Boston, a city rich with historical charm, is home to many outstanding historic wedding venues. From beloved museums to nationally regarded art centers, couples with their sights set on Boston have no shortage of majestic ballrooms, sprawling halls and intimate courtyards. At the same time, finding the perfect Boston location for your romantic day may seem overwhelming at first. It helps to have an overview of the types of wedding venues available to give you a better visualization of your big day.
Whether you’re on the quest for a historic Boston wedding venue or simply visiting, here are some locations you should consider exploring while you’re in town:
Boston Public Library
This national treasure paved the way for the future of public libraries. It’s home to 23 million items, including rarities like first edition folios by William Shakespeare and original Mozart music scores. When the library’s McKim Building in Copley Square first opened in 1895, it was proclaimed “the palace of the people.”
Every single room of the McKim Building has filled event-goers and tourists alike with enchantment and wonder. From Bates Hall’s English oak bookcases and barrel-arched ceilings to the magnificent Chavannes Gallery featuring eight of French artist Pierre Puvis de Chavannes’ murals, the McKim will leave an imprint in your memory as it has in history.
The Abbey Room or Boylston Hall would make for an unforgettable cocktail hour. Guastavino Room, too, is a popular space for wedding receptions and grand parties. If you’re in the mood for dining outdoors, wedding guests can also enjoy an intimate ceremony or evening cocktails in the Italianate-style courtyard in front of an enchanting fountain. Fill your day with exploration at the Boston Public Library! Every inch of this location is covered in splendor.
Harvard Art Museums
The Harvard Art Museums, located in the heart of Cambridge, houses some of the most renowned art collections in the world. The venue is available for after-hours entertaining, providing exclusive and private access to its exhibitions and collection. The museum is stunningly sophisticated and a desirable destination for weddings and celebrations.
Emerson Colonial Theater
This newly renovated gem, which opened in 1900, is the oldest theater in Boston. The first play to ever to grace its stage was Ben-Hur. The opening show was sold out, and Winston Churchill was in the audience. Over the years, the theater has played countless Broadway favorites.
Emerson Colonial Theater is also a beloved historic Boston wedding venue. Guests are often amazed at the first sighting of crafted gold plasterwork and ornamental detail. The impressive Ambassador Lounge offers a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience.
Old South Meeting House
The spacious brick meeting house is the actual building where colonists met in 1773 to protest the tea tax. It retains a multifaceted identity as a museum, national landmark and community space. And it’s an official site on the Freedom Trail!
Much of the meeting house interior looks as it did in the 18th century, though it can be personalized for weddings and elegant affairs. Make your big day revolutionary!
Adolphus Busch Hall
Adolphus Busch Hall at Harvard Art Museums features dramatic architecture, a medieval aesthetic, and a gorgeous outdoor courtyard.
Treat your guests to a stunning collection medieval and Renaissance sculptures and architectural stonework. Available seasonally, guests can enjoy the outdoor courtyard as a warm weather respite or a twist on the traditional reception or outdoor wedding ceremony.
Cyclorama
Cyclorama at Boston Center for the Arts is unlike any other location. Officially listed on the National Register of Historical Landmarks, it retains many original features while boasting modern features like LED lighting, a vibrant plaza and many contemporary art collections. Its historic brick floor, stunning copper dome and skylight have mystified many visitors and set the stage for hundreds of events.
If you’re looking for a unique spot to tie the knot and share intimate moments with friends and family, Cyclorama is a wedding venue that will inspire excitement and creativity.
Boston Athenaeum
Founded in 1807, the Boston Athenaeum is one of the most distinguished independent libraries and cultural institutions in the U.S. It’s home to over half a million volumes on everything from Boston history to the fine and decorative arts. Its five galleried floors overlook the sacred Granary Burying Ground, and it’s one of the city’s most treasured historic sites.
The Henry Long Room and the G. d’Andelot Belin Bow Room both offer a sophisticated setting for a wedding reception or private affair.
Boch Center
The Boch Center’s Wang Theater is an opulent space to host a wedding or special event. Modeled after the Palace of Versailles, it houses five of the largest stages in America and features a 100-foot dome ceiling and grand staircase, captivating audiences and event-goers alike.
Once known as a movie “cathedral,” today the theater sets the standards for world-class theater, music, Broadway and dance. Its dramatic lighting, expansiveness and vintage decor will floor your guests, and your wedding or event will be sure to go down in history.
Boston Opera House
The Citizens Bank Opera House is one of the finest examples of Boston art and a historic wedding venue that exudes luxury and refinement. The building showcases French and Italian styles by renowned architect Thomas White Lamb. Edward Franklin Albee, who oversaw its construction, envisioned a theater that would memorialize his late partner, Benjamin Franklin Keith.
USS Constitution Museum
The USS Constitution Museum would make for a unique location for your next business event or reception. And talk about inspiring—you’ll be just a few yards away from “Old Ironsides.” The museum is national landmark located in the Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston Historical National Park and offers guests a snapshot of our country’s maritime heritage. It boasts three dynamic spaces: the newly renovated Education Center, the Discovery Center and the seasonal Courtyard. Gallery tours can be arranged for an additional fee.
Find Your Historic Boston Wedding Venue
The Catered Affair loves creating weddings and events at many locations throughout Boston. If you’re considering having your wedding, next business meeting or other special event in Boston, we would love to hear about it. Or if you just want to know more about things to do in Boston and other historic venues, let’s talk!
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