wedding venues range from the Alhambra Ballroom, overlooking the famed Biltmore pool and featuring hand-painted ceilings and crystal chandeliers, to outdoor settings across the Golf Fountain grounds and the Back Lawn, which offers panoramic views of the hotel’s signature tower. With support from the in-house Biltmore Event Design team, couples can personalize every detail of their wedding day.
Kaiya Beach Resort
Tucked between a protected nature preserve and the Gulf of Mexico on Florida’s 30A, Kaiya Beach Resort is a design-driven coastal retreat offering an elegant backdrop for weddings. With architecture inspired by Nantucket and Bermuda, 250 feet of private beach, and a cliffside Beach House with infinity pool, the resort combines natural beauty with upscale amenities in one of Florida’s most charming settings.
Lake Nona Wave Hotel
The first hotel in Florida with three separate Michelin recognitions, Orlando’s Lake Nona Wave Hotel is a place where couples can celebrate in versatile indoor spaces, on pool decks, or among the hotel’s 50,000-sq-ft Sculpture Garden. The lush outdoor space features world-class works from the Lewis Collection, one of the largest private art collections in the world, plus tropical landscaping, and more than 300 towering hand-selected palm trees.
Georgia
The Alida
Located in Savannah’s Historic District, The Alida offers couples a destination-worthy wedding experience. The hotel features a collection of light-filled indoor and outdoor venues, including the elegant Harper’s Gallery Ballroom with a private terrace overlooking River Street, as well as The Lost Square, a rooftop venue with cozy lounge seating, fire pits, and sweeping views of the Savannah River. What makes The Alida especially appealing is its ability to host an entire wedding weekend in one place. From bridal showers and rehearsal dinners to rooftop welcome drinks, the ceremony and reception, and a relaxed farewell brunch, every moment can happen here.
Sea Island Resort
Sea Island Resort is a quintessential, coastal Georgia wedding destination with lush lawns, grand resort architecture, and classic Southern hospitality all in one place. Couples can choose from a range of scenic venues including beach club settings and the Retreat’s golf-course panoramas. From elegant ballrooms and verandas to manicured outdoor spaces near The Cloister/The Lodge, it’s a polished choice for couples seeking an elevated classic South celebration on the coast. Newlyweds can even add their names to Sea Island’s iconic Honeymooner Registry, a tradition dating back decades with tens of thousands of couples recorded in a bound album.
The Overlook at KC Bison Ranch
The Overlook at KC Bison Ranch is a one-of-a-kind wedding venue located just outside Dahlonega, Georgia. Set on a scenic working bison ranch in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the venue is known for its sweeping mountain and pasture views, which blend refined rustic style with natural surroundings. The overlook, open landscapes, and event spaces create a striking backdrop for ceremonies and receptions. And yes, there are bison grazing nearby! Here, couples have access to a climate-controlled reception hall, bridal suite, groom’s lounge, and customizable layouts.
Callaway Resort & Gardens
Nestled in the rolling foothills and just an hour from Atlanta, Georgia, Callaway Resort & Gardens offers couples a romantic Southern setting for weddings of all sizes. Whether you are looking for an intimate and historic location like Ida Cason Callaway Memorial Chapel, a sweeping outdoor lawn overlooking Robin Lake, or an elegant ballroom, you can tailor your big day just the way you like it.
Kentucky
Keeneland
Yes, we’re talking about the premier Thoroughbred racetrack, auction house, and National Historic Landmark in Lexington, Kentucky. While Keeneland is renowned for its spring and fall horse races, it is equally celebrated for its exceptional culinary offerings and stunning setting for weddings. Framed by bucolic rolling hills and horse farms, Keeneland exudes a classic and timeless charm, making it the perfect backdrop for a dream Southern wedding. Think: 147 acres of perfectly manicured grounds, limestone-clad buildings, jockeys quarters, and an 87-year-old sycamore tree. From the prestigious Keeneland Clubhouse to the Keeneland Room, there’s plenty of on-site venue spaces to choose form. Fun fact: the Keeneland Room was remodeled to host Queen Elizabeth II during her 1984 visit to the track.
Highland Stables
Originally built in 2000 as a fully functioning horse stable on a 168-acre family farm in Bowling Green, Kentucky, the property was a gift from a man named Charles to his wife Betty, to celebrate her lifelong love of horses. More than a decade later, that same spirit of devotion has inspired the venue’s next chapter. In 2014, Betty’s daughter-in-law, Angie, transformed the stables into a full-time wedding venue, honoring the family’s story while creating a space for couples to begin their own. Today, Highland Stables is owned and operated by a mother and daughter-in-law duo, Angie and Whitnee.
Louisiana
The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
Celebrate romance in the Big Easy! The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, features grand ballrooms, spacious luxury suites, a state-of-the-art spa, the famous Sazerac Bar, and a brand-new outdoor rooftop deck. The Waldorf Astoria ballroom can host up to 350 guests, reception style, with a built-in stage, glistening crystal chandeliers, and stunning Greek statues ensconced in the wall. Accommodating up to 250 guests, The Blue Room has a rich history, having hosted music icons like Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and Elvis.
Mississippi
The Bill Waller Craft Center
The Bill Waller Craft Center at the Mississippi Craft Center in Ridgeland, Mississippi is set along the Natchez Trace Parkway, and is a light-filled, modern Southern venue that features floor-to-ceiling windows, artisan details, and a flexible event space ideal for ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners, and bridal showers. The setting blends Mississippi craftsmanship with an elegant yet contemporary feel.
General’s Quarters
An intimate venue, General’s Quarters in Corinth, Mississippi offers a boutique experience. Built in 1872, the property is one of the oldest hotels in the area. It features guest suites and the Jackson Street Cottage, and is available to rent by room or for a custom package. Catering, sound, and lighting equipment, and an event coordinator are all available for your big day. Larger weddings can enjoy Parks Place, which is a grand hall that is surrounded by nature and can accommodate over 500 guests.
Inn at Cedar Grove
Known as the “crown jewel of Vicksburg, Mississippi,” the Inn at Cedar Grove is a timeless bed and breakfast perfect for your big day. Southern charm is seen around every corner at this inn, with a historic gazebo, beautiful gardens, an on-site restaurant, beautiful suites, and views of the Mississippi River.
North Carolina
Cataloochee Ranch
Situated in the stunning Western North Carolina mountains is Cataloochee Ranch, a Relais & Chateaux property with incredible views. Venue options include a barn with vintage exposed beams, dramatic multi-pane windows, and modern facilities. Depending on the time of the year, the stunning fall foliage on all sides serves as a magnificent photo backdrop, too!
Point Lookout Vineyards
A mountaintop winery that sits at nearly 3,000 feet in elevation, the vineyard hosts weddings with sweeping Blue Ridge Mountain views. The winery is located in Hendersonville, North Carolina, and houses a 4,000-square-foot open-air pavilion that serves as both a tasting room and event space. The pavilion is crafted from hand-hewn cedar logs from British Columbia and includes an additional tasting room, kitchen, and dressing suites. Adjoining the pavilion is a patio with a large fire pit and a spacious event lawn featuring incredible 270-degree panoramic mountain views.
Melrose Knitting Mill
Originally built in 1900 as Melrose Textile Mill, this historic building has been transformed into a stunning wedding venue in the heart of downtown Raleigh. With its soaring ceilings, exposed beams, original brick walls, and expansive windows that flood the space with natural light, the space offers an elegant backdrop.
South Carolina
Laurel Haven Estate Vineyard and Winery
In South Carolina’s Olde English District, there’s Laurel Haven Estate Vineyard and Winery. Located in Lancaster, the property offers farm-to-table dining and stunning views on their 37-acre estate. You can also utilize their lakefront as a serene ceremony spot or their reception pavilion.
Tennessee
The Hermitage Hotel
An iconic hotel located in downtown Nashville, the Hermitage Hotel is a piece of history and popular spot to tie the knot. And for good reason: through its front doors, the grandeur of the lobby will surely stop you in your tracks, but beyond the original marble, ornamental plaster detailing, and stained glass, the hotel is known for its timeless elegance and classic sophistication. Choose from the dramatic grand ballroom with its ornate ceiling and rich wood paneling or the intimate veranda overlooking Sixth Avenue.
Tanglewood
A Clarksville property built by former celebrity chef Phila Hach, Tanglewood houses The Mad Herbalist with a designated space outside for weddings. It features vintage church pews under a canopy of trees, along with bridal cabins. Although it’s conveniently located in the heart of town, you would never know it! The site includes several cabins for overnight stays and a large space inside the main house and a outdoor patio, both perfect for small to mid-size receptions.
Virgina
The Manor 1858
Hotel Burg’s newly introduced sister property, this countryside wedding estate is nestled on 22 rolling acres of pure serenity. Anchored by a restored 1858 stone barn, the property offers multiple indoor and outdoor settings, meadows, an apple orchard, open-air cocktail spaces, and a speakeasy-style afterparty lounge, designed for full wedding weekends.
West Virginia
The Greenbrier
This luxury resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia is a historic hotel set in the scenic Allegheny Mountains, offering stunning indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings of different sizes. Couples can choose from regal ballrooms, charming chapels, or the resort’s picturesque lawns, with full-service planning, catering, and on-site accommodations.
