New Orleans wedding venues offer a one-of-a-kind blend of history, culture, and celebration. Whether you’re planning a French Quarter ceremony, a garden wedding beneath ancient oak trees, or an elegant reception in a historic mansion, the city delivers unforgettable experiences for couples.
From iconic venues like Race & Religious and Il Mercato to charming spaces tucked away in the Garden District, this curated list features some of the most unique and highly rated wedding venues in New Orleans. As a photographer who’s worked throughout the South, I built this guide with real couples in mind — focused on atmosphere, light, and ease of planning.
Historic Courtyard Wedding Venues in New Orleans
New Orleans is famous for its hidden courtyards, Creole architecture, and weathered brick — and these historic venues bring that romantic charm to life. Perfect for intimate ceremonies or elegant, moody receptions, these wedding venues showcase the city’s architectural legacy and timeless ambiance.
Race & Religious Wedding Venue – New Orleans Creole Townhouse with Charm
Location: 510 Race St, New Orleans, LA 70130
About Race & Religious
Race & Religious is a breathtaking New Orleans wedding venue located in the Lower Garden District. This restored 1830s Creole townhouse and guest house is known for its exposed brick walls, gas lanterns, ivy-draped balconies, and private courtyards — creating a dreamlike atmosphere perfect for romantic weddings and elopements.
Located at the intersection of Race and Religious Streets (hence the name), this venue blends Southern Gothic architecture with modern hospitality. It’s a favorite for couples who want a moody, vintage vibe in the heart of the city — and it photographs beautifully, especially in the soft evening light.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Indoor & Outdoor Spaces with Unique Character
- ✔ Courtyard with Pool and Brick Archways
- ✔ Onsite Overnight Accommodations
- ✔ Fully Enclosed for Privacy
- ✔ Catering Prep Kitchen
- ✔ Pet-Friendly Venue
- ✔ Perfect for Intimate & Mid-Size Weddings
- ✔ French Quarter Access Nearby
With its moody textures, flickering candlelight, and history-soaked walls, Race & Religious is more than a venue — it’s a full-sensory experience. It’s one of the most celebrated wedding venues in New Orleans for good reason.
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Il Mercato – Elegant Courtyard Wedding Venue on Magazine Street
Location: 1911 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130
About Il Mercato
Located in the heart of the Lower Garden District, Il Mercato is a refined New Orleans wedding venue that blends European elegance with Southern hospitality. Originally built in 1931 as a neighborhood market hall, this Spanish Colonial-style building is now one of the city’s most coveted event spaces for upscale weddings and stylish soirées.
The venue features a grand fireplace, arched windows, wrought iron details, and a sprawling brick courtyard that offers space for ceremonies, cocktails, and al fresco receptions. Il Mercato combines historic character with modern luxury — a dream setting for couples wanting timeless New Orleans style.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Spacious Brick Courtyard with Market Lights
- ✔ Grand Hall with Custom Bar & Fireplace
- ✔ Wedding Suite & Private Lounge Area
- ✔ Built-in AV & Lighting System
- ✔ Onsite Event Coordination Available
- ✔ Indoor + Outdoor Ceremony Options
- ✔ ADA Accessible & Valet Parking Available
Il Mercato is ideal for couples looking for a balance of sophistication and warmth. With its magazine-worthy aesthetic and seamless flow between spaces, it’s no surprise this venue is often featured in national wedding publications.
Latrobe’s on Royal – French Quarter Wedding Venue Full of History
Location: 403 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130
About Latrobe’s on Royal
Located in the heart of the French Quarter, Latrobe’s on Royal is one of New Orleans’ most iconic wedding venues. This National Historic Landmark blends 19th-century architecture with modern elegance, offering a grand and dramatic setting for ceremonies and receptions. Originally built as a bank in the 1800s, the venue retains many of its original features — including vaulted ceilings, gas lanterns, and a historic bank vault turned bar area.
With its central location, cathedral-like architecture, and timeless style, Latrobe’s is a top choice for couples wanting a high-end wedding in the heart of the French Quarter.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Elegant Indoor Event Space with Historic Architecture
- ✔ Grand Vault Room with Original Stonework
- ✔ Fully Equipped Catering Kitchen
- ✔ Exclusive Use of Venue on Event Day
- ✔ Built-in Sound and Lighting Options
- ✔ ADA Accessible Entrance
- ✔ Steps Away from Jackson Square and Royal Street Hotels
Latrobe’s on Royal offers a one-of-a-kind blend of French Quarter charm, luxury ambiance, and architectural grandeur — making it a favorite for couples who want a wedding venue that feels distinctly New Orleans.
The Beauregard-Keyes House – French Quarter Garden Wedding Venue
Location: 1113 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70116
About The Beauregard-Keyes House
Located steps from Jackson Square, The Beauregard-Keyes House is one of New Orleans’ most beloved and historic wedding venues. Built in 1826, this French Quarter home offers a gorgeous formal garden courtyard, original Creole architecture, and a timeless setting that feels like stepping back into old New Orleans.
The property includes indoor and outdoor spaces, ideal for weddings, elopements, and rehearsal dinners. With its lush gardens, flickering lanterns, and historic ambiance, it’s a dream backdrop for couples wanting a romantic, intimate celebration in the heart of the city.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Secluded Formal Garden Courtyard
- ✔ Historic 1826 Home with Creole Architecture
- ✔ Indoor Parlor and Dining Areas
- ✔ Ideal for Elopements and Intimate Weddings
- ✔ Tables and Chairs Included with Rental
- ✔ Photography Permitted Throughout the Property
- ✔ Steps from Jackson Square and Royal Street
The Beauregard-Keyes House offers a magical combination of Southern history, elegance, and garden beauty — a hidden gem for weddings in the French Quarter.
Modern & Industrial Wedding Venues in New Orleans
For couples seeking a bold, contemporary backdrop, New Orleans has no shortage of industrial-chic venues that blend history with a modern edge. These unique spaces feature exposed brick, steel beams, polished concrete, and versatile open layouts — ideal for stylish city weddings that break the mold.
The Salmen-Fritchie House – Waterfront Garden Venue in Slidell, Louisiana
Location: 124 Cleveland Ave, Slidell, LA 70458
About The Salmen-Fritchie House
Nestled along Bayou Bonfouca, The Salmen-Fritchie House is a historic waterfront estate known for its Southern elegance, moss-draped oak trees, and lush garden grounds. This 1800s home has been restored for modern weddings while preserving its classic architecture and charm.
The venue features indoor and outdoor event spaces including wraparound porches, a waterfront ceremony lawn, and elegant dining rooms — all designed to host timeless weddings with a natural, romantic feel.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Historic Waterfront Home with Southern Charm
- ✔ Garden Ceremonies Under Live Oak Trees
- ✔ Wraparound Porch & Indoor Reception Rooms
- ✔ Full-Service Catering by Patton’s
- ✔ Onsite Coordination & Rentals Available
- ✔ Private Bayou Access & Ample Parking
The Salmen-Fritchie House is perfect for couples seeking timeless Southern romance with modern amenities — just a short drive from New Orleans but tucked away in peaceful Slidell.
Capulet – Creative Industrial Wedding Venue in the Bywater
Location: 3014 Dauphine St, New Orleans, LA 70117
About Capulet
Located in the creative heart of the Bywater, Capulet is a stylish New Orleans wedding venue with a cool, artsy vibe. Originally a historic warehouse, this renovated space features exposed brick, industrial lighting, polished concrete floors, and one of the city’s best rooftop decks for private events.
Capulet is known for its food-first philosophy, sustainable practices, and modern flair — making it a top pick for couples looking for something fresh and unique. The flexible event space and natural light make it perfect for everything from micro weddings to full receptions.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Rooftop Deck with Skyline Views
- ✔ Historic Warehouse Aesthetic with Modern Renovations
- ✔ In-House Catering with Seasonal Menus
- ✔ Full-Service Bar with Craft Cocktails
- ✔ Green-Friendly & Sustainable Practices
- ✔ Indoor and Outdoor Ceremony Options
- ✔ Great for Rehearsal Dinners, Elopements & Full Weddings
Capulet brings modern New Orleans energy to your wedding day — offering creative flexibility, great food, and unforgettable views of the Bywater skyline at sunset.
Republic NOLA – Moody Warehouse Wedding Venue with a Nightlife Vibe
Location: 828 S Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70130
About Republic NOLA
Republic NOLA is a dramatic and edgy wedding venue located in a historic warehouse in the Warehouse District. Known for its concert and nightlife roots, this space transforms into a sleek and moody event venue with a built-in sound system, theatrical lighting, exposed brick, and multiple bars — ideal for couples wanting a modern party atmosphere with a twist of NOLA soul.
The industrial bones and modern upgrades make Republic a favorite for evening weddings, stylish receptions, and unforgettable afterparties. Think candlelight ceremony followed by a full-on celebration on the dance floor.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Historic Warehouse with Moody Industrial Aesthetic
- ✔ Built-In Stage, Sound System & Lighting
- ✔ Full-Service Bar & Private Green Room
- ✔ Custom Floor Plans & Event Design Support
- ✔ Accommodates Mid to Large Weddings & Receptions
- ✔ Convenient Downtown Location
For couples who want their wedding to feel like a celebration from the very first beat, Republic NOLA offers an unmatched industrial vibe fused with live-event energy.
The New Orleans Board of Trade – Historic Warehouse with Covered Courtyard
Location: 316 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130
About The New Orleans Board of Trade
This elegant and versatile venue is a true New Orleans hidden gem. The New Orleans Board of Trade offers a stunning covered courtyard with an arched pavilion, complete with string lights and original gas lamps. Inside, you’ll find high ceilings, exposed brick, and columned walkways — all combining to create an industrial-yet-refined atmosphere.
The layout is flexible for ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception flow. Whether you’re hosting 75 guests or 300+, this venue adapts beautifully and offers timeless character in the heart of the Warehouse District.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Covered Courtyard with Grand Columns
- ✔ Exposed Brick & High Ceilings Inside
- ✔ Indoor and Outdoor Flow
- ✔ Central Location in Warehouse District
- ✔ Prep Kitchen and Vendor-Friendly Setup
- ✔ Perfect for Elegant, Modern, or Classic Themes
The New Orleans Board of Trade combines flexibility, beauty, and location — making it a go-to for couples who want an open-air feel without stressing about the weather.
Garden & Outdoor Wedding Venues in New Orleans
New Orleans is home to some of the most enchanting outdoor wedding venues in the South. From moss-draped oaks to blooming gardens and historic courtyards, these venues offer an open-air experience rich in romance and Southern charm. Whether you’re dreaming of a sunset ceremony in a botanical garden or an elegant lawn reception under the stars, these hand-picked outdoor wedding venues in New Orleans offer the perfect setting.
Audubon Tea Room – Elegant Garden Wedding Venue in Uptown New Orleans
Location: 6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118
About Audubon Tea Room
Located within the lush grounds of Audubon Park, the Audubon Tea Room is one of New Orleans’ most elegant garden wedding venues. Surrounded by ancient live oaks and vibrant greenery, the venue combines natural beauty with luxurious indoor accommodations — perfect for seamless indoor/outdoor events.
The Tea Room features floor-to-ceiling windows, private gardens, and a spacious ballroom with chandeliers and hardwood floors. It’s ideal for couples who want timeless elegance and Southern charm just steps away from the sounds of nature.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Private Garden Courtyard with Fountain
- ✔ Elegant Indoor Ballroom with Chandeliers
- ✔ Floor-to-Ceiling Windows Overlooking Gardens
- ✔ Indoor/Outdoor Ceremony & Reception Options
- ✔ In-House Catering & Bar Services
- ✔ Complimentary Parking & ADA Accessibility
- ✔ Minutes from the Audubon Zoo and Uptown Hotels
Audubon Tea Room is a top choice for couples seeking a sophisticated wedding surrounded by nature. Whether you want a classic garden ceremony or a grand indoor reception, this venue delivers both beauty and convenience in one of New Orleans’ most beloved parks.
Pavilion of the Two Sisters – Botanical Garden Wedding Venue in City Park
Location: 5 Victory Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119
About the Pavilion of the Two Sisters
The Pavilion of the Two Sisters is a glass-enclosed venue located within the New Orleans Botanical Garden at City Park. With its lush greenery, fountains, and vibrant florals, this space offers one of the most romantic outdoor wedding backdrops in the city. The venue includes both an elegant indoor reception hall and open garden space just steps away.
It’s especially popular for sunset ceremonies, springtime weddings, and couples who love nature and floral beauty. Plus, the City Park location makes it convenient for guests coming from all over New Orleans.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Located in New Orleans City Park’s Botanical Garden
- ✔ Enclosed Glass Pavilion with Air Conditioning
- ✔ Adjacent Outdoor Garden for Ceremonies
- ✔ Surrounded by Blooming Seasonal Florals
- ✔ Built-In Stage, Dance Floor, and Lighting
- ✔ Nearby Parking and ADA Accessibility
If you’re dreaming of a wedding surrounded by nature but want the comfort of indoor luxury, Pavilion of the Two Sisters offers the best of both worlds in the heart of New Orleans City Park.
Longue Vue House and Gardens – Estate Garden Wedding Venue in New Orleans
Location: 7 Bamboo Rd, New Orleans, LA 70124
About Longue Vue House and Gardens
Longue Vue House and Gardens is one of the most elegant outdoor wedding venues in New Orleans. This historic estate offers eight acres of meticulously landscaped gardens, reflecting pools, Spanish oak trees, and a stunning mansion backdrop. It’s the perfect venue for couples dreaming of a romantic, upscale garden ceremony surrounded by natural beauty.
The venue allows for both large celebrations and intimate elopements, with multiple ceremony sites across the property and picture-perfect views at every turn. It’s also a favorite for wedding photography thanks to its symmetry, architecture, and dramatic floral displays.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Eight Acres of Formal and Wild Gardens
- ✔ Historic Mansion for Photos and Lounge Access
- ✔ Outdoor Ceremony Spaces with Reflecting Pools
- ✔ Separate Event Lawn for Receptions
- ✔ Onsite Event Coordination Available
- ✔ Ample Parking and Vendor Access
- ✔ Ideal for Large and Intimate Garden Weddings
Longue Vue offers unmatched elegance for garden weddings in New Orleans — timeless, luxurious, and deeply romantic. It’s an ideal venue for couples seeking a European-style estate feel without leaving the city.
New Orleans Botanical Garden – Outdoor Wedding Venue in City Park
Location: 5 Victory Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119
About the New Orleans Botanical Garden
The New Orleans Botanical Garden is one of the most colorful and immersive outdoor wedding venues in the city. Nestled inside City Park, this living museum of plant life offers dozens of blooming ceremony locations, tranquil paths, and stunning backdrops year-round.
With both large lawn spaces and intimate garden nooks, this venue can be styled for anything from elopements to full-scale receptions under the stars. Sculptures, fountains, and floral archways add extra elegance to your wedding photos and ceremony setting.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Dozens of Outdoor Garden Ceremony Spots
- ✔ Seasonal Blooms, Sculptures & Fountains
- ✔ Access to the Pavilion of the Two Sisters (optional)
- ✔ ADA Accessible & Guest Friendly Paths
- ✔ Lush Backdrops for Wedding Photography
- ✔ Convenient Central Park Location with Parking
The Botanical Garden is ideal for couples who love the outdoors and want to celebrate surrounded by nature, beauty, and the charm of New Orleans’ oldest park. It’s a peaceful, flexible venue that transforms beautifully with every season.
Waterfront & Riverfront Wedding Venues in New Orleans
Looking for a wedding venue with a view? These New Orleans waterfront and riverfront venues offer a serene and scenic backdrop for your big day — from the Mississippi River to the shores of Lake Pontchartrain. Whether you’re planning a romantic sunset ceremony by the water or a vibrant reception with skyline views, these hand-picked venues bring natural beauty and New Orleans charm together effortlessly.
Steamboat NATCHEZ – Iconic Riverfront Wedding Venue in New Orleans
Location: 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130
About the Steamboat NATCHEZ
The Steamboat NATCHEZ is one of the most recognizable and romantic wedding venues in New Orleans. Docked along the Mississippi River at the edge of the French Quarter, this authentic paddlewheeler offers an unforgettable backdrop for your ceremony, reception, or cocktail cruise.
With sweeping views of the city skyline, onboard catering, live jazz, and historic charm, the NATCHEZ is ideal for couples who want a floating celebration with all the flavor of classic New Orleans.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Authentic Paddlewheeler on the Mississippi River
- ✔ Private Deck Spaces for Ceremonies or Dinners
- ✔ Onboard Catering and Full Bar
- ✔ Live Jazz Entertainment Available
- ✔ Capacity for Small or Large Weddings
- ✔ French Quarter Location with Easy Guest Access
Whether you want to cruise down the river or stay docked with the skyline behind you, Steamboat NATCHEZ offers a classic New Orleans experience for weddings that feel straight out of a Southern fairytale.
🎷 Not sure if your New Orleans wedding fits the budget? Check out our full guide to what a $20K wedding budget looks like across Louisiana cities.
The Balcony Ballroom – Lakefront Wedding Venue Near New Orleans
Location: 4738 Utica St, Metairie, LA 70006
About The Balcony Ballroom
Overlooking the beautiful Lake Pontchartrain shoreline, The Balcony Ballroom is one of the most elegant and well-established wedding venues near New Orleans. Known for its full-service approach and stress-free planning, it combines waterfront views with ballroom sophistication.
Inside, you’ll find crystal chandeliers, sweeping staircases, and a grand ballroom. Outside, large windows and balconies offer sunset views over the lake. It’s a top pick for couples who want classic elegance with all the perks of a lakefront location.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Lakefront Views of Lake Pontchartrain
- ✔ Grand Ballroom with Elegant Decor
- ✔ Full-Service Wedding Planning Included
- ✔ Gourmet Catering and Open Bar
- ✔ Outdoor Balcony for Photos and Guests
- ✔ Ideal for Large Guest Counts
- ✔ Located Minutes from Downtown New Orleans
The Balcony Ballroom is perfect for couples who want luxury, location, and an experienced team that takes care of everything. With stunning views and a beautiful ballroom, it’s one of the most popular waterfront wedding venues in greater New Orleans.
Lakefront Airport – Art Deco Wedding Venue on the Water
Location: 6001 Stars and Stripes Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70126
About Lakefront Airport
Originally built in the 1930s, the Lakefront Airport is one of the most unique and stylish wedding venues in New Orleans. With its restored Art Deco architecture, sweeping waterfront views, and dramatic marble interiors, this venue offers a bold backdrop for couples who want something truly unforgettable.
It’s perfect for sunset ceremonies overlooking Lake Pontchartrain, elegant indoor receptions, or cocktail hours in the grand terminal lobby. Plus, you’ll have full access to private rooms, rooftop patios, and scenic photo ops all around the runway and waterfront.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Restored Art Deco Terminal with Marble Columns
- ✔ Waterfront Lawn for Outdoor Ceremonies
- ✔ Rooftop Patio with Lake Views
- ✔ Indoor Event Space with Historic Charm
- ✔ Multiple Ceremony + Reception Layouts
- ✔ Ample Parking & Vendor-Friendly
Lakefront Airport is perfect for couples who want a venue that feels glamorous, cinematic, and totally unexpected — all while staying close to the heart of New Orleans.
The Cannery – Contemporary Wedding Venue Near Bayou St. John
Location: 3803 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70119
About The Cannery
Just steps from Bayou St. John and City Park, The Cannery is a modern and stylish New Orleans wedding venue with over 12,000 square feet of customizable space. Once a canning facility, the venue has been reimagined as a luxury event space that blends industrial bones with upscale elegance.
It’s perfect for couples who want a refined indoor venue with top-tier amenities, while still staying close to the natural beauty of the bayou. With polished concrete floors, dramatic uplighting, and multiple bar/lounge areas, it sets the stage for an unforgettable wedding experience.
Amenities & Features
- ✔ Over 12,000 Sq. Ft. of Customizable Indoor Space
- ✔ Contemporary Design with Lounge & Bar Areas
- ✔ Near Bayou St. John and City Park
- ✔ Onsite Bridal & Groom Suites
- ✔ Full AV, Lighting, and Setup Included
- ✔ In-House Catering with Custom Menus
- ✔ Ample Parking and Vendor-Friendly Setup
The Cannery offers modern style with a flexible layout that works for both grand receptions and smaller, sophisticated celebrations. It’s a local favorite for couples who want to stay close to the water without compromising comfort and luxury.
Planning a wedding in South Louisiana? Be sure to explore my other hand-picked venue guides for nearby areas like Lake Charles and Baton Rough. Whether you’re dreaming of a courtyard ceremony, waterfront celebration, or a modern indoor reception, there’s a perfect space waiting for you in every corner of Louisiana.
Need help planning your dream wedding? Use my free Wedding Budget Calculator to estimate your costs, and browse my wedding photography portfolio to see how I capture the moments that matter most.