As a wedding photographer in Northern Colorado, I am no stranger to outdoor wedding venues. And I mean with views like the ones we have here, I totally get why more and more couples are opting for and planning outdoor weddings! While there are so so so many stunning traditional venues, there is something so special about an outdoor venue and saying your “I Dos” in the beautiful outdoors. 

From city botanic gardens, to venues hidden in the Rocky Mountains, Northern Colorado unveils a diverse tapestry of locations ready to reflect your individual style and create a wedding experience your guests will never be able to stop talking about. As someone who lives for those authentic, candid moments and those jaw-dropping, Insta-worthy portraits, I’ve curated a list of 10 of the best outdoor wedding venues in Northern Colorado that will be the perfect backdrop for your special day. 

Denver Botanic Gardens- Denver 

One of the most stunning and sought after venues in Colorado absolutely has to be the Denver Botanic Gardens. They book out nearly a year in advance, and it is so easy to see why. With so many different ceremony spots, options to host your reception there, and an overwhelming amount of locations for taking photos- it is the perfect spot for local couples with family coming in from out of town so they can see the sights, and for couples coming from out of state who want a wedding with lots of Colorado vibes that isn’t in the mountains. 

Granby Ranch- Granby 

This highly desirable wedding venue is located in the Rocky Mountains and perfect for couples seeking a memorable mountain setting with stunning views and exceptional service. The ceremony site is accessible by chair lift (with a shuttle service for those who may have difficulty riding the chair lift). Many couples who get married here RAVE about the natural beauty of the area, which features gorgeous aspen groves and fields of wildflowers. Overall, if you’re looking for a venue with insane views and an intimate setting- this is the perfect venue for you. 

Town Ranch Event Area- Crested Butte 

If you are looking for a fully customizable venue with mountain views then you are going to love this venue! Located just minutes from downtown Crested Butte, it is perfect for hosting out of town guests due to its accessibility. This is definitely a blank slate type of venue, which means you are free to customize everything to meet your wedding style and vibes. It does have limited amenities though, so it does require some extra planning to make sure you have everything you guys need. But with a great coordinator this shouldn’t be a problem at all! 

Sky Valley Chateau- Steamboat Springs 

Sky Valley Chateau is an intimate mountain lodge perfect for micro weddings and other intimate celebrations. It offers stunning views of the Yampa Valley and surrounding mountains, providing a beautiful and memorable backdrop for a wedding. The venue can best be described as a classic mountain lodge, with a rustic yet luxurious vibe. And there is plenty of lodging and amenities on site, making it perfect for multi-day events, or if you have guests coming in from out of town. 

Black Canyon Inn- Estes Park 

Black Canyon Inn in Estes Park is a stunning wedding venue with stunning views of Rocky Mountain National park offering two distinct spaces: The Boulders and The Homestead. Both have unique features that make them perfect backdrops for your wedding day. The staff here is praised for being responsive, kind, and incredibly organized. And with on site lodging, it is perfect for hosting out of town guests and weekend long celebrations. If you are looking for a memorable and stress-free wedding experience with mountain views, this is the perfect venue for you. 

Lyons Farmette- Lyons 

If you are looking for a wedding venue that is charming, natural, and unique with excellent service and a relaxed atmosphere- this might be the perfect spot for your wedding day. This four-acre farm is complete with flower fields, vegetable gardens, cottonwood trees, and a creek, all of which provides a picturesque backdrop for weddings. And there’s even friendly farm animals like alpacas, chickens, and goats! Plus, as a working organic farm, they can provide flowers and even produce for the wedding, offering a unique farm-to-table experience. Couples describe this venue as being intimate, cozy, and laid back. 

Pinecone Avenue Social- Longmont 

Pine Cone Avenue Social is a family-owned flower farm that operates as an intimate and rustic outdoor wedding and event venue. It’s known for its beautiful gardens, unique features, and personalized service. Truly such a beautiful and unique venue, they have everything from colorful botanic gardens, mountain views, and even a historic train car and a vintage RV. And the stunning views make a perfect backdrop for portraits. With their main focus being intimate weddings and elopements, they offer affordable and inclusive packages that include everything decor, tables, chairs, linens, tableware, floral arrangements (sourced from their own farm!!!), and an on-site venue host to help make sure that you day goes smoothly. 

The Mishawaka- Bellevue

This venue is a truly unique and picturesque wedding venue, and perfect for couples seeking a memorable celebration in a stunning natural environment. The combination of its scenic beauty, historic charm, accommodating staff, and flexible options makes it a popular choice for Colorado weddings. Located alongside the Poudre River, there are several places that are absolutely perfect for taking bridal portraits. And in case of expected weather changes it has indoor and outdoor options, so you can feel rest assured knowing that no matter what happens you are 100% covered. 

The Cheley Lodge and Grove- Estes Park 

The Cheley Lodge and Grove in Estes Park is a highly recommended wedding venue known for its stunning mountain views and rustic charm. Located on a vast 800-acre property bordering Twin Sisters Mountain, it offers breathtaking views of Longs Peak, Mount Meeker, and the Mummy Range. The venue combines its history as a family-owned summer camp with modern amenities to create a truly unique wedding experience. And as an all inclusive venue, this takes a lot of the planning off your shoulders since they have their own lists of vendors for you to choose from. 

Sweetheart Winery- Loveland 

Located on eight acres along the Big Thompson River, it offers a picturesque setting with mountain views and a unique rustic-industrial charm, with a touch of country charm and romance. And as a fully working winery, you can trust that their bar service is top tier and will leave your guests raving. While this is an outdoor venue, they also have indoor options ready to go in case of rain or other unexpected weather. If you are looking for a venue that is equal parts memorable and romantic- this is probably the perfect one for you. 

I hope this helps you in your wedding planning! Obviously no matter where you choose to have your wedding, it will be perfect and magical in every way possible! And if you are still looking for a wedding photographer for your wedding day, I would LOVE to hear from you and chat about your day. To reach out just click HERE, and I will get back to you with a detailed pricing guide within 48 hours!