25 Best North Carolina Wedding Venues

Stretching from the magnificent beaches of the Atlantic Ocean to the jaw-dropping scenery of the Appalachian Mountains, North Carolina is an undeniably beautiful part of the country and an excellent place to tie the knot regardless of whether you're a local or someone planning a destination wedding. There's no shortage of venue options in NC; you can escape to the countryside, rent an historical inn for the weekend, or get married right on the beach. If you've had your heart set on a wedding full of authentic Southern charm, you're in luck – these are the best wedding venues the state has to offer. Photo: SeanPavonePhoto/Fotolia

Situated just across the street from the Atlantic Ocean, the Sanderling Resort is an upscale retreat with two pools and a spa. As the only full-service wedding venue in the Outer Banks, it's one of the best places to have your wedding if you're interested in tying the knot in front of a beautiful beach backdrop while experiencing as little stress as possible. The beach in front of the resort is available for weddings, but couples can also choose to host their event on the lawn, on the outdoor observation deck, or on the private gazebo.

1461 Duck Rd, Duck, NC 27949, Phone: 855-906-4426

More North Carolina ideas: family, amusement parks, romantic, Wilmington, Raleigh, Asheville Photo: alenazamotaeva/Fotolia

Only half an hour away from downtown Raleigh, Barclay Villa is a beautiful historic venue that boasts the atmosphere of an old European castle. The gardens and villa can be rented between March and December; the space can seat up to 150 guests, and wedding parties are given exclusive use of the space between noon and 11 p.m. on the day of their event. Open bars can be arranged with a permit, and although no wedding packages are offered, the staff are happy to provide a list of recommended vendors for cakes, flowers, and other aspects of wedding planning.

104 Popes Lake Rd, Angier, NC 27501, Phone: 919-639-3700 Photo: illustrissima/Fotolia

Dating back to 1832, Castle McCulloch offers an excellent selection of wedding venues, including an elegant Great Hall with a patio, an outdoor terrace nestled in the forest, and the intimate medieval-style Queen's Chamber. All wedding packages include tables and chairs, and the venue has a comprehensive list of preferred venues for everything from flowers to hair and makeup. Couples can also choose from a number of unique wedding themes, including Renaissance and Scottish Highland. Anyone interested in having their wedding here is encouraged to attend one of the venue's special wedding expos to tour the space and enjoy complimentary food and beverages.

3925 Kivett Dr, Jamestown, NC 27282, Phone: 336-887-5413 Photo: iofoto/Fotolia

More: North Carolina day trips, Things to do in North Carolina, Romantic Weekend Getaways in North Carolina, North Carolina beaches, Places to Visit in North Carolina, Wilmington inns, Romantic hotels Raleigh NC

Tucked away on a 20-acre family farm in the tranquil North Carolina countryside, Double Creek Ranch was named for the two creeks that merge on the property's border. There are several different ceremony locations to choose from, including a shady creek side spot, a lush pasture, and an area in front of the barn that offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Couples have the freedom to decorate the space however they like and choose their own vendors, but the venue does offer a small selection of decor items. The space can accommodate up to 300 guests, and plenty of parking is available.

75 Quail Hollow Dr, Fairview, NC 28730, Phone: 828-776-6434 Photo: Kateryna/Fotolia

More: Underwater hotel, Oldest City in USA, USA islands, Romantic weekend getaways in South Dakota, Things to Do in Beverly Hills, Things to Do in Aspen

Situated right next to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Fontana Village Resort is the perfect venue for anyone who wants to have their wedding in a gorgeous outdoor setting. Ceremonies can be helped in the charming village chapel or outdoors with a stunning view of the Smokies, while receptions are catered by the resort and can be held anywhere on the property. The venue is also proud to offer professional wedding planners to help with everything from flowers to catering, and some wedding packages include fun activities like boat cruises and guided hikes in the national park.

300 Woods Rd, Fontana Dam, NC 28733, Phone: 828-477-4071 Photo: nataliakabliuk/Fotolia

More: Restaurants in Cherokee NC, Lakes in North Carolina, Train rides in NC, North Carolina resorts, Boone

Hidden River Events prides itself on its excellent service and its all-inclusive wedding packages designed to relieve couples of the stress that often comes with planning a wedding. Couples only need to send out their wedding invitations and arrange for alcohol if they so desire; everything else is taken care of by the venue's professional staff. There are five different outdoor ceremony spots to choose from, and receptions are hosted in an elegant 6,800-square-foot tent. The venue also has accommodation for up to 50 people, and discounted prices are offered for small weddings with fewer than 50 attendees.

30 Hidden River Dr, Swannanoa, NC 28778, Phone: 828-333-3401 Photo: Rony Zmiri/Fotolia

With its delightful location on 7 acres overlooking Lake Laurel, Highgrove Estate is an all-inclusive venue with no shortage of natural beauty. A wedding coordinator is available to arrange every aspect of your special day; all food is carefully prepared on-site by the venue's excellent chefs, and all other details are taken care of by an experienced team of staff. Wedding parties are given full access to the property on the day of their celebration; ceremonies can be held either outside on the lawn or inside the sumptuous ballroom, and receptions typically take place inside the Grand Ballroom.

1613 S Main St, Fuquay Varina, NC 27526, Phone: 919-552-6154 Photo: Maksim Shebeko/Fotolia

Family owned and operated since 2004, Hudson Manor is an exclusive full-service venue that hosts a limited number of weddings per year so as to provide the best service possible. Wedding parties are given exclusive use of the entire property on the day of their wedding, and they can also arrange to use the property for photos before the special day. Ceremonies can be held either indoors or outdoors, and all wedding packages include decor, the use of private dressing suites for both the bride and groom, and a complimentary tasting session so that couples can plan their perfect menu.

908 Moulton Rd, Louisburg, NC 27549, Phone: 919-219-9139 Photo: Eric Limon/Fotolia

Boasting a 125-acre lake and 2,500 acres of land that also serves as a wildlife refuge, King Fisher Society and Events is an ideal location for couples who dream of having as much privacy as possible on their special day. There are five different beautiful settings to choose from, some of which can only be accessed by boat. A complimentary boat taxi will bring guests to the venue, and overnight accommodation is available in the park. On-site food service is available, and the venue is happy to help couples find the right vendors for flowers, music, and every other aspect of their wedding.

10189 Old Wire Rd, Laurel Hill, NC 28351, Phone: 910-462-2324 Photo: Sonja/Fotolia

Originally established in 1993, Morning Glory Farm is a stunning 48-acre property that was first used as a wedding venue in 2011. The farmland is still used to grow organic fruits and vegetables, but its incredible natural beauty is the perfect backdrop for your special day. The bridal party is given exclusive access to a suite in the Italian-style farmhouse in the hours before the ceremony, while the groomsmen are welcome to relax in the loft of the rustic barn. The gardens have been beautifully landscaped, and carefully designed stone pathways lead guests from the entrance of the home to the ceremony space.

6205 Kate Rd, Monroe, NC 28110, Phone: 704-989-0046 Photo: Joshua Rainey/Fotolia

With a rich history dating back to 1833, the Nu Wray Inn holds the distinction of having hosted famous guests like Thomas Wolfe and Elvis Presley. Most wedding parties choose to rent out the entire facility for their special day; the space can accommodate up to 75 people for an indoor ceremony and 125 for an outdoor event. The standard wedding package includes three nights of accommodation, but shorter and longer stays can be arranged upon request. Couples are free to arrange their own food, flowers, and other wedding services; there are no minimum catering costs, and the kitchen is available for use.

102 Town Square, Burnsville, NC 28714, Phone: 828-682-2329 Photo: nagaets/Fotolia

If you've ever dreamed of tying the knot with the beautiful Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop, Oceanfront Weddings NC - Ocean Isle Beache has everything you need to plan your perfect day. There are several different ocean view locations available for the ceremony; popular options include the pool deck, the gazebo, and the beachfront itself, but a chapel is available in case of rain. The venue is also proud to offer customizable ceremony packages with optional decor. After the ceremony, smaller receptions can be hosted in either a private or semi-private banquet room, while bigger groups can rent out the entire bar and dining room.

57 W First St, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469, Phone: 910-575-7000 Photo: gonzalocalle/Fotolia

The Preston Woodall House Bed & Breakfast, Inc is an elegant Queen Anne home constructed in 1910, and it boasts all-inclusive wedding packages that include everything from catering to accommodation for the bride and groom on their wedding night. Outdoor events can be held on the gorgeous landscaped lawn, while the exquisite grand ballroom offers an elegant staircase and 2,800 square feet of space for indoor ceremonies and receptions. All event catering is done by the venue's experienced in-house chef, and couples will be given access to a list of preferred vendors for all other services.

201 E Hill St, Benson, NC 27504, Phone: 919-894-7025 Photo: gonzalocalle/Fotolia

Offering more than 10,000 square feet of event space, the Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel can accommodate weddings of almost any size. Certified wedding planners are available to help couples plan every aspect of their special day, and special catering managers make it easy to come up with the perfect customized menu. In addition to serving as the venue for your ceremony and reception, the hotel specializes in romantic honeymoons complete with champagne and breakfast in bed. It's also possible to arrange other special events for the bridal party, including bridal showers and day-after breakfasts or brunches.

4100 Main at North Hills St, Raleigh, NC 27609, Phone: 919-571-8773 Photo: waranyu/Fotolia

Alexander Homestead Weddings is an all-inclusive wedding venue with space for up to 225 guests, including a beautiful garden gazebo for outdoor ceremonies and a restored dairy barn for indoor events. The homestead was constructed in 1903 and restored in 2008, and the property is dotted with majestic 200-year-old oak trees. A beautiful carriage house serves as the bridal suite, and all wedding packages include gourmet food, a full team of staff, and table and linen rentals. The venue is also happy to help customers arrange flowers, photos, and other services; discounts between 20% and 50% are usually available. Next read: NC islands

4717 Shamrock Dr, Charlotte, NC 28215, Phone: 704-737-1023 Photo: LElik83/Fotolia

Sitting on 30 secluded acres, the Barn at Valhalla offers the opportunity to enjoy a weekend-long destination wedding in the pristine North Carolina countryside. Wedding parties are welcome to bring their own decorations, music, and alcohol, but tables and chairs are provided for up to 150 guests. Whoever is preparing the food will be given access to a gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, and the venue also provides two bars that can be used either indoors or outdoors. Most couples choose to rent the venue exclusively from Friday through Sunday, and overnight accommodation is available for up to 24 people.

1040 Duffy's Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, Phone: 919-360-4922 Photo: Milen Lesemann/Fotolia

Built in 1924, the Carolina Inn can be found on the campus of the University of North Carolina. It offers a selection of indoor and outdoor wedding venues spread out over 30,000 square feet, including ballrooms, parlors, and outdoor courtyards. In addition to receptions and ceremonies, the inn can host everything from engagement parties to bridesmaid luncheons. Dedicated wedding planners are available to help couples select the best possible venue and decorate it according to the couple's unique tastes, and the Carolina Inn is also proud to offer a list of preferred vendors who have plenty of experience with weddings on the premises.

211 Pittsboro St, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, Phone: 919-933-2001 Photo: malkovkosta/Fotolia

Barn weddings are becoming more and more popular these days, and The Carolina Wedding Barn is the ideal venue for couples looking for the perfect rustic venue. The 3600-square-foot barn was constructed specifically to host weddings, and it's located on a gorgeous 13-acre property less than 20 minutes away from the city of New Bern. The barn boasts a 20x20 wooden dance floor, and the space is typically rented out from Friday morning until Sunday afternoon. Tables, chairs, and benches are included in the price of the venue rental, and rustic decor can be rented for an additional fee.

325 Shoo Fly Rd, New Bern, NC 28562, Phone: 252-876-7599 Photo: satit/Fotolia

Just as the name implies, the Hall and Gardens at Landmark offers both an elegant indoor hall and a beautifully manicured European-style outdoor garden with a gazebo and meandering stone pathways. Separate lounges are available for the bride and groom before the wedding, and outdoor ceremonies are held next to a charming stone bridge that stretches over the koi pond in the garden. Receptions typically take place in the ballroom, which can seat up to 240 guests and features a dance floor and a custom-made bar. All-inclusive food and beverage packages are available, but couples are also welcome to arrange their own catering.

12450 Cleveland Rd, Garner, NC 27529, Phone: 919-329-7674 Photo: Igor Link/Fotolia

Nestled on 25 beautifully landscaped acres, the Lily Pad of NC is a dedicated event venue with four buildings and numerous outdoor wedding locations. A number of fully customizable wedding packages are available; all packages include tables, chairs, draping and lighting, a plan B in case of bad weather, and a team of onsite staff. Optional add-ons include use of a bridal suite and groom's lounge, a catered buffet, a DJ with a state-of-the-art sound system, and beautiful decor. The venue is able to accommodate weddings of up to 175 guests, and overnight accommodation is available for 22 people.

1537 N Carolina 61 South, Whitsett, NC 27377, Phone: 336-580-3387 Photo: Bohdana/Fotolia

Located just down the street from the Governor’s Mansion in Raleigh, the Merrimon-Wynne House is a gorgeous Italianate-style building that dates back to 1876. The home itself is more than 5,000 square feet in size; in addition to a beautiful reception hall, it offers two bridal suites, a groom's lounge, and a catering area. Wedding parties are given exclusive use of the venue on the day of their booking, and all bookings include a complimentary ceremony rehearsal before the wedding. All alcoholic beverages must be purchased through the venue, but couples are permitted to use their own caterers and other vendors.

500 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27604, Phone: 919-906-1026 Photo: Phase4Photography/Fotolia

Named after its stunning rooftop terraces, the Terraces On Sir Tyle offers excellent views of the North Carolina sky. There are two separate terraces available; both can hold up to 100 people and are suitable for receptions as well as for ceremonies. Couples who would like to have a larger celebration can host their wedding in the venue's beautiful ballroom, which boasts floor-to-ceiling windows and has space for up to 350 guests. An on-site wedding director is available to help ensure everything runs smoothly, and couples are permitted to use their own vendors as long as they get approval from the venue.

1826 Sir Tyler Dr, Wilmington, NC 28405, Phone: 910-473-5550 Photo: pridannikov/Fotolia

Set on a breathtaking 400-acre property surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Twickenham House is an exclusive wedding venue perfect for couples interested in planning a destination wedding. There are several excellent spots on the property to host receptions and ceremonies; highlights include a terrace overlooking the valley, the beautifully manicured front lawn, and an elegant hall with chandeliers and a 20-foot fireplace. Couples who would like exclusive access to the house must book it for at least four days; the space can accommodate up to 40 overnight guests, and an on-site private chef and housekeeper are available upon request.

Johnson Hollow Rd, Jefferson, NC 28640, Phone: 828-783-8942 Photo: Igor Link/Fotolia

Conveniently located in the center of downtown High Point, Villa de l' Amour features hand-painted doorways, a charming Mediterranean atmosphere, and 15,000 square feet of event space that can be configured in a variety of different ways. Both indoor and outdoor locations are available for ceremonies and receptions, and the space can accommodate between 50 and 200 people. Because of the venue's versatility, it's also a great choice for bridal showers, engagement parties, and other wedding-related events. In-house catering is not available, but the venue happily provides a list of preferred vendors for couples to choose from.

317 S Hamilton St, High Point, NC 27260, Phone: 336-847-1509 Photo: Georgi/Fotolia

Perfect for outdoor weddings, the Whitehurst Lake House offers a stunning lake backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions. Complete wedding packages are available, but couples are also welcome to bring their own vendors and hire the lake house staff to help with only certain aspects of their special day. The space can accommodate approximately 320 seated guests or 175 standing guests; tables and chairs are provided in the lake house itself, and extra furniture can be rented for outdoor use. Viewing appointments are available each Wednesday, and the venue can be rented for either the day or for the entire weekend.

1515, Sticks Road, Washington, NC 27889, Phone: 252-531-2997 Photo: Igor Link/Fotolia