21 Best Wedding Venues in Iowa: Rated By Real Couples (2025)

Last Updated on June 12, 2025 by Joy Editors

Planning your dream wedding in Iowa? Wedding venues in Iowa showcase everything from urban elegance to rustic countryside charm that gives couples endless possibilities to create their perfect day.

The perfect setting awaits you as Iowa’s wedding reception venues welcome gatherings of all sizes. The impressive Bella Sala Event Center hosts up to 650 guests, while the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden creates an intimate tropical paradise year-round for 200 people. Each venue brings its own unique character to make your celebration special.

Weather plays a big role in your celebration plans. Iowa experiences long, hot summers and windy, frigid winters, so you’ll need both indoor and outdoor options. The historic Hotel Fort Des Moines stands proud since 1919 and combines classic charm with modern amenities. The Monroe in West Des Moines creates a unique wedding experience by blending traditional elements with contemporary design.

We’ve put together a detailed list of 21 best wedding venues in Iowa to help you decide. Real couples who celebrated their love stories in these spaces have rated each venue. Let’s discover these stunning locations together!

Rhythm City Casino Resort

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Rhythm City Casino Resort in Davenport, Iowa brings modern elegance to couples planning their special day. This upscale venue pairs sophisticated design with all the wedding services needed to create unforgettable celebrations.

Rhythm City Casino Resort features

Crystal chandeliers and ballroom-style ceilings make the Grand Ballroom a sight to behold, creating an atmosphere that blends savory and sweet sophistication. The venue gives you the following wedding services:

• A skilled service team, audio/visual equipment, and high-speed internet
• Food and beverage choices ranging from abundant buffets to chef-inspired fine cuisine
• Luxury amenities like an on-site spa, casino, and multiple dining spots

Guests can enjoy free parking, valet, and airport shuttle services. You can customize the resort’s flexible space to match your vision and needs.

Rhythm City Casino Resort capacity

The resort boasts over 16,000 square feet of event space and welcomes weddings of all sizes. Up to 1,000 guests can join your ceremony and reception in the Grand Ballroom. The Event Center fits even larger gatherings with space for 2,200 standing and 1,200 seated guests.

Rhythm City Casino Resort pricing

Packages start at $8,000 and include venue rental, food service, decorative elements, and simple wedding services. Couples often receive free hotel rooms with their wedding package.

Real couple reviews of Rhythm City Casino Resort

Couples love Rhythm City, giving it a stellar 4.9 out of 5 rating across 18 reviews. “Everything was perfect for our day! The food and drinks were amazing. We loved that it’s part of a hotel, so at the end of the night we could just go upstairs to our room,” shared one happy couple.

“The venue is beautiful, the food was delicious and they served our large group of guests quickly,” another couple remarked. The resort’s staff earns special praise for their detailed attention throughout wedding planning.

Rollins Mansion

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The Rollins Mansion in Des Moines has stood proudly since 1925. Its Tudor architecture and rich heritage make it a stunning example of timeless elegance. This beautiful venue combines historic charm with modern comforts to create a one-of-a-kind wedding setting.

Rollins Mansion features

The mansion showcases amazing architectural details. You’ll find ceiling beams brought over from an inn where William Shakespeare once performed. Frank Lloyd Wright designed stained glass windows add a genuine European feel throughout the 10,000-square-foot property.

The venue has several spaces inside and out:

• A beautiful courtyard perfect for ceremonies with a reflecting pool and gardens
• A 4,000-square-foot rooftop terrace overlooking the Des Moines skyline
• Private getting ready rooms for the bride and groom
• Several distinct rooms on both floors, each with its own character

The location sits between downtown Des Moines and the airport, making it easy for local and traveling guests to reach.

Rollins Mansion capacity

The mansion’s layout works well for weddings of all sizes. You can host up to 600 people for a reception and 250 for a formal banquet. Outdoor celebrations can accommodate up to 350 guests. Eight rooms spread across 10,000 square feet of event space give you plenty of room for your ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception.

Rollins Mansion pricing

Packages start at $6,500, which is great value for such a special venue. December weddings often cost less and come with holiday decorations throughout the property.

Real couple reviews of Rollins Mansion

The venue holds a 4.7 out of 5 rating from 45 reviews, and 95% of couples recommend it. People love the mansion’s charm, staff, and flexible spaces.

One bride said, “Rollins Mansion was THE BEST place for our wedding. It’s absolutely beautiful inside and out”. Photographers also praise the venue. One mentioned, “The added charm, elegance and beauty throughout will make your photos shine”. Many couples say the experience was smooth because the staff handled everything so they “did not have to lift a finger”.

Ashton Hill Farm

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Ashton Hill Farm sits beautifully on scenic Iowa farmland in Cedar Rapids. This 7-year-old custom-built venue blends rustic charm with elegant sophistication, making it one of the Midwest’s premier wedding destinations.

Ashton Hill Farm features

The stunning interior showcases white shiplap walls, soaring ceilings, and an impressive 18-foot tall window backdrop. A neutral palette serves as a blank canvas for personalization. Modern touches make this venue stand out:

• Six-foot tall chandeliers, concrete floors, and solid wood cross-back winery chairs
• Two preparation suites with a 900 square-foot loft that comes with a bar and lounge area
• 1,800 square-foot covered veranda equipped with residential furniture, bar, and bistro lighting
• Custom-built benches in the outdoor ceremony space overlook Iowa’s countryside
• Gas fire pits and wildflower fields create stunning photo opportunities

The venue also provides ambient lighting, all-season temperature control, and white drapery to boost the space’s appeal.

Ashton Hill Farm capacity

The venue welcomes 300 guests comfortably for indoor and outdoor celebrations. Couples can design their perfect floor plan in the spacious reception hall that matches their unique vision.

Ashton Hill Farm pricing

Packages range from $5,000 to $7,000, giving couples exclusive access from 8:00 AM until midnight on their special day. This package comes with tables, wood winery chairs, white or black linens, outdoor ceremony bench seating, bartender service with glassware, and complete setup/takedown of reception tables and chairs.

Real couple reviews of Ashton Hill Farm

The venue maintains a stellar 4.7 out of 5 rating from many reviews. Couples consistently praise the venue and staff. “Ashton Hill is the perfect wedding venue! Not only is it the most gorgeous space, they were so helpful every step of the way,” shared one delighted bride.

The positive feedback continues with another couple who said, “The venue is beautiful, the food was delicious and they served our large group of guests very efficiently”. The day-of coordination service gets special mention from many couples. One bride expressed her gratitude: “MJ was our day-of coordinator and I can’t thank her and the staff enough for the help they gave us”.

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

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The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden stands as a lush, tropical oasis right in downtown, making it a perfect backdrop for weddings all year round. This beautiful space earned the title of “Most Gorgeous Wedding Venue in the State of Iowa” from PureWow.

Botanical Garden features

The venue gives couples many ways to embrace natural beauty:

• A stunning conservatory dome features tropical plants and a waterfall backdrop that’s perfect for ceremonies
• Beautiful indoor and outdoor wedding spaces work well in any season
• The exclusive “Glow Up” package lets couples customize dome lighting (for weddings $150,000+)
• Dupont Room shows off large windows with views of manicured gardens
• Katherine C. Meredith Courtyard Terrace welcomes outdoor celebrations

The venue provides complete amenities including a bridal suite, audio equipment, dance floor, chairs, tables, and free parking.

Botanical Garden capacity

From small gatherings to big celebrations, the venue holds up to 220 guests. Each space has its own capacity:

• Main event space: 120 guests
• Secondary event space: 50 guests
• Total available event space: 7,500 square feet

Botanical Garden pricing

The Botanical Garden’s prices follow these tiers:

• Reception venue rental starts at $2,500
• Ceremony spaces begin at $600
• Bar services average $30 per person
• Catering packages usually cost around $4,500

Prices go up during peak seasons from January-March and November-December.

Real couple reviews of Botanical Garden

Couples love this venue, giving it 4.8 out of 5 stars from 17 reviews. 96% of couples recommend getting married here.

“The venue was beautiful, everyone was raving about how they wished they had gotten married in a botanical garden. It was so convenient having the ceremony and reception in the same place,” one happy bride shared.

A delighted couple wrote: “We had our ceremony in the breathtaking dome… Every detail of the venue was flawless, and working with Marvin was an absolute pleasure”.

The core team’s amazing service, the venue’s natural beauty, and its convenient downtown location with easy parking make this place special.

Country Lane Lodge

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Country Lane Lodge sits on 40 peaceful acres near Des Moines metro in Adel, Iowa. This Amish-built venue perfectly blends rustic charm with modern elegance. The venue’s popularity as one of Iowa’s top wedding destinations stems from its flexible spaces and outstanding customer service.

Country Lane Lodge features

The lodge stands out among Iowa wedding venues with these amazing amenities:

• Flexible indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces with backup weather options
• Modern comforts like heated floors, air conditioning, and premium audio/visual equipment
• A unique full-service bar featuring a handmade top from their family century farm’s 130-year-old tree
• A spacious catering kitchen equipped with walk-in coolers ready for your caterers
• Free access to over 500 décor items such as wine barrels, arbors, lanterns and more
• A dedicated online wedding planner and day-of coordination services

The beautiful indoor space amazes couples. The stunning outdoor areas feature a patio, swings, fire pit and guest games. Natural photo spots abound with bridges, wildflowers and wooded areas throughout the property.

Country Lane Lodge capacity

The venue welcomes up to 400 seated guests both indoors and outdoors. The single-level design makes the lodge accessible to everyone without any stairs. A beautiful loft overlooks the main floor, creating perfect spots for photos or quiet conversations.

Country Lane Lodge pricing

2025 wedding rates vary by day:

• Friday (8am-midnight): $6,750
• Saturday (8am-midnight): $8,250
• Sunday (8am-11pm): $5,500
• Weekday (8am-10pm): $5,500

Winter bookings save you money at $5,000-$6,500. The 2026 rates show a slight increase with Fridays at $7,000 and Saturdays at $8,500.

Real couple reviews of Country Lane Lodge

The venue shines with an impressive 4.8 out of 5 rating from many reviews. A happy bride shared, “The venue is gorgeous and flows so nicely. Great location for multiple activities for all your guests”.

The staff makes a lasting impression on couples. “Kendra, Erin and the rest of the CLL staff are the easiest and nicest people to work with. They helped with so many questions during the wedding planning process”. Another couple loved the planning tools: “The venue’s online planner was also very helpful during the planning process & helped us to proactively manage details we wouldn’t have thought of”.

Summerset Winery

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Summerset Winery sits nestled in rolling hills south of Des Moines. This charming 12-acre property in Indianola gives couples a romantic vineyard backdrop for their special day. The venue blends natural beauty with flexible event spaces to create one of Iowa’s most distinctive wedding destinations.

Summerset Winery features

The winery’s wedding experience comes packed with everything you need:

• Two banquet rooms, surrounding decks, and outdoor grounds let you plan your perfect day
• Beautiful vineyard backdrops for indoor and outdoor ceremonies
• A stunning oak tree spot for vineyard cocktails
• Your wedding day starts at 9:00 AM with 15 full hours of venue time
• The entire property opens up for your wedding photos
• Expert event coordinators help guide your planning journey

Right next to the winery, you’ll find the Inn at Summerset. This former bed and breakfast now serves as a whole-house rental with 10 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms that fits up to 26 guests. The spacious inn has two full kitchens, two living areas, an outdoor hot tub, and a beautiful Tuscan garden with gazebo.

Summerset Winery capacity

The Grand Banquet Room welcomes up to 250 seated guests. Adding a tent lets you host 400 guests for bigger celebrations. The main level, tasting room, and surrounding decks welcome all guests with wheelchair access, but the Grand Banquet Hall upstairs isn’t accessible.

Summerset Winery pricing

Your dream vineyard wedding starts at $2,000. Standard packages begin around $2,800 for 2025. These packages give you tables and chairs for both ceremony and reception, setup included. You’ll also get discounts on Summerset wines and first dibs on booking the Inn.

Real couple reviews of Summerset Winery

Couples love this venue, giving it 4.7 out of 5 stars across review sites. The scenic views and staff’s attention to detail keep earning rave reviews.

“Summerset Winery worked super hard to give our wedding every extra touch to be so beautiful! Booking with them was the best wedding planning choice we made,” one happy bride shared.

“The vines were a perfect scene for our ceremony—we couldn’t have asked for a better day!” another couple wrote. Most newlyweds can’t say enough about the beautiful setting, helpful staff, and the great value of their wine country celebration.

Bella Sala Event Center

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Bella Sala Event Center in Tiffin stands out as the Iowa City area’s most experienced locally owned venue. It combines natural beauty with functional elegance. The venue’s waterfall terrace creates a peaceful setting among the trees that makes celebrations truly memorable.

Bella Sala Event Center features

Bella Sala’s exceptional amenities will lift your wedding experience:

• A romantic waterfall terrace surrounded by beautiful landscaping—perfect for ceremonies of up to 250 guests
• Indoor reception halls filled with natural light from large windows
• Two deluxe on-site suites with plenty of room to prepare hair, makeup, and wardrobe
• All-inclusive pricing that covers table/chair/linen setup and takedown
• Outdoor patios ready for cocktails and appetizers
• Smaller spaces perfect for bridal showers, rehearsal dinners and gift opening brunches

Bad weather won’t ruin your day. Ceremonies can move indoors quickly, giving couples peace of mind whatever the forecast.

Bella Sala Event Center capacity

The venue adapts beautifully from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. Bella Sala welcomes between 50 to 650 guests, making it perfect for weddings of any size. The thoughtful design creates an intimate atmosphere even with smaller guest counts.

Bella Sala Event Center pricing

Reception venue rental for 2025 starts at $4,800, with most couples spending around $6,800. Two main pricing options are available:

• Cascata (half room): $4,800-$6,800
• Bella Sala (whole space): $6,000-$9,500

Premium pricing applies from May through October during peak season. The complete packages include tables, chairs, linens, ceremony seating setup, and bar staffing.

Real couple reviews of Bella Sala Event Center

Couples love Bella Sala’s beautiful setting and exceptional staff. “Bella Sala was fantastic to work with – they were always super quick to respond to questions or concerns. They helped the wedding day go very smoothly,” shared one satisfied couple.

Another couple said, “The venue is beautiful and the staff is so helpful and accommodating!”. Reviews consistently praise the team’s quick responses, the venue’s beauty, and their dedication to running events perfectly—from setup through takedown.

Elmcrest Country Club

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Elmcrest Country Club in Cedar Rapids showcases stunning fairway views and serves as an elegant wedding destination. The venue blends natural beauty with refined amenities. Since 1947, this social hub has combined charm with modern style, making it perfect for couples who want a luxurious celebration venue.

Elmcrest Country Club features

The club’s special day spaces include:

• A scenic patio that overlooks the golf course with built-in fire pits and seating
• A sophisticated marble bar in the indoor cocktail space
• Tables, chairs, and linens with setup and teardown service
• Convenient dressing areas for the bridal party
• A par 70 golf course surrounded by majestic trees that create countless photo spots
• Guest convenience with on-site parking and a covered drive-up entrance

The club’s team provides a complete wedding service package. The experienced staff helps with planning and execution throughout the entire process. The venue welcomes engagement parties, bridal showers, and rehearsal dinners too.

Elmcrest Country Club capacity

You can host up to 300 guests here for seated events. The space works well for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Your vision comes to life through flexible indoor and outdoor spaces that allow custom layouts.

Elmcrest Country Club pricing

Non-members pay a facility fee of $8,000, and the contract needs a 50% deposit when signed. Smaller celebrations can use the intimate wedding package at $4,000 for up to 150 guests. The club stands out because it doesn’t require food and beverage minimums, unlike many other venues.

Real couple reviews of Elmcrest Country Club

Couples love their experience at the venue and praise both the location and staff. A bride shared, “Taylor went over and above to make sure we were getting everything we needed/wanted on our special day”. Another couple mentioned, “We received many compliments from our guests regarding the meal, venue, and service”.

The food quality gets consistent praise, with one review noting, “The food was excellently prepared by Chef and his staff”. The venue’s natural beauty paired with professional service creates memorable weddings that past clients enthusiastically recommend.

Steeple Square

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Steeple Square, a historic landmark in downtown Dubuque, welcomes couples to celebrate their special day in a majestic former church. This nonprofit venue blends stunning historical architecture with modern comforts to create an unforgettable wedding experience.

Steeple Square features

The venue has three amazing spaces for wedding events:

• A stunning main hall with towering steeples, classic pillars, and beautiful stained-glass windows
• A vibrant outdoor plaza perfect for ceremonies or cocktail hours
• A bright, industrial lower-level space that works great for intimate gatherings

The venue’s historic character sets it apart. Beautiful hand-painted details and architectural elements create a stunning backdrop that needs minimal decoration. Couples get access to great amenities like a bride’s room and the McCoy Multipurpose Room for wedding party prep. The venue also provides plenty of parking with accessibility features and lets couples choose their own caterers.

Steeple Square capacity

The main hall—formerly Honkamp Hall—fits 300 guests comfortably for receptions and 320 people for theater-style ceremonies. Smaller celebrations work perfectly in the lower level, making this venue great for weddings of all sizes. The entire campus offers about 7,500 square feet of event space.

Steeple Square pricing

Steeple Square’s wedding packages give you great value. Ceremony costs range from $1,100 to $1,700. Reception prices run from $1,500 to $3,750 and include setup and teardown of standard chairs and tables, table linens, projector and screens, sound equipment, dance floor, and help from an onsite staff member. Small weddings with up to 50 guests can opt for micro wedding packages that cost between $500 and $1,000.

Real couple reviews of Steeple Square

Steeple Square shines with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 rating from 18 reviews, and 100% of couples recommend the venue. The stunning architecture and excellent service consistently impress couples. One bride shared, “The space is absolutely stunning and I got so many compliments on its beauty”. Another added, “It is an absolutely stunning venue and Melanie was wonderful to work with”. The campus manager gets special praise for great communication, professionalism, and attention to detail throughout planning.

Harvest View Farms

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Harvest View Farms sits peacefully in the fields of Sperry, Iowa, just 10 minutes north of Burlington. This charming rustic venue brings country-style elegance to couples planning their special day. Brenda and David Schwind built and run this family-owned venue that radiates farm charm and creates an intimate atmosphere.

Harvest View Farms features

The venue showcases several custom-built spaces that make celebrations memorable:

• The Celebration Barn: A 7,400-square-foot space comes with comfortable seating, a loft for grand entrances, DJ room, and separate restrooms
• The Silver Dove Chapel: A cozy ceremony space fits 150 guests and includes cordless mics and music hookup
• The Bridal Cottage: A farmhouse features a hair styling station, living room, kitchen area, and a honeymoon suite
• Harvest View Bar: Local wines, wine slushies, mixed drinks, and beer are available with bartenders included
• Brenda’s Chuckwagon: The buffet meals come with budget-friendly menu choices

The buildings are climate-controlled and available to all guests whatever the weather conditions.

Harvest View Farms capacity

The Celebration Barn welcomes up to 400 guests and comfortably seats 300 at rectangle tables. The Silver Dove Chapel accommodates 150 guests for ceremonies. Small intimate gatherings or large celebrations work perfectly here.

Harvest View Farms pricing

The weekend package runs $5,200 plus Iowa tax and includes:

• Friday access (11am-9pm)
• Saturday use (8am-11:59pm)
• Sunday morning pickup (11am)
• Complimentary mimosas in the Bridal Cottage
• Overnight stay in the honeymoon suite

A non-refundable $500 signing fee holds your date. You’ll need to pay 50% 180 days before and the remaining balance 30 days prior to the event. The venue requires a $750 refundable damage deposit.

Real couple reviews of Harvest View Farms

The venue’s unique charm and attentive staff have won many hearts. “We cannot say enough good things about Harvest View Farms! Brenda and David were so accommodating and made our daughter’s wedding event absolutely perfect!”. Guests love this one-of-a-kind venue with its beautiful chapel, stunning barn, and lovely farmhouse. Professional photographers give high marks too, noting “Brenda and her staff are professional and helpful”.

Decades Event Center

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Decades Event Center blends old-world charm with modern design elements to create a distinctive celebration space in the heart of West Des Moines. This thoughtfully designed venue captures attention with intimate lighting and rustic, antique decor throughout.

Decades Event Center features

The venue will give a complete wedding experience with these amenities:

• Over 5,000 square feet of customizable space with rustic antique decor
• Two on-site preparation suites that serve as perfect getting-ready spaces
• Full-service, handmade bar crafted from a century-old tree
• The core team handles complete setup and teardown services
• Optional in-house decor rentals include marquee letters and centerpieces
• Guest convenience with ample parking in the adjacent lot

The venue also features technology upgrades like an LED video wall, projector with screen, sound system, and fog machine. Mutually beneficial alliances with local hotels provide shuttle services, while partnerships with caterers and photographers make planning easier.

Decades Event Center capacity

The ballroom welcomes up to 225 guests with flexible seating arrangements that match each couple’s vision. Couples can host ceremonies, seated meals, and reception celebrations under one roof in this versatile open-plan space. The venue welcomes viewing appointments 24/7.

Decades Event Center pricing

Daily venue rental starts at $500. Instead of fixed packages, couples can customize their experience through add-on bundles. This personalized approach lets couples choose exactly what they need, making Decades one of Iowa’s best-value wedding reception venues.

Real couple reviews of Decades Event Center

We noticed couples love the venue’s convenience and attentive service. “Kale and his staff were very easy to work with. They listened to what we wanted and did everything they could to make the event special,” shared one happy parent. The venue’s unique character leaves lasting impressions. “We had an overwhelming amount of comments from our party and guests how unique and fun the venue was”. The space’s natural beauty stands out too. “Decades provides a unique elegance on its own without decorations,” mentioned another satisfied bride.

The Renwick Mansion

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The Renwick Mansion, a beautiful Italian Revival Villa, sits on four acres of gorgeous grounds in Davenport. This stunning venue pairs its rich history with modern comforts and gives couples breathtaking views of the Mississippi River as their wedding backdrop.

Renwick Mansion features

This Iowa wedding venue stands out with these special touches:

• Three reception rooms featuring marble fireplaces and detailed woodwork
• A second-floor balcony and fourth-floor tower with Mississippi River views
• Beautiful south lawn deck and grand porte-cochere that’s perfect for ceremonies
• Complete bar service with cocktails, beer, wine, and champagne toasts
• Two kitchens ready for your catering team
• A special bridal suite to get ready on your big day

The mansion’s spacious grounds provide plenty of parking for guests while keeping its historic charm intact.

Renwick Mansion capacity

The venue works well for celebrations both big and small:

• Indoor space fits up to 150 guests
• Outdoor areas hold 250+ people
• Tented outdoor space can welcome up to 300 guests
• Combined spaces can host up to 430 people total

Renwick Mansion pricing

Rates change based on the day and package you choose:

• Friday: $900
• Saturday: $10,000
• Sunday: $700

Multi-day packages range from $15,000-$30,000, with prices varying if you include bedroom rentals. You can also rent rooms overnight along with the building rental, starting at $70-80 per room each night.

Real couple reviews of Renwick Mansion

Couples love this venue, giving it 4.9 out of 5 stars in reviews. They praise both the property and its owners consistently.

“The mansion is absolutely stunning and it offered everything we were looking for: a beautiful and spacious indoor and outdoor space, a full weekend rental, and bar service,” one happy bride shared.

“We rented all the rooms in the house for our friends and family which made the weekend even more enjoyable. Pricing was VERY reasonable and the owners were extremely accommodating to our needs,” another couple noted.

The venue’s beauty, helpful owners, and unique historic setting help create wedding memories that last a lifetime.

The Celebration Farm

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The Celebration Farm, a 12-year old venue, gives couples a unique collection of rustic spaces tucked away among trees and fertile farmland of Johnson County. This special wedding venue blends beautiful natural surroundings with flexible event options to create unforgettable celebrations for Iowa couples.

Celebration Farm features

The venue showcases three amazing event spaces:

• The Double Round Barn shows off an impressive domed ceiling, a working limestone fireplace, and a covered patio built by local craftsmen
• The Timber Frame Barn radiates rustic charm with plenty of outdoor space on a wrap-around deck that looks over wooded acreage
• The Amphitheater features three stone arches that frame the ceremony space, with evergreens, woodlands, a pond, and a fountain all around it

Your booking comes with tables, chairs, sound system, free décor, and setup and cleanup services on your big day. The venue’s mix of indoor and outdoor spaces lets you plan creatively and get beautiful photo backgrounds.

Celebration Farm capacity

The venue welcomes celebrations of all sizes and can host up to 450 guests total. Each space has its own capacity:

• Double Round Barn: Fits up to 300 guests
• Timber Frame Barn: Holds up to 150 guests
• Amphitheater: Seats up to 300 guests on terraced levels

Couples can pick the perfect space that matches their guest count and dream wedding vision.

Celebration Farm pricing

Each space has different prices depending on the season:

• Double Round Barn: $3,500-$7,500
• Timber Frame Barn: $2,500-$4,500
• Amphitheater: $500
• Whole site rental: $8,000-$10,000

Reception prices start at $900, and peak season runs through September-October. Most couples spend about $6,000 on their celebration.

Real couple reviews of Celebration Farm

Couples consistently praise the venue’s beauty and staff’s attention to detail. “The venue is absolutely beautiful and our ceremony and reception turned out better than we ever imagined,” shared one couple.

A different couple noted, “The Celebration Farm is unique in the fact that they let you plan your wedding your way when other venues were not allowing this”. Many reviews highlight the great communication during planning and how the staff helps with setup.

The venue can be “very pricey,” but most couples say the stunning architecture and helpful team make their wedding magical.

The Hotel at Kirkwood Center

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Located just minutes from The Eastern Iowa Airport, The Hotel at Kirkwood Center is Cedar Rapids’ only AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel. This unique venue combines upscale accommodations with an educational purpose. The hotel serves as both a luxury destination and teaching facility where service standards consistently go above and beyond.

Kirkwood Center features

The venue has several elegant spaces perfect for wedding celebrations:

• A spectacular 7,454-square-foot ballroom with digital ceiling-mounted projectors and strategically positioned screens
• A versatile atrium perfect for ceremonies with complimentary microphone and baby grand piano
• A picturesque garden area ideally suited for outdoor weddings of 20-300
• A dedicated wedding dressing room available prior to ceremonies
• Two kitchens for catering needs and full bar services

The venue takes care of decorations, catering, and cleanup so couples can focus on enjoying their special day.

Kirkwood Center capacity

The ballroom seats up to 450 guests comfortably for banquet-style receptions. This makes it a great fit for celebrations of all sizes. The pre-function space features floor-to-ceiling windows across 4,100 square feet and fits up to 300 guests. The venue boasts 19,000 square feet of total event space spread across 15 different function areas.

Kirkwood Center pricing

You’ll need $750 to rent the ballroom with a minimum food and beverage spend of $10,500. The atrium costs $1,000 for ceremonies, which includes chair setup, microphone, and piano use. The garden area rental is $400, but you’ll need to rent outdoor chairs separately. A non-refundable $1,000 deposit will secure your date.

Real couple reviews of Kirkwood Center

Couples love the venue’s beauty and exceptional service. One bride shared, “Mary with Hotel Kirkwood made my wedding dreams come true. She listened to every idea I had and made it come alive”. Another couple appreciated that they “didn’t have to stress about setting up or tearing down, unlike so many other venues”. Guests often mention that “the food served was the best wedding food they had ever had”.

Little Lights on the Lane

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Little Lights on the Lane sits atop a hill with stunning views of Cedars Edge Golf Course in West Branch. This Scandinavian-inspired wedding venue opened its doors in 2019. The space blends natural beauty with modern elegance to create a bright, airy atmosphere just minutes from Iowa City.

Little Lights features

The venue offers several distinctive elements that make weddings special:

• A beautiful maple tree naturally shades guests during indoor and outdoor ceremonies
• Guests can enjoy cocktail hours and dancing on a 100-foot extended wrap-around covered porch
• The owner handcrafted farmhouse tables complement modern black chairs
• Couples can access a complimentary “Something Borrowed” decor closet stocked with arbors, easels, runners, candlesticks, neon signs, and more
• Wedding parties can prepare in two private luxury suites with french doors
• The main hall connects seamlessly to outdoor spaces through 30-foot sliding glass doors

Little Lights capacity

The venue welcomes up to 300 guests for combined indoor and outdoor celebrations. Indoor space accommodates 180 guests maximum during winter weddings. This makes Little Lights perfect for both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations throughout the year.

Little Lights pricing

2025 wedding rates vary by day:

• Friday: $12,000 (select Fridays available for $8,000)
• Saturday: $12,500
• Sunday: Rates available when you ask

Holiday weekend celebrations cost $14,500. Coordination packages start from $3,500 for day-of coordination and go up to $7,000 for full planning and design. Couples can get discounts by booking these services with the venue.

Real couple reviews of Little Lights

Couples love the venue’s beauty and service quality. “The entire place is just gorgeous and on top of that, they have hired an amazing staff that is incredibly helpful,” one happy couple shared.

“The best decision I made during wedding planning was scheduling a tour of Little Lights on the Lane. We fell in love immediately,” another couple mentioned. Photographers praise the venue’s natural light, clean architectural lines, and scenic surroundings. These elements help create timeless wedding photos.

Toast in Ankeny

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Toast sits right in the bustling District at Prairie Trail in Ankeny. This upscale industrial chic setting makes a perfect wedding venue. The 15,000-square-foot space showcases exposed brick, beautiful wood flooring, and crystal chandeliers. You won’t need much decoration to make this elegant space shine.

Toast venue features

The venue offers several distinct spaces to celebrate:

• A luxurious main event space with exposed brick walls, restoration hardware chandeliers, and adjustable lighting
• A bright, welcoming ceremony space that creates the perfect atmosphere to exchange vows
• A gorgeous bridal suite complete with plush couches, individual makeup stations, and plenty of natural light
• A rooftop patio that overlooks The District – ideal for cocktail hours or intimate ceremonies

The venue comes with farmhouse wooden tables, round tables with linens, black cross-back chairs, and three movable bars. Toast’s location is convenient too. You can walk to many restaurants, hotels, and shopping boutiques nearby.

Toast venue capacity

The main space fits up to 425 seated guests comfortably. The ceremony area holds up to 375 people, and the rooftop patio welcomes 150 guests. This gives couples plenty of flexibility to arrange the space exactly how they want.

Toast venue pricing

Wedding packages at Toast for 2025 range from $7,000 to $9,000. Saturday events during peak season cost around $8,500, while Friday celebrations run about $5,000. The ceremony space costs an extra $2,000. Events serving alcohol need security personnel at $250. Large celebrations must have event insurance.

Real couple reviews of Toast

Couples love Toast’s unique style and service. One bride shared, “From the moment my daughter and I stepped into the space, we knew this is where we wanted to hold her big day! The open concept and industrial feel gave my daughter the perfect vision for the wedding of her dreams!”

Another couple said, “We got married at Toast last month, and it was my dream wedding… While it’s not the cheapest venue out there, it is by far the most beautiful and requires less decor – potentially saving you money on other items”. Photographers love working here too. One mentioned, “Toast is a beautiful venue that has a ton of options for photos”.

Willow on Grand

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Willow on Grand sits beautifully in Des Moines’ Waterbury neighborhood. The venue creates a timeless wedding backdrop with its modern cottage-inspired feel. Its distinctive design skillfully combines peaks, large beams, and abundant natural light with a turn-of-the-century backdrop.

Willow on Grand features

The venue’s carefully designed spaces include:

• The Grand Room spans 5,000 square feet with vaulted ceilings, oversized windows, white walls, and beautiful chandeliers. It serves as a versatile blank canvas that couples can personalize
• A charming outdoor Courtyard with bistro lighting sets the perfect scene for ceremonies, photos, or cocktail hours
• The Cottage bridal suite comes equipped with a full coffee bar, champagne on tap, private bathroom, floor-length mirror, and comfortable seating
• The venue added an AirBnB space next door that creates a complete weekend experience for wedding parties

The venue provides tables, tablecloths, chairs, and optional luxury tabletop rentals. Couples can add chargers, plates, and flatware for additional fees. The space combines functional elegance with a clean, modern esthetic that needs minimal decoration.

Willow on Grand capacity

The venue welcomes up to 300 guests. Its versatile space works well for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Both indoor and outdoor ceremony options give couples flexibility whatever the weather conditions.

Willow on Grand pricing

Wedding rentals for 2025 range between $4,000-$7,500, based on selected packages and amenities. Couples should also plan for these additional services:

• Security personnel: $350 per event (required)
• Optional in-house planning services available for extra cost
• Early venue access: $500 per hour (before standard 9 AM access)

Real couple reviews of Willow on Grand

Couples consistently praise the venue’s beauty and exceptional staff. “We fell in love immediately,” shared one bride. Photographers love this “beautiful new venue” and appreciate “the best and most experienced staff that makes working here an absolute blast”. Many couples point out the venue’s natural lighting, clean design, and versatile spaces that need less decorating—which can help save money on other wedding elements.

The Monroe

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The Monroe brings traditional charm and modern elegance together in the heart of West Des Moines. This stylish venue creates a timeless setting where every detail adds to your celebration’s magic.

The Monroe features

The Monroe’s thoughtfully designed space includes several distinct areas:

• A magnificent ballroom showcases vaulted ceilings, oversized windows, and beautiful chandeliers that create an elegant backdrop
• The venue provides both indoor and outdoor ceremony options, so you can plan your day with confidence whatever the weather
• Wedding parties can relax in luxurious preparation suites equipped with flatscreen TVs
• You’ll find the Billiards Room perfect for socializing or intimate gatherings

The venue sits next to the beautiful Des Moines Golf and Country Club. This prime location offers stunning surroundings and easy access for guests coming from all directions.

The Monroe capacity

The space adapts beautifully to celebrations of all sizes. The grand ballroom welcomes up to 200 guests comfortably. Smaller gatherings feel right at home in the Billiards Room, which fits 100 guests theater-style or 60 guests banquet-style. The Ceremony Room offers similar capacity options.

The Monroe pricing

The Monroe’s rental fee starts at $6,500 for 2025 celebrations. This price reflects great value when you look at the upscale amenities and versatile spaces. Your investment gets you access to one of West Des Moines’ newest renovated wedding venues with a luxury atmosphere.

Real couple reviews of The Monroe

Couples love The Monroe’s elegant atmosphere and exceptional service. “We had the most beautiful wedding at the Monroe. The staff was friendly and so responsive,” one happy bride shared. Another couple said simply, “The venue 10/10. The team 10/10”.

The venue’s stunning interior needs minimal decoration, which helps save money elsewhere. Most couples feel an instant connection to the space. As one pair put it, “From the moment we stepped into the space, we knew this is where we wanted to hold our big day!”.

Comparison Table

Conclusion

Choosing your perfect wedding venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make while planning your special day. Iowa’s top venues showcase an impressive range of options that cater to every couple’s unique vision.

The state offers venues for celebrations of all sizes. Rhythm City Casino Resort’s grand ballroom welcomes up to 1,000 guests, while The Monroe’s intimate charm fits 200 people comfortably. The pricing range adds another advantage. Venue rentals start at $500 at Decades Event Center and go up to $14,500 for premium dates at Little Lights on the Lane.

Design lovers will appreciate the variety – from Steeple Square’s majestic former church setting to Ashton Hill Farm’s modern white shiplap esthetic. Iowa’s seasonal weather patterns play a crucial role in venue selection, but most featured venues offer both indoor and outdoor spaces to handle unexpected weather.

Real-life couples praise these venues not just for their beautiful settings but also for exceptional service. Their experiences highlight responsive venue coordinators and flexible policies that let you personalize your celebration.

Wedding planning might feel overwhelming at first. Breaking down your venue search by location, capacity, budget, and style priorities will make your trip easier. Many venues provide complete packages that cover everything from tables and chairs to event coordination. This lets you focus on enjoying your day.

Your perfect Iowa wedding venue exists among these outstanding options. Trust your instincts during venue tours, ask about what’s included, and note that the best venue reflects your relationship authentically. Good luck with your venue search!