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Looking for the perfect wedding venue in the Ocean State? In this post, I’ll share the elegant wedding venues I discovered in Rhode Island—where coastal glamour, historic estates, and seaside serenity create the ultimate setting for timeless New England celebrations in the Ocean State. Rhode Island offers stunning venues, from waterfront estates to historic mansions, for an unforgettable celebration.

😍 If you are in a hurry, I recommend:

  • Say "I do" at the elegant OceanCliff Hotel in Newport, offering stunning oceanfront views and grand, historic charm.
  • Exchange vows at the picturesque Blithewold Mansion and Gardens in Bristol, surrounded by lush gardens and scenic views of Narragansett Bay.
  • Celebrate your wedding at the luxurious Castle Hill Inn, set on a private peninsula with panoramic water views.
  • Host your ceremony at the historic Rosecliff Mansion in Newport, known for its beautiful architecture and breathtaking grounds.
  • Take photos on the beautiful shores of Narragansett Town Beach, offering a classic beach backdrop for your wedding photos.

Ideas For a Luxury Wedding:

1. Aldrich Mansion


"Host grand, elegant weddings with historic charm and stunning waterfront views."
- VI

Aldrich Mansion

© Courtesy of bartoshd - Fotolia.com

Location:

Warwick, RI (on Narragansett Bay)

Recommended For:

Couples seeking a historic, waterfront estate venue with timeless elegance, stunning bay views, and refined indoor spaces for a classic New England wedding.

What we Love about Aldrich Mansion:

The breathtaking location along Narragansett Bay, the 19th-century architecture and ornate rooms, and thoughtful amenities like private dressing areas and inclusive reception services that simplify the planning process.
  • Celebrate your big day in a historic mansion estate surrounded by water views, with exclusive access to the property for a six-hour reception in beautifully appointed rooms.
  • Indulge in elegance with provided tables, settings, and linens, plus refined interior spaces that radiate old-world charm and sophistication.
  • Enjoy bridal party privacy and comfort with dedicated dressing rooms and private bathrooms—perfect for pre-wedding moments and quiet celebration preparation.

Cost:

Varies depending on guest count, season, and event type. Contact Aldrich Mansion directly for full rental pricing and availability.

Best time to get married:

Late spring through early fall, when the manicured grounds and waterfront views provide perfect conditions for photography and outdoor ceremonies.

Local tips:

Schedule extra time for golden-hour photos by the bay and explore adding a ceremony in the on-site chapel for a seamless, all-in-one experience.

Address:

Aldrich Mansion, 836 Warwick Neck Avenue, Warwick, RI 02889
Phone: 401-739-6850

2. Newport Resort & Marina


💕 "Celebrate luxurious, waterfront weddings with panoramic ocean vistas."
- VI

Newport Resort & Marina

© Courtesy of fesenko - Fotolia.com

Location:

Newport, RI (Goat Island)

Recommended For:

Couples looking for a luxury waterfront wedding venue with panoramic bay views, full-service planning, and unmatched event space in the heart of coastal New England.

What we Love about Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina:

The secluded yet central location on Goat Island, breathtaking 360-degree views of Narragansett Bay, and comprehensive wedding packages with professional planning and execution.
  • Celebrate your wedding at a four-star resort with the largest event space in Newport, offering indoor and outdoor venues that range from grand ballrooms to intimate waterfront settings.
  • Indulge in tailored wedding packages that include planning services, fine dining, and resort-level hospitality—all in a venue that feels like a private island getaway.
  • Enjoy proximity to downtown Newport attractions while basking in the serenity of Goat Island’s coastal elegance and upscale accommodations.

Cost:

Pricing varies by package, guest count, and season. Contact Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina for customized wedding proposals and availability.

Best time to get married:

Late spring through early fall, when Narragansett Bay shines and outdoor ceremonies offer unforgettable ocean backdrops and sunsets.

Local tips:

Take advantage of the full resort amenities for a wedding weekend experience, including spa treatments, private marina access, and coastal rehearsal dinners.

Address:

Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina, 1 Goat Island, Newport, RI 02840
Phone: 401-849-2600

3. Belle Mer: A Longwood Venue


😊 "Plan chic, sophisticated weddings with breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay."
- VI

Belle Mer: A Longwood Venue

© Courtesy of Dennis - Fotolia.com

Location:

Newport, RI (Goat Island)

Recommended For:

Couples seeking a glamorous oceanfront wedding venue with manicured gardens, modern design, and high-end catering for a luxury experience.

What we Love about Belle Mer: A Longwood Venue:

The stunning panoramic bay views, lush rose-filled gardens, and the property’s blend of modern elegance and classic Newport luxury—perfect for upscale, romantic celebrations.
  • Celebrate your dream wedding with oceanfront ceremony and reception spaces framed by pristine lawns, white roses, and sea-kissed skies.
  • Indulge in a curated dining experience with in-house catering that emphasizes fresh, farm-to-table dishes and beautifully presented menus tailored to your style.
  • Enjoy top-tier amenities and exclusive service from the Longwood team, ensuring every detail of your sophisticated wedding is seamlessly executed.

Cost:

Pricing varies based on season, event size, and customization. Contact Belle Mer for full wedding packages and availability.

Best time to get married:

Late spring through early fall, when the gardens are in full bloom and outdoor ceremonies shine with clear skies and sea breezes.

Local tips:

Host sunset portraits in the garden for a golden-hour glow, and book early—this premier venue is a favorite for Newport luxury weddings.

Address:

Belle Mer: A Longwood Venue, 2 Goat Island, Newport, RI 02840
Phone: 617-854-5000

Ideas For an Intimate Wedding:

4. Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum


"Exchange vows in a romantic garden setting with coastal elegance."
- VI

Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum

© Courtesy of Georgi - Fotolia.com

Location:

Bristol, RI

Recommended For:

Couples dreaming of a garden wedding surrounded by curated landscapes, bay views, and the grandeur of a historic English-style estate.

What we Love about Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum:

The 33-acre estate’s spectacular gardens, bamboo forest, and water views—plus exclusive use of the mansion and elegant wedding tent with polished flooring and lighting for a seamless blend of indoor-outdoor charm.
  • Celebrate your vows in the North Garden, surrounded by seasonal blooms, before hosting an elegant tented reception with access to the historic 45-room manor.
  • Indulge in serene backdrops that include themed gardens, exotic plantings, and sweeping bay views—all creating perfect photo opportunities and tranquil moments.
  • Enjoy private access to the Mansion and tented space for the day, with features like hard flooring and indoor lighting that elevate the outdoor experience with comfort and class.

Cost:

Pricing varies by season and guest count. Contact Blithewold Mansion for wedding rental rates and date availability.

Best time to get married:

Late spring through early fall, when the estate’s gardens are at their peak and the tented reception space provides a perfect seasonal transition from day to night.

Local tips:

Tour the property in different seasons to find your ideal garden aesthetic, and consider using the bamboo forest for first-look or couple portraits.

Address:

Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Road, Bristol, RI 02809
Phone: 401-253-2707

5. DeWolf Tavern


My top 5 😎 : "Enjoy intimate, waterfront weddings with historic charm and fine dining."
- VI

DeWolf Tavern

© Courtesy of Denis Tabler - Fotolia.com

Location:

Bristol, RI

Recommended For:

Couples looking for a waterfront wedding venue that blends historic charm, gourmet cuisine, and harbor views in an intimate, upscale setting.

What we Love about DeWolf Tavern:

The unique setting inside a former 1818 rum distillery, its panoramic views of Bristol Harbor, and the expertly crafted New American cuisine that makes every wedding menu exceptional.
  • Celebrate your wedding at one of East Bay’s most iconic venues, the only waterfront hotel and restaurant in the area offering historic ambiance and intimate harbor views.
  • Indulge in tailored wedding packages featuring chef-driven menus—from live stations to elegant buffets—all crafted with the quality of a top-tier restaurant.
  • Enjoy the warm, rustic charm of exposed stone walls and the venue’s rich maritime history, all while toasting with selections from their renowned rum collection.

Cost:

Wedding package pricing varies by guest count, menu selections, and services. Contact DeWolf Tavern for current options and availability.

Best time to get married:

Spring through fall, when the waterfront views are at their best and outdoor harbor photo opportunities abound.

Local tips:

Consider hosting your rehearsal dinner or farewell brunch on-site to take full advantage of the venue’s acclaimed dining and waterfront atmosphere.

Address:

DeWolf Tavern, 259 Thames Street, Bristol, RI 02809
Phone: 401-254-2005

6. Eisenhower House


"Host timeless, elegant weddings with scenic lawn views and historic grace."
- VI

Eisenhower House

© Courtesy of cloudspirit - Fotolia.com

Location:

Newport, RI (Fort Adams State Park)

Recommended For:

Couples looking for a historic and scenic waterfront venue with expansive outdoor space for large weddings and a presidential touch of charm.

What we Love about Eisenhower House:

The stately 19th-century home with deep historical roots, sweeping views of Narragansett Bay and Newport Harbor, and the grand lawn ideal for tented receptions with over 300 guests.
  • Celebrate your wedding on the grounds of a former presidential summer retreat, where the Fort’s Commandant and President Eisenhower once resided.
  • Indulge in unmatched water views from the manicured lawn, perfect for a sunset ceremony and large-scale outdoor celebration with plenty of room to dance under the stars.
  • Enjoy the unique blend of history, coastal beauty, and flexibility for tented events in one of Newport’s most iconic waterfront state park settings.

Cost:

Pricing depends on event size, season, and rental duration. Contact Rhode Island State Parks for current rates and wedding permit requirements for Eisenhower House.

Best time to get married:

Late spring through early fall, when the lawn and water views shine and outdoor tented weddings are most comfortable and picturesque.

Local tips:

Consider incorporating historical or patriotic touches into your wedding décor to reflect the home’s presidential legacy and stunning military heritage.

Address:

Eisenhower House, 1 Lincoln Drive, Newport, RI 02840

7. Glen Manor House


💕 "Celebrate fairytale weddings in a French chateau-style mansion with waterfront charm."
- VI

Glen Manor House

© Courtesy of illustrissima - Fotolia.com

Location:

Portsmouth, RI

Recommended For:

Couples dreaming of an elegant mansion wedding with European flair, historic charm, and scenic outdoor spaces for a versatile and romantic celebration.

What we Love about Glen Manor House:

The timeless French-style architecture, the peaceful gardens and grand terraces, and the opportunity to celebrate in a lovingly preserved estate that reflects both tradition and local community care.
  • Celebrate your wedding in a beautifully restored mansion with picturesque gardens, sweeping lawns, and terraces ideal for ceremonies, cocktail hours, or receptions under the stars.
  • Indulge in refined interiors and charming grounds that offer flexibility for both classic formal weddings and relaxed, romantic affairs with a historical backdrop.
  • Enjoy exclusive use of the estate, supported by a dedicated team of local volunteers who maintain the home and its legacy for unforgettable private events.

Cost:

Rates vary by season, day of the week, and duration of rental. Contact Glen Manor House directly for wedding packages and availability.

Best time to get married:

Spring through fall, when the gardens are in full bloom and outdoor terraces offer the perfect complement to the indoor elegance of the mansion.

Local tips:

Use the garden terraces for a seamless ceremony-to-reception flow and plan portraits by the water for a classic Newport-area photo backdrop.

Address:

Glen Manor House, 3 Frank Coelho Drive, Portsmouth, RI
Phone: 401-683-4177

8. Greenvale Vineyards


💕 " Plan rustic, vineyard weddings with sweeping views and coastal beauty."
- VI

Greenvale Vineyards

© Courtesy of aquar - Fotolia.com

Location:

Portsmouth, RI (Aquidneck Island, along the Sakonnet River)

Recommended For:

Couples looking for a romantic vineyard wedding surrounded by natural beauty, riverside views, and rustic charm in a serene countryside setting.

What we Love about Greenvale Vineyards:

The scenic ceremony site nestled among grapevines, the charming restored stable tasting room for intimate gatherings, and the river-view vineyard site for elegant tented receptions accommodating up to 200 guests.
  • Celebrate your special day in the heart of a working vineyard with breathtaking views of the Sakonnet River and Aquidneck Island farmland.
  • Indulge in house-crafted wines and a warm, rustic atmosphere whether you're planning a cozy rehearsal dinner or a large open-air wedding reception.
  • Enjoy the flexibility of indoor and outdoor venue spaces, from the intimate tasting room to a grand tented lawn ideal for dancing under the stars.

Cost:

Pricing depends on guest count, space selection, and event timing. Contact Greenvale Vineyards for rental rates and availability.

Best time to get married:

Late spring through early fall, when the vineyard is at its peak and the river views offer a tranquil and stunning backdrop for ceremonies and receptions.

Local tips:

Consider planning your ceremony at sunset for golden vineyard light and ask about wine pairings or private tastings to enhance your guest experience.

Address:

Greenvale Vineyards, 582 Wapping Road, Portsmouth, RI 02871
Phone: 401-847-3777

9. Aqua Blue Hotel


I Recommend 🎈 : "Enjoy stylish, beachfront weddings with modern amenities and ocean views."
- VI

Aqua Blue Hotel

© Courtesy of Tydav Photos - Fotolia.com

Location:

Narragansett, RI (Narragansett Pier)

Recommended For:

Couples looking for a modern seaside venue with both intimate and large-scale event spaces, ocean views, and flexible indoor-outdoor celebration options.

What we Love about Aqua Blue Hotel:

The prime location steps from the beach, the stunning Ocean View Terrace for ceremonies and cocktail hours, and the elegant Grand Ocean Ballroom for dancing, dining, and making unforgettable memories.
  • Celebrate your vows on the Ocean View Terrace with up to 120 guests overlooking the Atlantic, or host a full-scale reception for up to 250 in the Grand Ocean Ballroom.
  • Indulge in a modern coastal setting with the convenience of on-site accommodations, customized service, and exciting enhancements like live music and entertainment options.
  • Enjoy seamless transitions between ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception—all within walking distance of Narragansett Town Beach and local amenities.

Cost:

Rates vary based on guest count, space selection, and services. Contact Aqua Blue Hotel for wedding packages, seasonal pricing, and availability.

Best time to get married:

Late spring through early fall, when ocean breezes, beach access, and the terrace’s coastal views create an unforgettable Rhode Island celebration.

Local tips:

Host your ceremony just before sunset for soft lighting on the terrace, and encourage guests to stay on-site for a relaxed weekend by the sea.

Address:

Aqua Blue Hotel, 1 Beach Street, Narragansett, RI 02882
Phone: 401-783-6767

10. Harbor Lights


My top 10 💯 : "Exchange vows by the water with golf course elegance and marina charm."
- VI

Harbor Lights

© Courtesy of Magryt - Fotolia.com

Location:

Warwick, RI (Narragansett Bay)

Recommended For:

Couples seeking a luxurious waterfront wedding venue with country club elegance, marina access, and full-service amenities for a full wedding weekend experience.

What we Love about Harbor Lights:

The unmatched blend of coastal charm and resort-style amenities—offering ceremony and reception flexibility, golf, a marina, poolside relaxation, and sweeping views of Narragansett Bay.
  • Celebrate your wedding with style, choosing from multiple indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception spaces tailored to your taste, from elegant ballrooms to breezy bayside settings.
  • Indulge in the perks of a private club—cocktail hours by the pool, rehearsal dinner cruises, golf outings, and premium event planning services to elevate your entire weekend.
  • Enjoy a convenient location with access to I-95 and the airport, making it easy for out-of-town guests while offering the charm and tranquility of a private marina oasis.

Cost:

Pricing varies based on space selection, guest count, and customizations. Contact Harbor Lights for wedding package details and availability.

Best time to get married:

Late spring through fall, when the marina, golf course, and outdoor reception areas offer the most stunning views and activity options for guests.

Local tips:

Plan a multi-day celebration with a welcome party by the pool, a golf round for the wedding party, and a scenic harbor cruise to fully enjoy the venue’s coastal lifestyle.

Address:

Harbor Lights, 150 Gray Street, Warwick, RI 02889
Phone: 401-737-6353

📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:

  • What makes Rhode Island a great destination for weddings?
    • Rhode Island offers a wide range of venues with that historic, New England charm that many couples are after.
  • What are some popular wedding venue options in Rhode Island?
    • There are also a plethora of waterfront wedding venue options, so if you are hoping to get married with the ocean as your backdrop, there are plenty of options on our list.

Best Time to Plan a Wedding in Rhode Island

  • May to October – Prime wedding season with mild temps and coastal charm.
  • June to September – Peak season with warm weather, perfect for beach and waterfront venues.
  • May & October – Shoulder months offering pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
  • November to April – Off-season with cooler temps, ideal for cozy indoor celebrations.
  • July & August – Warmest months, ideal for nautical-themed weddings and oceanfront settings.
  • September – Ideal for mild temps and stunning seaside backdrops after summer crowds.

Map:


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