Choosing a wedding venue is no small task. But lucky for you, I’ve photographed so many locations that I have some insight to help you find the perfect spot for your big day. Here are my top 10 venues near Dubuque, Iowa.
#1. Stone Cliff Winery
Think Napa but in Iowa! The quaint winery is one of my personal favorites. This indoor and outdoor venue right along the Mississippi River is about as perfect as you can get. Stone Cliff has the ability to place a tent on their back patio which makes for a fun night dancing under the stars on the river. It’s a dream! This is a historic venue with all the charm of a day of wine tasting on the California coast. Contact Stone Cliff Winery.
#2. Ashton Hill Farm
Elegant and modern are just a few ways to describe Ashton Hill Farm near Galena, Illinois. If you are dreaming of a black-tie event with a champagne toast, this is the venue for you. The crisp white interior allows for endless possibilities and stunning overlooks of the Midwest rolling hills. The high ceilings, outdoor patio, and views just scream Great Gatsby to me. Looking for a spot closer heading West of Dubuque? They also have a Cedar Rapids venue! Contact Ashton Hill Farm.
#3. Oak Hill Farm
Dreaming of the perfect indoor outdoor wedding? Make your dreams a reality at Oak Hill Farm. Located near Apple River, Illinois, this expansive property has the ability to host any size wedding inside or out. My personal favorite offering is their Woodland Forest Ceremony. Have your cocktail hour surrounded by pine trees and then dance the night away on a secluded pavilion. And a special bonus is that they have horses! Contact Oak Hill Farm.
#4. Off Shore Event Center
Picture this: white, chic, with large windows and a rustic ceiling that adds a classy midwest flare. Sounds pretty impeccable right? Off Shore offers a large space with high ceilings and a country & classy vibe right by the water. This location with an excellent option for a ceremony and reception combo, with a great option for a rehearsal dinner. It’s also connected to a hotel so travel accommodations are made easy. Centered right outside Dubuque within the coziness of Bellevue. Contact Off Shore.
#5. Hotel Julien Dubuque
The Hotel Julien is truly a one-stop shop when it comes to an elegant wedding day. This historic location is the heart of downtown and can host up to 300 guests with no problem. Have your ceremony, reception, and guest lodging all at one convenient location. Plus they have an onsite restaurant for excellent catering as well. The ballroom speaks to a Cinderella moment and is just asking for a cocktail hour on their private rooftop. Contact Hotel Julien Dubuque.
#6. Dubuque Arboretum + Botanical Gardens
If you are going for an outdoor wedding, you just can not beat the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. A ceremony in the Rose Garden is hands down my favorite spot at this venue. Regardless of the weather, this is one of the most stunning venues you can pick. Not to mention the options for photography are endless. Lush gardens, hidden pathways, or a tucked-away forest are just a few of the options for bridal and family photos. There is also plenty of room for yard games, food trucks, and more! Contact Dubuque Arboretum + Botanical Gardens.
#7. 7 Hills Event Center
Are you thinking modern, simple with good food and beer? 7 Hills Brewing recently added an events space to their downtown location and it is magical. The restored building has so much charm. Large windows for natural light, restored flooring, unique lighting, and truly excellent food. Their event coordinator Kelly is a gem to work with and your guest will be hooked on their craft beer forever. Contact 7 Hill Event Center.
#8. Four Mounds Foundation
This cute and cozy property is straight out of a Nicolas Sparks book. Four Mounds Foundation sits on a beautiful bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, scattered with restored homes made perfect for rehearsal dinners, outdoor weddings, and dancing under the stars. This has to be one of my top-photographed locations in Dubuque and I just never get tired of it! Contact Four Mounds Foundation.
#9. Great River Ranch
Looking for a venue just far enough outside of town that it feels like a destination wedding? Great River Ranch is your spot, just across the Mississippi River in Potosi, Wisconsin. This ranch is located atop a 500-foot bluff on the Mississippi River where you’ll find the most magical views for your outside wedding and reception. With plenty of lodging, ceremony space, and truly whatever reception you can imagine, all you have to do is add a white tent and twinkle lights. You’ll be living your dream day at Great River Ranch.
#10. Park Farm Winery
There is a reason Park Farm Winery makes a number of ‘Best Of…’ lists. It’s because it really is one of the most beautiful venues in the area. Located near the rolling farmland of Bankston, Iowa, this vineyard and winery specializes in aesthetic weddings full of epic views and even more epic beverages. Pair their breathtaking patio area with a rich sunset and delectable wine, and your big day could not be closer to perfection. Contact Park Farm Winery.
