When planning a wedding in Ottawa, the right venue sets the tone for your special day. Whether you’re dreaming of a classic, modern, or artistic celebration, Ottawa offers some of the most luxurious wedding venues that cater to every couple’s style. As an experienced wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing weddings at these exquisite locations. Here’s a guide to Ottawa’s top 7 high-end wedding venues, complete with insider tips to help you find the perfect fit.
Location: 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON
Ambiance & Style: The National Arts Centre (NAC) is the epitome of modern elegance. Nestled in the heart of downtown Ottawa, the NAC offers breathtaking views of the Rideau Canal and Parliament Hill, making it a picturesque backdrop for your wedding photos. The venue’s contemporary design, combined with its cultural significance, provides a sophisticated atmosphere that’s perfect for couples who appreciate the arts.
Service & Food: The NAC is renowned for its impeccable service and culinary excellence. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients, the catering team offers a variety of gourmet options that will impress even the most discerning guests.
Ideal For: The NAC is ideal for couples who want a modern, elegant wedding with a touch of cultural flair. It’s perfect for art lovers and those who appreciate stunning architectural design.
Location: 1 Rideau Street, Ottawa, ON
Ambiance & Style: The Fairmont Château Laurier is an iconic Ottawa landmark that exudes timeless luxury. This historic hotel’s grand architecture, with its sweeping staircases and opulent chandeliers, provides a fairy-tale setting for your wedding. The rich history and classic charm make it a favorite for couples seeking a regal, traditional celebration.
Service & Food: With over a century of experience in hosting grand events, the Fairmont Château Laurier is synonymous with excellence. The hotel’s catering team offers a range of exquisite menu options, from elegant plated dinners to lavish buffets, all crafted with the highest quality ingredients.
Ideal For: This venue is ideal for couples who dream of a classic, elegant wedding with a touch of royal charm. It’s perfect for those who want to create a grand, timeless celebration.
The hotel’s French Gothic architecture offers stunning backdrops for your wedding photos. Make sure to capture some shots on the iconic staircase or in the opulent ballroom for that extra touch of glamour.
3. TwentyTwo at The Westin Ottawa
Location: 11 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON
Ambiance & Style: TwentyTwo is a sleek, modern venue located on the 22nd floor of The Westin Ottawa. This unique space offers floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning panoramic views of downtown Ottawa, the Rideau Canal, and Parliament Hill. The sophisticated, contemporary design of the venue is perfect for couples looking for an elegant, urban setting.
Service & Food: As part of The Westin Ottawa, TwentyTwo offers exceptional service and a wide array of gourmet catering options. The culinary team can create a customized menu that suits your tastes, ensuring a memorable dining experience for your guests.
Ideal For: This venue is ideal for couples who want a luxurious, city-chic wedding with breathtaking views of Ottawa’s skyline. It’s perfect for those looking to host a modern, stylish celebration in the heart of the city.
Location: 40 Chemin Scott, Wakefield, QC (short drive from Ottawa)
Ambiance & Style: Le Belvédère offers a rustic-chic ambiance with breathtaking panoramic views of the Gatineau Hills. Just a short drive from downtown Ottawa, this venue provides a serene escape into nature without sacrificing luxury. The combination of natural beauty and refined decor makes it a perfect choice for couples who want a romantic outdoor wedding with a touch of elegance.
Service & Food: Le Belvédère is known for its personalized service and attention to detail. The venue’s in-house catering team specializes in crafting delectable menus that reflect the couple’s tastes and preferences, ensuring a unique culinary experience for every wedding.
Ideal For: Le Belvédère is ideal for couples who want an outdoor wedding surrounded by natural beauty yet with all the amenities of a high-end venue. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a natural yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Location: 380 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, ON
Ambiance & Style: The National Gallery of Canada is a masterpiece of modern architecture and a dream venue for art-loving couples. With its sleek lines, glass walls, and striking spaces like the Great Hall and the Water Court, the National Gallery offers a contemporary and artistic ambiance that’s truly unique.
Service & Food: The venue offers top-notch service, and offers a list of caterers for booking at their venue.
Ideal For: The National Gallery is ideal for couples who want a modern, artistic wedding in a venue that’s as much a work of art as the pieces it houses. It’s perfect for those who appreciate contemporary design and want a wedding that’s out of the ordinary.
6. The Horticulture Building
Location: 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa, ON
Ambiance & Style: The Horticulture Building at Lansdowne Park is a beautifully restored historic venue that blends old-world charm with modern amenities. Its high ceilings, exposed beams, and large windows create a bright and airy space that’s perfect for a romantic wedding with a touch of history.
Service & Food: The Horticulture Building allows couples to work with their choice of caterer, offering flexibility in menu selection.
Ideal For: This venue is ideal for couples who want a historic yet contemporary wedding. It’s perfect for those who appreciate architectural beauty and want a unique space that can be customized to fit their vision.
Location: 50 Mackenzie King Bridge, Ottawa, ON
Ambiance & Style: The Ottawa Art Gallery is a modern, intimate venue that’s perfect for couples seeking an artistic and stylish wedding. The gallery’s contemporary design and range of event spaces allow for a truly personalized celebration. With its panoramic views of downtown Ottawa, the rooftop terrace is a standout feature for those looking to host a memorable event.
Service & Food: The Ottawa Art Gallery offers a range of catering options that can be customized to fit the couple’s preferences.
Ideal For: The Ottawa Art Gallery is ideal for couples who want a small, intimate wedding in a stylish and artistic setting. It’s perfect for those who appreciate contemporary art and want a venue that reflects their creative spirit.
The gallery’s rooftop terrace is a must-see for sunset photos. The combination of city views and soft evening light creates a magical setting for both the ceremony and your wedding portraits.
Choosing the perfect venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your wedding. Each of these top-tier venues in Ottawa offers something unique, whether it’s the Fairmont Château Laurier’s historic charm, the National Gallery’s modern elegance, or the Le Belvédère’s rustic romance.
As an experienced Ottawa wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing unforgettable moments at each of these stunning locations. If you’re still deciding on a venue or want to discuss how to make the most of your chosen space, I’d love to chat with you. Let’s work together to create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.
Looking to get married at one of these top Ottawa Wedding Venues? Make sure to visit all their sites for more information, and check out how I’ve captured wedding days at these venues.
