by AJW Team
Planning a wedding in the vibrant city of Miami offers countless possibilities, but one decision that often takes center stage is the choice of a wedding venue. When it comes to finding Miami wedding venues outdoors, there are a ton of them, and it can be daunting to consider all the things you need to think about when planning a wedding in a tropical outdoor venue.
As a leading Miami wedding caterer, we have the inside scoop on the Miami venue scene. Today, we’re going to explore the pros and cons of three popular Miami outdoor wedding venue styles: rooftop, garden, and beach weddings. We’ll share the incredible perks, like picturesque scenery, natural lighting, minimal necessary decor, and accommodation for larger parties. But we’ll also share things we think you should know after years of doing outdoor weddings in Miami.
Our ultimate goal is to help you weigh the pros and cons to make the best decision for you and your partner for your special day!
There’s just something about a rooftop wedding that exudes luxe and romantic vibes. The fantastic skyline view creates a mesmerizing backdrop for your special day, while the intimate gathering provides a cozy and personal atmosphere. Privacy is another perk, allowing you and your guests to enjoy the celebration without interruptions. And let’s not forget the breathtaking sunsets that grace the Miami skyline, adding a touch of romance to your ceremony!
However, it’s important to consider a couple of things. On windy days, the wind speeds on a rooftop can be higher, so it’s crucial to check for sufficient coverage in the areas where you plan to host your wedding. Additionally, if you have elderly guests attending, make sure there is an elevator for easy access to the rooftop venue—a few things that are important but not impossible to manage!
Here are a few of our favorite venues for Miami rooftop weddings for you to explore:
Miami Beach/South Beach | Seated Capacity: 300 | Cocktail Capacity: 750 | $$$
If you and your partner are modern architecture buffs, 1111 Lincoln Road is a must-visit. The building was designed by Swiss architects from one of the most admired design companies worldwide. On the 7th floor, you’ll find their main event space, with floor-to-ceiling, 360-degree views of the neighboring beach and city skyline.
While it’s completely open, it is covered, which makes it a great option because you don’t necessarily have to worry about rain and tenting being impacted by the wind.
Here’s a peek at an event we did there that we think offers some incredible wedding design inspiration.
Miami-Dada County | Seated Capacity: 200 | Cocktail Capacity: 500 | $$
This rooftop venue is the only rooftop event space in South Florida that’s enclosed so you get the views without the elements. You tower above the Miami River with breathtaking views of the Miami skyline, a chic and modern ambiance, and the perfect blend of luxury and sophistication.
There is a terrace area if you want to combine that for a fully outdoor ceremony, cocktail hour, or extra reception space.
Miami-Dada County | Seated Capacity: 100 | Cocktail Capacity: 250 | $$
Is there anything more compelling than a garden in the sky? The Rooftop Garden is an urban oasis in the heart of the Miami Design District featuring mahogany trees, Jamaican spice-wood hedges, vines galore, and philodendrons, among other lush plant life. But you’re on the roof of the Garden Building.
Accents include sleek granite benches, Kenny Scharf’s iconic 1990s sculpture, and flexible, private space that allows you to get creative with your own floor plan.
Miami garden weddings offer a natural beauty that has a tendency to decrease the inevitable bits of stress that come with planning a wedding. The smell of fresh flowers and the feel of soft, green grass under your feet is enough to set anyone’s mind at ease. Plus, even without additional décor or elements in many cases, you’re able to step into a tranquil and romantic ambiance that’s intimate and ideal for a wedding celebration.
Things to keep in mind, though, when booking a garden wedding venue in Miami, garden weddings are highly weather-dependent, and it’s impossible to predict if the weather will cooperate, so you’ll need a back-up plan. Additionally, allergies can be a concern for some guests.
Despite these considerations, the enchantment, charm, and uniqueness of a garden wedding make it a perfect choice for couples seeking a whimsical and romantic day.
Here are a few of our favorite venues for Miami garden weddings for you to explore:
Miami- Dada County | Seated Capacity: 200 | Cocktail Capacity: 500 | $
Set amid lush greenery and centuries-old architecture, the timeless charm and intimate ambiance that this historic venue offers make it one of the most popular wedding venues in Miami-Dade County.
There are three chapels on the perfectly landscaped grounds, with 12th-century Gothic architecture for dramatic and dreamy wedding photos.
Ft. Lauderdale/Broward | Seated Capacity: 200 | Cocktail Capacity: 250 | $$
Described as a boho chic paradise, this artistic haven is owned and operated by a husband-wife duo, which makes it a uniquely perfect place for your wedding. They want guests to feel a sense of wellness, peace, and abundance as they walk into the venue, which are all sentiments that are important in marriage.
They share, “Everything we touch and do has intention and energy. At the Sanctuary, this intention and energy is love.” A special space unlike any in the area.
Miami-Dada County | Seated Capacity: 400 | Cocktail Capacity: 250 | $$
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this early 1900s mansion is constructed in Pueblo style, using clay tile and textured stucco for a beautiful exterior unlike any other in the area. The building sits on four acres of luxurious, manicured gardens featuring bamboo, palm trees, ponds, tropical shrubs, blooms galore, and more. It’s innately romantic and perfect for weddings.
A Miami beach wedding offers a breathtakingly beautiful setting that exudes relaxation and intimacy. Thanks to the innately picturesque backdrop, your photographer will be able to capture stunning photographs to cherish forever. For couples planning a micro-wedding or smaller soiree, a beach wedding is an excellent choice.
However, it’s essential to consider a couple of downsides. Weather unpredictability means you definitely need a back-up plan. Plus, if the location requires a long walk through the sand, it’s important to assess the accessibility for elderly or disabled guests. You can put down flooring and tents for some Miami beach weddings to help with that, but not all.
Regardless, beach weddings are popular for a reason. They’re romantic, idyllic, and laid-back yet luxurious. We love them!
Here are a few of our favorite venues for Miami waterfront weddings for you to explore:
Miami-Dada County | Seated Capacity: 1,000 | Cocktail Capacity: 1,000 | $$
So, while this isn’t necessarily beachfront, it is waterfront—and that’s what you’re going to find for the following suggestions. Going waterfront vs. beachfront is one simple toss-up, as you can enjoy the views but with infrastructure that makes it easier to access for your guests and easier to manage in terms of back-up plans for weather. Just a recommendation we like to make for couples to consider!
Our planners like to say that The Deering Estate is Miami frozen in time because it offers a Mediterranean-style Stone House surrounded by native plant life. The ceremony spot, lined with palm trees facing directly into Biscayne Bay, is one of the most sought-after and photogenic in Miami!
Miami-Dada County | Seated Capacity: 300 | Cocktail Capacity: 1,000 | $$$
For those who want a destination wedding that feels like Europe without leaving Miami-Dade County, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is the answer. Referred to often as the Versailles of America, it’s a waterfront estate with both indoor and outdoor space, but it’s also right on the water.
The East Terrace set for cocktail hour literally looks like a scene from a movie (and this venue has been in many due to its unique aesthetic and grounds).
Miami-Dada County | Seated Capacity: 200 | Cocktail Capacity: 250 | $$
A 1925 Mediterranean Revival estate, Thalatta Estate is a natural oasis overlooking the Biscayne Bay National Park. You’ll wed with special guests like herons, pelicans, marine iguanas, and more. The abundant plant and animal life is a unique draw for those who love the natural aspects of Miami’s landscapes but with a touch of luxury.
Our AJW team plans hundreds of weddings at Miami wedding venues outdoors year-round. Our two top tips for you to consider as you explore having an outdoor wedding in Miami are:
If you want assistance planning your outdoor wedding in Miami so you can approach the newlywed phase with joy and ease, let’s chat.
