Wedding Venues in Wilmington NC

The Cape Fear area hosts more than its share of weddings each year, as people are drawn here to celebrate that special day. They choose this area because there are so many wonderful options and at prices that are affordable too.

An astounding number of options exist. There are spectacularly beautiful beaches, lovely historic churches, a beautiful historic theater, a huge riverboat and even a battleship. If a smaller venue is more suited, private rooms in restaurants and historic homes are available too.

Lots Of Reception Options

And after you have the perfect wedding ceremony, you’ll want the perfect reception – maybe a Carolina barbecue, a clambake or an elegant formal dinner at a luxurious oceanfront property. On the other hand, you might like a more intimate bridal affair at a charming historic venue. Whatever your preference, there’s a caterer here to fulfill your dreams.

Our restaurants and hotels, especially those with water views, are extremely popular for catered events, especially things like anniversaries and birthdays. They’re great for business and organizational meetings, too. Outdoor venues such as some of our beautiful wooded parks are wonderful for picnics, weddings, children’s parties and church activities.

Considering a charity event? Think about using the Battleship North Carolina, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Henrietta III or Thalian Hall.

Restaurant Spaces Available

The Beam Room at Front Street Brewery located just off Market Street is an affordable event and party space that is available for wedding receptions or rehearsal dinners. Front Street has a 12 foot digital projection audio video system available too, making it ideal for company parties, corporate meetings and seminars. Front Street is happy to work with you to give you the meal you want, and provides affordable off-site catering too.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House, located at the Hilton Riverside Hotel downtown, is a beautiful location for a wedding reception or other special event. There are several private rooms that are available for events of different sizes. Ruth’s Chris is famous for the quality of their steaks; they are the only restaurant in Wilmington that exclusively serves prime beef. The restaurant staff is happy to design whatever menu the clients prefer. All the details are professionally handled so that all the guests need to do is enjoy the party.

Riverwalk Landing is a complete banquet facility located on the Cape Fear River in Historic Downtown. They offer a variety of spaces that can accommodate groups of 25 to 200, and there are beautiful views from both indoor and outdoor spaces. Elijah’s Restaurant and Pilot House Restaurant provide a host of food options as well as 30 years of reliable service.

Consider arriving at your reception in style if you are being married in one of downtown’s historic churches then going to the reception. The charming Wilmington Trolley is happy to arrange transportation for the wedding party and guests.

Celebrate On the Water

To celebrate in style, consider the Sanjema II, a luxury yacht available by the day or week from Wilmington Yacht Charters Spending time aboard this vessel would be a wonderful y to celebrate such special events as engagements, birthdays, anniversaries or vow renewals. One surprise engagement took place on the Sanjema II recently – the bride-to-be said yes!

Unique Settings

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is available for weddings and receptions too. Located just steps from the ocean in Kure Beach, the Aquarium offers spacious galleries, stunning views and an unforgettable atmosphere for such a special occasion. They are happy to work with you to be sure that your enchanted event meets or surpasses your expectations.

Poplar Grove Plantation, one of the few surviving plantations in the country, is located just north of Wilmington. Brides can chose rustic or elegant weddings, or a blend of the two, as they plan their event at this family home which was built circa 1850 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The staff at Poplar Grove is happy to help brides with details including catering, photography and music.

Airlie Gardens in Wilmington is another gorgeous site for weddings. With formal gardens, sculptures, views of Bradley Creek and a 467-year-old live oak, there are a tremendous number of options for sites for a wedding day. Airlie Gardens is available for afternoon or evening weddings, rehearsal dinners or other special events from March through October.