Boston’s picturesque waterfront offers an abundance of stunning wedding venues that are perfect for couples seeking a scenic and romantic setting for their big day. As a Boston wedding photographer, I, Alex Gordias, have enjoyed capturing unforgettable moments at some of the most beautiful waterfront locations. In this blog post, I will share my top picks for the best waterfront wedding venues in the Boston area, along with essential contact information for each.
1. Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA)
Located in the Seaport, the ICA offers a contemporary interior with one of the best cantilevered harbor views in the city. It is a must-see, one-of-a-kind space for modern couples.
Contact: 617-478-3100 | info@icaboston.org
Website: www.icaboston.org
2. The Exchange Conference Center
Nestled at the end of Fish Pier in the Seaport District, The Exchange offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of Boston Harbor. This historic venue combines grand architectural details with a beautiful waterfront terrace.
Contact: 617-790-1900 | info@exchangeconferencecenter.com
Website: www.exchangeconferencecenter.com
3. The State Room
Perched on the 33rd floor of 60 State Street, The State Room offers the most iconic panoramic views of the harbor and city skyline. With its massive floor-to-ceiling windows, it is the pinnacle of urban chic.
Contact: 617-854-5000 | info@longwoodvenues.com
Website: www.longwoodvenues.com
4. The New England Aquarium
For a truly immersive experience, the Aquarium allows you to exchange vows surrounded by marine life. Their outdoor Harbor View Terrace offers an incredible vantage point of the water.
Contact: 617-973-5205 | events@neaq.org
Website: www.neaq.org
5. The Boston Harbor Hotel
This Five-Star hotel offers one of the most elegant waterfront settings in the world. The iconic Wharf Room features crystal chandeliers and looks directly onto the harbor under the famous arch.
Contact: 617-439-7000 | bhhinfo@bhh.com
Website: www.bostonharborhotel.com
6. The Seaport Hotel
Featuring a mix of sophisticated ballrooms and the unique outdoor Garden Cafe/Wintergarden, the Seaport Hotel is a staple for waterfront luxury in the Innovation District.
Contact: 617-385-4212 | celebrate@seaportboston.com
Website: www.seaportboston.com
7. Cruiseport Gloucester
A short drive north of the city, Cruiseport Gloucester’s Grand Ballroom features 20-foot ceilings and expansive views of Gloucester’s working harbor.
Contact: 978-282-9700 | info@cruiseportgloucester.com
Website: www.cruiseportgloucester.com
8. Thompson Island Outward Bound
A private island venue accessible via a short ferry. It offers a rustic, “summer camp” vibe with a professional touch and a legendary view of the Boston skyline across the water.
Contact: 617-830-5105 | events@thompsonisland.org
Website: www.thompsonisland.org
9. The Oceanview of Nahant
A premier coastal venue with 360-degree ocean views and a private beach for ceremonies. It’s a hidden gem located just north of Boston.
Contact: 781-581-1301 | info@oceanviewnahant.com
Website: www.oceanviewofnahant.com
10. Venezia Boston
Located on Dorchester Bay, Venezia offers breathtaking city views, a grand marble dance floor, and the benefit of easy parking—a rarity for Boston waterfront venues.
Contact: 617-436-3120 | events@veneziaboston.com
Website: www.veneziaboston.com
11. Winthrop Yacht Club
Offering a relaxed, nautical atmosphere, the Yacht Club features a spacious deck overlooking the harbor, making it perfect for an intimate, oceanfront celebration.
Contact: 617-846-6209 | info@winthropyc.com
Website: www.win-yc.org
12. Danversport
This massive estate on the water in Danvers offers diverse options, from the grand Harborview Ballroom to a waterfront gazebo surrounded by lush gardens.
Contact: 978-774-8622 | info@danversport.com
Website: www.danversport.com
13. Beauport Hotel Gloucester
With a modern coastal-chic design and a rooftop deck that will take your breath away, the Beauport is Gloucester’s premier luxury hotel venue.
Contact: 978-282-0008 | info@beauporthotel.com
Website: www.beauporthotel.com
14. Battery Wharf Hotel
A sleek, contemporary hotel located in the historic North End. It offers intimate courtyard ceremonies and elegant ballrooms right on the water’s edge.
Contact: 617-994-9000 | info@batterywharfhotel.com
Website: www.batterywharfhotelboston.com
15. Cohasset Harbor Resort
Located on the South Shore, this resort features a beautiful tented pavilion and a quintessential New England harbor backdrop.
Contact: 781-383-6650 | events@cohassetharborresort.com
Website: www.theharborcohasset.com
16. White Cliffs Country Club
Perched on a cliff overlooking Cape Cod Bay in Plymouth, this venue offers dramatic ocean views and a private tram that takes couples down to the beach for portraits.
Contact: 508-888-8708 | events@whitecliffscc.com
Website: www.whitecliffscc.com
17. Lakeview Pavilion
While located slightly inland in Foxborough, Lakeview offers a stunning modern ballroom with massive windows looking over a serene lake, giving it a true waterfront feel.
Contact: 508-543-9099 | info@lakeviewpavilion.com
Website: www.lakeviewpavilion.com
18. Hyatt Regency Boston Harbor
Located near Logan Airport, this hotel boasts arguably the best “eye-level” view of the entire Boston skyline from across the harbor.
Contact: 617-568-1234 | bosha-rfp@hyatt.com
Website: www.hyatt.com
19. Boston Marriott Long Wharf
A flagship harbor hotel located next to Christopher Columbus Park. Its proximity to the waterfront and the T makes it exceptionally convenient for guests.
Contact: 617-227-0800
Website: www.marriott.com
20. Shalin Liu Performance Center
Located in Rockport, this venue is famous for its stage backdrop—a massive window overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an incredibly artistic and elegant choice.
Contact: 978-546-7391 | events@rockportmusic.org
Website: www.rockportmusic.org
21. Envoy Hotel
A modern masterpiece in the Seaport. Its Lookout Rooftop bar is one of the most sought-after spots for cocktail hours and intimate urban wedding celebrations.
22. Pier 4 Hotel (The St. Regis)
The newest addition to the Seaport waterfront, providing unparalleled luxury and modern architectural detail surrounded by water on three sides.
23. The Liberty Hotel
Located near the Charles River, this historic landmark (a former prison) offers dramatic vaulted ceilings and a courtyard that is perfect for a sophisticated, high-end wedding.
24. Revere Hotel Boston Common
While just a few blocks from the actual water, its rooftop deck offers some of the best high-altitude views of the city and the harbor beyond.
25. Anchor Inn Beverly
A cozy, intimate waterfront option north of Boston that feels incredibly private and romantic.
26. Royal Sonesta Boston
Located on the Cambridge side of the Charles River, offering iconic views of the Boston skyline and a beautiful riverside terrace.
27. Museum of Science
The Washburn Pavilion at the Museum of Science allows you to host your reception literally on the banks of the Charles River.
28. House of the Seven Gables
A historic treasure in Salem with stunning gardens and a sweeping lawn that leads directly to Salem Harbor.
Conclusion
Boston’s waterfront offers a wealth of stunning wedding venues, each with its own unique charm. As a local photographer, I have had the privilege of witnessing countless couples say “I do” at these locations, and I am continually inspired by the stories that unfold against these backdrops. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect setting for your big day.
If you have any questions about these venues or would like to discuss your wedding photography, please feel free to reach out to me at Alex Gordias Photography. I look forward to helping you preserve the memories that will last a lifetime.
