Last Updated on June 2, 2025 by Joy Editors
Planning your dream wedding in Iowa? Wedding venues in Iowa showcase every part from urban elegance to rustic countryside charm that offers couples infinite possibilities to create their perfect day.
The right setting awaits you as Iowa’s wedding reception venues welcome gatherings of all sizes. The impressive Bella Sala Event Center hosts as much as 650 guests, while the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden creates an intimate tropical paradise year-round for 200 people. Each venue brings its own unique character to make your celebration special.
Weather plays an enormous role in your celebration plans. Iowa experiences long, hot summers and windy, frigid winters, so that you’ll need each indoor and outdoor options. The historic Hotel Fort Des Moines stands proud since 1919 and combines classic charm with modern amenities. The Monroe in West Des Moines creates a singular wedding experience by mixing traditional elements with contemporary design.
We’ve put together an in depth list of 21 best wedding venues in Iowa to aid you resolve. Real couples who celebrated their love stories in these spaces have rated each venue. Let’s discover these stunning locations together!
Image Source: WeddingWire
Rhythm City Casino Resort in Davenport, Iowa brings modern elegance to couples planning their big day. This upscale venue pairs sophisticated design with all the marriage services needed to create unforgettable celebrations.
Rhythm City Casino Resort features
Crystal chandeliers and ballroom-style ceilings make the Grand Ballroom a sight to behold, creating an environment that blends savory and sweet sophistication. The venue gives you the next wedding services:
- A talented service team, audio/visual equipment, and high-speed web
- Food and beverage decisions starting from abundant buffets to chef-inspired tremendous cuisine
- Luxury amenities like an on-site spa, casino, and multiple dining spots
Guests can enjoy free parking, valet, and airport shuttle services. You may customize the resort’s flexible space to match your vision and wishes.
Rhythm City Casino Resort capability
The resort boasts over 16,000 square feet of event space and welcomes weddings of all sizes. As much as 1,000 guests can join your ceremony and reception within the Grand Ballroom. The Event Center suits even larger gatherings with space for two,200 standing and 1,200 seated guests.
Rhythm City Casino Resort pricing
Packages start at $8,000 and include venue rental, food service, decorative elements, and easy wedding services. Couples often receive free hotel rooms with their wedding package.
Real couple reviews of Rhythm City Casino Resort
Couples love Rhythm City, giving it a stellar 4.9 out of 5 rating across 18 reviews. “Every little thing was perfect for our day! The food and drinks were amazing. We loved that it’s a part of a hotel, so at the top of the night we could just go upstairs to our room,” shared one completely happy couple.
“The venue is gorgeous, the food was delicious they usually served our large group of guests quickly,” one other couple remarked. The resort’s staff earns special praise for his or her detailed attention throughout wedding planning.
Image Source: Rollins Mansion
The Rollins Mansion in Des Moines has stood proudly since 1925. Its Tudor architecture and wealthy heritage make it a surprising example of timeless elegance. This beautiful venue combines historic charm with modern comforts to create a one-of-a-kind wedding setting.
Rollins Mansion features
The mansion showcases amazing architectural details. You’ll find ceiling beams brought over from an inn where William Shakespeare once performed. Frank Lloyd Wright designed stained glass windows add a real European feel throughout the ten,000-square-foot property.
The venue has several spaces inside and outside:
- A stupendous courtyard perfect for ceremonies with a reflecting pool and gardens
- A 4,000-square-foot rooftop terrace overlooking the Des Moines skyline
- Private preparing rooms for the bride and groom
- Several distinct rooms on each floors, each with its own character
The situation sits between downtown Des Moines and the airport, making it easy for local and traveling guests to succeed in.
Rollins Mansion capability
The mansion’s layout works well for weddings of all sizes. You may host as much as 600 people for a reception and 250 for a proper banquet. Outdoor celebrations can accommodate as much as 350 guests. Eight rooms spread across 10,000 square feet of event space provide you with loads of room in your ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception.
Rollins Mansion pricing
Packages start at $6,500, which is great value for such a special venue. December weddings often cost less and are available with holiday decorations throughout the property.
Real couple reviews of Rollins Mansion
The venue holds a 4.7 out of 5 rating from 45 reviews, and 95% of couples recommend it. People love the mansion’s charm, staff, and versatile spaces.
One bride said, “Rollins Mansion was THE BEST place for our wedding. It’s absolutely beautiful inside and outside”. Photographers also praise the venue. One mentioned, “The added charm, elegance and wonder throughout will make your photos shine”. Many couples say the experience was smooth since the staff handled every part so that they “didn’t must lift a finger”.
Image Source: Ashton Hill Farm
Ashton Hill Farm sits beautifully on scenic Iowa farmland in Cedar Rapids. This 7-year-old custom-built venue blends rustic charm with elegant sophistication, making it one in all the Midwest’s premier wedding destinations.
Ashton Hill Farm features
The stunning interior showcases white shiplap partitions, soaring ceilings, and a powerful 18-foot tall window backdrop. A neutral palette serves as a blank canvas for personalization. Modern touches make this venue stand out:
- Six-foot tall chandeliers, concrete floors, and solid wood cross-back winery chairs
- Two preparation suites with a 900 square-foot loft that comes with a bar and lounge area
- 1,800 square-foot covered veranda equipped with residential furniture, bar, and bistro lighting
- Custom-built benches within the outdoor ceremony space overlook Iowa’s countryside
- Gas fire pits and wildflower fields create stunning photo opportunities
The venue also provides ambient lighting, all-season temperature control, and white drapery to spice up the space’s appeal.
Ashton Hill Farm capability
The venue welcomes 300 guests comfortably for indoor and outdoor celebrations. Couples can design their perfect floor plan within the spacious reception hall that matches their unique vision.
Ashton Hill Farm pricing
Packages range from $5,000 to $7,000, giving couples exclusive access from 8:00 AM until midnight on their big day. This package comes with tables, wood winery chairs, white or black linens, outdoor ceremony bench seating, bartender service with glassware, and complete setup/takedown of reception tables and chairs.
Real couple reviews of Ashton Hill Farm
The venue maintains a stellar 4.7 out of 5 rating from many reviews. Couples consistently praise the venue and staff. “Ashton Hill is the right wedding venue! Not only is it essentially the most gorgeous space, they were so helpful every step of the best way,” shared one delighted bride.
The positive feedback continues with one other couple who said, “The venue is gorgeous, the food was delicious they usually served our large group of guests very efficiently”. The day-of coordination service gets special mention from many couples. One bride expressed her gratitude: “MJ was our day-of coordinator and I can’t thank her and the staff enough for the assistance they gave us”.
Image Source: WeddingWire
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden stands as a lush, tropical oasis right in downtown, making it an ideal backdrop for weddings all yr round. This beautiful space earned the title of “Most Gorgeous Wedding Venue within the State of Iowa” from PureWow.
Botanical Garden features
The venue gives couples some ways to embrace natural beauty:
- A shocking conservatory dome features tropical plants and a waterfall backdrop that’s perfect for ceremonies
- Beautiful indoor and outdoor wedding spaces work well in any season
- The exclusive “Glow Up” package lets couples customize dome lighting (for weddings $150,000+)
- Dupont Room shows off large windows with views of manicured gardens
- Katherine C. Meredith Courtyard Terrace welcomes outdoor celebrations
The venue provides complete amenities including a bridal suite, audio equipment, dance floor, chairs, tables, and free parking.
Botanical Garden capability
From small gatherings to big celebrations, the venue holds as much as 220 guests. Each space has its own capability:
- Foremost event space: 120 guests
- Secondary event space: 50 guests
- Total available event space: 7,500 square feet
Botanical Garden pricing
The Botanical Garden’s prices follow these tiers:
- Reception venue rental starts at $2,500
- Ceremony spaces begin at $600
- Bar services average $30 per person
- Catering packages normally cost around $4,500
Prices go up during peak seasons from January-March and November-December.
Real couple reviews of Botanical Garden
Couples love this venue, giving it 4.8 out of 5 stars from 17 reviews. 96% of couples recommend getting married here.
“The venue was beautiful, everyone was raving about how they wished they’d gotten married in a botanical garden. It was so convenient having the ceremony and reception in the identical place,” one completely happy bride shared.
A delighted couple wrote: “We had our ceremony within the breathtaking dome… Every detail of the venue was flawless, and dealing with Marvin was an absolute pleasure”.
The core team’s amazing service, the venue’s natural beauty, and its convenient downtown location with easy parking make this place special.
Image Source: Country Lane Lodge
Country Lane Lodge sits on 40 peaceful acres near Des Moines metro in Adel, Iowa. This Amish-built venue perfectly blends rustic charm with modern elegance. The venue’s popularity as one in all Iowa’s top wedding destinations stems from its flexible spaces and outstanding customer support.
Country Lane Lodge features
The lodge stands out amongst Iowa wedding venues with these amazing amenities:
- Flexible indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces with backup weather options
- Modern comforts like heated floors, air con, and premium audio/visual equipment
- A singular full-service bar featuring a hand-crafted top from their family century farm’s 130-year-old tree
- A spacious catering kitchen equipped with walk-in coolers ready in your caterers
- Free access to over 500 décor items akin to wine barrels, arbors, lanterns and more
- A dedicated online wedding planner and day-of coordination services
The gorgeous indoor space amazes couples. The stunning outdoor areas feature a patio, swings, fire pit and guest games. Natural photo spots abound with bridges, wildflowers and wooded areas throughout the property.
Country Lane Lodge capability
The venue welcomes as much as 400 seated guests each indoors and outdoors. The only-level design makes the lodge accessible to everyone with none stairs. A stupendous loft overlooks the important floor, creating perfect spots for photos or quiet conversations.
Country Lane Lodge pricing
2025 wedding rates vary by day:
- Friday (8am-midnight): $6,750
- Saturday (8am-midnight): $8,250
- Sunday (8am-11pm): $5,500
- Weekday (8am-10pm): $5,500
Winter bookings prevent money at $5,000-$6,500. The 2026 rates show a slight increase with Fridays at $7,000 and Saturdays at $8,500.
Real couple reviews of Country Lane Lodge
The venue shines with a powerful 4.8 out of 5 rating from many reviews. A completely happy bride shared, “The venue is gorgeous and flows so nicely. Great location for multiple activities for all of your guests”.
The staff makes a long-lasting impression on couples. “Kendra, Erin and the remainder of the CLL staff are the best and nicest people to work with. They helped with so many questions in the course of the wedding planning process”. One other couple loved the planning tools: “The venue’s online planner was also very helpful in the course of the planning process & helped us to proactively manage details we wouldn’t have considered”.
Image Source: Summerset Winery
Summerset Winery sits nestled in rolling hills south of Des Moines. This charming 12-acre property in Indianola gives couples a romantic vineyard backdrop for his or her big day. The venue blends natural beauty with flexible event spaces to create one in all Iowa’s most distinctive wedding destinations.
Summerset Winery features
The winery’s wedding experience comes filled with every part you wish:
- Two banquet rooms, surrounding decks, and outdoor grounds let you propose your perfect day
- Beautiful vineyard backdrops for indoor and outdoor ceremonies
- A shocking oak tree spot for vineyard cocktails
- Your wedding day starts at 9:00 AM with 15 full hours of venue time
- The whole property opens up in your wedding photos
- Expert event coordinators help guide your planning journey
Right next to the winery, you’ll find the Inn at Summerset. This former bed and breakfast now serves as a whole-house rental with 10 bedrooms and seven bathrooms that matches as much as 26 guests. The spacious inn has two full kitchens, two living areas, an outside hot tub, and a fantastic Tuscan garden with gazebo.
Summerset Winery capability
The Grand Banquet Room welcomes as much as 250 seated guests. Adding a tent enables you to host 400 guests for larger celebrations. The important level, tasting room, and surrounding decks welcome all guests with wheelchair access, however the Grand Banquet Hall upstairs isn’t accessible.
Summerset Winery pricing
Your dream vineyard wedding starts at $2,000. Standard packages begin around $2,800 for 2025. These packages provide you with tables and chairs for each ceremony and reception, setup included. You’ll also get discounts on Summerset wines and first dibs on booking the Inn.
Real couple reviews of Summerset Winery
Couples love this venue, giving it 4.7 out of 5 stars across review sites. The scenic views and staff’s attention to detail keep earning rave reviews.
“Summerset Winery worked super hard to offer our wedding every extra touch to be so beautiful! Booking with them was the most effective wedding planning alternative we made,” one completely happy bride shared.
“The vines were an ideal scene for our ceremony—we couldn’t have asked for a greater day!” one other couple wrote. Most newlyweds can’t say enough concerning the beautiful setting, helpful staff, and the good value of their wine country celebration.
Image Source: Bella Sala
Bella Sala Event Center in Tiffin stands out because the Iowa City area’s most experienced locally owned venue. It combines natural beauty with functional elegance. The venue’s waterfall terrace creates a peaceful setting among the many trees that makes celebrations truly memorable.
Bella Sala Event Center features
Bella Sala’s exceptional amenities will lift your wedding experience:
- A romantic waterfall terrace surrounded by beautiful landscaping—perfect for ceremonies of as much as 250 guests
- Indoor reception halls full of natural light from large windows
- Two deluxe on-site suites with loads of room to organize hair, makeup, and wardrobe
- All-inclusive pricing that covers table/chair/linen setup and takedown
- Outdoor patios ready for cocktails and appetizers
- Smaller spaces perfect for bridal showers, rehearsal dinners and gift opening brunches
Bad weather won’t smash your day. Ceremonies can move indoors quickly, giving couples peace of mind regardless of the forecast.
Bella Sala Event Center capability
The venue adapts beautifully from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. Bella Sala welcomes between 50 to 650 guests, making it perfect for weddings of any size. The thoughtful design creates an intimate atmosphere even with smaller guest counts.
Bella Sala Event Center pricing
Reception venue rental for 2025 starts at $4,800, with most couples spending around $6,800. Two important pricing options can be found:
- Cascata (half room): $4,800-$6,800
- Bella Sala (whole space): $6,000-$9,500
Premium pricing applies from May through October during peak season. The whole packages include tables, chairs, linens, ceremony seating setup, and bar staffing.
Real couple reviews of Bella Sala Event Center
Couples love Bella Sala’s beautiful setting and exceptional staff. “Bella Sala was implausible to work with – they were all the time super quick to answer questions or concerns. They helped the marriage day go very easily,” shared one satisfied couple.
One other couple said, “The venue is gorgeous and the staff is so helpful and accommodating!”. Reviews consistently praise the team’s quick responses, the venue’s beauty, and their dedication to running events perfectly—from setup through takedown.
Image Source: Wedding Wire
Elmcrest Country Club in Cedar Rapids showcases stunning fairway views and serves as a chic wedding destination. The venue blends natural beauty with refined amenities. Since 1947, this social hub has combined charm with modern style, making it perfect for couples who want an expensive celebration venue.
Elmcrest Country Club features
The club’s big day spaces include:
- A scenic patio that overlooks the golf course with built-in fire pits and seating
- A complicated marble bar within the indoor cocktail space
- Tables, chairs, and linens with setup and teardown service
- Convenient dressing areas for the bridal party
- A par 70 golf course surrounded by majestic trees that create countless photo spots
- Guest convenience with on-site parking and a covered drive-up entrance
The club’s team provides an entire wedding service package. The experienced staff helps with planning and execution throughout your entire process. The venue welcomes engagement parties, bridal showers, and rehearsal dinners too.
Elmcrest Country Club capability
You may host as much as 300 guests here for seated events. The space works well for each intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Your vision involves life through flexible indoor and outdoor spaces that allow custom layouts.
Elmcrest Country Club pricing
Non-members pay a facility fee of $8,000, and the contract needs a 50% deposit when signed. Smaller celebrations can use the intimate wedding package at $4,000 for as much as 150 guests. The club stands out since it doesn’t require food and beverage minimums, unlike many other venues.
Real couple reviews of Elmcrest Country Club
Couples love their experience on the venue and praise each the placement and staff. A bride shared, “Taylor went over and above to ensure we were getting every part we would have liked/wanted on our big day”. One other couple mentioned, “We received many compliments from our guests regarding the meal, venue, and repair”.
The food quality gets consistent praise, with one review noting, “The food was excellently prepared by Chef and his staff”. The venue’s natural beauty paired with skilled service creates memorable weddings that past clients enthusiastically recommend.
Image Source: Steeple Square
Steeple Square, a historic landmark in downtown Dubuque, welcomes couples to have fun their big day in an imposing former church. This nonprofit venue blends stunning historical architecture with modern comforts to create an unforgettable wedding experience.
Steeple Square features
The venue has three amazing spaces for wedding events:
- A shocking important hall with towering steeples, classic pillars, and delightful stained-glass windows
- A vibrant outdoor plaza perfect for ceremonies or cocktail hours
- A vibrant, industrial lower-level space that works great for intimate gatherings
The venue’s historic character sets it apart. Beautiful hand-painted details and architectural elements create a surprising backdrop that needs minimal decoration. Couples get access to great amenities like a bride’s room and the McCoy Multipurpose Room for wedding party prep. The venue also provides loads of parking with accessibility features and lets couples select their very own caterers.
Steeple Square capability
The important hall—formerly Honkamp Hall—suits 300 guests comfortably for receptions and 320 people for theater-style ceremonies. Smaller celebrations work perfectly within the lower level, making this venue great for weddings of all sizes. The whole campus offers about 7,500 square feet of event space.
Steeple Square pricing
Steeple Square’s wedding packages provide you with great value. Ceremony costs range from $1,100 to $1,700. Reception prices run from $1,500 to $3,750 and include setup and teardown of normal chairs and tables, table linens, projector and screens, sound equipment, dance floor, and help from an onsite staff member. Small weddings with as much as 50 guests can go for micro wedding packages that cost between $500 and $1,000.
Real couple reviews of Steeple Square
Steeple Square shines with an ideal 5.0 out of 5 rating from 18 reviews, and 100% of couples recommend the venue. The stunning architecture and excellent service consistently impress couples. One bride shared, “The space is completely stunning and I got so many compliments on its beauty”. One other added, “It’s a completely stunning venue and Melanie was wonderful to work with”. The campus manager gets special praise for nice communication, professionalism, and a spotlight to detail throughout planning.
Image Source: Harvest View Farms
Harvest View Farms sits peacefully within the fields of Sperry, Iowa, just 10 minutes north of Burlington. This charming rustic venue brings country-style elegance to couples planning their big day. Brenda and David Schwind built and run this family-owned venue that radiates farm charm and creates an intimate atmosphere.
Harvest View Farms features
The venue showcases several custom-built spaces that make celebrations memorable:
- The Celebration Barn: A 7,400-square-foot space comes with comfortable seating, a loft for grand entrances, DJ room, and separate restrooms
- The Silver Dove Chapel: A comfy ceremony space suits 150 guests and includes cordless mics and music hookup
- The Bridal Cottage: A farmhouse encompasses a hair styling station, lounge, kitchen area, and a honeymoon suite
- Harvest View Bar: Local wines, wine slushies, mixed drinks, and beer can be found with bartenders included
- Brenda’s Chuckwagon: The buffet meals include budget-friendly menu decisions
The buildings are climate-controlled and available to all guests regardless of the weather conditions.
Harvest View Farms capability
The Celebration Barn welcomes as much as 400 guests and comfortably seats 300 at rectangle tables. The Silver Dove Chapel accommodates 150 guests for ceremonies. Small intimate gatherings or large celebrations work perfectly here.
Harvest View Farms pricing
The weekend package runs $5,200 plus Iowa tax and includes:
- Friday access (11am-9pm)
- Saturday use (8am-11:59pm)
- Sunday morning pickup (11am)
- Complimentary mimosas within the Bridal Cottage
- Overnight stay within the honeymoon suite
A non-refundable $500 signing fee holds your date. You’ll have to pay 50% 180 days before and the remaining balance 30 days prior to the event. The venue requires a $750 refundable damage deposit.
Real couple reviews of Harvest View Farms
The venue’s unique charm and attentive staff have won many hearts. “We cannot say enough good things about Harvest View Farms! Brenda and David were so accommodating and made our daughter’s wedding event absolutely perfect!”. Guests love this one-of-a-kind venue with its beautiful chapel, stunning barn, and wonderful farmhouse. Skilled photographers give high marks too, noting “Brenda and her staff are skilled and helpful”.
Image Source: Facebook
Many years Event Center blends old-world charm with modern design elements to create a particular celebration space in the guts of West Des Moines. This thoughtfully designed venue captures attention with intimate lighting and rustic, antique decor throughout.
Many years Event Center features
The venue will give an entire wedding experience with these amenities:
- Over 5,000 square feet of customizable space with rustic antique decor
- Two on-site preparation suites that function perfect getting-ready spaces
- Full-service, handmade bar crafted from a century-old tree
- The core team handles complete setup and teardown services
- Optional in-house decor rentals include marquee letters and centerpieces
- Guest convenience with ample parking within the adjoining lot
The venue also features technology upgrades like an LED video wall, projector with screen, sound system, and fog machine. Mutually useful alliances with local hotels provide shuttle services, while partnerships with caterers and photographers make planning easier.
Many years Event Center capability
The ballroom welcomes as much as 225 guests with flexible seating arrangements that match each couple’s vision. Couples can host ceremonies, seated meals, and reception celebrations under one roof on this versatile open-plan space. The venue welcomes viewing appointments 24/7.
Many years Event Center pricing
Day by day venue rental starts at $500. As a substitute of fixed packages, couples can customize their experience through add-on bundles. This personalized approach lets couples select exactly what they need, making Many years one in all Iowa’s best-value wedding reception venues.
Real couple reviews of Many years Event Center
We noticed couples love the venue’s convenience and attentive service. “Kale and his staff were very easy to work with. They listened to what we wanted and did every part they may to make the event special,” shared one completely happy parent. The venue’s unique character leaves lasting impressions. “We had an awesome amount of comments from our party and guests how unique and fun the venue was”. The space’s natural beauty stands out too. “Many years provides a singular elegance by itself without decorations,” mentioned one other satisfied bride.
Image Source: WeddingWire
The Renwick Mansion, a fantastic Italian Revival Villa, sits on 4 acres of gorgeous grounds in Davenport. This stunning venue pairs its wealthy history with modern comforts and offers couples breathtaking views of the Mississippi River as their wedding backdrop.
Renwick Mansion features
This Iowa wedding venue stands out with these special touches:
- Three reception rooms featuring marble fireplaces and detailed woodwork
- A second-floor balcony and fourth-floor tower with Mississippi River views
- Beautiful south lawn deck and grand porte-cochere that’s perfect for ceremonies
- Complete bar service with cocktails, beer, wine, and champagne toasts
- Two kitchens ready in your catering team
- A special bridal suite to prepare in your big day
The mansion’s spacious grounds provide loads of parking for guests while keeping its historic charm intact.
Renwick Mansion capability
The venue works well for celebrations each big and small:
- Indoor space suits as much as 150 guests
- Outdoor areas hold 250+ people
- Tented outdoor space can welcome as much as 300 guests
- Combined spaces can host as much as 430 people total
Renwick Mansion pricing
Rates change based on the day and package you select:
- Friday: $900
- Saturday: $10,000
- Sunday: $700
Multi-day packages range from $15,000-$30,000, with prices various for those who include bedroom rentals. It’s also possible to rent rooms overnight together with the constructing rental, starting at $70-80 per room each night.
Real couple reviews of Renwick Mansion
Couples love this venue, giving it 4.9 out of 5 stars in reviews. They praise each the property and its owners consistently.
“The mansion is completely stunning and it offered every part we were searching for: a fantastic and spacious indoor and outdoor space, a full weekend rental, and bar service,” one completely happy bride shared.
“We rented all of the rooms in the home for our family and friends which made the weekend much more enjoyable. Pricing was VERY reasonable and the owners were extremely accommodating to our needs,” one other couple noted.
The venue’s beauty, helpful owners, and unique historic setting help create wedding memories that last a lifetime.
Image Source: The Celebration Farm
The Celebration Farm, a 12-year old venue, gives couples a singular collection of rustic spaces tucked away amongst trees and fertile farmland of Johnson County. This special wedding venue blends beautiful natural surroundings with flexible event options to create unforgettable celebrations for Iowa couples.
Celebration Farm features
The venue showcases three amazing event spaces:
- The Double Round Barn shows off a powerful domed ceiling, a working limestone fireplace, and a covered patio built by local craftsmen
- The Timber Frame Barn radiates rustic charm with plenty of out of doors space on a wrap-around deck that appears over wooded acreage
- The Amphitheater features three stone arches that frame the ceremony space, with evergreens, woodlands, a pond, and a fountain throughout it
Your booking comes with tables, chairs, sound system, free décor, and setup and cleanup services in your big day. The venue’s mixture of indoor and outdoor spaces enables you to plan creatively and get beautiful photo backgrounds.
Celebration Farm capability
The venue welcomes celebrations of all sizes and may host as much as 450 guests total. Each space has its own capability:
- Double Round Barn: Suits as much as 300 guests
- Timber Frame Barn: Holds as much as 150 guests
- Amphitheater: Seats as much as 300 guests on terraced levels
Couples can pick the right space that matches their guest count and dream wedding vision.
Celebration Farm pricing
Each space has different prices depending on the season:
- Double Round Barn: $3,500-$7,500
- Timber Frame Barn: $2,500-$4,500
- Amphitheater: $500
- Whole site rental: $8,000-$10,000
Reception prices start at $900, and peak season runs through September-October. Most couples spend about $6,000 on their celebration.
Real couple reviews of Celebration Farm
Couples consistently praise the venue’s beauty and staff’s attention to detail. “The venue is completely beautiful and our ceremony and reception turned out higher than we ever imagined,” shared one couple.
A special couple noted, “The Celebration Farm is exclusive within the undeniable fact that they let you propose your wedding your way when other venues weren’t allowing this”. Many reviews highlight the good communication during planning and the way the staff helps with setup.
The venue might be “very pricey,” but most couples say the stunning architecture and helpful team make their wedding magical.
Image Source: WeddingWire
Positioned just minutes from The Eastern Iowa Airport, The Hotel at Kirkwood Center is Cedar Rapids’ only AAA 4 Diamond-rated hotel. This unique venue combines upscale accommodations with an academic purpose. The hotel serves as each a luxury destination and teaching facility where service standards consistently go above and beyond.
Kirkwood Center features
The venue has several elegant spaces perfect for wedding celebrations:
- A spectacular 7,454-square-foot ballroom with digital ceiling-mounted projectors and strategically positioned screens
- A flexible atrium perfect for ceremonies with complimentary microphone and baby grand piano
- A picturesque garden area ideally suited to outdoor weddings of 20-300
- A dedicated wedding dressing room available prior to ceremonies
- Two kitchens for catering needs and full bar services
The venue takes care of decorations, catering, and cleanup so couples can give attention to having fun with their big day.
Kirkwood Center capability
The ballroom seats as much as 450 guests comfortably for banquet-style receptions. This makes it an awesome fit for celebrations of all sizes. The pre-function space features floor-to-ceiling windows across 4,100 square feet and suits as much as 300 guests. The venue boasts 19,000 square feet of total event space spread across 15 different function areas.
Kirkwood Center pricing
You’ll need $750 to rent the ballroom with a minimum food and beverage spend of $10,500. The atrium costs $1,000 for ceremonies, which incorporates chair setup, microphone, and piano use. The garden area rental is $400, but you’ll have to rent outdoor chairs individually. A non-refundable $1,000 deposit will secure your date.
Real couple reviews of Kirkwood Center
Couples love the venue’s beauty and exceptional service. One bride shared, “Mary with Hotel Kirkwood made my wedding dreams come true. She listened to each idea I had and made it come alive”. One other couple appreciated that they “didn’t must stress about establishing or tearing down, unlike so many other venues”. Guests often mention that “the food served was the most effective wedding food they’d ever had”.
Image Source: Little Lights on the Lane
Little Lights on the Lane sits atop a hill with stunning views of Cedars Edge Golf Course in West Branch. This Scandinavian-inspired wedding venue opened its doors in 2019. The space blends natural beauty with modern elegance to create a vibrant, airy atmosphere just minutes from Iowa City.
Little Lights features
The venue offers several distinctive elements that make weddings special:
- A stupendous maple tree naturally shades guests during indoor and outdoor ceremonies
- Guests can enjoy cocktail hours and dancing on a 100-foot prolonged wrap-around covered porch
- The owner handcrafted farmhouse tables complement modern black chairs
- Couples can access a complimentary “Something Borrowed” decor closet stocked with arbors, easels, runners, candlesticks, neon signs, and more
- Wedding parties can prepare in two private luxury suites with french doors
- The important hall connects seamlessly to outdoor spaces through 30-foot sliding glass doors
Little Lights capability
The venue welcomes as much as 300 guests for combined indoor and outdoor celebrations. Indoor space accommodates 180 guests maximum during winter weddings. This makes Little Lights perfect for each intimate gatherings and bigger celebrations all year long.
Little Lights pricing
2025 wedding rates vary by day:
- Friday: $12,000 (select Fridays available for $8,000)
- Saturday: $12,500
- Sunday: Rates available while you ask
Holiday weekend celebrations cost $14,500. Coordination packages start from $3,500 for day-of coordination and go as much as $7,000 for full planning and design. Couples can get discounts by booking these services with the venue.
Real couple reviews of Little Lights
Couples love the venue’s beauty and repair quality. “The whole place is just gorgeous and on top of that, they’ve hired an incredible staff that’s incredibly helpful,” one completely happy couple shared.
“The perfect decision I made during wedding planning was scheduling a tour of Little Lights on the Lane. We fell in love immediately,” one other couple mentioned. Photographers praise the venue’s natural light, clean architectural lines, and scenic surroundings. These elements help create timeless wedding photos.
Image Source: Toast
Toast sits right within the bustling District at Prairie Trail in Ankeny. This upscale industrial chic setting makes an ideal wedding venue. The 15,000-square-foot space showcases exposed brick, beautiful wood flooring, and crystal chandeliers. You won’t need much decoration to make this elegant space shine.
Toast venue features
The venue offers several distinct spaces to have fun:
- An expensive important event space with exposed brick partitions, restoration hardware chandeliers, and adjustable lighting
- A vibrant, welcoming ceremony space that creates the right atmosphere to exchange vows
- A beautiful bridal suite complete with plush couches, individual makeup stations, and many natural light
- A rooftop patio that overlooks The District – ideal for cocktail hours or intimate ceremonies
The venue comes with farmhouse picket tables, round tables with linens, black cross-back chairs, and three movable bars. Toast’s location is convenient too. You may walk to many restaurants, hotels, and shopping boutiques nearby.
Toast venue capability
The important space suits as much as 425 seated guests comfortably. The ceremony area holds as much as 375 people, and the rooftop patio welcomes 150 guests. This provides couples loads of flexibility to rearrange the space exactly how they need.
Toast venue pricing
Wedding packages at Toast for 2025 range from $7,000 to $9,000. Saturday events during peak season cost around $8,500, while Friday celebrations run about $5,000. The ceremony space costs an additional $2,000. Events serving alcohol need security personnel at $250. Large celebrations will need to have event insurance.
Real couple reviews of Toast
Couples love Toast’s unique style and repair. One bride shared, “From the moment my daughter and I stepped into the space, we knew that is where we desired to hold her big day! The open concept and industrial feel gave my daughter the right vision for the marriage of her dreams!”
One other couple said, “We got married at Toast last month, and it was my dream wedding… While it’s not the most cost effective venue on the market, it’s by far essentially the most beautiful and requires less decor – potentially saving you money on other items”. Photographers love working here too. One mentioned, “Toast is a fantastic venue that has a ton of options for photos”.
Image Source: Willow on Grand
Willow on Grand sits beautifully in Des Moines’ Waterbury neighborhood. The venue creates a timeless wedding backdrop with its modern cottage-inspired feel. Its distinctive design skillfully combines peaks, large beams, and abundant natural light with a turn-of-the-century backdrop.
Willow on Grand features
The venue’s rigorously designed spaces include:
- The Grand Room spans 5,000 square feet with vaulted ceilings, oversized windows, white partitions, and delightful chandeliers. It serves as a flexible blank canvas that couples can personalize
- An enthralling outdoor Courtyard with bistro lighting sets the right scene for ceremonies, photos, or cocktail hours
- The Cottage bridal suite comes equipped with a full coffee bar, champagne on tap, private bathroom, floor-length mirror, and cozy seating
- The venue added an AirBnB space round the corner that creates an entire weekend experience for wedding parties
The venue provides tables, tablecloths, chairs, and optional luxury tabletop rentals. Couples can add chargers, plates, and flatware for added fees. The space combines functional elegance with a clean, modern esthetic that needs minimal decoration.
Willow on Grand capability
The venue welcomes as much as 300 guests. Its versatile space works well for each intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Each indoor and outdoor ceremony options give couples flexibility regardless of the weather conditions.
Willow on Grand pricing
Wedding rentals for 2025 range between $4,000-$7,500, based on chosen packages and amenities. Couples also needs to plan for these additional services:
- Security personnel: $350 per event (required)
- Optional in-house planning services available for extra cost
- Early venue access: $500 per hour (before standard 9 AM access)
Real couple reviews of Willow on Grand
Couples consistently praise the venue’s beauty and exceptional staff. “We fell in love immediately,” shared one bride. Photographers love this “beautiful recent venue” and appreciate “the most effective and most experienced staff that makes working here an absolute blast”. Many couples indicate the venue’s natural lighting, clean design, and versatile spaces that need less decorating—which may help get monetary savings on other wedding elements.
Image Source: www.themonroevenue.com
The Monroe brings traditional charm and modern elegance together in the guts of West Des Moines. This stylish venue creates a timeless setting where every detail adds to your celebration’s magic.
The Monroe features
The Monroe’s thoughtfully designed space includes several distinct areas:
- A powerful ballroom showcases vaulted ceilings, oversized windows, and delightful chandeliers that create a chic backdrop
- The venue provides each indoor and outdoor ceremony options, so you’ll be able to plan your day with confidence regardless of the weather
- Wedding parties can chill out in luxurious preparation suites equipped with flatscreen TVs
- You’ll find the Billiards Room perfect for socializing or intimate gatherings
The venue sits next to the attractive Des Moines Golf and Country Club. This prime location offers stunning surroundings and quick access for guests coming from all directions.
The Monroe capability
The space adapts beautifully to celebrations of all sizes. The grand ballroom welcomes as much as 200 guests comfortably. Smaller gatherings feel right at home within the Billiards Room, which inserts 100 guests theater-style or 60 guests banquet-style. The Ceremony Room offers similar capability options.
The Monroe pricing
The Monroe’s charter fee starts at $6,500 for 2025 celebrations. This price reflects great value while you have a look at the upscale amenities and versatile spaces. Your investment gets you access to one in all West Des Moines’ newest renovated wedding venues with a luxury atmosphere.
Real couple reviews of The Monroe
Couples love The Monroe’s elegant atmosphere and exceptional service. “We had essentially the most beautiful wedding on the Monroe. The staff was friendly and so responsive,” one completely happy bride shared. One other couple said simply, “The venue 10/10. The team 10/10”.
The venue’s stunning interior needs minimal decoration, which helps get monetary savings elsewhere. Most couples feel an fast connection to the space. As one pair put it, “From the moment we stepped into the space, we knew that is where we desired to hold our big day!”.
Comparison Table
| Venue Name | Maximum Capability | Base Rental Fee | Key Features | Indoor/Outdoor Options | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhythm City Casino Resort | 1,000 | $8,000 | Grand Ballroom with crystal chandeliers, on-site spa, casino | Indoor | Davenport |
| Rollins Mansion | 600 | $6,500 | Tudor architecture, Frank Lloyd Wright stained glass, 10,000 sq ft | Each | Des Moines |
| Ashton Hill Farm | 300 | $5,000-$7,000 | 18-ft tall window backdrop, white shiplap partitions, covered veranda | Each | Cedar Rapids |
| Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden | 220 | $2,500 | Tropical conservatory dome, waterfall backdrop | Each | Des Moines |
| Country Lane Lodge | 400 | $5,500-$8,250 | 40-acre property, complimentary decor items, fire pits | Each | Adel |
| Summerset Winery | 400 | $2,000 | 12-acre vineyard setting, oak tree ceremony spot | Each | Indianola |
| Bella Sala Event Center | 650 | $4,800-$9,500 | Waterfall terrace, two deluxe suites | Each | Tiffin |
| Elmcrest Country Club | 300 | $8,000 | Golf course views, marble bar, built-in fire pits | Each | Cedar Rapids |
| Steeple Square | 300 | $1,100-$3,750 | Historic church architecture, stained glass windows | Each | Dubuque |
| Harvest View Farms | 400 | $5,200 | Celebration Barn, Silver Dove Chapel, Bridal Cottage | Each | Sperry |
| Many years Event Center | 225 | $500 | LED video wall, handmade bar, antique decor | Indoor | West Des Moines |
| The Renwick Mansion | 430 | $900-$10,000 | Italian Revival Villa, Mississippi River views | Each | Davenport |
| The Celebration Farm | 450 | $3,500-$7,500 | Double Round Barn, Timber Frame Barn, Amphitheater | Each | Johnson County |
| The Hotel at Kirkwood Center | 450 | $750 | AAA 4 Diamond hotel, baby grand piano | Each | Cedar Rapids |
| Little Lights on the Lane | 300 | $12,000-$14,500 | Scandinavian-inspired design, 100-ft wrap-around porch | Each | West Branch |
| Toast in Ankeny | 425 | $7,000-$9,000 | Industrial chic design, rooftop patio | Each | Ankeny |
| Willow on Grand | 300 | $4,000-$7,500 | Modern cottage design, Courtyard, AirBnB space | Each | Des Moines |
| The Monroe | 200 | $6,500 | Vaulted ceilings, Billiards Room | Each | West Des Moines |
Conclusion
Selecting your perfect wedding venue is one of the crucial vital decisions you’ll make while planning your big day. Iowa’s top venues showcase a powerful range of options that cater to each couple’s unique vision.
The state offers venues for celebrations of all sizes. Rhythm City Casino Resort’s grand ballroom welcomes as much as 1,000 guests, while The Monroe’s intimate charm suits 200 people comfortably. The pricing range adds one other advantage. Venue rentals start at $500 at Many years Event Center and go as much as $14,500 for premium dates at Little Lights on the Lane.
Design lovers will appreciate the range – from Steeple Square’s majestic former church setting to Ashton Hill Farm’s modern white shiplap esthetic. Iowa’s seasonal weather patterns play an important role in venue selection, but most featured venues offer each indoor and outdoor spaces to handle unexpected weather.
Real-life couples praise these venues not only for his or her beautiful settings but additionally for exceptional service. Their experiences highlight responsive venue coordinators and versatile policies that permit you personalize your celebration.
Wedding planning might feel overwhelming at first. Breaking down your venue search by location, capability, budget, and elegance priorities will make your trip easier. Many venues provide complete packages that cover every part from tables and chairs to event coordination. This enables you to give attention to having fun with your day.
Your perfect Iowa wedding venue exists amongst these outstanding options. Trust your instincts during venue tours, ask about what’s included, and note that the most effective venue reflects your relationship authentically. Good luck together with your venue search!
