The Most Epic Ceremony Locations With Incredible Views in Austin

Austin, Texas, is a city where vibrant culture meets stunning natural beauty. That must be why everyone is moving here! From the shimmering waters of Lake Austin to the rolling hills of the Hill Country, Austin offers a diverse array of picturesque settings for your wedding ceremony. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the top outdoor ceremony locations in Austin with incredible views, highlighting their capacities, costs, unique features, and essential booking tips to help you choose the ideal spot for your nuptials.

Quick-Reference Table

Why Choose a Location With an Incredible View?

Selecting a ceremony location with an incredible view offers numerous benefits that enhance your wedding day:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for your ceremony and photographs, reducing the need for extensive decorations.
• Memorable Photos: Breathtaking views ensure your wedding photos are unforgettable, capturing the essence of your special day.
• Guest Experience: A scenic setting creates a magical atmosphere, making the event more enjoyable and immersive for your guests.
• Versatile Decor: With a beautiful natural backdrop, you can focus on personalized touches without overwhelming the space with decor.

By choosing a venue with an incredible view, you not only enhance the visual appeal of your wedding but also create lasting memories for you and your guests.

Epic Ceremony Location #1: Villa Antonia in Jonestown, Texas

1900 Scenic Trail, Jonestown, TX 78640

Why It’s Great:

Nestled in the gorgeous rolling hills of West Austin, Villa Antonia offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and elegant sophistication. This venue is ideal for couples seeking a picturesque setting with sweeping Hill Country views and top-notch amenities.

• Highlights:
  • Sweeping Hill Country Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas that provide a breathtaking backdrop for your ceremony and photos.
  • Multiple Ceremony Options: Choose between various outdoor and indoor spaces, including the beautiful chapel and scenic courtyards.
  • Bridal and Groom Suites: Luxurious bridal suites with romantic fireplaces and private balconies, and groom suites with wet bars and comfortable seating.
  • All-Inclusive Rentals: Access to white garden chairs, tables, and built-in bars, with the option to bring in your alcohol to save costs.
• Cuisine: Villa Antonia offers customizable catering options, allowing you to create a personalized menu that suits your taste and wedding budget.
• Location Address: 
• Seating Capacity: Ideal for weddings with up to 200 guests, providing an intimate yet spacious setting.
• Cost Range: Approximately $11,500 venue fee for peak season Saturdays.

Booking Tips:

• High Demand: Villa Antonia books very quickly, especially for weekends. Secure your date 12-18 months in advance.
• Flexible Dates: Consider weekday weddings or off-peak seasons to potentially reduce costs and increase availability.

Epic Ceremony Location #2: Sacred Oaks at Camp Lucy in Dripping Springs, Texas

3509 Creek Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Why It’s Great:

Sacred Oaks at Camp Lucy is one of three primary wedding locations at this renowned wine country resort. It offers a romantic oak grove setting and a wood cathedral-style Events Hall.

• Highlights:
  • Romantic Oak Grove: Features century-old oaks and amphitheater-style seating, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere for your ceremony.
  • Elegant Events Hall: A stunning wood cathedral ceiling with dramatic timbers and romantic details, ideal for large receptions with a band.
  • All-Inclusive Services: Includes tables, chairs, flatware, china, glassware, and comprehensive catering and bar services.
  • Turn-Key Experience: The venue handles everything from setup to cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your day without stress.
• Cuisine: Camp Lucy provides all catering and bar services, offering a variety of gourmet options tailored to your preferences. The Head Chef has been there for years and knows exactly what the crowd pleasers are to make you guests happy! 
• Location Address: Seating Capacity: Ideal for weddings with up to 300 guests.
• Cost Range: Approximately $14,500 venue fee for peak season Saturdays.

Booking Tips:

• Guest Accommodations: Confirm room availability for your guests to stay on-site, as Camp Lucy can host multiple weddings each weekend.
• Early Booking: Due to high demand, especially during peak months, book your date well in advance.
• Explore Activities: Take advantage of the resort’s unique activities to enhance your wedding weekend experience, including fishing, hiking, hatchet throwing and vineyard tours.

Epic Ceremony Location #3: Contigo Ranch in Fredericksburg, Texas

13454 Lower Crabapple Road, Fredericksburg, TX, 78624

Why It’s Great:

Located in the heart of the Hill Country, Contigo Ranch offers a serene and scenic setting just minutes from Enchanted Rock and downtown Fredericksburg. This venue is perfect for couples seeking a tranquil environment with extensive outdoor and indoor options.

• Highlights:
  • The Bluff: A sprawling lawn overlooking the verdant Hill Country, ideal for stunning outdoor ceremonies.
  • Historic Cabins and Modern Cottages: Five restored historic cabins and ten modern cottages provide unique accommodations for guests.
  • Scenic Trails and Wildlife: Enjoy pasture trails, scenic overlooks, pond fishing, bird watching, and diverse wildlife.
  • Flexible Event Spaces: The 6,000-square-foot event hall and patio can accommodate various layouts and setups.
• Cuisine: Contigo Ranch offers customizable catering options, allowing you to tailor your menu to your preferences and dietary needs.
• Seating Capacity: Comfortable for weddings with fewer than 200 guests.
• Cost Range: Approximately $10,500 average venue fee.

Booking Tips:

• Weather Considerations: The Bluff can be windy and cold during certain seasons. Plan to offer blankets and warm drinks if your wedding is in the fall, winter, or spring.

Guest Experience: Provide amenities and activities to keep guests entertained and comfortable throughout the weekend such as a Fredericksburg winery tour!

Wedding recessional on the Bluff at Contigo Ranch in Fredericksburg, Texas | Images by Ashlee Huff

Epic Ceremony Location #4: Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in Westlake, Texas

3401 Barton Creek Resort Ave, Austin, TX 78735

Why It’s Great:

Located in the prestigious Barton Creek area, Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa is a top-tier venue known for its luxurious amenities and stunning golf course views. It’s perfect for couples seeking a high-end experience with extensive event spaces and recreational options.

• Highlights:
  • Luxurious Spa Services: Indulge in world-class spa treatments to relax before and after your ceremony.
  • Scenic Lake Views: Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and serene views for your outdoor ceremony.
  • Exclusive Event Spaces: Multiple ballrooms and outdoor areas that can accommodate both intimate and large weddings.
  • Comprehensive Amenities: Access to golf courses, year-round pools, and fine dining experiences.
• Cuisine: Omni Barton Creek offers a diverse menu featuring gourmet American cuisine with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all guests.
• Seating Capacity: Can handle large weddings with over 500 guests, but is especially popular for weddings between 180-250 guests.
• Cost Range: Approximately $500 per person and up, positioning it among the most sought-after venues in Central Texas.

Booking Tips:

• Detailed Estimates: Request a detailed estimate and add a 5% buffer to ensure you’re comfortable with the final total.
• High Demand: Given its popularity, book your date 12-18 months in advance.

Epic Ceremony Location #5: Grand Lady in Manor, Texas

5678 Heritage Ln, Manor, TX 78653

Why It’s Great:

Grand Lady in Manor, Texas offers a beautifully manicured property with heritage oaks, private gardens, and spacious courtyards, making it an ideal venue for elegant and picturesque ceremonies. Located on the eastern outskirts of Austin, just 30 minutes from downtown, it provides both privacy and convenience.

• Highlights:
  • Exclusive Access: Enjoy the entire property exclusively, allowing for personalized decor and seamless event flow.
  • Rain Plan: A thoughtfully designed built-in rain plan ensures your day runs smoothly, regardless of weather.
  • Sustainable Practices: Home to a cut flower farm using regenerative and sustainable methods, providing fresh blooms for your wedding.
  • Comprehensive Amenities: Access to beautiful gardens, water features, and private changing areas.
• Cuisine: Grand Lady in Manor offers customizable catering options, allowing you to tailor your menu to your specific tastes and wedding theme.
• Seating Capacity: Ideal for weddings hosting between 220-250 guests, perfect for medium to large celebrations.
• Cost Range: Approximately $13,000 venue fee for peak season Saturdays.

Booking Tips:

• Rain Plan Confirmation: For larger guest counts, review and confirm the rain plan details with the venue to ensure contingency measures are in place.
• Flower Coordination: Utilize the on-site flower farm for fresh, sustainable blooms that enhance your ceremony decor.

Epic Ceremony Location #6: Cactus Moon Lodge in Dripping Springs, Texas

789 Ranch Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Why It’s Great:

Cactus Moon Lodge is a secluded retreat located on a private ranch in the hills of Dripping Springs. This venue is perfect for couples seeking an intimate and unique setting with stunning natural beauty and luxurious accommodations.

• Highlights:
  • Secluded Retreat: Enjoy complete privacy on the 26-acre property, perfect for an intimate ceremony and celebration.
  • Luxurious Accommodations: Multiple casitas that can sleep up to 18 guests each, ensuring comfort and convenience for your wedding party.
  • Stargazing Deck: Relax or take a dip in the pool while enjoying the serene stargazing deck before your big day.
  • Artisan Decor: Complimentary artisan-made café chairs and farm tables enhance the rustic charm of the venue.
• Cuisine: Cactus Moon Lodge offers customizable catering options, allowing you to create a personalized and delicious menu that caters to your guests’ preferences.
• Seating Capacity: Perfect for weddings with up to 100 guests, ideal for intimate and personalized celebrations.
• Cost Range: Approximately $19,000 venue fee for peak season weekends, including cabins.

Booking Tips:

• Ancillary Events: Consider hosting additional events like a post-wedding brunch or rehearsal dinner on-site to take advantage of discounted rates for multiple bookings.
• Exclusive Use: Utilize the exclusive use of the property to fully customize every aspect of your wedding, from decor to layout, ensuring a unique and personalized experience.

Epic Ceremony Location #7: Laguna Gloria at The Contemporary Austin

3809 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703

Why It’s Great:

Laguna Gloria is a historic estate and art museum offering an enchanting outdoor setting with stunning lake-side views. Perfect for couples who appreciate art, history, and natural beauty, Laguna Gloria provides a sophisticated backdrop for a memorable wedding ceremony.

• Highlights:
  • Historic Ambiance: Built in 1916 and inspired by Lake Como in Italy, the estate features elegant architecture and beautifully maintained gardens.
  • Lakefront Views: The serene lake and surrounding gardens offer a picturesque setting for both ceremonies and receptions.
  • Artistic Elements: As an art museum, Laguna Gloria integrates artistic features into its venue, adding a unique flair to your wedding.
  • Flexible Spaces: Multiple outdoor areas allow for customizable layouts, whether you prefer a classic ceremony or a modern celebration.
• Cuisine: Laguna Gloria allows you to choose your caterer, providing flexibility to create a customized menu that suits your tastes and wedding theme.
• Seating Capacity: Accommodates up to 175  guests, ideal for medium-sized weddings.
• Cost Range: Approximately $12,500 venue fee for peak season Saturdays.

Booking Tips:

• Early Booking: Due to its popularity and limited availability, book your date well in advance, ideally 12-18 months ahead.
• Budget for Rain: Ensure your budget accounts for rain plan costs, such as tents and tent flooring.
• Timeline: Vendors are not able to access the property until 2pm at the earliest, so be sure to map out your timeline in advance, especially if you’re getting married in a season when the sun sets earlier.

Epic Ceremony Location #8: The Arlo in Dripping Springs, Texas

10700 Signal Hill Rd, Austin, TX 78737

Why It’s Great:

The Arlo is a modern and luxurious venue located at the gateway to Hill Country in Dripping Springs. It offers multiple ceremony options and luxurious bridal suites, making it a perfect choice for couples seeking both elegance and functionality.

• Highlights:
  • Multiple Ceremony Options: Choose from indoor and outdoor spaces to suit your wedding style and weather conditions.
  • Luxurious Bridal Suites: Spacious and elegantly designed suites provide a comfortable and stylish space for the bridal party to prepare.
  • Entertainment Areas: Large groomsmen areas with games and televisions keep your wedding party entertained throughout the day.
  • Modern Amenities: High-end facilities and decor ensure a seamless and sophisticated wedding experience.
• Cuisine: The Arlo offers customizable catering options, allowing you to create a personalized menu that aligns with your wedding theme and budget.
• Seating Capacity: Ideal for weddings hosting up to 200 guests.
• Cost Range: Approximately $15,000 venue fee for peak season weekends.

Booking Tips:

• Exclusive Spaces: Utilize the multiple ceremony options to create a personalized and unique wedding experience.
• Transportation: The Arlo is close enough to Austin for guests to ride share, but the roads are winding and dark. Bussing your guests is preferable if it works for your budget.
• Leverage Amenities: Take advantage of the luxurious bridal suites and entertainment areas to enhance your wedding day experience.

Epic Ceremony Location #9: The Greenhouse at Driftwood in Driftwood, Texas

850 Darden Hill Rd, Driftwood, TX 78619

Why It’s Great:

Located deep in the Hill Country in Driftwood, The Greenhouse at Driftwood, his venue offers diverse outdoor spaces nestled within over 50 acres, providing a stunning and versatile setting for your wedding ceremony.

• Highlights:
  • Desert Greenhouse: One of the venue’s most photographed features, the desert greenhouse offers a romantic and unique setting.
  • Sperry Tents: Built-in tent pad makes it easy to set up elegant tented weddings, regardless of the weather.
  • Private Changing Suites: Large private changing suites with balconies provide natural lighting and access to incredible photo spots.
  • Vendor Flexibility: Choose your own vendors to create a memorable evening tailored to your preferences.
• Cuisine: The Greenhouse at Driftwood allows you to select your own caterer.
• Seating Capacity: Accommodates up to 250 guests, making it suitable for large, festive weddings.
• Cost Range: Approximately $20,000 venue fee for peak season Saturdays.

Booking Tips:

• Tent Options: The most popular tent is the Sperry tent. Contact Whim Hospitality for all your Sperry tent needs to ensure you have the perfect setup.
• Transportation: Similar to the Arlo, mentioned above, the roads are winding and dark. Bussing your guests is preferable if it works for your budget.

Epic Ceremony Location #10: UMLAUF Sculpture Garden in Barton Hills

605 Azie Morton Rd, Austin, TX 78704

Why It’s Great:

UMLAUF Sculpture Garden offers a unique blend of art and nature, providing a stunning and culturally enriching setting for your wedding ceremony. Located near Zilker Park, this venue is perfect for couples who appreciate art and want their wedding to reflect their creative spirit.

• Highlights:
  • Art Installations: Nationally recognized artwork and sculptures create a visually captivating environment.
  • Water Features: Multiple romantic water features infuse the space with the sounds of nature, enhancing the serene atmosphere.
  • Built-In Ceremony Arbor: A unique built-in arbor serves as the perfect focal point for your ceremony.
  • Rain Plan: Smaller weddings benefit from a built-in rain plan under the Upper Lawn and Terrace, ensuring your ceremony proceeds smoothly despite unexpected weather.
• Cuisine: UMLAUF Sculpture Garden allows you to bring in your own caterer.
• Location Address: 2000 Sculpture Dr, Austin, TX 78703
• Seating Capacity: Accommodates up to 250 guests, but is most commonly booked for smaller weddings closer to 100 guests.
• Cost Range: Approximately $5,600 venue fee for peak season Saturdays.

Booking Tips:

• Getting Ready: Plan to get ready at a hotel or your home, as the bridal suite is ideal for finishing touches. 
• Overflow Parking: Direct your guests to overflow parking at Barton Springs if you’re not bussing them.
• Art Integration: Incorporate the venue’s artistic elements into your wedding décor to create a cohesive and unique theme.

Factors to Consider for Scenic Austin Venues

When selecting a ceremony location with incredible views in Austin, Texas, consider the following factors to ensure your wedding day is flawless and enjoyable for everyone involved:

1. Weather Planning

• Seasonal Considerations: Austin’s weather can be unpredictable. Choose venues with reliable rain plans or indoor backup options to avoid disruptions.
• Comfort Measures: Provide amenities like fans, blankets, or shaded areas to keep guests comfortable during outdoor ceremonies.

2. Accessibility

• Location: Ensure the venue is easily accessible for all guests, including those traveling from out of town. Even if the venue “looks” close to Austin, consider your guests driving home late at night on dark winding roads.
• Transportation Options: Consider the availability of transportation options, such as shuttles or rideshare services, to accommodate guests’ travel needs.

3. Sound Ordinances

• Noise Restrictions: Check local sound ordinances to ensure your wedding plans, especially if you plan on having live music or fireworks, comply with regulations.
• Timing: Plan your event timeline to adhere to any restrictions on noise levels during certain hours.

4. Proximity to Hotels

• Guest Accommodations: Ensure there are ample lodging options nearby for guests who need to stay overnight. Many of the most gorgeous venues are in rural areas that are further away from hotels.
• Convenient Locations: Venues near hotels can simplify transportation and logistics for your guests, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the festivities.

6. Budget and Packages

• Transparent Pricing: Ensure you understand what’s included in the venue’s pricing, such as catering, decor, and any additional fees.
• All-Inclusive Packages: Consider venues that offer all-inclusive packages to simplify planning and potentially save on costs by bundling services together.

7. Additional Amenities

• On-Site Accommodations: Venues with lodging provide convenience for out-of-town guests, allowing them to stay close to the festivities.
• Recreational Activities: Offer activities like spas, pools, or guided tours to keep guests entertained before and after the wedding.

8. Vendor Policies

• Preferred Vendors: Check if the venue has preferred vendors for catering, decoration, and entertainment, or if you can bring in your own.
• Vendor Restrictions: Understand any restrictions regarding outside vendors to avoid last-minute surprises and ensure a smooth planning process.

10. Seasonal Considerations

• Best Seasons: Consider the best times of year for your ceremony to take advantage of optimal weather and lighting conditions.
• Backup Plans: Ensure the venue has a solid backup plan in case of unexpected weather changes, such as tents or indoor options.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a ceremony location with incredible views in Austin, Texas that not only meets your aesthetic and logistical needs but also ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for you and your guests on your special day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these venues allow partial outdoor access for photos?

Yes, many outdoor wedding venues in Austin offer designated areas for photos that take advantage of the stunning backdrops and waterfront views. It’s best to discuss your photography needs with the venue coordinator during the booking process to ensure you have access to all desired photo locations.

Is this a popular area for kids and families who are out of school?

Certain venues located near family-friendly attractions or resorts may see more attendance from families. If you’re expecting many guests with children, consider venues that offer kid-friendly amenities or nearby activities to keep young attendees entertained.

Are there backup generators should the AC go out?

Reputable outdoor venues in Austin typically have backup generators to ensure uninterrupted climate control and lighting in case of power outages. It’s advisable to confirm this with the venue manager to ensure your event remains comfortable and on schedule.

If guests choose to drive, is there a covered area for their cars?

Many outdoor wedding venues in Austin provide covered parking options or nearby garages to protect guests’ vehicles from the summer heat. Check with the venue regarding their specific parking arrangements to accommodate all guests comfortably.

Conclusion

Your ceremony location is not only the first impression guests will have of your day, it’s also the photos that are most likely to make it printed and hung on the walls of your home. Selecting the perfect ceremony location with incredible views in Austin, Texas can set the stage for an unforgettable wedding day.

It’s easy to get swept up in the vision of picture-perfect sunset views, but don’t forget to check off the more mundane logistical considerations, especially:

1. How will guests get there? How do they get home?
2. What is my backup plan if the weather doesn’t work out? 
3. I love this vision, but does it honestly work with my entire budget? 

These can be tough “punch-in-the-gut” questions, but force yourself to mediate on these scenarios to make sure the entire vision, not just the view, works for you and your budget!