7 Ann Arbor Wedding Venues

Ann Arbor is one of those Michigan cities that just gets it right. The culture, the food scene, the natural spaces. It all comes together to create this vibrant, beautiful place that’s perfect for weddings.

There’s something special about the Ann Arbor area that is completely different than anywhere else in Michigan. Whether you want a farm wedding surrounded by fields or a garden ceremony under towering trees, this city delivers to the max.

Let me walk you through some incredible Ann Arbor wedding venues that’ll make your day exactly what you’ve been dreaming about.

Why Choose an Ann Arbor Wedding Venue?

Ann Arbor isn’t just a college town. It’s a city with character, incredible food, and some of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in Michigan.

Your guests will actually enjoy being here. Downtown Ann Arbor is extremely walkable with amazing restaurants, breweries, and shops. The University of Michigan campus adds gorgeous architecture and green spaces. And you’re close enough to Detroit that travel is easy for most people.

The wedding venues here range from historic estates to modern hotels to natural gardens. You get variety without sacrificing that Ann Arbor charm that makes this place feel special.

Zingerman’s Cornman Farms

Let’s start with one of the most talked-about wedding venues in the Ann Arbor area. Zingerman’s Cornman Farms is a working farm with restored historic buildings and that famous Zingerman’s food quality.

This venue is gorgeous. The restored 1834 farmhouse sits on 26 acres with fields, gardens, and farm buildings that create this authentic rural Michigan atmosphere. But you’re only minutes from downtown Ann Arbor.

The outdoor ceremony sites are stunning. You can exchange vows in the apple orchard, by the pond, or in the open fields with those classic Michigan farm views. The restored barn serves as your reception space with rustic elegance that photographs beautifully.

What sets Cornman Farms apart is the food. Zingerman’s built their reputation on quality, and that shows up in every detail of your wedding meal. Your guests will be talking about the food for years.

As a photographer, I love how the property offers so many different looks. Farm fields, historic buildings, garden spaces are all here.

The Valley at Frutig Farms

The Valley at Frutig Farms brings serious wow factor to Ann Arbor weddings. This family-owned farm has been transformed into a stunning wedding venue while keeping that authentic farm character.

The property includes rolling hills, a pond, restored barns, and views that go on forever. It feels like you’ve escaped to the countryside even though you’re close to the city.

The ceremony site overlooks the valley with the pond below the fields stretching into the distance. It’s one of those views that makes everyone stop and take it in. As your photographer, I’m always grateful for landscapes like this that create natural drama in your photos.

The reception barn is spacious with modern rustic vibe. Big windows bring in natural light, and the space works for both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations.

What I appreciate about Frutig Farms is how the family has preserved the farm’s history while creating a polished wedding experience. You get authentic farm charm without sacrificing comfort or style.

Matthaei Botanical Gardens

Matthaei Botanical Gardens offers something completely different for Ann Arbor couples who love nature. This University of Michigan property includes all kinds of gardens.

The gardens are absolutely stunning. You’re surrounded by carefully cultivated plants, mature trees, and thoughtfully designed landscapes. Every season brings different blooms and colors, so your wedding will have its own unique natural palette.

The conservatory provides a backup option for ceremonies with its glass walls and tropical plants. It’s romantic and architectural at the same time. For outdoor ceremonies, the gardens offer multiple locations from formal spaces to naturalistic settings.

Reception spaces include both indoor and outdoor options. The Great Lakes Garden is particularly beautiful for cocktail hours with its stone features and water elements.

Every corner at Matthaei offers something beautiful, and the natural light filtering through trees creates that soft, romantic glow we all love.

Wellers Carriage House

Wellers Carriage House is an Ann Arbor classic. Technically the venue is in Saline, but it is pretty close to Ann Arbor. This historic venue sits on wooded property, just outside Ann Arbor, with a romantic Old World atmosphere.

The carriage house itself dates back to the 1800s with stone walls, arched doorways, and that timeless European feel. It’s elegant without being stuffy, which is exactly what a lot of couples want.

The outdoor ceremony site is tucked into the woods with mature trees creating a natural cathedral effect. There’s something magical about saying your vows surrounded by trees with dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves.

Inside, the reception space has stone fireplaces, wooden beams, and intimate lighting. It feels warm and romantic, especially during evening receptions when everything glows.

Wellers works beautifully for couples who want a fairytale wedding without going over the top. The setting does the heavy lifting, so you don’t need tons of decor to create that romantic atmosphere.

Check out this blog that does a deep dive on weddings at Wellers Carriage House.

The Kensington Hotel

The Kensington Hotel brings modern elegance to Ann Arbor weddings. This boutique hotel is located right in downtown Ann Arbor, making it incredibly convenient for guests and perfect for couples who want an urban wedding.

The rooftop terrace is the star here. You get views of the Ann Arbor skyline with an outdoor spaces that works beautifully for both ceremonies and receptions. String lights, city views, and open sky all provide romantic vibes without trying too hard.

Inside, the hotel has refined event spaces with contemporary design. The rooms are light-filled with clean lines and elegant touches. It photographs beautifully with that modern, sophisticated look.

Bring downtown means your guests can walk to restaurants, bars, and entertainment before and after your wedding. They’re not isolated at a suburban venue with nothing nearby.

The Kensington is especially great for couples who want everything in one place without the stress of coordinating multiple locations.

Nichols Arboretum

Nichols Arboretum, or “The Arb” as locals call it, is one of Ann Arbor’s most beloved outdoor spaces. This 123-acre arboretum run by the University of Michigan offers natural beauty and iconic peony gardens.

If you’re getting married in late May or early June, the peony garden is legendary. Thousands of peonies bloom in waves of pink, white, and red. It’s breathtaking and creates such a romantic backdrop for ceremonies.

Beyond the peonies, the Arb has rolling hills, river views, and trails through diverse ecosystems. You can find intimate spots or open spaces depending on what fits your vision.

The Arb requires more DIY planning since it’s a public space without built-in reception facilities. But for couples who want an outdoor ceremony in one of Ann Arbor’s most iconic locations, it’s worth the extra planning.

As a photographer, I love shooting at the Arb. The natural light, the varied landscapes, the seasonal changes all create beautiful, organic photos that feel authentically Michigan.

Stone Chalet Bed and Breakfast Inn

Stone Chalet Bed and Breakfast offers intimate charm for smaller Ann Arbor weddings. This European-style inn sits on five wooded acres just outside of downtown Ann Arbor with gardens, stone patios, and cozy indoor spaces.

The property feels like a secret garden. Stone walls, flowering plants, and mature trees create this private, romantic atmosphere. It’s perfect for couples who want something intimate and away from the typical wedding venue scene.

The outdoor ceremony areas include garden spaces and patio settings surrounded by greenery. It feels personal and secluded, which is exactly what some couples need.

For receptions, Stone Chalet works best for smaller guest counts. The indoor spaces are warm and inviting with fireplaces and comfortable furnishings. It feels more like hosting a celebration at a friend’s beautiful home than a traditional venue.

What I love about Stone Chalet is how it creates this escape-from-the-world feeling. Your wedding feels personal and unique rather than like one of the many events happening that weekend.

Finding Your Perfect Ann Arbor Wedding Venue

Ann Arbor gives you options not far from Detroit. Farm weddings, garden ceremonies, historic venues, and modern hotels all here waiting for you.

The key is figuring out what matters most to you as a couple. Do you want that farm-to-table experience? Are gardens your thing? Do you need the convenience of a full-service hotel? Let your priorities guide you.

Every venue I’ve listed photographs beautifully in its own way. My job as your photographer is to capture what makes your chosen space special and document all those authentic moments that make your day uniquely yours.

When you’re touring Ann Arbor wedding venues, pay attention to how you feel in the space. Does it match your energy? Can you picture your people there? Trust your gut on this one.