Spotlight on Tampa’s Best Wedding Venues: The Perfect Locations for Your Dream Day
Tampa, Florida, is brimming with stunning wedding venues that cater to a variety of tastes, from elegant ballrooms to rustic gardens and breathtaking beachfront spots. As a wedding photographer based in Tampa, I’ve had the pleasure of working at some of the area’s most beautiful venues, and I’m excited to share a few of my top recommendations with you. Whether you're planning a lavish celebration or an intimate gathering, these venues offer everything you need to create the wedding of your dreams.
Let’s dive into some of the best wedding venues in Tampa, each offering unique opportunities for stunning wedding photos and unforgettable memories.
1. The Tampa Garden Club: A Hidden Oasis in the Heart of the City
Location: 2629 Bayshore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33629
For couples seeking a serene garden setting that’s still close to downtown Tampa, The Tampa Garden Club is an absolute gem. This lush venue offers an elegant outdoor garden and a charming indoor space for your reception. Surrounded by tropical trees and vibrant florals, the venue feels like a hidden oasis—perfect for couples who want a lush, natural backdrop for their wedding photos.
Why It’s Perfect for Your Wedding
Beautiful outdoor gardens: The well-maintained gardens make for stunning photos, especially during the golden hour when the sun sets over the greenery.
Indoor/outdoor flexibility: Whether you choose to exchange vows outside or in the indoor ballroom, there are plenty of options for capturing every special moment.
Photography Tip:
If you’re getting married at The Tampa Garden Club, I recommend planning your group photos in the lush gardens. The rich greenery and vibrant flowers offer an ideal setting for romantic, candid shots.
2. The Tampa Yacht & Country Club: Classic Elegance by the Water
Location: 5320 Interbay Blvd, Tampa, FL
For couples who dream of a waterfront wedding, the Tampa Yacht & Country Club is the epitome of sophistication. With its stunning views of Tampa Bay and lush grounds, this venue combines classic elegance with a relaxed, coastal vibe. It’s the perfect place for a chic outdoor ceremony followed by an elegant reception in the ballroom.
Why It’s Perfect for Your Wedding
Waterfront views: The club’s location along the bay offers stunning photo opportunities, whether you're tying the knot on the waterfront lawn or taking photos along the marina.
Traditional elegance: The venue's grand ballroom is the ideal setting for an elegant reception, with large windows that overlook the water and let in lots of natural light.
Photography Tip:
The best time for photos here is right before sunset during golden hour. You can capture your wedding portraits with the bay as a backdrop, and the soft golden light makes for magical, romantic photos.
3. The Columbia Restaurant: A Taste of Tampa’s History
Location: 2117 E. 7th Ave, Tampa, FL (Ybor City)
If you’re looking for a venue with history, character, and amazing food, The Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City is the perfect choice. Established in 1905, this iconic restaurant is not only a Tampa landmark but also a stunning venue for a wedding celebration. With its Spanish-Cuban architecture, vibrant tilework, and festive atmosphere, it offers a one-of-a-kind setting for a memorable wedding day.
Why It’s Perfect for Your Wedding
Historic charm: The venue’s intricate design and cultural charm make for unique, colorful wedding photos.
Customizable spaces: With several rooms to choose from, you can have an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration while enjoying delicious Spanish cuisine.
Photography Tip:
The vibrant colors and historic architecture of The Columbia make it an excellent location for fun and bold wedding shots. Be sure to capture some of the iconic elements of the venue, like the ornate railing on the second floor.
4. Armature Works: Industrial Elegance with a Modern Twist
Location: 1910 N Ola Ave, Tampa, FL
If you're drawn to modern industrial venues with a touch of rustic charm, Armature Works is one of Tampa’s trendiest spots for weddings. Situated along the Hillsborough River, this former warehouse has been transformed into a chic event space with exposed brick, steel beams, and sweeping views of downtown Tampa. It’s perfect for couples who want a unique, urban feel for their big day.
Why It’s Perfect for Your Wedding
Industrial charm meets modern luxury: The venue blends the beauty of industrial design with elegant touches, creating the perfect balance between chic and cozy.
Riverfront views: You can exchange vows outside with the river as your backdrop, or host an indoor reception that offers sweeping views of the city skyline.
Photography Tip:
The large windows and natural light at Armature Works are perfect for indoor wedding portraits. Also, don’t miss the chance to capture the venue’s stunning outdoor river views during the golden hour for a dramatic effect.
5. The Florida Aquarium: Under the Sea Meets Under the Stars
Location: 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL
For couples seeking something truly unique, The Florida Aquarium offers a one-of-a-kind venue with stunning underwater and outdoor event spaces. Whether you want to exchange vows in front of the massive aquarium tanks or host your reception with a view of the beautiful Tampa skyline, this venue has it all. With its exotic fish tanks and open-air terrace, you’ll have a wedding that’s as memorable as it is beautiful.
Why It’s Perfect for Your Wedding
Aquarium charm: Imagine exchanging vows in front of a massive aquarium filled with colorful fish and sea creatures—your guests will be in awe, and your photos will be unlike any other.
Versatile event spaces: From the tranquil indoor aquarium space to the rooftop terrace, you can choose the perfect location for your ceremony and reception.
Photography Tip:
Take advantage of the aquarium’s unique backdrops for creative wedding shots. If you're having your ceremony in front of the tanks, we can get some amazing shots of you and your guests framed by colorful fish and aquatic life. For your reception, the outdoor terrace offers a beautiful view of the Tampa skyline. How fun is that!?!
Whereever you choose to hold your wedding day we would love to be considered for both photo and video services. We are a husband and wife team and we find so much joy in capturing your unique love story. Let’s start the converstaion about capturing your special day 814-566-6282 helloartreasures@gmail.com