As an experienced Portland wedding photographer, I fully know and understand the value of finding the perfect venue—and just how crucial the right venue is in creating the day of your dreams. The location of your celebration will affect every aspect of the day, from the space you have to get ready alongside your loved ones, to the spot you choose to hold your ceremony and tie your lives to one another, to the atmosphere you curate for a celebratory evening with your loved ones. Fortunately for you, Portland is a city that knows its art & aesthetics, and is chock full of spectacular locations to choose from, especially ones that display the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest! I’ve compiled a list of the 12 best outdoor wedding venues in Portland to help kickstart your search, and to hopefully match you with at least one or two venues that you feel align with your values, your vision, and your every dream. Each of these locations has at least one or two main outdoor spaces to offer for a stunning celebration out in nature, surrounded by towering redwoods, secluded gardens, or lush tropical plants inside of a greenhouse.
It’s important to note that every venue on this list is located within Portland city limits—most “Portland wedding venue” articles you’ll find on Google tend to have venues outside of the city (even as far as a couple of hours away), so I wanted this resource to be more location-specific for you. Feel free to continue your search after this if you would like to consider other venues outside of the city; I’m more than happy to provide you with additional options that I think would fit your day, as well!
12 Best Outdoor Wedding Venues in Portland
1. Leach Botanical Garden
Leach Botanical Garden is by far one of the best outdoor wedding venues in Portland for intimate celebrations between 40-80 people. The venue boasts a stunning woodland garden right along a creek, with massive trees towering over every square foot of the grounds and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that is sure to leave an impression on your guests. Whether you opt for a reception under the Covered Arbor, which can fit 50 people seated, or on the East Terrace, which can fit 80, you’ll get to enjoy beautiful views of the abundant greenery and feel the gentle breeze that blows through the woods. It’s an absolutely stunning space to start your journey as a married couple, as the tranquil setting creates a really amazing place to reflect, connect, and create memories to last a lifetime. You can plan a stress-free day knowing that if Portland ends up giving you a bit (or a lot) of rain, you’ll still have options at Leach Botanical Garden, one being the Covered Arbor and the other a cozy, fully indoor Fireplace Room. The garden is also a pet-friendly venue, so feel free to bring along your furry friend(s) to be a part of your ceremony!
Address: 6704 SE 122nd Ave, Portland, OR 97236
Type of venue: Garden, Forest, Historic Home
Cost: Starting at $7,400 for a 6-hour rental with a ceremony & reception
Best features:
- Tranquil setting out in nature
- 2 outdoor locations & 1 fully indoor location
- Beautiful aerial tree walk for dreamy portraits in the trees
- Space for up to 80 guests
- Tables, chairs, & market lighting provided
- Pet-friendly ceremony sites
- Tents available in case of rain
2. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden is an internationally-recognized garden, known best for its wide collection of rhododendrons as well as its gorgeous greenery that covers the 9-acre grounds. Open for weddings between the months of May-November, this garden is home to not only countless plant and tree species, but also a beautiful spring-fed lake that surrounds a large part of the area. On your way to Crystal Springs Lake you’ll find multiple picturesque waterfalls, bridges, and a fountain; truly a dream venue for any couple looking for plenty of space to explore throughout the day.
The garden has three different wedding sites for you to choose from:
- The Meadow Site—good for both ceremonies and receptions; space for up to 250 guests
- The Woodland Site—best for ceremonies of up to 75 people
- The Jane Martin Site—fit for small ceremonies of up to 15 people
Each site offers its own distinct setting, the Meadow Site featuring beautiful evergreens and a water backdrop, the Woodland Site a secluded garden, and the Jane Martin Site a peaceful little stream.
Address: 5801 SE 28th Ave, Portland, OR 97202
Type of venue: Garden, Lake, Small Waterfall
Cost: N/A on website—contact venue for info
Best features:
- 3 wedding sites to choose from
- Breathtaking trees & flowers
- Space for up to 250 guests
- Wheelchair-accessible pathways
- Table & chair rentals included in packages
- List of preferred Portland wedding vendors
- If you rent the venue after regular park hours you get the whole place to yourself for photos
3. Cathedral Park
If you’re a Portland native, chances are you’ve been to Cathedral Park at some point—but have you ever considered it as a wedding venue? This riverfront park is home to iconic views of the Willamette River and the St. John’s bridge, and was named after its dramatic, cathedral-esque footings that tower over the grounds. With a rich history dating back to the early 1800’s, when the area was used as a fishing and camping site for local tribes, Cathedral Park offers an expansive and scenic spot for intimate weddings, featuring not only beautiful riverfront views but also a boat dock, picnic tables, and a spacious grassy area. It’s an ideal venue for any couple who doesn’t want to spend thousands of dollars renting a formal venue for an entire day, and would rather have a small ceremony out in nature, then potentially head into the city for a reception at a venue or restaurant. The Portland Parks & Recreation department does require you to obtain a permit in order to hold your legal ceremony at Cathedral Park, so be sure to read up on that information here.
Note: As of January 2024, the stairs & deck at Cathedral Park are unavailable for weddings in 2024, according to this PDF from the Portland Parks & Rec department. However, you can still reserve the amphitheater, which can fit up to 500 people.
Type of venue: Park, Bridge, River
Cost: Between $622-$674 for park permit/reservation
Best features:
- 2 different reservable spots to choose from
- Space for up to 500 guests in the amphitheater
- Beautiful views of St. John’s bridge & the Willamette River
- Multiple natural garden spaces and green lawn areas
- Unique lighting cast underneath the bridge
4. Hoyt Arboretum
Hoyt Arboretum is one of the places that made me fall in love with Portland; the towering redwoods, the A-frame pavilion, the rolling green meadows, the paved nature paths. . . it’s an idyllic location for a woodland wedding in the middle of the big city. Whether your dream wedding looks like an intimate & moody ceremony among a grove of massive redwoods and lush ferns, or possibly a bright & airy ceremony in a peaceful, grassy meadow, Hoyt Arboretum has so much to offer to engaged couples! A huge benefit to hosting your wedding at Hoyt Arboretum is that you won’t need to pay an outrageous fee for an all-day rental like you would at a traditional venue; the rental fees are significantly lower at the arboretum, even if you choose to have both your ceremony and your reception on the property. What’s even more amazing is that the rental proceeds support Hoyt Arboretum’s public programs and global tree collection, so you know that your money is going to an amazing cause.
The arboretum has four uniquely beautiful outdoor spaces to offer for weddings of up to 100 guests:
- Stevens Pavilion Picnic Shelter—an A-frame pavilion
- Redwood Deck—an open wooden platform that opens out into a redwood & sequoia grove
- Wedding Meadow—a secluded, open meadow among the trees
- Stone Circle—a circle of stones under massive trees in a quiet forest area
Because this has become such a highly-sought-after venue for Portland weddings, Hoyt Arboretum has started doing a wedding lottery in mid-November to give couples the best chance at their preferred location & date. Alternatively, you can wait until the first working day of the calendar year to make your reservation, but know that your options may be more limited!
Address: 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR 97221
Type of venue: Forest, Pavilion, Wooden Deck, Meadow
Cost: Between $204-$596 depending on the site/rental length
Best features:
- 4 beautiful outdoor sites to choose from
- 2 ADA-accessible wedding sites
- Space for up to 100 guests
- Gorgeous collection of redwoods, sequoias, & other tree species
- Deep forest and open meadow settings
- Quiet, tranquil atmosphere
To see a real-life example of what your wedding could look like at Hoyt Arboretum, take a peek at Sarah & Marcelino’s romantic Hoyt Arboretum and Pittock Mansion Elopement Portraits.
5. Blockhouse
Houseplant lovers, unite (I know there are a lot of us in Portland)—I’ve got just the venue for you! Located inside of Pomarius Nursery, Blockhouse is a one-of-a-kind wedding venue in the heart of Portland’s Pearl District, brimming with lush greenery, lavish & modern decor, and all the romance & charm of a secluded garden. On its own, Blockhouse offers a furnished outdoor patio to use for wedding celebrations, but the star of the show is really the Pomarius Nursery Orangergie that you can add on to your event, which is a vibrant, natural-light-filled greenhouse venue. The Orangerie makes for a breathtaking backdrop for any wedding celebration, from intimate ceremonies to celebrations of 100+ guests; either way, you’ll get to experience the whimsical atmosphere of the abundant greenery & the endless options for an elegant celebration! Without adding the Orangerie, Blockhouse can fit 60 people seated or 75 standing; with the Orangerie, the total capacity is 120. Both the patio and the Orangerie are covered, and can be used year-round.
Address: 1988 NW 18th Ave, Portland, OR 97209
Type of venue: Patio, Greenhouse, Garden
Cost: N/A on website; contact venue for info
Best features:
- Furnished outdoor patio
- Chef-inspired open kitchen
- Romantic & elegant greenhouse space, filled with plants
- Space for up to 120 guests with addition of the Orangerie
- Tables, chairs, lounge furniture, bistro lighting, & bar included in site rental
- Unmetered street parking
6. Jupiter Hotel
The Jupiter is a boutique hotel—actually, two boutique hotels—located in the heart of Portland with a focus on modern, eclectic design, a welcoming atmosphere, and relaxing experiences for everyone who visits. For this article, I’m specifically be talking about the Jupiter Original, which is home to what they call the DreamTENT; a nearly 3,000 square-foot tent that boasts unique bamboo lining, sparkling crystal chandeliers, and a magical (semi-covered) space for outdoor celebrations. I love the fact that this tent offers a bit of an indoor/outdoor vibe, as it’s set up outdoors and includes plenty of beautiful greenery, but it’s also covered and will protect you from any not-so-ideal weather scenarios!
Address: 800 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
Type of venue: Covered tent
Cost: N/A on website; contact venue for info
Best features:
- Warm, welcoming ambiance
- Crystal chandelier & bistro lighting
- Two-tiered stage for speeches
- Space for up to 250 guests
- Overnight accommodations for you & your guests
- Large furniture inventory
7. Ecotrust Rooftop
The Ecotrust Building is an iconic building in Portland, doubling as a classy conference center and the perfect place to host a charming, elegant wedding celebration. While there is a large indoor space, complete with beautiful exposed beams and a modern-industrial feel, the rooftop is really where the potential lies for an outdoor Portland wedding! With space for up to 150 people seated, or 225 for a cocktail-style reception, the Ecotrust Rooftop Terrace is a gorgeous and versatile venue that will help you create an unforgettable experience for your guests. Whether you decide to put together an intimate rooftop ceremony, followed by a small dinner party under the night sky, or a 100+ person event with expansive tablescapes and intricate menus, you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of Portland all around you as you commit your lives to each other. There’s truly nothing more romantic and special than a rooftop soirée with the people you love most, lit by ambient candles, bistro lighting, and the sparkling lights of the city!
Address: 721 NW 9th Ave, Portland, OR 97209
Type of venue: Rooftop, Indoor Atrium
Cost: N/A on website; contact venue for info
Best features:
- Rolling wood picnic tables & matching benches
- Indoor atrium with space for up to 40 guests
- Wet bar
- Wood-burning outdoor fireplace
- Space for up to 225 guest, cocktail-style
- Spectacular views of the city
- Large collection of rental furniture
- Venue coordinator
8. Lewis & Clark College
If you’re searching for a venue that’s a bit more secluded, did you know that Lewis & Clark College offers an exquisite wedding venue with the most magical garden setting? Located on the breathtaking Fir Acres Estate, just a few miles from downtown Portland, these gardens are sure to help you curate an elegant celebration full of whimsy, romance, and an abundance of lush, vibrant greenery. You’ll receive access to modern amenities to ensure a smooth, seamless day, as well as the gorgeous Northwest architecture + design of the gardens, which even include a beautiful reflecting pool. Venture to the hand-cut Cobblestone Circle to feel like you’re in the middle of your own personal fairytale, or make your way to the gazebo and enjoy views of the reflection pool surrounded by fern-covered walls. And if you need a little break from the weather, the head to the Wisteria Arbor Terrace, a charming room with phenomenal views of the gardens! With a variety of expansive spaces that can accommodate up to 900 guests total, you’ll have no trouble fitting all of your friends and family members onto this jaw-dropping estate.
Address: 615 S Palatine Hill Rd, Portland, OR 97219
Type of venue: Estate, Gardens, Reflection Pool
Cost: N/A on website; contact venue for info
Best features:
- 4+ venue sites to choose from
- Whimsical gazebo and reflection pool
- Expansive lawn with views of Mount Hood
- Space for up to 900 guests
- Beautiful indoor terrace in case of rain
9. Waverley Country Club
Panoramic views of the Willamette River, an elegant clubhouse, lush landscaping, and top-tier cuisine—what more could you want from a Portland wedding venue? The Waverley Country Club is by far the best country club wedding venue in the Portland area, boasting exceptional scenery, a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces, and a team of wedding professionals ready to help you design the day of your dreams. The riverfront backdrop combined with the refined clubhouse interiors are a perfect blend of charming & classy, offering the ability to truly customize your day to fit the atmosphere you’re envisioning. The well-manicured lawn right next to the river provides an idyllic outdoor space for your ceremony, and the bright white clubhouse is a dream come true for an elegant evening soirée if you’d rather head indoors than stay out on the lawn! With space to host receptions of up to 500 guests, the possibilities are truly endless—and you can be sure that no matter which spaces you use, you’ll get to enjoy an uber-romantic, extraordinary day that you’ll never forget.
Address: 1100 SE Waverly Dr, Portland, OR 97222
Type of venue: Golf Course, Historic Clubhouse, Riverfront
Cost: N/A on website; contact venue for info
Best features:
- Historic golf course
- Sweeping views of the Willamette River
- Pristine & elegant clubhouse
- Spacious lawn & lavish landscaping
- Space for up to 500 guests
- In-house event team
- In-house catering
- Private club service
10. Victorian Belle Mansion
Victorian Belle Mansion is only one of the most enchanting wedding venues in the Portland area, located just 10 minutes from downtown, yet you’ll feel like you’ve entered somewhat of your own little fairytale as soon as you step foot on the property. This historic estate has been around since 1885 and exudes nothing but old-world beauty, elegance, and charm, from the spectacular gardens, to the historical 19th and 20th century artifacts, to the breathtaking stained glass windows. If you choose to host your wedding at the Victorian Belle Mansion, you’ll have access to the spectacular mansion itself, as well as the surrounding gardens, a spacious gazebo, a large outdoor tent, and a gorgeous antique fountain amidst a charming brick courtyard. With the amount of historic decor and vintage pieces already present around the mansion, you truly won’t need much decor other than maybe a few delicate floral arrangements to enhance the magical feel of the space!
If it would be helpful to you to see a real couple’s wedding at this exquisite venue, browse through Emily & Alex’s Victorian Belle wedding photos here.
Address: 1441 N McClellan St, Portland, OR 97217
Type of venue: Mansion, Estate, Gardens
Cost: Starting at $5,000 for a 12-hour wedding of up to 200 guests
Best features:
- Beautifully manicured gardens
- 1200 square foot gazebo
- 1800 square foot tent
- In-house catering
- On-site venue manager
- Ceremony arbor, tables, chairs, & linens included in rental
- Four private rooms for getting ready
- Lavish vintage furniture
- Space for up to 200 guests
11. Nordia House
Nordia House is one of the more unique venues on this list; many so far have been similarly beautiful historic estates, or lush gardens; Nordia House, however, is a woodland paradise featuring a clean, contemporary Nordic design that I’m absolutely in love with. If you’re dreaming up a more refined, elegant, and minimalist celebration rather than one full of historic charm, warmth, and potentially a bit of rustic charm, then Nordia House is the place for you! With floor-to-ceiling windows creating an abundance of natural light, architecture that focuses on clean lines, and minimalist charm around every corner, Nordia House is a spectacular place for any couples who value culture, art, and design. You’ll fawn over the hand-carved double doors that give way into the Great Hall, the contemporary wood details of the hall itself, and the breathtaking greenery that covers the outdoor areas of the property, which include three outdoor patios and a manicured one-acre lawn!
Address: 8800 SW Oleson Rd, Portland, OR 97223
Type of venue: Lawn, Event Hall
Cost: N/A on website; contact venue for info
Best features:
- Unique, contemporary Nordic design
- Clean, seamless architecture
- Natural materials for an earthy feel
- Secluded cabin and meadow for outdoor ceremonies
- On-site catering available
12. Gray Gables Estate
It’s only fitting that we end this with one last historic estate with lush gardens, spacious lawns, and endless vintage charm, right? Situated just 7 miles south of downtown Portland, Gray Gables Estate is a dreamy property with all the old-world feels, from the stylishly rustic decor, to the unique light fixtures, to the four different elegant spaces to choose from. The three outdoor spaces include the Garden, which features gorgeous greenery, water features, and romantic ambient lighting; the Manor House Lawn, set right in front of the estate with brick pathways, ivy beds, and beautiful architecture; and the Rustic Koi Pond, which boasts a flowing waterfall, a romantic gazebo, and an enchanting woodland setting. You can’t go wrong with any of these three sites, nor can you go wrong with an indoor celebration inside of the ballroom in case of bad weather!
Address: 3009 SE Chestnut St, Oak Grove, OR 97267
Type of venue: Estate, Lawn, Gardens, Ballroom
Cost: N/A on website; contact venue for info
Best features:
- 4 unique spaces to choose from
- In-house catering & bartenders
- Manicured gardens and 100-year-old chestnut trees
- Charming gazebo
- Magical woodland setting
- Turn-of-the-century architecture
- Space for up to 200 guests
Portland Wedding Photographer
Now that you have this expansive list of venues to choose from, how do you actually go about picking the perfect one for your unique day? Head over to my blog post about How to Find Your Perfect Portland Wedding Venue, where I walk you through a few of the most important things to consider during your venue search. When you feel like you’re ready to hire a Portland wedding photographer to document all the treasured moments to come on your wedding day, I’d love to invite you to reach out; connecting with you and collaborating on the story of your love will be the biggest gift.
