15 Iconic Newport Wedding Venues
A wedding in Newport, Rhode Island offers the opportunity to have sweeping views of the Narragansett Bay, fresh seafood for the menu, and a historic town as the backdrop for all your wedding weekend events. As a classic seaside destination, Newport is known for its unique take on New England cuisine including, for example, Rhode Island clam chowder with a clear broth and a bit of dill. Newport views of the ocean are always romantic from the days when fog clings to lighthouses to the days when sailboats are out. Including many unique options from Gilded Age mansions to cozy vineyards, these 15 luxury venues are the perfect backdrop for bold and creative designs.
MANSIONS AND ESTATES
The Rosecliff is an iconic venue with detailed molding on every wall, chandeliers, and a heart-shaped staircase. It was the set of private parties during the 1920s and often appears in movies such as The Great Gatsby. The venue offers a beautiful getting ready suite complete with an oversized, gold-framed mirror and breathtaking views of the ocean. As the epitome of luxury, minimal to glamorous wedding styles are attainable at the Rosecliff while the architecture offers layers of texture to create an intimate environment.
With sweeping views of Narragansett Bay, the Oceancliff offers a breathtaking backdrop for weddings and receptions. This venue has 24 rooms for guests, a ballroom that accommodates up to 225 guests, and an outdoor patio for cocktail hour. Oceancliff combines the sophistication of early 1900s mansions with hints of Newport’s history as a luxury summer beach retreat. This combination defines Oceancliff as a summery modern venue among Newport mansions.
Charity Hope Photography
Ochre Court is owned by Salve Regina University and allows weddings and rehearsal dinners in an exclusive space. The venue also boasts the breathtaking Lady of Mercy Chapel for Catholic ceremonies. The beautiful Châteauesque architecture mimics the gilded opulence of the French Renaissance and offers ballrooms, terraces, and ocean views. Weddings here often have a storybook atmosphere due to the limestone exterior paired with warm interior wood tones.
The Chanler offers an intimate romantic atmosphere with the backdrop of a Gilded Age mansion. The venue is known for its large terrace and other outdoor spaces with views of the Narragansett Bay. The Chanler specializes in micro wedding weekend experiences and has 20 guest rooms available for use. With a more whimsical ambience, the Chanler is unique among the Newport mansions.
MODERN ELEGANCE
Belle Mer combines views of Narragansett Bay and Newport Bridge with a glamorous white and crystal interior decor. The contemporary interior is the perfect backdrop for bold and creative designs. The onsite bridal suite is elegant and comfortable, while the staircase into the ballroom offers the ultimate grand entrance. Belle Mer is a perfect option for large weddings in all four seasons and does not require a tent.
This venue is the fresh and relaxed twin to Belle Mer. Highlights of the Newport Beach House include sweeping beach views, organic design elements, and elegant crisp lines. The resulting atmosphere is serene and contemporary while the venue provides all the elements crucial for a Newport beach wedding.
VINEYARDS
Newport Vineyards is the perfect location for couples who desire to highlight excellent beverage and menu choices. The venue itself offers spectacular interior and exterior backdrops, including romantic vineyards and the intimate wine cellar. Newport Vineyards offers the opportunity to create cozy events that capitalize on the warm industrial design elements and natural romance of the vineyard during all four seasons.
Greenvale Vineyards offer all the warm industrial hues and organic charm of nature as Newport Vineyards. The venue also includes four reception locations while ceremonies are held in the vineyard overlooking the Sakonnet River and farmland of Tiverton on the opposite bank.
Shepherds Run is a historic manor that combines rustic old world charm with modern amenities. Breathtaking vignettes fill the property, providing various backdrops for portraits. On the interior, the Event Hall has tall ceilings and can host 250 guests, while the Wine Hall has a dramatic stone fireplace and can host 60 guests. Outside, the Beatrix Farrand Walled Garden is the perfect location for cocktail hour. With ten onsite rooms for VIP guests, Shepherds Run would be perfect for a weekend wedding that exudes luxury and encourages relaxation.
TENTED EVENTS
Situated on the Narragansett Bay, Castle Hill Inn provides breathtaking views of the water. Whether it functions as a unique backdrop for portraits or acts as the setting for an intimate ceremony, the historic onsite lighthouse offers a quintessential New England experience. The venue also includes a covered terrace and an oceanfront lawn for larger gatherings. This venue’s elegance and grace are the perfect canvas for a creative design.
The Bohlin is located at the Newport Yachting Center, overlooking the docks. This venue offers a harbor view for the ceremony, followed by a reception space in a beautiful tent. The tent is uniquely designed to fit into the harbor setting, and Bohlin’s onsite catering offers classic New England fare to fit the setting.
Dragonline Studios is located on a promontory overlooking Narragansett Bay. Set on a rocky outcrop, the venue is a three story contemporary building with historic charm. The Main Studio Building offers panoramic views of the Bay with industrial design elements and oversized windows, perfect for a reception or cocktail hour, while the lawn offers a space for the ceremony set on the rocky outcrop. Often couples opt for an outdoor tent reception to take advantage of the views. There is also an onsite one-room cabin that can serve as a romantic place for the couple to stay.
HR Marsan Photography
Located on Goat Island, Regatta Place offers a historic setting and views of the marina. Regatta Place is perfect for those who love sailing or are seeking a waterfront venue. Surrounded by luxury yachts, events are held in the unique cream-and-ivory striped tent and includes elegant chandeliers and sheer white drapery. Regatta Place is an ideal location for couples seeking a luxury waterfront ambience.
Ashley Olaffson Photography
HOTELS
This elegant waterfront venue offers views of Narragansett Bay, Newport Bridge, and the harbor and a variety of spaces for events. The options range from the historic Newport Bay Lighthouse to the Rose Island Ballroom which can host up to 280 guests for a reception.
With a variety of contemporary spaces and located in a historic setting, Hotel Viking is perfect for destination wedding weekend events. It is centrally located in the historic center of Newport and has a luxurious onsite spa for the ultimate relaxing weekend. Ceremonies are typically held in the Kay Chapel, constructed in 1859, which has stained glass windows and stunning wooden beams. Receptions can be held in the Bellevue Ballroom which offers plenty of natural light and an elegant vintage backdrop complete with crystal chandeliers.
In summary, Newport has everything from sweeping ocean views to elegant architecture to cozy fireplaces. With these luxurious venues as the backdrop for your wedding, creative designs and bold colors can take center stage while your event remains timeless and elegant.
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