Grand Rapids is a burgeoning city located east of Lake Michigan. Fittingly enough, the Grand River runs through its center. Old industrial roots can be seen in the city’s architecture, which often features original brick, steel, wood beams, and hardwoods. Sculpture gardens, tropical conservatories and art museums provide some of the area’s entertainment. Known for its local breweries, the city also boasts a delicious local beer selection. Folks who appreciate the four seasons will love the scenic beauty that can be found here and choosing a down-to-Earth wedding locale has never been easier.
Clearwater Place Event Venue
Airy and bright, this wedding venue features stunning architecture. Sky-high ceilings are formed by a network of exposed, black iron beams and bolts, which follow an A-frame roof design. Ivory walls and a row of upper windows along the periphery soften the industrial feel of the space. A glass enclosed mezzanine adds dimension and a balcony overlook. The open-concept staircase gives the bride a chic opportunity to make her grand entrance. Drum chandeliers, market lights, mid-century modern fixtures, and vintage furniture play into the boho vibe. A herringbone dance floor and custom bar feature superb craftsmanship. A bridal suite is provided. The venue has audio visual capabilities and fee parking. A catering kitchen is available for use.
1430 Monroe Avenue Northwest, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-913-2234
Eberhard Center
Located on the Grand Valley State campus, this venue is situated among downtown’s hotel and restaurant scene. The iconic, royal blue footbridge gives the bride and groom a memorable photo opportunity, with city views. A wedding specialist assists couples in planning and personalizing packages to their taste and price point. Delicious menu options are designed by the venue’s in-house catering team. The banquet hall has recessed ceilings, brick walls, neutral carpeting, and a dance floor. A baby grand piano sits ready to be played. There is a bridal party suite and free parking, to boot.
301 West Fulton Street, 210 Eberhard Center, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-331-6620
Eve at The B.O.B.
Located in the heart of downtown, this posh venue has loft appeal. Smoky black ceilings, gold drum pendant lights, grey brick walls and polished flooring set the tone. A midcentury-style, island bar is accessible by all four corners of the room. The lounge area features art deco carpeting. Modern leather furniture in ivory and teal is modulated to create intimate coves and places to gather. Art installations form wave-like wall partitions. The space, which seats up to 125 people, is simply, chic. Catering and menu design are provided. This venue is LGBT friendly.
20 Monroe Avenue Northwest, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-356-2627 x116
Gallery Divani
Centrally located, this venue has access to several hotels and downtown nightlife. The restaurant’s interior has an urban, steakhouse feel. Wood floors, tan brick walls, and exposed ventilation treatments structure the look of the private banquet room. The space seats up to 100 guests and can accommodate 160 attendees for a strolling reception. A creative menu of fine American favorites will leave guests happily satiated. The bride and groom will appreciate the local beer selection and craft cocktail bar, not to mention wines pulled from the temperature controlled wine cellar. For package details, couples may contact the establishment’s event manager.
15 Ionia Southwest, Suite 130, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-774-9463
Goei Center
Just a ten minutes’ drive from downtown, this 15,000 square foot venue is both rustic and romantic. Exposed rafters and studs, tan brick walls, and hardwood floors create the design feel. Delicate, candle chandeliers twinkle, adding a touch of femininity. Couples may also choose to incorporate the warm amber glow of market lights. The space is versatile, and easily personalized to taste. Chiavari seating and tables are provided. For capacity inquiries, the venue may be contacted directly. The bride and groom may choose their caterer of choice, as well as any other necessary vendors. Complimentary parking is included, and couples may choose to upgrade to valet, for a fee.
818 Butterworth Street Southwest, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-949-2421
Grand Rapids Art Museum
The ultra-modern architectural design of the museum showcases concrete and glass construction, and an immense waterfall installation at its entry. Couples who share a taste for minimalism will love the sleek design of the venue’s versatile spaces. Sky-high ceilings, all-glass walls, and light pebble hues create the look. An absolutely stunning, multi-level lobby staircase features a translucent baluster; a marvelous choice for presentation of the bride and groom at the reception dinner. The terrace, with its colossal columns, is a posh location for cocktails. Additional spaces include an onsite park and auditorium. A wedding event specialist assists in planning every detail. All alcohol is served by the museum. A list of preferred caterers is supplied.
101 Monroe Center Street Northwest, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-831-2916
Grand Rapids Downtown Market
A fairytale setting, couples may wed in the market’s greenhouse, surrounded by tropical botanicals. Seating accommodates up to 180 guests for ceremony, and up to 80 guests for a reception dinner. A smaller greenhouse, the Garden Room, is available for additional seating. The banquet room is larger, seating 180 guests, or 250 strolling. Floor to ceiling windows reveal the city scape. Harwood floors, a soft white palette, and wood slat accent walls create a clean, crisp look. The venue provides a well-balanced list of exclusive catering options. Full service staff is provided, and the event team ensures every detail is executed with precision. A full audio visual system is provided.
435 Ionia Avenue Southwest, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-805-5308
New Vintage Place
A landmark of the west side, the old factory still dons its legendary, 150-foot smokestack. The interior features miles of vertical space, towering industrial windows, and washed brick. Exposed black steel framing, coal accent walls, and amber market lights add to the historic feel. A cable-wire staircase extends up to the mezzanine, which overlooks the bar and cocktail lounge. Couples may host both the ceremony and reception in the main room. With so much square footage, the bride and groom have room to play with fantastical décor. An outdoor amphitheater and courtyard offer additional locations. Up to 300 guests sit down to a tantalizing dinner, prepared by the venue’s exclusive catering partner. Free parking is provided.
889 Broadway Avenue Northwest, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-774-4400
Noto's Old World
Couples who have a love for all things “Italy” will appreciate what this venue has to offer. The ballroom is awe-inspiring. Intricately designed tin ceilings and massive teardrop chandeliers command attention. Floor to ceiling, multi pane windows create an entire wall of sunlit views. A grand staircase with marble steps descends elegantly into the ballroom. A snuggly sized attic loft features ceiling arches built of brick; a fairytale location for photos of the bride and groom. Smaller weddings may be hosted in one of the restaurant’s private dining rooms, or even in the herb garden. Mouthwatering reception menus and decadent cakes are sure to please. Guests will delight in the venue’s selection of imported wines.
6600 28th Street, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-493-6686
Paddock Place
A 19th century mansion, this historic venue features rich hardwood floors, wood paneled walls, intricate woodwork, and bronze inlays. Recessed ceilings, interior archways, etched glass, and lamp chandeliers add to the old-world charm. There are five entertainment spaces to choose from, each with its own character. The estate has everything from crisply tailored, early-American design, to Irish pub-like dining rooms. Seating can accommodate between 30-55 guests, depending on the space. For larger sized weddings, a tent pavilion may be set up in the grassy lawn, upon the red brick patio. Seating can accommodate up to 150 guests outside. The catering menu offers inventive preparation of choice-cut meats and sumptuous seafood fare.
1033 Lake Drive Southeast, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-742-0600
Quail Ridge
The clubhouse is an excellent choice for a casual, summertime wedding. The golf course is located in Ada, just minutes outside of downtown. Rolling green fairways, leafy trees, and several areas of wetland create the backdrop. Couples wed beneath an arbor, overlooking the pond. The reception dinner may be held in a tent pavilion, with a concrete patio underfoot, and twinkle lights overhead. Should the bride and groom prefer, they may reserve the restaurant. A neutral color palette, blonde wood furniture, and a fully equipped bar structure the space. Up to 200 guests may be seated. A customizable dinner menu is cooked by the site’s catering staff.
8375 36th Street Southeast, Ada, MI, Phone: 616-676-2000
Revel Center
Sophisticated and rustic, this venue offers a beautiful setting and unique entertainment amenities. The ballroom features a gorgeous, herringbone hardwood floor. Washed brick and noire wall panels enclose the space. Large arched picture windows feature multi-paned design. Exposed rafters are lined with neat rows delicately sized bulbs. Gold scones and bulb chandeliers emit an amber glow. Couples may choose from the venue’s list of preferred caterers and bar vendors. No kitchen is available. Special perks include a retro arcade and photo booth. A projector and audio visual system is provided. Free parking is available onsite. The venue offers set up and take down services as part of the rental. Capacity is 200 guests for sit down dinner.
1535 Monroe Avenue Northwest, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-202-6524
St. George Banquet Conference Center
Located near several downtown churches, this reception space provides couples with convenience. The event ballroom is circular in shape, ensuring that every guest has a good view of the celebration. Two levels of windows, etched columns, recessed ceilings, and crystal drum chandeliers design the space. The wall color is icy white, ethereal in appearance. A stage and retractable projection screen are provided. Couples will appreciate the all-inclusivity of the venue, which offers complete wedding planning services. The famed West Michigan Caterer partners with the venue to prepare a mouthwatering menu. Florals, décor, and entertainment are all handled by the event staff. Free parking adds ease to wedding day transitions.
334 La Grave Avenue Southeast, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-235-2550
Studio D2D Event Center
Situated downtown, this venue boasts modern-industrial style and sparkling city views. Tan brick, polished concrete flooring, hardwoods, and square-cut support studs structure the space. Great expanses of multi-pane windows flood the two-level loft with light. Shimmering chandeliers add a touch of glamour. This venue is a one-stop-shop, providing all wedding planning and design services. Seating, serving, linens, florals, DJ services, and compilation of a photo montage are provided. The bride and groom are given the option to choose from a list of preferred caterers and vendors. Between the building’s two, free-flowing entertainment spaces, up to 300 guests may be seated.
401 Hall Street Southwest, Box 80, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-466-0061
The Ballroom at McKay
A luxurious wedding location, the interior features Victorian era design. Coffered ceilings that reach the sky, powerful stone columns, rotund chandeliers, and opulent drapery create the look. A bold palette of deep emerald, silver, crème, and black color the ballroom. The space is simply, luxurious. Couples choose from a list of preferred caterers. Full bar service is provided by the venue. Seating is provided for up to 200 guests, although capacity may be greater. Professional lighting allows the bride and groom to choose the mood of their ceremony and reception dinner. Audio visual capabilities are present. Couples receive assistance from both an event coordinator, and a venue coordinator.
146 Monroe Center Street Northwest, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-951-1078
The Bissell Tree House at John Ball Zoo
The zoo’s private ballroom is located in an emerald green-roofed pavilion, with a wrap-around porch. Couples may choose to wed on the veranda. The interior is simple, with white walls and tan carpeting. The zoo supplies no-frills tables and seating, and linens must be ordered offsite. Décor must be approved by the zoo, as well as any outside vendors. Caterers must be chosen by the zoo’s list of partners, and the zoo provides a multitude of bar packages. For couples who want to add a bit of whimsy to their celebration, they can hire use of a few strolling animals during reception.
1300 West Fulton Street, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-336-4300
The Bluff Banquet and Conference Center
An elegant and affordable venue located in Grand Central Plaza; this banquet hall features contemporary design. Neutral gray hues, a brick accent wall, large mirrors, and tiered chandeliers adorn the space. A long stretch of windows boasts panoramic views of green golf course fairways. Seating, linens, and china are supplied. The venue’s in-house catering team designs a dinner menu to taste. All alcohol must be served by a bar service vendor of the couple’s choosing. A list of preferred partners is encouraged. A permanent bar area, dance floor, and projection screen are provided. Seating can accommodate up to 350 attendees in the space.
2035 28th Street Southeast, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-243-3313
The Cheney Place
An urban boutique event space, this venue features polished concrete floors, hardwoods, and original brick walls. Frosted warehouse windows and a freight elevator add to the historical feel. The space is open and versatile, seating up to 225 for ceremony and 350 for reception dinner. A bridal suite and groom’s lounge are set to entertain. Free parking and attendants are provided. A catering prep kitchen, ice, and refrigeration is supplied. Couples may choose their own vendors. A projector screen is available for use. The venue offers set up and tear down services. A friendly, attentive, and focused staff make this the area’s “must have” wedding locale. Couples should be aware; weddings book up to two years in advance.
1600 Monroe Northwest, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-304-6261
The Harris Building
Built in 1892, this former brewery has all the bells and whistles of a spectacular wedding venue. The brick n’ wood ballroom is located on the second floor and features a domed, 18-foot ceiling. Amber bulbs line the contours of exposed steel beams and a large moon-like installation that centers the ceiling. The multi-level architecture of the building gives way to cheeky mezzanines. A third-floor skylight illuminated hallway offers a dashing location for photos. Planning services, seating, and linens are provided. Extra perks include a DJ, photography, videography, and valet parking. The venue also offers vintage furniture rental. Capacity limits are between 225-300, for ceremony and reception. A preferred catering list is provided for food and bar service.
111 Division Ave South, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-256-2535
The Waddell Center
Just one of three establishments owned by a local catering group, this venue is nestled in downtown near Belknap Park. Wood beaming, original brick, and strands of glowing lights create a warm and rustic design feel. Large in size, the ballroom seats up to 300 guests for ceremony and dinner reception. Menu options feature seafood fare, choice cut filets, classic American favorites, and homestyle dishes. The catering group also offers several bar packages. A list of partnered vendors is available for florals, décor, linens, and the like. Impeccable service is hallmark of this entertainment group. Free downtown parking is an added perk.
1115 Taylor Avenue North, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-538-4384
University Club of Grand Rapids
Founded in 1923, this private club caters to business leaders and local residents. The banquet hall has a contemporary design feel. Yellow gold wallpaper, crisp white ceilings, candle chandeliers, and a glowing fireplace complete the look. An entire wall of floor-to-ceiling windows boasts panoramic views of the twinkling cityscape. There is a full bar and lounge adjacent to the main banquet hall. A dance floor may be set up upon request. The club offers wedding planning services and handles event set-up and take-down. All seating and linens are provided. Features of the menu include fine American cuisine and fresh local catch. Free parking is provided. Couples may contact the club for capacity limits and additional information.
111 Lyon Street Northwest, Suite 1025, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-456-8623
Venue3Two
An exquisitely renovated mansion, built in 1925, rests upon 700 acres of a working equine therapy ranch. The exterior features winter-white stone and a gorgeously carved, arched enclave around the front doorway; just one of many iconic locations for photos of the bride and groom. Marble floors, spiral staircases, dark wood wall paneling, and Victorian style fireplaces, and vintage fixtures create a sultry mood. A gourmet kitchen is available for use. Entertainment areas include a formal dining room, great room and bar area, and a courtyard patio. A conservatory is also available for use. Seating accommodates up to 200 guests. Bridal and groomsman suites are gorgeously appointed. Day-of coordinators assist the couple’s choice of caterer and vendors.
3232 Shaffer Avenue, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-719-0006
Watermark Country Club
The country club rests upon acres of sprawling golf course green and specializes in outdoor weddings. Couples may choose to wed beneath an arbor at any of the course’s several, stunning backdrops. A tent pavilion may be set up for reception dinner, fully equipped with romantic lighting and a dance floor. Should the bride and groom prefer, an indoor reception may be held in one of the seven, newly renovated banquet halls. Each hall is painted in soft crème and features a tastefully varied accent color. Lofty ceilings, circular rooms, wall lengths of floor to ceiling windows, and drum pendant lights create the look. The club’s executive chef designs a mouthwatering menu. Seating accommodates between 40-400 guests.
5500 Cascade Road Southeast, Grand Rapids, MI, Phone: 616-949-0570
Ready to go?
Step 1: Visit the website and book directly and/or call ahead to confirm their hours.
Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read the reviews, then call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).
Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.