The Best Outdoor Wedding Venues in Durango, IA

The Best Outdoor Wedding Venues in Durango, IA

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8 Wedding Venues in Durango, IA

Outdoor
Quick responder
Chestnut Mountain Resort 

2.0

Galena, IL
  • Up to 250 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $1,500

Chestnut Mountain Resort sits high on a bluff overlooking the beautiful Mississippi River. Our picturesque views and amazing sunsets create the perfect backdrop adding to the beauty of your special day. Offering two ceremony sites and two reception areas, you are sure to find something suited to your occasion. Ceremony and/or reception packages available for a small intimate gathering or large affair. Our full service resort is located just 8 miles from scenic Galena. Our friendly and expert staff are ready to assist you with ensuring a day to remember.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Offers convenient lodging options
  • Versatile for various event styles
  • Provides setup and cleanup

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • Does not allow pets
Rustic Creek LLC 

5.0

Hopkinton, IA
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor

Rustic Creek is an old School Gym from the 1920’s repurposed into a dream venue. Accommodations up to 300 and climate controlled. Rustic Creek provides round tables for seating and rectangle tables for head table/food area. The biggest plus to Rustic Creek is all weddings are a 48 hour rental, so no rush to get your big day set up or cleaned up!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Space for a large guest list
  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Provides setup and cleanup

Venue considerations

  • On-site parking not available
  • Does not allow pets
  • No on-site bridal suite
The people are so friendly. I felt more like I was getting together with old friends than booking a venue.
Hezekiah E., 2 years ago
Quick responder
Oak Hill Farm 

5.0

Apple River, IL
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $5,000

Oak Hill Farm is an elegant outdoor wedding venue nestled on a secluded estate near Galena, Illinois, a popular tourist destination in the Midwest. Our venue features four outdoor ceremony locations, a historic chapel and an all-white, open air pavilion (heat and window walls available as needed) that seats up to 250. We offer unique amenities, many vintage details and endless photo opportunities on our 170 acre private property.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Multiple event spaces
  • Pets can join the celebration
  • Creates a sense of togetherness

Venue considerations

  • No venue-provided food services
  • Not for you if you don't want a rustic vibe
  • Not wheelchair accessible
Awarded Best of Zola
Our wedding at Oak Hill Farm was an absolute dream! From our first communication with Becky, she was thorough, fast, kind, and detailed in answering all of our questions. On the big day, everything was set up exactly how we wanted it. It was perfect! Becky and her staff were so accommodating, helpful, and nice, making sure the event ran smoothly. As a bride, they treated me like the most important person in the world. The venue was breathtaking - I felt like I was in a real life fairytale! All of our guests and even our vendors couldn't stop raving about how beautiful Oak Hill Farm is. For any brides looking for the perfect rustic venue with an attentive team that will make you feel special, I highly recommend Oak Hill Farm!
Kelsey B., a year ago
New
Dubuque County Fairgrounds & Event Center 
Dubuque, IA
  • Up to 900 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $700

The Dubuque County Fairgrounds and Event Center offers a charming and versatile setting for weddings of all sizes. Operated by the Dubuque County Fair Association (DCFA), a proud non-profit organization founded in 1953, the venue has grown into a premier destination for unforgettable events. Spanning 96 beautifully maintained acres, the Fairgrounds feature three spacious indoor rental facilities totaling over 32,000 square feet, ideal for ceremonies, receptions, and everything in between. Couples and their guests will enjoy ample parking for thousands of vehicles, a scenic outdoor Festival Area perfect for open-air celebrations, and a unique 3/8 mile dirt track that adds character and charm to the grounds. With experienced event planners on hand and full-service food and beverage amenities, the Dubuque County Fairgrounds and Event Center provides a seamless and memorable experience from "I do" to the last dance.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Picturesque garden backdrop
  • Promotes a party atmosphere
  • Flexible event spaces

Venue considerations

  • Requires outside catering services
  • Does not have a dance floor
  • Does not provide event staff
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium 
Dubuque, IA
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor

The Museum & Aquarium can help you create all the details for the perfect event, from beautiful tables to a delicious menu served by our exclusive caterer. The Museum & Aquarium includes ideal settings for indoor or outdoor ceremonies, mingling over cocktails, or dancing the night away. Located on the Mississippi River in charming Dubuque, Iowa, the Museum & Aquarium is also ideal for wedding showers, rehearsal dinners, baby showers, anniversary parties, and corporate events.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Bridal suite on site
  • Provides event staff

Venue considerations

  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
Quick responder
The Cording Event Barn at Hawk Valley Retreat and Cottages 
GALENA, IL
  • Up to 40 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $1,000

Are you dreaming of a Galena Barn Wedding? Hawk Valley Retreat and the Cording Event Barn make the perfect venue for elopements and intimate weddings. Whether you get married in the barn, the gazebo, or on the grounds, you will be sure to be surrounded by nature’s beauty. Our 10 acres of meadows, ponds, and nature will transport you and your guests. We offer several packages to make the planning a breeze, but if you have something else in mind we love making your day the way that you want it. The Cording Event Barn is newly renovated as of Spring 2022 with stunning views of the grounds, a large outdoor deck, loft space, and a large main floor. Full catering is available. BYOB alcohol is available.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Offers full-service amenities

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you prefer a more modern aesthetic
  • Small venue, not ideal for a large guest lists
  • Not wheelchair accessible
Fergedaboudit Vineyard and Winery 
Hanover, IL
  • Up to 80 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor

IMAGINE THIS, TAKING YOUR VOWS AMIDST THE VINES IN THE MIDDLE OF THE VINEYARD These stunning views of the vineyard, rolling hills and sunsets will take your breathe away! There are 2 rental space options to choose from depending on the number of guest. Covered Tuscany Style Deck to accommodate up to 60 people Overlooking the vineyard and an outdoor ceremony underneath our fabric draped gazebo in the midst of the vineyard. Estate Location for Custom Tent to accommodate up to 250 people Overlooking the vineyard and an outdoor ceremony underneath our fabric draped gazebo in the midst of the vineyard. All our efforts go into creating the most fabulous memorable day you could possibly imagine. We pride ourselves on our ability to customize and create the perfect package for you based on your ideas. At Fergedaboudit Vineyard & Winery, we are committed to coming alongside of you to help execute your unique vision. This day is all about you, your friendships, family and making loving memories.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Full catering menu to choose from
  • Allows pets
  • Provides setup and cleanup

Venue considerations

  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
  • Does not have a dance floor
  • Not wheelchair accessible
Quick responder
Windmill Hill Weddings & Events 
Manchester, IA
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $2,000

Located just north of Manchester Iowa, Windmill Hill is a rustic wedding and event venue, featuring multiple ceremony & reception areas, modern amenities, bridal suite, groom's room, an outdoor patio, multiple outdoor decks, and more! There is also a home on the property available to rent featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a large living room, and a large kitchen and dining room. This allows you to relax and celebrate for the entire weekend all in one place. It is conveniently located about 3 miles north of Manchester, just off highway 13. There are several florists, caterers, DJs, party bus services, and more in the surrounding areas. It is also located approximately 50 miles each from Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, and Dubuque.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Bridal suite on site
  • Caters to out-of-town guests
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you don't want a rustic vibe
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists

Location flexible? Discover venues near Durango, IA

About wedding venues in Durango, IA

Iowa offers some truly exceptional wedding settings that you'll fall in love with, from historic mansions with character to beautifully converted barns that blend rustic charm with modern amenities. You'll find specialized venues across the state that cater to specific needs; places like River Center in Des Moines provides outstanding accessibility features while The Chateau in Cambridge delivers a culinary experience that your guests will talk about for years.

What Makes Iowa Wedding Venues Special?

Iowa's rich architectural heritage creates wedding backdrops you simply can't find elsewhere. Rollins Mansion showcases historic detailing that photographs beautifully while The Temple for Performing Arts features stunning stained glass skylights that create magical lighting throughout your ceremony. Des Moines is home to premier venues like Northbridge Event Center with excellent food partnerships that will impress even your foodie friends. If you're looking eastward, The Harmac in Eastern Iowa offers an industrial atmosphere with handcrafted cocktails your guests will love. You'll typically spend between $7,100-$8,700 for Iowa venues, which falls nicely below the national average of $6,500-$12,000; giving you more flexibility with your overall budget.

How Much Does an Iowa Wedding Cost?

For a more intimate celebration with 50 guests, you're looking at roughly $18,338 total. Your costs will scale up naturally with your guest count. A 100-guest wedding typically runs about $30,382 while 150 guests pushes that to $41,708. Larger celebrations with 200 guests average $51,835 and if you're planning a big gathering with 250 guests expect around $61,962. The largest weddings with 300 guests typically reach $72,089. These figures help you set realistic expectations as you begin your venue search.

Which Venue Types Can You Find in Iowa?

Iowa gives you diverse venue options from elegant mansions to charming rustic barns that suit any wedding style you're dreaming of. Bella Sala Event Center can accommodate anywhere from 50 to 650 guests and offers beautiful outdoor spaces including a waterfall terrace and patio that creates perfect photo opportunities. The Exchange On Vine hosts up to 320 guests with flexible configurations that adapt to your vision, while VOWS DSM specializes in creating magical intimate celebrations for up to 65 guests; perfect if you're planning a more personal gathering.

How Do Iowa Wedding Venue Costs Break Down?

Venue costs make up about 19% of your total wedding budget with the average Iowa venue running $7,910. This gives you good perspective as you allocate funds across different services. Catering typically runs $6,328 (15%) while bar services average $5,062 (12%). Photography investments average $3,982 (10%) with videography close behind at $3,555 (9%). Your floral arrangements will likely cost around $3,342 (8%) and planning assistance averages $2,133 (5%). Entertainment costs about $1,350 (3%) with cake and desserts running $692 (2%). Hair and makeup services are relatively affordable at approximately $518 (1%).

ServiceAverage Cost% of Total (150 guests)
Venue$7,91019%
Catering$6,32815%
Bar Services$5,06212%
Photography$3,98210%
Videography$3,5559%
Florists$3,3428%
Planning$2,1335%
Entertainment$1,3503%
Cake/Desserts$6922%
Hair & Makeup$5181%

Where Are Iowa's Most Accessible Wedding Venues?

The River Center in Des Moines stands out with excellent ADA accessibility throughout plus two spacious bridal suites, private patios and convenient in-house catering that simplifies your planning. Wilson's Orchard in Iowa City offers accessible pathways with paved parking that ensures all your guests can navigate comfortably. You'll appreciate Bella Sala Event Center's comprehensive ADA accessibility throughout the facility, while The Temple for Performing Arts combines necessary accessibility features with modern amenities that don't compromise on style or atmosphere.

Which Iowa Venues Offer Outstanding Culinary Experiences?

The Chateau connects directly to a winery and features exceptional in-house catering that will impress even your most discerning guests. Northbridge Event Center partners with best-in-class food vendors while also supporting college scholarships in Kenya; so your celebration contributes to something meaningful. Glen Oaks Country Club delivers all-inclusive packages with exceptional culinary service that removes the stress of coordinating multiple vendors, letting you focus on enjoying your day.

When Should You Book Your Iowa Wedding Venue?

Most couples secure their venue about 15 months before their wedding date; giving you plenty of time to plan other details once your location is confirmed. October ranks as Iowa's most popular month for venue inquiries, so start looking earlier if you're considering a fall wedding. Popular destinations like The Celebration Farm and Glen Oaks Country Club often book well in advance, especially for peak season dates between May and October. Starting your venue search early gives you the best chance at securing your first choice.

How Can Iowa Venues Accommodate Remote Participants?

The Celebration Farm offers highly customizable spaces that work beautifully for integrating digital elements to include loved ones who can't attend in person. The Heights Rooftop can provide impressive Jumbotron displays that create an immersive experience for remote interaction. Venues like Northbridge Event Center and Bella Sala can accommodate technical installations for virtual engagement through augmented reality features or interactive experiences that bridge the gap between in-person and remote guests, ensuring everyone feels part of your special day.

What types of wedding venues are in Durango, IA?

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