Your wedding should be as unique as you are, and your venue is no exception. Each city has its own share of out-of-the-box wedding venues, especially in Grand Rapids!
If you’re looking for a non-traditional wedding venue, check out a few of our local favorites.
Museums and Galleries
While art museums are becoming a more popular wedding venue option, other types of museums make a great alternative. Choose one that not only fits your wedding’s style but also features something you and your fiancé are interested in, such as local history or astrology. Art galleries are also a great alternative to the more popular art museum because they tend to be smaller and more intimate. Guests can entertain themselves through guided or self-guided tours of the museum or gallery during your reception.
Hotspots in West Michigan: The Grand Rapids Public Museum, Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, Lions and Rabbits
Breweries
“Beer lover” takes on a whole new meaning with a brewery wedding! Many breweries and bars in Beer City, USA offer event space, which makes for an intimate gathering of friends, family, and beer lovers alike. Take your brewery wedding one step further at B.O.B.’s Brewery in The B.O.B., where Brewer John will officiate your wedding, blessing your union with a lighting of the grain votive and smashing of a pint glass.
Hotspots in West Michigan: B.O.B.’s Brewery at The B.O.B.
In the Wild
If you and your fiance spend every free evening and weekend on a hike or at the beach, then let Mother Nature host your wedding! Boat weddings are great for beach lovers who want to get married in Lake Michigan. Hiking trails, campsites, and dunes also make scenic wedding locations for the Michigan adventurer. Plenty of state parks will allow weddings with the right permits, so check in with the proper authorities before partying on the trails.
Hotspots in West Michigan: Saugatuck State Park, Grand Haven State Park, your friend’s boat off the coast of your favorite Great Lake
Treehouse
Remember the backyard treehouse from your childhood? You can get married in the most elegant treehouse of your dreams at The Bissell Tree House, located in John Ball Zoo. This beautiful ballroom features a wraparound deck with beautiful views of the gardens as well as access to the zoo. Get wild!
Hotspots in West Michigan: Bissell Tree House in John Ball Zoo
Historical Buildings
Despite all of the new developments in the city, Grand Rapids and surrounding areas still have plenty of beautiful, historical buildings that make the perfect backdrop for your dream wedding. Whether it’s a historic mansion or a centuries-old church, you’re sure to find a venue that fits your needs and eye for vintage flair!
Hotspots in West Michigan: Paddock Place, Masonic Temple, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church
West Michigan is full of unique wedding venues to choose from. To find out more about the Gilmore Collection’s special events venues and Gilmore Catering services, visit our website.
