Milwaukee is home to tons of gorgeouse wedding venues, ready to host your day! As a wedding photographer based in Wisconsin, I’ve gotten to personally check out multiple on this list, and I can’t wait to share. Let’s chat about some of the best wedding venues in Milwaukee, breaking it out by vibe! So, whether you’re searching for a modern feel or something more vintage, you’re bound to find a place that feels right to you. Without further ado, let’s dive in!
Industrial
Milwaukee has tons of history in manufacturing so that’s left the city with cool industrial spaces that have now been carefully converted into wedding venues! This is so much the case that MKE has been dubbed “Cream City” from all the cream city brick you’ll see on this list. Most of these industrial buildings also feature exposed beams and wide-open spaces. With all of that, Milwaukee is an awesome location for couples who want something unique with an edge. These venues give you a raw look, but don’t be fooled – they’re also juxtaposed with elegant touches.
We have to kick off the list with Ivy House! This modern, industrial venue offers large windows and exposed brick. The real show stopper is the ivy and plants that completely envelop the space!
Located along the Milwaukee River, The Cooperage has stunning exposed brick walls, rustic wooden features, and GIANT, gorgeous windows that let in natural light. It’s absolute perfection for a romantic ceremony and reception that feels both warm and modern.
The Pritzlaff Building is equal parts industrial and historic. You’ll love the tall ceilings and unique pillars throughout the venue.
The Factory on Barclay’s impressive, 2-story ceiling, high bay windows, iron chandeliers, and floods of natural light make this one of the best locations to celebrate your wedding day!
This venue is considered The Ivy House’s moodly little sister. It’s also owned by Two Birds Event Group, so it boasts the same outstanding team behind the operation. Filament’s main “wow” factor is the warm, filament lightbulbs decorating the space. Perfect for a cozy, intimate, private wedding!
When I think of moody and grand wedding venues, Turner Hall comes to mind! This historic building gives off a rich industrial atmosphere while speaking to Milwaukee’s German heritage. The large, versatile banquet hall oozes old-world charm.
The Box is a great neutral backdrop to work with for whatever style you’re going for. With the chic design, open floor plan, and incredible lighting, the personalization options are endless!
When I think industrial wedding venues, the Gage is one of the first ones that come to mind. The cream city brick, exposed beams and touches of metal are topped off by Edison-bulb lighting that gives a dreamy, welcoming look.
Head over to Shorewood for a moody, industrial venue paired with a rooftop garden! The Atrium is the perfect balance of industrial + nature.
Modern
The below Milwaukee venues are all chic, sophisticated, and stylish. A cool, contemporary setting will make your wedding feel super fresh and fashionable. Clean lines, minimalist decor, and plenty of natural light – yes, please! If you want a space that feels like a blank canvas for your wedding design, this is 100% the way to go.
If you want iconic architecture with a clean, minimal design, the Milwaukee Art Museum has got your back! The museum’s stunning wings, sleek design, and sophisticated art collection are well known in the Milwaukee universe. The all white interior will give your guests a chic and artistic feel.
Greenhouse No. 7 at The Mitchell Park Domes
The Mitchell Park Domes are perfect for couples who want a wedding surrounded by nature and light. Imagine your guests meandering through the domes at cocktail hour and finishing with dancing under the stars! Greenhouse No. 7 is their main event venue offering towering glass ceilings, which let in tons of natural light and outdoor ambiance!
Want your guests to enjoy a picturesque view of the city? Look no further than Vista (it’s in the name after all)! It’s located in a prime area above Deer Camp. With that, comes an awesome view of the Milwaukee skyline! There are also two floors that your guests can mix and mingle in, including a more vibey, industrial room for variety.
The Carriage House is equal parts modern and rustic. You’ll love the light, bright space and tall ceilings. The big windows look out to a luxe golf course area with pretty prairie grasses.
Check out more of Lake Country! Fête is a venue offering a 13 acre property of mature oak trees, lush meadow and prairie grasses surrounding the serene pond, all while being minutes away from area restaurants and hotels.
Maybe you’re a Bucks fan? If you want to host a modern, trendy wedding in right in downtown, Gather at Deer District is THE PLACE. This venue combines a chic, urban design with stunning views of the city.
1903 Weddings at the Harley Davidson Museum
Harley fans will appreciate this edgy, cool venue. The Garage at Harley is super spacious for all of your friends and family! It has clean lines and a riverfront yard.
Classy and quaint come to mind when I think of the Commodore. This new gem is part of the Barlotta Restaurant group, but it stands on its own. Stunning and great food? Sign me up!
With a name like The Valerie, I had to include this one, right? 😉 All jokes aside, I love The Valerie for many reasons! Beyond the epic, textured feature wall, this place is a logistical dream. There are two spacious getting ready suites, a dedicated ceremony room, two bars, a patio, AND a giant reception hall. No space flipping needed!
While most of these modern venues offer minimal spaces, Denizen is a breath of fresh air! You’ll love the feature wallpaper accents and trendy chandeliers that decorate the space, while still giving a modern feeling!
Historical
Milwaukee is full to the brim with history, and many of its wedding venues reflect that charm. For couples who love a bit of charm and character, these venues fit the bill. This list includes everything from Italian-inspired mansions to epic cathedrals that not only tell the story of the city, but also set the backdrop for new memories on your wedding day. I’m already drooling over the timeless elegance of these!
Can we talk about the architecture of this place? My jaw is on the floor. The Grain Exchange features soaring ceilings with beautiful granite, limestone, and sandstone.
This historic mansion is a gorgeous setting for a wedding. The Italian architecture, lush gardens, exquisite parlors, and elegant ballroom are straight out of a romance novel!
Planning a Catholic wedding? The Basilica of St Josaphat might be the place! This stunning church is a Milwaukee landmark. You’ll love saying your “I do’s” with this jaw-dropping architecture in the backdrop while still honoring your religious background.
A true Milwaukee classic! The Pfister Hotel combines luxe accommodations with old-world charm. They recently remodeled, so everything from the main ballrooms to the lobby will welcome guests with a fresh, but vintage feel. The best part of a hotel wedding is that it doubles as guest accommodations. No shuttles needed!
The Wisconsin Club will wow you the second you step on the property. Outside features unique, majestic architecture and manicured lawns. The interior is just as stunning as the exterior with high ceilings, elegant furnishings, and original decorations throughout.
If you don’t mind going a bit north and love storybook, garden-party vibes, Gardens Wedding Center might be the place for you! Gardens Wedding Center in Allenton is great for a nature-loving couple, who also love all those dreamy historical touches. As you can expect from the name, their gardens are the main attraction – perfect for portraits! But you’ll also love the old church feel or outdoor tent options for your ceremony and reception.
This venue doubles as the Wisconsin Historical Society, so you know it’ll be full to the brim with old world charm! I’m obsessed with the grand columns. Their brick patio next to a park also gives you an awesome outdoor space to work with.
The Covenant at Murray Mansion
Elegant? Check. Timeless? Check. The venue’s spacious grounds and grand staircase create an unforgettable setting for your ceremony and reception!
St James 1868 is a show stopper. Its Gothic Revival-style is IMPECCABLE. It’s also one of the oldest stone churches remaining in Milwaukee. Step inside, and you’ll appreciate all the modern updates they’ve made while still honoring the original archicture. The original stained glass windows and high ceilings of the Abbey provide a majestic setting for your ceremony and reception. Looking for something brighter and lighter, the upstairs Hyde venue is for you!
If you want to get out of downtown, but still want a historic feel, check out Historic Courthouse 1893 over in Waukesha! I love the architecture of this place. It has fun chandeliers, a tall 25ft ceiling, a grand staircase, and pretty woodwork. If you’re dreaming of a wedding with a little bit of regal grandess, this is definitely the place to tie the knot.
If you want a combination of art museum mashed up with a speakeasy feeling, The George would be my top recommendation! The upstairs gives elegant, artsy vibes, while the lower lounge area is super cozy with tons of character.
Want to transport your guests to Italy without a plane ticket? You’ll want to add Villa Terrace to your venue hunting list. I love everything about this place. You can wander through their pretty courtyard or get a view of the lake from their grand back terrace.
Downtown Delafield is packed with small-town charm, and the Delafield Hotel is the cherry on top! I love their grand front entrance for everything from portraits to a first look. Hotel venues are convenient for your guests too! They’ll enjoy all the luxe rooms if their coming from out-of-town! Super relaxed, cozy, but still upscale!
Waterfront
Wisconsinites LOVE a lake day, so I had to include a waterfront category on the list. Milwaukee’s location along the shores of Lake Michigan makes it oh-so good for waterfront weddings. Whether you’re dreaming of saying “I do” with the river as your backdrop or you want to host your reception with sweeping views of the lake, Milwaukee has several waterfront venues that offer the perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities.
Even the name screams waterfront! Harbor House has amaaaazing views of Lake Michigan and the Milwaukee skyline. It’s also a Barlotta restaurant so wine and dine your guests with yummy food!
Discovery World is another Milwaukee landmark turned wedding venue located on edge of Lake Michigan. The views are unmatched for this place!
Cozy and intimate are the first words I think of when I’m picturing Oconomowoc Lake Club. You can take a little cruise out on the lake during cocktail hour or simply enjoy the view from their balcony!
Want to give a nod to your German heritage? Golden Mast will feel like you’re in a German fairytale! Golden Mast is right on Okauchee Lake, so you’ll have tons of lake photo opportunities. I also love their little courtyard with a fountain. The outdoor gazebo space is great for your ceremony, while the indoor hall provides plenty of room for dancing the night away. One of my fave parts of the reception hall are the quirky streetlights throughout!
The Starling is a Two Birds event space in the Historic Third Ward featuring a moss wall, quirky lighting, AND modern design. Look out the floor-to-ceiling windows, or enjoy your ceremony on the riverwalk!
Rustic
Even though Milwaukee is the biggest city in Wisconsin, this list wouldn’t be complete without covering the numerous barn venues and rustic spaces in the area! These are the best choice for couples who want to embrace the natural beauty of Wisconsin’s countryside while celebrating with friends and fam in a charming, relaxed atmosphere. All of these have earthy, warm charm without feeling too stuffy or pretentious.
Such a cool property! My favorite part is the arched barn ceiling with dreamy string lights!
Head over to Delafield to check out Rustic Manor! The Rustic Manor combines modern amenties (hello AC) with natural beauty. You’ll love the big loft overlooking the main hall topped off with stunning views of the countryside.
The Bowery is a two-level historic white washed barn with a beautiful 1800’s cream city brick farmhouse. You’ll also love the 6-acres of lush wood grounds complete with wildflower and sunflower gardens!
Milwaukee and the surrounding area is PACKED with wedding venues. Would you believe this is only the tip of the iceberg? I like to update this list as I photograph and discover new venues. If you think I missed a good one, send me a message – I’d love to add it! Happy planning!
