The Best Aquarium & Zoo Wedding Venues in Lake Forest, CA

The Best Aquarium & Zoo Wedding Venues in Lake Forest, CA

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4 Wedding Venues in Lake Forest, CA

Aquariums, zoos
Quick responder
Botanica 

5.0

Oceanside, CA
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $15,950

This hidden tropical paradise surrounded by natural spring bed waterfalls and ponds enjoys refreshing coastal breezes. This venue is host to one wedding per day with an undeniable sense of privacy and tranquility.

Botanica was the most gorgeous setting to have our wedding. Everything about our experience was beautiful and everyone was incredibly accommodating. The photos don't do it justice and you will not be disappointed.
Hannah C., 3 years ago
Quick responder
Green Gables 

5.0

San Marcos, CA
  • Up to 425 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $15,950

Earthy, light, airy and feathery- In the shade of a lush, landmark forest, this historic garden estate is surrounded by ivy-covered arbors, blooming rose gardens, trickling fountains, picturesque statuary, and thousands of bright twinkling lights. A grand bridal parlor and vintage gentlemen’s speakeasy, outfitted with timeless, charming accents and furnishings, provide the perfect scenery for your preparations before reciting your vows in one of our three breathtaking ceremony spaces.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Natural elegance with open spaces
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests
  • Blends luxury with trendiness

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • Not for you if you don't want a rustic vibe
  • Best for events with big guest lists
Awarded Best of Zola
We had a great experience with Trademark at GG. It’s a semi all inclusive venue so they provided a planner (we had Courtney, she was great!) set up meetings throughout the planning process to go over timeline, details & food. The food was amazing as well! We did family style. The venue was stunning, especially at night. I highly recommend working with Trademark at any of their venues.
Brian G., 3 years ago
New
Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation ~ Discovery Center 
Carlsbad, CA
  • Up to 100 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $2,500

The Discovery Center is the perfect place for your small coastal and boutique wedding, with sweeping views of the lagoon and sunsets and a variety of outdoor spaces and gardens. Whether looking for a reception space, or ceremony and reception, we can cater to your needs. Wedding packages are designed to use the entire Discovery Center Space.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Rustic charm with elegance
  • Offers full-service amenities
  • Flexible event spaces

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Lighting and sound are not included
  • Requires outside catering services
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles 
Los Angeles, CA
  • Up to 1000 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor

The Natural History Museum (NHM) occupies a special place in Los Angeles: It's one of L.A.’s oldest cultural institutions, and today, it's the anchor of an emerging cultural, educational, and entertainment hub in Exposition Park. We show off extraordinary specimens in exhibitions such as Age of Mammals, the Dinosaur Hall, the Gem and Mineral Hall, and our beloved dioramas. But in addition to sharing the history of the planet, we also explore the transformation around us right now: Becoming Los Angeles, the outdoor Nature Gardens, and the Nature Lab look at the relationship between environment and people, past and present, in L.A. In all of these experiences at the museum, whether they're inside or outside, we’re interested in the intersection of nature and culture—in L.A. and beyond.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides event staff
  • Handles all cleanup logistics
  • Classic, vintage atmosphere

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • Does not allow pets
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists

Location flexible? Discover venues near Lake Forest, CA

About wedding venues in Lake Forest, CA

California offers an incredible 840 miles of coastline, 3,000+ wineries and ancient redwoods for your wedding day. When you choose the Golden State, you're getting exceptional natural lighting for your ceremony across diverse settings from Mediterranean coastal zones to alpine mountain backdrops. Each region has its own distinctive character that can perfectly match your vision.

What Makes California Wedding Venues So Special?

Northern California's Napa Valley welcomes you with rolling vineyards and Spanish colonial architecture where intimate wine cave ceremonies create unforgettable moments. Head to Southern California and you'll find oceanfront venues like Duke's Malibu where you can exchange vows with the Pacific stretching out behind you while enjoying fresh coastal-inspired cuisine. Palm Springs offers dramatic desert venues with mountain backdrops and striking midcentury modern architecture that photographs beautifully.

How Much Do Wedding Venues in California Cost?

Wedding venues in California typically run between $9,600 and $11,700 which aligns nicely with the national range of $6,500-$12,000. This represents about 18% of your total wedding budget. Your overall costs will vary based on guest count:

  • 50 guests: $26,190
  • 100 guests: $43,692
  • 150 guests: $60,141
  • 200 guests: $74,836
  • 250 guests: $89,530
  • 300 guests: $104,224

Which California Venues Are Fully Accessible?

The Griffith House features wheelchair-accessible pathways throughout its Spanish-style grounds including the private ceremony lawn and separate preparation spaces for couples. You might also consider Holman Ranch Sunstone Winery and Villa del Sol d'Oro though you'll want to directly confirm their specific accessibility features when you visit. Accessibility options have improved greatly across California venues in recent years.

When Should You Book Your California Wedding Venue?

October leads venue inquiries in California with couples typically booking venues about 13 months (400 days) before their wedding date. If you're dreaming of a Northern California wine country wedding during peak season you'll want to book up to 18 months in advance. Southern California venues offer more flexibility especially during winter months when you can still enjoy beautiful weather while potentially securing better rates.

Where Can You Find Exceptional Culinary Experiences in California?

La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla delivers impeccable service with menu options from lobster bisque to perfectly prepared steak. You'll love Vibiana in Los Angeles with its chef-driven menus served in a stunning restored cathedral setting. Rosewood Sand Hill in Menlo Park offers Michelin-star fine dining while Bali Hai Restaurant serves authentic Polynesian cuisine with breathtaking views overlooking San Diego Bay. California's culinary scene truly elevates the wedding experience.

How Do California Wedding Costs Break Down?

VendorAverage Cost% of Total (150 guests)
Venue$10,66518%
Catering$8,53214%
Florists$7,82113%
Bar Services$6,82611%
Photography$4,7648%
Wedding Planners$4,8358%
Videography$4,3097%
Hair & Makeup$6001%
Cake & Desserts$8181%

Which California Venues Offer Enhanced Remote Participation?

Parq Event Center in San Diego features state-of-the-art sound LED screens and projection walls that support advanced streaming capabilities for guests who can't attend in person. You'll find Exchange LA and Wing Tip in San Francisco offer flexible spaces that adapt beautifully for innovative tech integration. These can include virtual reality experiences interactive live streaming and 360-degree cameras that make remote guests feel like they're right there with you. Technology has transformed how we can include loved ones from anywhere in the world.

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