BRIDES Philadelphia: Unique Wedding Venues That Will 'Wow' Your Guests

citizens bank park wedding

Photo: Courtesy of Citizens Bank Park

It’s no secret that the City of Brotherly Love is known for its rich history, gourmet restaurants, and must-see sights — but there are also some very interesting spaces that give Philadelphia that one-of-a-kind flare. While there are a variety of traditional and classic wedding venues, the Philly event spaces that step outside the conventional bridal venue mold are quite spectacular. Check out some of our favorite unique Philadelphia wedding venues.

Citizens Bank Park
Whether you first met at a ballgame, want to embrace true Philly sports culture, or are just looking for a truly never-been-done venue, Citizens Bank Park hosts weddings year round. With options including on-field ceremonies (can you imagine those photos?) and receptions in the elegant Diamond Club. With all catering and beverage service provided by their in-house caterer, Aramark, couples can design the wedding menu with the wide variety of options that include buffets, stations, entrees, sushi, Viennese hour, and cocktail hour hors d’oeuvres. For custom touches sure to wow your guests, you can display photo montages via Phanavision, and even have Phanatic make a special guest appearance. Read real brides’ reviews here!

The Franklin Institute
Rich in history and science, The Franklin Institute is both a museum, and a center of education and research. Boasting awe-inspiring architecture and a rooftop deck with unobstructed views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, you can host your cocktail reception amongst their exhibits, creating a cocktail hour experience like none other. Dreaming of a moonlight reception? You’re in luck — the Franklin Institute can open their planetarium for your wedding reception, or it can also be held beneath the Benjamin Franklin National Memorial. Combining these options with their high-end in-house catering and event planning team, weddings held a the Franklin Institute are sure to be talked about for years to come. Read real brides’ reviews here!

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
Nestled in South Street, Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is a wonderland of art and community combined into one. With both indoor galleries and an outdoor instillation, this space I Isaiah Zagar’s largest form of public artwork — and it can be all yours (to rent) for your big day! With magical, folksy vibes at every turn, this mosaic art-inspired locale has no requirements when it comes to catering, vendors, or hourly rental minimum — enabling the soon-to-be married couple to create their dream wedding with limited restrictions. Your special day will be set amongst vibrant color, sculpture, mirrors, and endless objects-turned-art — not too shabby in the photography department. Read real brides’ reviews here!

See More: Find The Perfect Mode Of Transportation For Your Guests On Our Local Vendors Page

Adventure Aquarium
While this venue is located across the river in Camden, NJ, it’s only about five minutes by car outside Philadelphia city limits, and is well worth the (quick) trip. Whether you have an affinity for aquatic life or are simply looking for a venue that is far from the norm, Camden’s Adventure Aquarium may be just what you’re looking for. Complete with a traditional ballroom (that just happens to have some floor to ceiling aquarium tank views, too) and separate ceremony and cocktail hour options — the aquarium also offers breathtaking waterfront city views for the couple that wants a little bit of everything when it comes to their venue. With buffet and seated dinner options and a convenient location, this venue is a must for the couple seeking an one-of-a-kind wedding backdrop. Read real brides’ reviews here!

Perelman Theatre at the Kimmel Center

It’s your day, and you’re the star of the show — so clearly getting married in a state-fo-the-art theater isn’t that out of the wedding-day realm. This theater and recital hall also doubles as a dramatic wedding venue that can be transformed into the venue of your dreams. The first level theatre seats can be retracted enabling the space to open and offer variety of seating options whether you’re looking for a lavish cocktail-party style reception, or a fully seated formal dinner with dancing. Guests can dine and dance while surrounded by all the intricacies and attractions of a state-of-the-art theatre for a truly exclusive experience.

Not quite sold on any of these gorgeous venues? We have plenty more to choose from on our Local Vendors page!

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