Last Updated on May 30, 2025 by Joy Editors
East bay wedding venues create magical backdrops that will make your special day unforgettable. The thought of exchanging vows with the shimmering Bay Area waters as your backdrop sounds like a dream. Of course, it does!
The East Bay showcases diverse wedding venue options that blend amazing views with distinct personalities. The Faculty Club in Berkeley welcomes couples with its garden landscapes and sweeping Bay views against rolling hills. Oakland’s Art Deco-inspired Terrace Room presents Lake Merritt’s beauty and downtown’s striking skyline.
These venues shine especially when you have the region’s pleasant weather that sets the stage for outdoor celebrations. Beyond the scenery, each location tells its own story through rich history and cultural heritage. To name just one example, the Brazilian Room in Tilden Park stands as a testament to the 1939 Golden Gate International Exhibition’s legacy. Its wooden arch creates perfect ceremony moments with the Bay’s beauty in view. The Hacienda de las Flores in Moraga adds another dimension with Spanish architectural elements amid vibrant gardens.
Your dream venue awaits among these 21 magnificent East Bay locations. Each spot delivers those picture-perfect Bay views you’ve imagined, whether you love rustic charm, historic grandeur, or modern sophistication.
The Faculty Club, Berkeley
Image Source: Berkeley Faculty Club
The Faculty Club at UC Berkeley’s campus is one of the finest wedding venues in the east bay. Built in 1902, this architectural masterpiece showcases the traditional Arts and Crafts style of renowned architect Bernard Maybeck. The venue creates an intimate setting with redwoods, oaks, and maples that surround the peaceful Strawberry Creek.
Faculty Club features to emphasize
The magnificent Great Hall serves as the venue’s centerpiece, rising three stories with its vaulted ceiling, massive stone fireplace, and stained-glass windows. These windows proudly display heraldic crests from great universities around the world. Golden sunlight streams through floor-to-ceiling windows and bathes the redwood paneling in warmth. The Heyns and Seaborg rooms, named after a chancellor and Nobel Laureate, provide elegant alternatives with French doors that open to private garden spaces.
Faculty Club bay view experience
The venue’s charm comes from its perfect blend of stunning East Bay nature and classic elegance. Couples say their vows under a leafy canopy on the Faculty Glade Lawn, where gentle breezes carry their words across the peaceful grounds. Each season offers stunning photo opportunities – from spring ceremonies with blooming flowers to fall celebrations with rich autumn colors.
Faculty Club pricing & packages
Peak season rates (April 1-November 1) for the Great Hall Package are $8,000 on Saturdays with a $10,000 food and beverage minimum. Sunday rates drop to $5,000 with a $7,000 minimum. Off-season prices (November 1-March 31) reduce to $5,000 with a $5,000 minimum for weekends. Smaller venues include the Heyns Package at $4,000 and Seaborg Package at $3,000, each requiring $5,000 food and beverage minimums.
Faculty Club ideal for
This bay area wedding venue combines spaciousness with intimacy. The Great Hall welcomes up to 220 seated guests, while the Faculty Glade accommodates 250. UC Berkeley alumni find special meaning here as they weave their college memories into their wedding day. The venue offers 23 guest rooms, providing convenient on-site accommodation options for the wedding party.
Berkeley Country Club, El Cerrito
Image Source: Berkeley Country Club
Berkeley Country Club sits on a lush hillside in El Cerrito. The venue stands as one of the most iconic wedding venues in the east bay, with picture-perfect views. This historic gem dates back to the 1920s and blends a country retreat feel with spectacular views of the entire Bay Area.
Berkeley Country Club highlights
The charming Clubhouse shows off its English Tudor style with beautiful historic details. Two ballrooms inside keep their original character with vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, dramatic chandeliers, and dark wood floors. Modern amenities complement these classic features. The Bay Ballroom makes a statement with its cathedral ceiling that soars above, walls filled with multipaned windows, a massive fireplace, and a spacious 900-square-foot dance floor. The venue’s culinary team has built a reputation for world-class cuisine. They serve everything from elaborate buffets to beautifully prepared plated selections.
Berkeley Country Club bay view experience
The Vista Deck creates the perfect ceremony spot, set on a knoll and protected by a glass windscreen. Guests watch couples exchange vows with sparkling water, boats, and distant hills as their backdrop. The views stretch from the Bay Bridge south to the San Francisco skyline and Golden Gate Bridge, all the way to the San Rafael Bridge in the north. Many couples plan their ceremonies during sunset. The bay transforms as daylight fades and lights begin to sparkle across the region.
Berkeley Country Club pricing & packages
Couples can book ceremony spaces starting at $1,000, while reception rates begin at $5,000. Most celebrations cost around $18,500. Packages include bar service, champagne toast, décor, and AV equipment. Couples can add special touches like a horse-drawn carriage.
Berkeley Country Club ideal for
The venue welcomes up to 200 guests. The club opens its doors to all couples, whatever their religion or sexual orientation. Couples looking for classic elegance and amazing views will love this space. The venue shines with stunning indoor and outdoor areas that create equally memorable experiences.
Chabot Space & Science Center, Oakland

Image Source: WeddingWire
The Chabot Space & Science Center stands out as one of the most magical wedding venues in the east bay. This amazing venue sits on 13 acres of wooded land in Oakland Hills’ Joaquin Miller Park. Couples can celebrate their special day under the stars with panoramic views that blend scientific wonder with romantic atmosphere to create lasting memories.
Chabot Center’s Features
The building’s design amazes visitors with its floor-to-ceiling windows, glass skybridge, and exterior loggia that shows off the beautiful forest surroundings. The Spees Building welcomes guests with a grand entryway and two main exhibit levels, plus the stunning Planetarium. A dramatic atrium-like space comes alive in the Rotunda with its octagonal skylight – perfect for grand entrances. The venue’s Astronomy Hall serves as the largest open event space that fits up to 250 guests and comes with built-in audiovisual equipment. The Observatory Complex adds more magic with three historical telescopes where expert astronomers help guests discover the night sky.
Chabot Center’s Bay View Experience
The Observatory Complex gives couples and their guests stunning views over redwood treetops all the way to the Bay. Sunsets are magical here as the sky changes colors above the Oakland Hills forests. As night falls, guests can stargaze during the celebration – something you won’t find at any other Bay Area wedding venue. Couples can say their vows in the Planetarium under its 70-foot dome, with stars, a rising moon, or swirling nebula above them.
Chabot Center’s Pricing & Packages
Wedding packages cost between $1,700 and $12,900 based on the day, spaces, and package type. The Across the Universe package gives you two hours in the Planetarium for your ceremony plus reception areas. A ceremony-only option starts at $1,200, while reception spaces begin at $4,900. You can rent telescopes for an extra fee. Your rental helps support free and low-cost STEAM education programs in the Oakland community.
Perfect Fit for
Science lovers and couples who want interactive experiences will love this special venue. The space works great for big celebrations with room for up to 650 seated or 1,200 standing guests inside, and 250 seated outside. The planetarium fits 241 guests for ceremonies. Chabot creates magical weddings where science meets romance – perfect for couples who want memorable experiences while supporting their community.
Terrace Room at Lake Merritt, Oakland
Image Source: www.theterraceroomevents.com
The Terrace Room, part of the historic Lake Merritt Hotel since 1927, stands out as one of Oakland’s most charming east bay wedding venues. This stunning Art Deco ballroom gives couples a perfect mix of classic elegance and lake views. The East Bay Express named it their “Best Wedding Venue.”
Terrace Room highlights
The Terrace Room’s preserved architectural details make it special. The space got a fresh renovation that keeps its vintage feel with custom three-foot bronze pendant lights and original wrought-iron details. Plush Art Deco carpeting pairs beautifully with elegant Chiavari chairs. The venue’s herringbone-patterned walnut hardwood dance floor, gleaming black grand piano, and large mural of Lake Merritt from 40 years ago add to its charm.
Terrace Room bay view experience
A wall of 20-foot, floor-to-ceiling windows running along the grand space’s front is the venue’s crown jewel. Natural light fills the multilevel restaurant during daytime events. The space becomes an intimate, almost cabaret-like setting at night. The magic peaks after sunset when the “Necklace of Lights” creates a sparkling reflection on the lake’s dark surface.
Terrace Room pricing & packages
The rental fees range from $300 to $2,700 based on your chosen day, time and space. Weekend and holiday rentals cost $2,400-$2,700 for five hours between 5pm and midnight. A ceremony with reception costs $850 extra and comes with a dressing suite. Food and drink minimums run from $800 to $9,300. Lunch costs $50-$60 per person while dinner ranges from $55-$68. Bar packages start at $28 and go up to $61 per person.
Terrace Room ideal for
The Terrace Room’s flexible layout works well for celebrations of different sizes. You can seat 200 guests without a dance floor, 190 with one, or host 250 for standing events. Beyond weddings, the space serves perfectly for engagement parties, bridal showers, and rehearsal dinners. Couples love that it needs minimal decoration – as one guest put it, “The space is so beautiful it hardly needs any decoration”.
Preservation Park, Oakland
Image Source: www.preservationpark.com
Preservation Park is a Victorian oasis nestled in downtown Oakland. This charming venue spans two blocks and recreates a Victorian neighborhood with 16 beautifully restored historic homes. The venue features period park benches, ornamental wrought-iron fences, vintage street lamps, and a beautiful bronze fountain from Paris.
Preservation Park highlights
The Pavilion stands at the heart of this wedding venue bay area. This elegant bandstand sits surrounded by soft lawns where couples exchange their vows. Couples celebrate their receptions in the Fountain Circle, a circular plaza with a stunning two-tiered Parisian fountain crowned by the moon goddess Diana. The venue offers two amazing indoor spaces. The 1890 Ginn House resembles an English country home with bright, welcoming parlors. The 1910 Nile Hall showcases craftsman-style architecture with soaring 30-foot ceilings, walls of windows, and elegant Arts & Crafts details. A spacious interior hallway connects these beautiful houses.
Preservation Park bay view experience
Beautiful gardens and blooming flowers create a romantic hideaway that seems frozen in time. Wisteria bursts into full bloom during May weddings. The park offers a peaceful atmosphere despite its proximity to the freeway. Vintage street lamps cast a warm glow across the grounds after dark, creating an enchanting evening atmosphere. Couples often string market/bistro lights between lamp posts to improve the nighttime ambiance.
Preservation Park pricing & packages
Saturday or Sunday events from 4-11pm cost between $4,500 and $5,200. The $4,500 premium package comes with bandstand access, fountain circle use, staff, security, and a dressing suite. Couples who choose the $5,200 deluxe package receive a sound system with microphones and two hours for rehearsal dinner. Ceremony-only options start at $3,000. The venue also offers a bridal suite to reserve.
Preservation Park ideal for
The Pavilion Area welcomes 150-300 seated guests for outdoor ceremonies. Indoor spaces accommodate between 10-150 seated guests. Ginn House fits 40 people while Nile Hall hosts up to 150. This venue shines for couples who want minimal decorations – its natural beauty and historic character provide built-in charm. Families with children love the space since kids can play freely while adults celebrate. Preservation Park delivers memorable celebrations by blending timeless charm with modern conveniences.
Skyline Community Church, Oakland
Image Source: Skyline Community Church
Skyline Community Church sits high in the Oakland hills. This peaceful sanctuary creates an outdoor wedding feel while giving you all the comforts of being inside. The east bay wedding venue naturally combines modern design with nature and gives couples a quiet retreat for their big day.
Skyline Church features
The sanctuary’s wood-paneled ceiling soars above a spectacular glass wall that looks stunning in daylight and becomes magical after dark. You’ll find comfortable chairs and a movable altar platform that can be arranged for groups of any size. The church’s music options are extraordinary – it has one of the Bay Area’s few working pneumatic pipe organs that fill the space with rich, dramatic sounds. Couples can also choose the grand piano or bring in harpists, choirs, or string quartets. The venue’s excellent acoustics work with microphones and wireless options so everyone can hear clearly.
Skyline Church bay view experience
The sanctuary’s glass wall frames amazing views from its hilltop spot. Guests can see regional parkland and rolling hills that stretch toward Mt. Diablo. A beautiful circular courtyard outside has teak benches and urns filled with succulents where people can gather. The property has a lovely path that winds through manicured lawns to a heart-shaped pattern and charming gazebo—perfect spots for ceremonies or reception focal points.
Skyline Church pricing & packages
Event rental costs run from $1,500 to $2,425, based on which day you choose, how many guests attend, and your event type. Each wedding package has:
- Full access to the 2+ acre grounds, sanctuary, gazebo, and labyrinth
- Two big dressing rooms to get ready
- A wedding coordinator who helps with vendors and day-of details
- Six or more hours for rehearsal and ceremony
- Beautiful gardens for photos
Ceremonies and receptions are priced separately. The venue is available all year, Monday through Saturday (9am-10pm) and Sunday (1pm-10pm).
Skyline Church ideal for
This Bay Area wedding venue can host up to 200 guests inside or outside. It’s perfect for couples who want natural beauty mixed with modern design. The church welcomes everyone, regardless of background, identity, or faith. Couples can bring their own priest, rabbi, or spiritual leader, or work with the church’s pastor to create their ceremony. The private, quiet setting makes it perfect for couples who want both spiritual meaning and natural beauty on their wedding day.
Scott’s at Jack London Square, Oakland
Image Source: Scotts Seafood Grill and Bar
Scott’s at Jack London Square stands out as one of Oakland’s most unique east bay wedding venues, famous for its fresh seafood and waterfront dining. The restaurant sits right on the bustling harbor, giving couples a true Bay Area celebration that perfectly blends nautical charm with amazing food.
Scott’s highlights
Scott’s Restaurant brings 30+ years of culinary expertise to your wedding day. You’ll find multiple event spaces here, including the elegant Pavilion Room that features floor-to-ceiling windows and a dedicated dance floor. The award-winning kitchen serves outstanding seafood specialties and premium meat options. Their team can customize menus based on your priorities. The experienced event team helps with detailed planning from your original concept through execution, making sure every detail matches your vision.
Scott’s bay view experience
Your ceremony and reception will have a stunning backdrop thanks to the waterfront setting. Guests can enjoy clear views of boats gliding across the harbor while the San Francisco skyline stretches behind them. The constant movement of maritime activity creates beautiful photo opportunities throughout your celebration. The bay becomes magical as evening falls, with lights twinkling on the water during your reception.
Scott’s pricing & packages
Wedding packages start at $78 per person for lunch events and $115 for dinner celebrations. These packages give you everything you need: venue rental, food service, beverage options, tables, chairs, linens, silverware, glassware, dance floor, and professional staff. You can choose between hosted or consumption-based bar packages.
Scott’s ideal for
This Bay Area venue works perfectly for small gatherings of 20 guests or large celebrations up to 160 people. Couples who love waterfront settings and exceptional food will find this venue especially appealing. The Oakland location makes it easy for guests to travel from anywhere in the Bay Area, and plenty of parking spots are available nearby. Many couples also choose this spot for their rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, and wedding brunches.
Sequoyah Country Club, Oakland

Image Source: WeddingWire
Sequoyah Country Club nestles in Oakland’s East Bay Hills. The venue fascinates couples looking for unique spaces with panoramic views. This historic gem blends Spanish Colonial-style architecture with beautiful grounds that create perfect backdrops for weddings.
Sequoyah Club highlights
The clubhouse amazes guests with its high-beam ceilings and Spanish-style antique charm that radiates elegance. The Terrace Room showcases wrought-iron chandeliers and comes with a built-in dance floor that sets a sophisticated tone for receptions. Expert culinary teams create exquisite dining experiences. The professional catering staff works together with couples to design extraordinary menus. The dedicated service team handles all wedding needs, which makes planning much easier.
Sequoyah Club bay view experience
The venue sits high above, offering stunning views of the golf course and East Bay panoramas. Couples can choose sun-kissed ceremonies on the Terrace Lawn with its perfectly manicured grounds. The intimate Bay Room serves as a gorgeous indoor option where arched, multipaned windows frame sweeping views. City lights create magical evening backdrops through the venue’s large windows.
Sequoyah Club pricing & packages
The clubhouse rental starts at $3,000, with ceremony spaces adding $650. Meals cost between $74 and $104 per person. This includes displayed or passed hors d’oeuvres, starter courses, and plated or buffet dinner choices. Five-hour bar service packages range from $35-$48 per person. A 20% service charge applies to all food and beverage purchases.
Sequoyah Club ideal for
This east bay wedding venue fits up to 272 seated guests indoors. The space works well for both small gatherings and grand celebrations. The venue provides complete amenities – setup, teardown, tables, chairs, linens, flatware, glassware, and wheelchair access. Couples who love vintage elegance mixed with modern conveniences will find this venue perfect, as it needs minimal decorations.
Brazilian Room, Tilden Park

Image Source: Ian Chin Photography
The Brazilian Room in Tilden Park ranks among the most cherished east bay wedding venues. This historic treasure began its journey as part of the 1939 Golden Gate International Exhibition. The venue’s name comes from its stunning Brazilian hardwood paneling (Jacaranda, Imbuya, Brazilian Chestnut, and Mahogany)—a friendship gift from the Brazilian government to the East Bay Regional Park District.
Brazilian Room expresses
The reception hall dazzles with floor-to-ceiling windows on both sides that bathe the space in natural light and showcase the lush surrounding greenery. A grand stone gas fireplace serves as a cozy centerpiece, making it perfect for a sweetheart table backdrop. The building’s exterior draws inspiration from old English architecture. Beautiful gardens surround the venue and add natural charm to every celebration. East Bay Times readers voted it “Best Place for a Wedding in the East Bay” for three consecutive years. The venue blends rustic elegance with natural beauty seamlessly.
Brazilian Room bay view experience
The Flagstone Patio welcomes up to 180 guests for ceremonies with sweeping views of sloping lawns and wooded hillsides. The landscape changes with each season. Spring ceremonies feature blooming cherry blossoms that create stunning photo opportunities. The hillside setting provides a rare Bay Area treat—stargazing after sunset.
Brazilian Room pricing & packages
The rental rates vary substantially based on timing:
- Weekday morning rentals begin at $672 for non-residents
- Saturday full-day buyouts reach $5,538
- Alameda & Contra Costa County residents receive special discounted rates
Each rental has tables, chairs, audio-visual equipment, and a commercial kitchen with professional amenities.
Brazilian Room ideal for
This wedding venue bay area option welcomes up to 150 seated guests. A guest count of 80-100 creates a more spacious experience with room for dancing. Nature lovers seeking a woodland setting with historic character will find this venue perfect. The venue’s popularity means bookings open in January for the following calendar year. Early date securing becomes essential.
Berkeley City Club, Berkeley
Image Source: Berkeley City Club
Julia Morgan designed the magnificent “Little Castle” known as Berkeley City Club in 1929. This historic landmark stands out among east bay wedding venues. The building showcases breathtaking Moorish Gothic architecture with graceful arches, domed ceilings, leaded-glass windows, and intricate art details throughout.
Berkeley City Club highlights
The venue features multiple distinctive ceremony spaces that each bring their own character. The elegant second-floor Terrace showcases beautiful draping and leaded-glass windows. A waterproof awning ensures year-round comfort. The Drawing Room radiates vintage glamor with wrought-iron, stone, and tile detailing next to an oversized, carved fireplace. The Venetian Ballroom hosts grand receptions with its vaulted ceilings, original chandeliers, and a built-in stage that’s perfect for live music. Julia’s Restaurant provides excellent in-house catering, and their chefs can create custom wedding cakes.
Berkeley City Club bay view experience
This wedding venue bay area gem gives couples and guests stunning cityscape views with fountain and garden vistas. Landscaped inner courtyards with fountains create picturesque settings for intimate moments and photographs. The building’s historical character combined with natural elements creates an atmosphere of timeless romance that few venues can match.
Berkeley City Club pricing & packages
Event rental fees start at $1,800, with prices based on weekday choice, season, space, guest count, and duration. The venue offers three wedding packages:
- Micro Wedding: small ceremony & reception for up to 15 guests
- Intimate Wedding: small ceremony & reception for up to 40 guests
- Grand Wedding: ceremony & reception for up to 180 guests
Packages include a free wedding night suite, 50% off getting ready suite, discounted group hotel rates, tables, chairs, linens, place settings, dedicated venue specialist and waitstaff. Food and beverage require a 23% service charge.
Berkeley City Club ideal for
Couples looking for historic elegance with modern amenities will love this venue. The spaces can host 14-180 seated guests, with a total meeting capacity of 250. The venue’s architectural significance and vintage ambiance appeal to many couples. The 38 on-site guest rooms make it perfect for wedding parties with traveling guests. The venue welcomes all celebration types, including LGBTQ+ weddings.
Hacienda de las Flores, Moraga
Image Source: Wedgewood Weddings
Hacienda de las Flores sits on a peaceful nine-acre estate in Moraga. Its authentic Spanish-style architecture makes it one of the most romantic east bay wedding venues. The historic town-owned property blends Old World charm with beautiful gardens to create a timeless elegant setting for couples who want a unique celebration.
Hacienda highlights
Two distinct event spaces give this captivating property its unique character. The Flower Mansion features a 2,700-square-foot open-air patio with a stone fountain at its heart, surrounded by carefully tended gardens. Spanish influences shine through the beamed ceilings, hardwood floors, and beautiful period details inside. The Pavilion stands out with its neo-classical portico and grand Corinthian columns. It can host up to 200 guests in its 6,500 square feet of fully enclosed circular patio lawn and garden. The estate’s rich history dates back to the Moraga Family. Local entrepreneur Donald Laird Rheem bought it in 1929 and turned it into an impressive country club.
Hacienda bay view experience
Couples can choose between two stunning ceremony spots: the neo-classical Pavilion or the spacious event lawn. Mature gardens create a beautiful natural setting for all events and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding parkland. Beautiful bistro lighting bathes the patio in a warm glow during summer evenings and creates magical moments. Winter celebrations stay cozy in a spacious event tent that keeps everyone comfortable during receptions.
Hacienda pricing & packages
Wedgewood Weddings runs the venue with four customizable packages. Options range from “Build Your Own” at $80 per person to “Elite” at $145 per person. Ceremony fees cost $1,495 during peak season (April-November). The 2023 venue fees change by season. Saturday evening rates start from $2,995 (December-March) and go up to $6,995 (May-October). Beyond the simple package, couples can add DJ services, photo booth, accent lighting, and fresh floral centerpieces.
Hacienda ideal for
This wedding venue bay area treasure welcomes up to 200 guests for ceremonies and receptions. Couples who dream of a secluded, garden-style event with genuine architectural character love this space. The venue attracts couples from Antioch, Brentwood, Concord, Lafayette, Moraga, and beyond. Hacienda combines Spanish architecture, neoclassical elements, and natural beauty to create a perfect setting for couples who want both romance and history on their special day.
Jefferson Street Mansion, Benicia
Image Source: Wedgewood Weddings
Jefferson Street Mansion stands proudly as part of the Historic Benicia Arsenal. This beautiful east bay wedding venue was built in 1861 as the Executive Officer’s Quarters. The boutique venue showcases neoclassical architecture that draws inspiration from French military heroes like Napoleon and American Revolution General Lafayette.
Jefferson Mansion highlights
Vintage charm flows through every restored space of the mansion. Manicured hedges and an Italian-style colonnade welcome you to the main estate. The mansion’s decadent period décor and luxurious fixtures create timeless elegance. The wisteria-draped veranda steals the show as couples exchange their vows. A tented pavilion adorned with crystal chandeliers and market lights creates a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor space for receptions. This award-winning “Best of the Bay” venue provides stunning backdrops for photos at every turn.
Jefferson Mansion bay view experience
The property’s vantage points reveal breathtaking views of the Carquinez Strait. Couples say their vows with the bay’s glimmering waters as their backdrop. The newlyweds can capture beautiful moments in the mansion’s gardens, throughout the estate, or with the Bay creating a perfect backdrop. The venue becomes magical at night when twinkling lights enhance its natural beauty.
Jefferson Mansion pricing & packages
The venue’s ceremony fees range from $995-$1,495 based on season. Reception venue fees start free on weekdays and go up to $2,995 for Saturday events. Wedgewood Weddings has four customizable all-inclusive packages starting at $80 per person. Each package comes with planning assistance, ceremony coordination, tables, chairs, linens, and more. These bundled services help couples save money while enjoying stress-free planning.
Jefferson Mansion ideal for
This bay area gem welcomes up to 200 guests. Couples looking for vintage glamor in an intimate setting will love this venue. The venue attracts people who appreciate historical charm with modern comforts. The location is close to Napa and Contra Costa Counties, making it easy for guests to travel from Vallejo, Fairfield, Oakland, Berkeley, and beyond. Couples seeking stunning curb appeal and sweeping bay views continue to choose Jefferson Street Mansion as their perfect wedding destination.
La Grande Estates, Oakley
Image Source: www.lagrandeweddings.com
La Grande Estates in Oakley brings Italian charm to east bay wedding venues. This 10-acre estate takes couples away to a European escape in the East Bay that feels like stepping into the Italian countryside.
La Grande explains
The estate showcases a 4500 sq. ft. Tuscany Villa surrounded by harvesting grapevines that create a stunning backdrop for ceremonies. Brides can get ready in specialized chambers that come with a personal makeup studio and full-length mirrors on a viewing pedestal. Grooms have their own dedicated suites. Beautiful gazebos, bubbling waterfalls, and rose gardens across the property make perfect spots for photography. The venue blends indoor luxury with outdoor beauty through its draped and chandeliered Pavilion Tent, Piazza Courtyard, and multiple ceremony sites.
La Grande bay view experience
Mount Diablo’s panoramic views stretch across the distance. Couples and guests can walk through Tuscan-inspired pathways while enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The setting becomes magical as evening approaches – trees sparkle with lights under a sky full of twinkling stars. A lakeside setting and fountain features add a romantic touch that improves the overall experience.
La Grande pricing & packages
La Grande’s 2025-2026 wedding packages include:
- All-inclusive ceremony and reception packages from Sunday-Friday at $9,999 (6-hour event, full dinner buffet, unlimited beverages, and accommodations for up to 50 guests)
- Estate venue fees range from $6,900 (Sunday-Friday) to $8,900 (Saturday) for up to 125 guests
- Additional guests beyond 125 cost $10 each
- Specialized elopement and mini reception packages are available
La Grande ideal for
This wedding venue in the bay area welcomes up to 350 guests for both indoor and outdoor celebrations. The estate works best for couples who want a European-inspired setting with versatile spaces. Three generations of women—grandmother, mother, and daughter—manage the venue, creating a family-oriented planning experience with over 100 years of combined event expertise.
Shadelands Ranch Museum, Walnut Creek
Image Source: Walnut Creek Historical Society –
Shadelands Ranch Museum stands among majestic oak trees and well-kept landscaping, making it a picturesque historical setting among east bay wedding venues. This 1902 Colonial Revival house serves as the centerpiece of what used to be a large fruit ranch. Couples can experience the gracious hospitality of bygone days here.
Shadelands highlights
A classic 19th-century gazebo sits encircled by fragrant rose bushes and creates a romantic focal point for ceremonies. The large lawn area under towering trees fits 250-300 seated guests. A paved patio serves as the perfect dance floor for receptions. The Victorian-style wrap-around porch and historic charm—with a circa-1902 water tank house and worker cabin—take guests back to a simpler era. The venue also has modern amenities like a small kitchen facility, changing porch, modern restrooms, and plenty of off-street parking.
Shadelands bay view experience
The venue’s gardens and rose beds create a romantic hideaway for couples. String lights adorn the trees around the gazebo during summer months, which creates a beautiful evening atmosphere as the sun sets. The large oak trees provide shade for daytime celebrations and serve as perfect anchors for hanging lights at night. The gazebo becomes a beautiful centerpiece, and the surrounding landscape offers many photo spots.
Shadelands pricing & packages
Rental costs $500 per hour with a three-hour minimum. The venue has 150 chairs and 30 tables, with extra seating available for bigger events. Additional fees may apply: $100 for kitchen use and $200 for custodial services when guest count exceeds 150. You’ll need a $1,000 refundable damage deposit and proof of liability insurance. Booking needs a minimum $500 non-refundable deposit that counts toward rental fees.
Shadelands ideal for
The venue welcomes events from April through October and can host up to 300 guests. Couples looking for an affordable outdoor venue with historic character will love this place. Families with children will appreciate the spacious grounds that give kids room to play. The venue’s flexibility with outside vendors—including food trucks and mobile caterers—makes it perfect for couples who want to customize their celebration.
The Bridges Golf Club, San Ramon
Image Source: The Bridges Golf Club
The Bridges Golf Club in San Ramon feels like a Mediterranean getaway. This stunning venue creates a perfect backdrop for weddings with its unique architecture and beautiful views of Mt. Diablo and the surrounding fairways.
Bridges Golf Club highlights
The club’s Mediterranean villa appearance makes an instant impression with its tiled roof, white walls, and exotic Moorish turrets that stand against the backdrop. Guests walk through wrought-iron gates in the clubhouse lobby that lead to a stylish bar nestled in one of these unique towers. Inside, the exclusive country club atmosphere shines through rich wooden ceiling beams, oak tables, and warm earth tones. The Garden Pavilion stands out as the most dramatic space with its 25-foot ceilings, antique wrought-iron chandeliers, and year-round climate control.
Bridges Golf Club bay view experience
Guests can see lush velvety fairways rolling into the distance from almost every window. The “Looking Terrace” sits beyond the Garden Pavilion’s center arch and shows off panoramic views of the greens, Mt. Diablo, and sunset-painted skies. French doors and windows throughout the venue bring nature inside while keeping everyone comfortable whatever the weather. The staff opens windows to welcome the afternoon breeze on nice days.
Bridges Golf Club pricing & packages
Space rental costs between $300 and $3,000 based on your selection. Each person costs $59 to $75 for packages. Services include a 22% operation fee. The venue gives special rates for Friday and Sunday events.
Bridges Golf Club ideal for
This east bay wedding venue fits up to 300 guests outdoors and 200 indoors. The Garden Pavilion welcomes up to 300 seated or 400 standing guests, making it great for big celebrations. These versatile spaces work beautifully for different styles – from elegant receptions with linens, flowers, and votive candles to creative themed events. Past couples brought lion dancers, dragon dancers, and even hosted luaus with hula dancers. This wedding venue in the bay area gets amazing reviews for its beautiful setting, great service, and tasty food.
San Ramon Waters by Wedgewood
Image Source: Wedgewood Events
San Ramon Waters by Wedgewood creates a peaceful escape in the East Bay area. This beautiful venue combines a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere with a perfect mix of natural beauty and refined amenities. Couples can celebrate their special day here without stress.
San Ramon Waters expresses
The venue’s dramatic ceremony site sits beneath a majestic 50-year-old weeping willow tree. The gardens have been renovated and feature lush greenery and rustic stone elements. New fencing ensures complete privacy during events. Inside, guests will find impressive features like a built-in sunken bar, a cozy fireplace, and a grand lobby. The Wedgewood Room has a full wall of windows that overlook the scenic outdoors. A gleaming dance floor and recessed lighting create a modern, sophisticated atmosphere.
San Ramon Waters bay view experience
Sunsets create a stunning backdrop as light reflects off the glimmering water during ceremonies. Guests can enjoy cocktail hour in the picturesque outdoors with views that stretch across verdant fairways and golf greens. The reception space’s large windows let everyone take in these magnificent views throughout the celebration. The scene becomes magical as evening falls, with color-streaked skies giving way to twinkling lights.
San Ramon Waters pricing & packages
For 2023, the venue offers four customizable packages:
- Build Your Own: $59 per person (Monday-Thursday)
- Classic: $74 per person (Monday-Thursday)
- Premier: $104 per person (Monday-Thursday)
- Elite: $129 per person (Monday-Thursday)
Ceremony fees range from $595 to $995. Venue fees change seasonally from $895 (off-peak) to $4,495 (peak Saturday evenings). Couples should budget at least $13,000 for a wedding with 100 guests during peak months.
San Ramon Waters ideal for
This Bay Area wedding venue can host up to 300 guests. It appeals to couples planning destination weddings and those from nearby communities like Fairfield, Vallejo, Concord, and beyond. The venue works perfectly for couples who want both indoor elegance and outdoor beauty without planning stress. Its location near multiple counties makes it easy to reach, yet it feels secluded and away from city life.
Fairview Metropolitan, Oakland
Image Source: Fairview Weddings & Events
Fairview Metropolitan pairs beautiful views with complete wedding packages. This popular Oakland venue gives couples great value and flexibility. You’ll find it minutes away from downtown Oakland and the Oakland Airport. The east bay wedding venue stands out for its great value and amazing views.
Fairview highlights
The venue’s outdoor ceremony site sits next to a perfectly maintained golf course. The San Francisco skyline creates a beautiful backdrop. The fully enclosed pavilion is a chance to experience a unique reception with floor-to-ceiling windows on two sides. It features wall-to-wall carpeting and a built-in dance floor. This permanent event center spans 3,100 square feet. The space stays comfortable whatever the weather. A banquet room connects to the pavilion to create flexible space options.
Fairview bay view experience
Couples can enjoy spectacular views from the ceremony site. The background showcases the golf course with San Francisco’s skyline visible far away. The pavilion’s ceiling-to-floor window panels show off golf course views during day events and sunset views at night. Your guests will see the Oakland hills, the bay, downtown Oakland, and San Francisco’s skyline throughout the celebration.
Fairview pricing & packages
Fairview Metropolitan has four customizable all-inclusive packages:
Package | Price/Guest (up to 100) | Price/Guest (100+) |
---|---|---|
Essential | $84.00 | $79.00 |
Eternal | $94.00 | $89.00 |
Infinity | $124.00 | $119.00 |
Elite | $149.00 | $145.00 |
Facility fees change by season and day. They range from $1,000 (Monday-Thursday) to $4,000 (Saturday evenings, May-October). Ceremony fees stay at $999 for all packages.
Fairview ideal for
This bay area wedding venue welcomes celebrations with 50 to 225 guests. Couples who want all-inclusive packages with custom options will love this venue. The space works great for anyone looking to blend indoor and outdoor areas with scenic views. Most couples invest around $11,450 for their complete wedding experience.
Fairyland Weddings, Oakland
Image Source: Here Comes The Guide
Children’s Fairyland in Oakland stands out among east bay wedding venues as a magical alternative. This whimsical venue sits on Lake Merritt’s banks and turns wedding celebrations into storybook experiences with its fantastical setting dating back to 1950.
Fairyland explains
The venue spreads across 10 acres of enchanted land with child-sized rides, storybook sets, and lush gardens that create a playful backdrop. A canopied amphitheater gives guests indoor and outdoor seating choices, while the lawn fits larger gatherings easily. The Chapel of Peace makes a perfect spot for wedding photos. Many couples have woven fairy tale themes into their decorations with touches from Alice in Wonderland, spell books on tables, and fairy lights that create a romantic woodland feel.
Fairyland bay view experience
Guests can see Lake Merritt’s sparkling waters from several spots on the property. Fantasy gardens and vibrant fairy tale-inspired structures create amazing photo spots throughout the grounds. The venue comes alive at night when twinkling lights add to its magical atmosphere. The natural setting lets guests stargaze – a special treat in the Bay Area.
Fairyland pricing & packages
Rental fees begin at $4,500 per event, with a $1,000 non-refundable security deposit. The park rental time runs 2-6 hours. Couples should plan setup during the first hour and cleanup in the last. Wedding packages vary in price:
Package Type | Price Range |
---|---|
Base Package | $9,426 – $75,411 |
Standard Duration | 7 hours |
Latest End Time | 11:30 PM |
Fairyland ideal for
This Bay Area gem fits 200 to 1,200 seated guests, making it perfect for small gatherings or grand celebrations. Couples who want a unique, playful wedding experience love this venue. The space works wonderfully for those who want to embrace their inner child while making unforgettable memories in a one-of-a-kind setting.
Comparison Table
Venue Name | Capacity | Price Range | Key Features | View Type | Indoor/Outdoor Options |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
The Faculty Club | Up to 220 | $8,000-$10,000 (peak) | Great Hall, Arts & Crafts style, 23 guest rooms | Bay and hills | Both (Faculty Glade) |
Berkeley Country Club | Up to 200 | Starting $18,500 | English Tudor style, Bay Ballroom, Vista Deck | Bay, SF skyline, bridges | Both |
Chabot Space & Science Center | Up to 650 | $1,700-$12,900 | Planetarium, Observatory, Skybridge | Bay and redwood forest | Both |
Terrace Room | Up to 200 | $300-$2,700 | Art Deco style, 20-ft windows, Grand piano | Lake Merritt | Indoor |
Preservation Park | 150-300 | $4,500-$5,200 | Victorian architecture, Pavilion, Fountain Circle | Not mentioned | Both |
Skyline Community Church | Up to 200 | $1,500-$2,425 | Glass wall, pipe organ, circular courtyard | Regional parkland, Mt. Diablo | Both |
Brazilian Room | Up to 150 | $672-$5,538 | Historic hardwood, Flagstone Patio | Wooded hillsides | Both |
Hacienda de las Flores | Up to 200 | $2,995-$6,995 | Spanish architecture, Pavilion Tent, gardens | Parkland | Both |
Jefferson Street Mansion | Up to 200 | Starting $995 | Neoclassical architecture, wisteria veranda | Carquinez Strait | Both |
La Grande Estates | Up to 350 | $6,900-$8,900 | Tuscan villa, vineyard setting | Mt. Diablo | Both |
Shadelands Ranch | Up to 300 | $500/hour | Colonial Revival house, historic gazebo | Not mentioned | Outdoor |
The Bridges Golf Club | Up to 300 | $300-$3,000 | Mediterranean villa, Garden Pavilion | Mt. Diablo, golf course | Both |
San Ramon Waters | Up to 300 | Starting $59/person | Weeping willow tree, Wedgewood Room | Golf course, water views | Both |
Fairview Metropolitan | Up to 225 | Starting $84/person | 3,100 sq ft pavilion, golf course setting | SF skyline, bay views | Both |
Fairyland | 200-1,200 | Starting $4,500 | Storybook sets, Chapel of Peace | Lake Merritt | Both |
Conclusion
Picking the perfect wedding venue is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make while planning your special day. These 21 stunning East Bay wedding venues give you a complete guide to locations that blend beautiful bay views with their own unique character and charm.
The East Bay is a treasure trove of wedding settings. You’ll find historical gems like the Brazilian Room with its beautiful hardwood paneling, and Berkeley City Club showcases Julia Morgan’s architectural brilliance with timeless elegance. The magic doesn’t stop there – Fairyland Weddings creates storybook experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.
These venues fit almost every budget. Berkeley Country Club might need a bigger investment, but places like Shadelands Ranch Museum have affordable hourly rates that don’t skimp on beauty or character.
Space won’t be an issue here. The Faculty Club works perfectly for small, intimate gatherings, while Fairyland can host up to 1,200 guests comfortably. Most venues also give you both indoor and outdoor options, so you can plan your ideal celebration whatever the weather brings.
The architecture makes these places even more special. Spanish-inspired Hacienda de las Flores, Mediterranean-style Bridges Golf Club, and Art Deco Terrace Room each bring their own unique atmosphere that barely needs any extra decoration. Nature adds its own touch – rolling golf courses, peaceful lakes, and dramatic bay views create perfect backgrounds for wedding photos that’ll take your breath away.
These East Bay venues nail the practical stuff too. Many include complete packages with catering, bar service, tables, chairs, and other must-haves. Their experienced wedding coordinators help make sure everything runs smoothly from planning to the big day.
Your dream wedding with those spectacular bay views is waiting at one of these amazing East Bay venues. Maybe you’ll say “I do” under ancient oak trees, inside a historic mansion, or with the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance – your perfect setting is here. The only question left is: which of these beautiful venues will become part of your wedding story?