One of the most striking aspects of a reception space can be the view it offers. Unlike traditional décor, a space with windows or open spaces that highlights its environs isn’t covering up anything, but more likely, letting the locale speak for itself. We have a lot of venues to choose from in our area, and here are some of the best that will give your guests an amazing view to look at (when, of course, they’re not looking at you).
Windows on Minnesota
Photo by Noah Wolf Photography
With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking downtown Minneapolis, if you’re looking for a venue with a view, this should definitely be on your list as a place to consider. Because it is on the 50th floor of the IDS Center (the highest building in the city), it offers views from every room and they are quite spectacular. History buffs will enjoy knowing that this space has been enjoyed for social events for over 30 years, and the legendary “Mary Tyler Moore Show” opening had clips from the Crystal court. The hotel’s restaurant, The Jolliet House, has a table dedicated to the TV legend.
Depending on the size of your guest list, Windows on Minnesota can accommodate with flexible layouts that can make your reception feel intimate or spacious (it holds up to 450!). For foodie couples, this is also a great venue option. Under the leadership of Chef Pete Botcher, who has over 18 years of experience working in restaurants across the country, you know you won’t have to worry about the taste or sophistication of the edible offerings. And because this venue is within a hotel, guests have an easy “commute” at the end of the party.
Minnesota History Center
Photo by Instant Request
History buffs can unite at the Minnesota History Center. With a backdrop of the State Capitol, Cathedral of Saint Paul, and the downtown St. Paul skyline, there is so much to see and appreciate in ones’ surroundings here. The outdoor terraces have great views, the catering is top-notch, and there are several spaces to choose from for your actual event. With architectural details made out of locally-sourced granite, limestone and marble, this is a classic structure with grand details. There are also on-site event coordinators to help make your event run smoothly. For those that appreciate the history and environs of the Twin Cities, this is a great option.
Crowne Plaza Northstar
For an option in the city center, that still has greenery to give it a softer feel, we think you should know about Crowne Plaza Northstar Minneapolis. The perfect mix of cosmopolitan chic and rustic flair with its brick floor, the 8th floor rooftop is a great spot for a ceremony. Using the Minneapolis skyline as a backdrop, you can marry in a romantic setting under a pergola.
Grand View Lodge
For a destination wedding at a resort that offers spa, golf, and more, look no further than the Grand View Lodge. Minnesota’s local CBS station WCCO-TV named it Best Dinner with View in their Best of Minnesota list, and US News included it as one of 16 Incredible Midwest Vacations. These are just some of the accolades The Grand View Lodge has received, but this locale’s environs are what it’s all about. For your ceremony, there are several choices for your backdrop, from the chapel, to a gorgeous spot overlooking the lake, to various options at the main lodge, to their beach lawn, there really are so many options.
Le Meridien Chambers Minneapolis Hotel
Photo by Coppersmith Photography
As part of the Marriott chain, this boutique hotel is perfect for an art lover. With beautiful city views of downtown, this venue is also special because of the Art Gallery within, that can be the location of your ceremony, if you have up to 60 guests. But with 4 venues within the hotel, there are other options for those with more attendees. With wedding specialists on the ready, this hotel can help you plan your rehearsal dinner, the wedding itself, as well as a morning-after brunch.
Calhoun Beach Club
Photo by Studio 220
The Calhoun Beach Club is special because while it is close to Uptown with views of hip neighborhoods it also offers beautiful views of Lake Calhoun from its deck, giving you the best of both city and more “country-like” atmospheres. Christie Altendorf, D’Amico Catering senior event planner and marketing manager, explains why the Calhoun Beach Club offers unique spaces to have your event, “Beyond the incredible view of the lake from the prominent and well appointed terrace, the event space on the second floor of the building offers a classic, timeless setting for celebrations of all kinds. An iconic grand staircase is featured in one of the ballrooms and acts as the perfect ceremony entrance for the bride or groom. Recently renovated preparation suites offer comfortable amenities for both sides of the wedding party and allow access to a hidden terrace – an incredibly lovely and secluded spot for first looks and portraits.” With options for ceremonies inside or outside, and with the culinary expertise of D’Amico Catering, the possibilities for a fabulous event are endless.
Just remember that if a venue with a view is important to you, consider the time of day when you’re having your event. If you’re having a nighttime affair and you’ve only seen your venue in the daytime, it’s worth checking it out at night before committing so you’ll know exactly what you’re getting come wedding time. That way whatever you’ve envisioned can more likely come to life, and everyone will enjoy the view you intended for them to see.