If you live in Oregon, or even if you’ve just visited, you know this Western state certainly doesn’t lack beautiful areas to explore. And for many Oregon couples, it’s important to include the state’s stunning landscape into their wedding day, whether it's lush forest, mountain views, or the rugged coastline.
While the weather in Oregon can be incredible at times, it can also be tricky to plan around when it comes to weddings. With that, it’s even more important to find the ideal venue to suit your needs.
To help you plan the most remarkable Oregon wedding, we turned to local planner Shauna Karver. "People who get married in Oregon want to show off all the beauty that comes with being in the Pacific Northwest—the mountains, the sweeping landscapes, the ocean. September and October have become the sweet spot with the incredible weather and breathtaking views that come with the seasonal change from summer to fall." However, no matter the month you choose to say "I do" it’s still helpful to have backup plans for heat, rain, and even snow.
Meet the Expert
Shauna Karver is the owner and creative director behind J29 Events, a full-service wedding planning and event design company.
Getting married in Oregon offers a huge range of venue options, whether you’re hoping for simplicity, or something elaborate. And your terrain can certainly vary as well. According to Karver, pricing ranges between $10,000 to $12,000 for many venues, but those also typically include furniture and rentals. Many other venue options can certainly meet a smaller budget ranging from $500 to $3,000. It all depends on the season, location, and what’s included.
Ready to find the perfect venue for your Oregon wedding? Read on for the 13 best wedding venues in the state.
The current outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. As the situation remains fluid, we’ll be sharing tips and stories from industry experts to give you of-the-moment advice and help you navigate wedding planning today. For the most up-to-date guidelines and latest on travel restrictions and requirements, check the CDC and U.S. Department of State websites.
Brasada Ranch, Powell Butte
Just east of Bend, Brasada Ranch boasts every comfort you could dream of for destination or local weddings. Enjoy panoramic mountain views from every vantage point, all while being surrounded by the captivating landscape of Central Oregon’s high desert. "From world-class golf, horseback riding, pools, the spa, and exquisite restaurants, guests have no reason to leave while they soak in the mountain views," says Karver. "The cherry on top [is] the evening sunsets—there is nothing better, especially as you dance the night away as the sun sets behind you with your nearest and dearest." Couples can use a variety of spaces, including the Range Lawn, the historic Trestle Bridge, and the modern-meets-rustic chic barn with an indoor-outdoor option. Turn it into a getaway with your friends and family by utilizing on-site accommodations such as the well-appointed Sage Canyon Cabins or The Ranch House.
Blockhouse, Portland
For couples seeking an urban option, Karver suggests this stunning spot. Blockhouse is easily accessible in Portland, yet feels like a world away. The space is tucked away in Pomarius Nursery, offering the perfect place to say "I do" for plant lovers, or those simply looking for a unique, lush venue. You can utilize the furnished outdoor patio, along with the orangery, to make for a truly exceptional celebration. Plus, there’s an on-site open kitchen to bring in your favorite caterer to prepare a memorable meal.
The Orchard, Hood River
Hood River is located along the Columbia River, with views of Mt. Hood to the south and Mt. Adams to the north. The Orchard is set amongst a working pear farm, boasting scenic views wherever you turn. The wedding lawn features Mt. Hood as the backdrop in all its glory. The barn, with two open walls, romantic string lights, and plenty of rustic charm, is great for a reception. The icing on the cake? In-house catering is offered by Celilo, a catering company dedicated to providing true farm-to-table dinner experiences utilizing ingredients locally sourced from just a few miles away.
Salishan Coastal Lodge, Gleneden Beach
Located south of Lincoln City, the Salishan Coastal Lodge property is tucked just off of the iconic Highway 101. Upon entering the grounds, you’re met with lush forest, along with a view of Siletz Bay. The property boasts access to nature trails, a pristine golf course, a tranquil bayside spa, an adventurous aerial park, and well-appointed rooms beaming with rustic elegance. Couples can opt for an outdoor ceremony surrounded by tall trees, or choose from a variety of indoor spaces depending on the wedding size. Receptions can be held in the Long House Ballroom or tented on the main lawn.
Pendleton Rodeo Grounds, Pendleton
For couples looking for an Eastern Oregon experience, this is it. The PRCA Pendleton Round-Up has been held in Pendleton, Oregon for over 100 years, making it one of the largest and most popular rodeos in the world. And couples can say "I do" on this little slice of history. Facility rentals on the grounds are available, offering a variety of sizing options. But to really make it a rodeo wedding, you can ask about renting the historic arena for a truly unique location.
Crook Point, Brookings
Planning a micro wedding or elopement? Karver suggests Crook Point on the Southern Oregon coast as the best venue. However, if you’re hosting a bigger wedding, this gorgeous location can still accommodate. Couples can hold their ceremony on the main lawn, right on the edge of the Pacific Ocean with the rugged Arch Rock in the background. Prefer to be right on the beach? Say "I do" on The Cove Beach. Host an alfresco reception amongst enchanting, tall trees and lush greenery, complete with breathtaking ocean views, for a truly Pacific Northwest celebration. This secluded venue offers two miles of stunning Oregon coastline to explore, complete with lodging on-site as well.
The Sentinel, Portland
This iconic hotel towers in downtown Portland and boasts intricate elegance. The Sentinel was built in 1909 with Viennese influences featuring a terra cotta exterior, and the building was later designated as a National Historic Landmark. From two unique ballrooms to the library and a variety of other period-style spaces with elaborate arches throughout the hotel, there’s a beautiful option for every couple. Each venue space features ornate architecture and opulent details for a truly sophisticated celebration.
Del Mar Villa, Dundee
Want to be transported to wine country? This Tuscan-inspired estate is the perfect fit. Located southwest of Portland in the heart of wine country, Del Mar Villa is a 46-acre property that features an intricately designed chateau set amongst immaculately manicured grounds. Couples can book this vacation rental for an intimate celebration, complete with lodging, for up to 30 guests. "This grand Tuscan-inspired wine country estate has it all—elegance, privacy, an expansive property with gorgeous river and mountain views, and a level of luxury that you won’t find elsewhere in the Pacific Northwest," says Karver. "Our favorite detail? The stunning arched hallway that leads to the large ballroom."
Bridal Veil Lakes, Bridal Veil
One of the most quintessential locations to tie the knot in Oregon is a spot on the Columbia River Gorge Waterfall Highway. Bridal Veil Lakes provides just that. The secluded property is surrounded by an old-growth forest, hovering over a spring-fed lake. Host your ceremony on the shore of the lake and then transition to the open-air pavilion or covered patio for the reception. Don’t miss the opportunity to have a few moments to yourself as newlyweds by taking a canoe ride on the lake or heading to nearby scenic waterfalls—both great photo opportunities!
Abbey Road Farm, Carlton
This working farm located in the Willamette Valley is nothing short of charming. Abbey Road Farm sits on 82 acres, complete with a bed and breakfast housed in old working grain silos, an event venue, and 45 acres of grapevines. Couples can use the on-site gardens for a stunning ceremony or plan to share their vows at the Wedding Triangle, which overlooks majestic wine country. Of course, the cellar room is the perfect location for a reception.
Sunriver Resort, Sunriver
For many Oregon couples, Sunriver Resort has been a family vacation spot for decades. This high desert destination boasts grand mountain views of the Cascades, with Mt. Bachelor prominently towering above. Guest rooms on-site feature stone fireplaces and private decks offering the perfect home base for a wedding weekend. Choose an outdoor ceremony amongst a lush meadow, or on the Mt. Bachelor Lawn with captivating views. But the most stand-out location on the property? None other than the historic Great Hall. The 1940s' building beams with rustic elegance thanks to the preservation of the structure's hundreds of pine logs.
House on Metolius, Camp Sherman
Karver notes this spot as the best outdoor venue option in Oregon. House on Metolius is a private resort and nature reserve that sits on 200 acres and is surrounded by a national forest. An outdoor ceremony will provide incredible views of Mt. Jefferson and the Metolius River, while both indoor and outdoor spaces are available for dinner and your reception. Book cabins on-site to enjoy the grounds with your guests, making for a unique summer camp vibe. Don’t miss the mid-century barn still standing on the property as the perfect photo op!
Tetherow Resort, Bend
Located on the west side of Bend, this Central Oregon site has everything you need, whether you live in the area or you’re looking for a destination option. The 700-acre Tetherow Resort property offers a boutique hotel, as well as vacation rentals in a variety of sizing options to host your wedding party and guests. The ceremony lawn offers panoramic views of the resort’s fairways, with the Deschutes National Forest in the background. After the ceremony, the event pavilion’s modern ballroom can be set up for an indoor-outdoor reception, complete with a fire pit and on-site catering. Plan to come for just your wedding day or make a destination weekend out of it by incorporating activities such as a round of golf or a pool party under the cabanas.