Host Your Dream Celebration at These Luxury Wedding Venues in DC

Washington, D.C. is more than just the nation’s capital—it’s a destination of timeless elegance, history, and high society. For couples planning an opulent wedding celebration, this city offers a stunning array of luxury wedding venues, each with its own charm, prestige, and unforgettable views. greatEvent makes it simple to choose and reserve the ideal location for your elegant celebration, whether your vision is a lavish ballroom event or a chic boutique get-together.

After working with countless couples to plan their dream DC weddings, we’ve discovered that the most memorable celebrations happen when venues offer more than just beautiful spaces—they provide unique experiences that reflect the couple’s story. In this curated guide, we explore the most luxurious wedding venues in DC, sharing insider insights and hidden details that make each location truly special.

Ultra-Luxury Wedding Venues in Washington, DC

These iconic properties deliver world-class service, palatial architecture, and timeless grandeur—ideal for those planning nothing less than an extraordinary affair.

The St. Regis Washington, DC

Experience timeless sophistication at one of the most elite hotel brands in the world. The St. Regis is ideal for high-profile weddings that require flawless execution because of its opulent chandeliers, gorgeous décor, and superb catering.

Style: Classic luxury | Capacity: Up to 300 guests | Highlight: Bespoke butler service and designer interiors

What many couples don’t realize is that the St. Regis offers a signature champagne sabering ceremony that can be incorporated into your cocktail hour—a theatrical touch that never fails to wow guests. The venue’s marble-clad Grand Ballroom features 18-foot ceilings that create stunning acoustics for live orchestras, making it ideal for couples who want their first dance to feel truly cinematic. Their in-house floral team maintains relationships with exclusive suppliers and can source rare blooms with just 48 hours’ notice, perfect for last-minute inspiration or seasonal surprises.

Ritz-Carlton, Washington, DC

An icon of modern elegance, the Ritz-Carlton offers luxurious ballrooms and impeccable service. It provides a serene retreat for high-end events and is located in the heart of the city.

Style: Modern elegance | Capacity: 150–400 guests | Highlight: World-class hospitality and culinary artistry

The Ritz-Carlton’s executive chef personally consults on custom menu creation, often incorporating seasonal ingredients from local DC farms—a farm-to-table approach that adds authenticity to luxury dining. For the day-of preparations, their renowned “Diamond Service” includes a bridal room with expert lighting that photographers adore for getting-ready photos. The intimate terrace space overlooking the city has become a favorite spot for sunset first-look moments, offering privacy in the heart of downtown.

Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC

The Four Seasons, which is well-known for its elegant atmosphere and close proximity to the Potomac River, offers Michelin-caliber food and versatile event facilities for an opulent wedding.

Style: Contemporary luxury | Capacity: Up to 500 guests | Highlight: Garden terrace ceremonies & fine-dining experience

Here’s something special: the Four Seasons offers a rare “Garden-to-Table” experience where couples can host their rehearsal dinner in the chef’s private herb garden. During cherry blossom season, the ballroom’s retractable walls open to reveal panoramic river views that perfectly frame the blooming trees along the Potomac. Their sommelier team curates wine pairings from a 500+ bottle cellar, including exclusive vintages you won’t find anywhere else in DC.

The Hay-Adams Hotel

Situated in close proximity to the White House, The Hay-Adams is a symbol of historic grandeur and prestige in Washington. It’s a prime choice for couples who value classic charm with unmatched views.

With expansive views of Lafayette Park and the White House, the facility can hold 200 people.

The view from The Hay-Adams isn’t just impressive—it’s historically significant. The daily White House flag ceremony, which can be seen from the hotel windows, is frequently the time that couples schedule their wedding. The venue’s location allows for unique photo opportunities with some of the most recognizable landmarks in America as your backdrop.

Premium Luxury Venues in DC

These wedding venues blend upscale charm with expansive capacity and refined décor—perfect for formal celebrations with a contemporary twist.

The Watergate Hotel

Famous for its history and design, The Watergate offers glamorous interiors, sweeping views of the Potomac, and modern sophistication.

Style: Glamorous modern | Capacity: 250 guests | Highlight: Rooftop views, spa, and a storied backdrop

The Watergate’s curved architecture creates incredibly unique photo opportunities with dramatic shadows and geometric lines that photographers dream about. As day transitions to night, string lights reflect off the building’s iconic curved windows, creating an almost cinematic backdrop. Many couples take advantage of the hotel’s private boat dock for dramatic arrival photos or intimate waterfront portraits—a detail that sets Watergate celebrations apart from typical hotel weddings.

The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection

Dubbed the “Grande Dame of Washington,” this historic hotel offers exquisite architecture and classic luxury that’s ideal for a regal wedding.

Style: Historic opulence | Capacity: Up to 650 guests | Highlight: Iconic Grand Ballroom and ornate details

Apart from its breathtaking beauty, The Mayflower holds presidential significance as it has played home to several presidents’ inaugural balls. Couples can weave this rich heritage into their celebration, with the venue offering access to historical artifacts and arranging brief historical presentations during cocktail hour. The crystal chandeliers are original 1925 Baccarat pieces, and the ballroom’s acoustics were specifically designed for both intimate conversations and grand orchestral performances, making every word of your vows crystal clear.

JW Marriott Washington, DC

Located on Pennsylvania Avenue, the JW Marriott is a premier destination for sophisticated weddings. Its elegant ballrooms and upscale facilities satisfy discriminating palates.

Style: Modern and grand | Capacity: Up to 700 guests | Highlight: Proximity to National Mall & city landmarks

The JW Marriott’s location on Pennsylvania Avenue offers unparalleled access to DC’s most iconic photo locations. Many couples arrange morning photo sessions at the Lincoln Memorial or Capitol steps, then return to the hotel for seamless preparation and celebration—no lengthy transportation needed.

Boutique Luxury Wedding Venues in DC

These venues offer intimacy, bespoke service, and timeless charm—perfect for couples looking for a stylish, less conventional luxury setting.

Hotel Washington

Modern meets history at this stylish venue, featuring rooftop views of the White House and a variety of flexible event spaces.

Style: Contemporary with classic touches | Capacity: 200 guests | Highlight: Rooftop bar and terrace perfect for city-view celebrations

The rooftop terrace at Hotel Washington offers unobstructed views of both the Washington Monument and White House—particularly magical during golden hour just before sunset. The venue’s glass elevator provides a unique photo opportunity as couples ascend to their reception, and many couples schedule their ceremony timing to catch the daily White House activities visible from the terrace.

The Dupont Circle Hotel

Boutique luxury in one of DC’s trendiest areas. Ideal for smaller, stylish weddings with a modern twist and personalized service.

Style: Sleek and modern | Capacity: 150 guests | Highlight: Terrace views and locally-inspired menus

Located steps from Dupont Circle’s famous fountain, this venue lets couples incorporate the neighborhood’s vibrant energy into their celebration. The hotel partners with local galleries to display rotating art collections, giving each wedding a unique artistic backdrop. Their intimate size allows for highly personalized touches—from custom cocktails named after the couple to locally-sourced welcome gifts featuring DC artisan products.

Planning Your Perfect DC Wedding Season

Washington DC’s distinct seasons each offer unique advantages for luxury weddings. Spring celebrations (March-May) can incorporate the city’s famous cherry blossoms, with many venues offering special “blossom packages” that coordinate decor with nature’s display. Fall weddings benefit from stunning foliage, with outdoor ceremony options available through October. Winter celebrations often feature existing holiday decorations that complement wedding themes, particularly beautiful at historic venues like The Mayflower and Hay-Adams.

For couples seeking East Coast opulence, venues like the Royal Albert Palace also offer grand architecture and regal ambiance fit for luxurious celebrations.

The city’s diverse culinary scene influences many venue menus, from Ethiopian-inspired appetizers reflecting DC’s international community to Chesapeake Bay seafood specialties. Several venues now offer interactive food stations and wine selections featuring Virginia and Maryland vineyards, adding local terroir to your celebration.

Book Your Dream DC Wedding Venue with greatEvent

From iconic ballrooms to hidden boutique gems, greatEvent simplifies the search for the perfect luxury wedding venue in DC. With exclusive listings, curated options, and user-friendly features, planning your elegant celebration has never been easier.

Couples often work with top-tier photographers—some even inspired by dynamic styles like Avery Sports Photo—to capture their big day with striking, high-energy visuals.

Whether you’re searching for DC wedding venues with historic charm, glamorous skyline views, or award-winning cuisine, greatEvent helps you find and book the ultimate venue for your once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

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