The Best Places to Get Married in San Francisco

San Francisco is a dream wedding destination. The city offers amazing backdrops, incredible food, and venues for every style and budget. Planning to tie the knot in the City by the Bay? This guide will walk you through the best places to get married in San Francisco.

Why Choose San Francisco for Your Wedding?

San Francisco has a special charm that few cities can match. The fog rolling in over the Golden Gate Bridge creates magical moments. The city's mix of historic buildings and modern spaces gives couples plenty of options. Plus, the mild weather makes outdoor weddings possible almost year-round.

Many couples choose San Francisco because:

• The iconic landmarks make for stunning photos
• The food scene is world-class
• There's something for every wedding style
• Guests love visiting the city
• The natural beauty creates an unforgettable setting

Now, let's look at the best wedding venues in San Francisco across different categories.

Historic Landmark Venues

The Palace of Fine Arts

The Palace of Fine Arts stands as one of San Francisco's most recognizable buildings. Built in 1915, its Roman-inspired architecture features a massive dome and towering columns. The reflection pond in front adds to its beauty.

Wedding ceremonies here take place in front of the rotunda. The setting feels like you've been transported to ancient Europe. While you can't host receptions directly at the Palace, many couples take photos here before heading to a nearby venue.

The Palace works best for:

• Couples who want iconic San Francisco photos
• Those looking for a touch of European elegance
• Wedding parties of various sizes, from intimate to large

Keep in mind that this is a public space. You'll need a permit, and tourists might watch your ceremony from a distance.

San Francisco City Hall

For architectural beauty and historic significance, few venues can match San Francisco City Hall. The building's stunning Beaux-Arts design features a grand staircase and an impressive dome that's actually taller than the U.S. Capitol.

City Hall offers several wedding options:

• Simple civil ceremonies (under $100)
• One-hour private ceremonies on the Mayor's Balcony or Fourth Floor Gallery
• Full building buyouts for evening events (rare but possible)

The light streaming through the building's windows creates a romantic atmosphere. The marble interior offers a timeless elegance that needs little decoration.

City Hall is perfect for:

• Couples wanting a sophisticated city wedding
• Those on a budget (civil ceremonies)
• Photography lovers – every shot here looks like a magazine spread

Weekday weddings work best here, as the building is open to the public during business hours.

The Flood Mansion

Officially called "The Flood Mansion at the Convent of the Sacred Heart," this historic building sits atop Pacific Heights with panoramic views of the Bay. Built in 1886, it survived the 1906 earthquake and fire.

The mansion features:

• A grand ballroom with crystal chandeliers
• Hardwood floors perfect for dancing
• French doors leading to terraces
• Views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz

The Flood Mansion can accommodate up to 200 guests. Its historic charm and breathtaking views make it one of the most sought-after venues in the city.

Waterfront Wedding Venues

The Ferry Building

The Ferry Building isn't just a transportation hub and food marketplace. It's also an amazing wedding venue. Located directly on the Embarcadero waterfront, it offers stunning views of the Bay Bridge.

Wedding packages at the Ferry Building typically include:

• The Grand Hall space with 35-foot ceilings
• Historic architecture with modern amenities
• Easy access for guests using public transit
• Options to incorporate the building's famous food vendors

The Ferry Building works best for medium to large weddings. The industrial-chic vibe appeals to couples who want an urban feel with waterfront views.

Cavallo Point

Technically in Sausalito, just across the Golden Gate Bridge, Cavallo Point offers perhaps the most dramatic views of San Francisco. The former military post turned luxury lodge sits at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Weddings at Cavallo Point feature:

• Ceremony locations with bridge views
• Historic and contemporary buildings
• Overnight accommodations for guests
• A Michelin-recommended restaurant
• Spa facilities for pre-wedding relaxation

The venue can handle weddings from 50 to 350 guests. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and luxury amenities makes Cavallo Point truly special.

The Cliff House

Perched on the cliffs above Ocean Beach, the Cliff House offers dramatic Pacific Ocean views. Though the historic restaurant building was sadly lost to fire in 2020, plans for rebuilding are underway. When available, this venue combines natural beauty with San Francisco history.

Couples choose the Cliff House for:

• Dramatic sunset ocean views
• The sound of crashing waves during the ceremony
• Fresh seafood menu options
• A sense of San Francisco tradition

Keep an eye on rebuilding progress if you're interested in this iconic location.

Garden and Park Venues

Shakespeare Garden in Golden Gate Park

Hidden away in Golden Gate Park, the Shakespeare Garden offers a secluded, romantic setting. The garden features flowers and plants mentioned in Shakespeare's works, adding a literary touch to your ceremony.

This intimate garden space works best for:

• Small ceremonies (up to 50 guests)
• Nature lovers
• Couples wanting privacy within a public park
• Those on a budget – permits are affordable

The garden blooms most beautifully from spring through fall. Many couples hold their ceremony here, then move to another location for the reception.

The Conservatory of Flowers

Also located in Golden Gate Park, the Conservatory of Flowers is a Victorian-era glass greenhouse filled with exotic plants. The white structure against the green park makes for striking photos.

Wedding packages include:

• The main gallery with tropical plants and a central pond
• Evening events when the conservatory is closed to the public
• A unique botanical setting unlike any other in San Francisco
• Climate-controlled environment for year-round comfort

The Conservatory can accommodate around 150 guests for a standing reception. Its unique charm and natural beauty require minimal additional decoration.

San Francisco Botanical Garden

For couples who want variety in their wedding photos, the San Francisco Botanical Garden offers 55 acres of landscaped gardens. From redwood groves to open meadows, this venue provides countless backdrops.

The Garden has several spaces available for ceremonies and receptions:

• The Great Meadow (for larger gatherings)
• The Library Terrace (more intimate)
• The Garden of Fragrance (small ceremonies)

The Botanical Garden works well for nature-loving couples who want an outdoor wedding with the convenience of being in the city.

Luxury Hotel Venues

The Fairmont San Francisco

The Fairmont sits atop Nob Hill, offering elegance and luxury. Built in 1907, this grand hotel has hosted celebrities, presidents, and countless weddings over its history.

The hotel offers several wedding spaces:

• The Crown Room with 360-degree city views
• The Gold Room with ornate detailing
• The famous Penthouse Suite for intimate events
• The Venetian Room where Tony Bennett first sang "I Left My Heart in San Francisco"

The Fairmont provides all-inclusive wedding packages with catering, accommodations, and planning services. It's perfect for couples wanting classic luxury and convenience.

The Palace Hotel

The Palace Hotel combines history with luxury. Its Garden Court restaurant, with a stained-glass dome ceiling, ranks among the most beautiful spaces in San Francisco.

Wedding features include:

• The breathtaking Garden Court for ceremonies and receptions
• Historic ballrooms with crystal chandeliers
• In-house catering with customizable menus
• Downtown location convenient for guests

The Palace works well for medium to large weddings. The architectural details provide a built-in elegance that requires little additional decoration.

The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco

For modern luxury, many couples choose The Ritz-Carlton. Located in a 1909 Neoclassical building in Nob Hill, it offers impeccable service and sophisticated spaces.

The Ritz-Carlton features:

• The Terrace Courtyard for outdoor ceremonies
• The Ballroom with crystal chandeliers
• The Terrace Room with natural light
• Customizable wedding packages
• Expert on-site planners

The hotel can accommodate weddings of all sizes. Its central location makes it convenient for guests, and the Ritz-Carlton name guarantees a luxury experience.

Unique and Unexpected Venues

The Exploratorium

The Exploratorium isn't just a science museum – it's also a stunning waterfront venue. Located on Pier 15, it offers Bay views and interactive exhibits that can entertain your guests.

Wedding packages include:

• Access to museum exhibits during your event
• Outdoor space on the Bay Observatory Terrace
• Unique scientific elements that can be incorporated into your celebration
• Modern architecture with floor-to-ceiling windows

The Exploratorium works especially well for couples who want something different from traditional venues. It can accommodate large weddings of 800+ guests.

San Francisco Zoo

Yes, you can get married at the zoo! The San Francisco Zoo offers several spaces for weddings, including the Leanne B. Roberts African Savanna and the Flamingo Lake area.

Zoo weddings include:

• Animal encounters for your guests
• Beautiful garden settings
• Support for wildlife conservation through your venue fee
• Unique photo opportunities

The zoo works best for animal-loving couples who want a wedding their guests will always remember.

Foreign Cinema

For food-focused couples, Foreign Cinema in the Mission District offers a restaurant wedding with artistic flair. The restaurant projects classic films on the wall during dinner service – a feature that can be incorporated into your wedding.

Foreign Cinema features:

• A string-light-covered courtyard
• Industrial-chic indoor spaces
• Award-winning cuisine
• Built-in entertainment with film projections
• A central city location

The restaurant can host weddings of up to 160 guests. It's particularly popular with couples who prioritize food and want an urban setting.

Tips for Planning Your San Francisco Wedding

Weather Considerations

San Francisco's famous fog can appear any time of year. Don't let this discourage you – the fog often creates magical photos. However, consider these weather tips:

• Summer is often foggy, especially June and July
• September and October typically have the clearest, warmest days
• Always have a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies
• Provide guests with weather information in advance
• Consider having wraps or blankets available for outdoor events

Transportation for Guests

San Francisco's hills and limited parking make transportation planning important:

• Consider hiring shuttle services between venues
• Choose hotels near your venue
• Provide parking information with your invitations
• Consider venues accessible by public transit
• Warn out-of-town guests about the challenges of driving in the city

Permit Requirements

Many San Francisco venues, especially public spaces, require permits:

• Apply early – popular spots book up to a year in advance
• Check noise ordinance restrictions
• Understand alcohol service regulations
• Confirm insurance requirements
• Ask about photography permits for iconic locations

Budget Considerations

San Francisco weddings can be expensive, but there are ways to manage costs:

• Consider a weekday wedding
• Look at off-season dates (November through April)
• Focus on public spaces with affordable permit fees
• Explore restaurant venues where food minimums replace rental fees
• Consider morning or brunch weddings, which often cost less

Making the Most of Your San Francisco Wedding

Whatever venue you choose, incorporate San Francisco elements into your celebration:

• Serve local wines from Napa and Sonoma
• Include sourdough bread in your menu
• Offer local craft beers
• Give guests San Francisco-themed welcome bags
• Use cable cars or local landmarks in your decor

Finding Your Perfect San Francisco Wedding Venue

Every couple has different priorities for their wedding day. Some want dramatic views, others care most about food, and some need space for hundreds of guests. The good news is that San Francisco has something for everyone.

When searching for your venue, make a list of your must-haves. Consider your budget, guest count, desired atmosphere, and practical concerns like accessibility. Visit several venues before making your decision.

Remember that popular San Francisco venues book up quickly, sometimes 12-18 months in advance. Once you find a place you love, be prepared to put down a deposit.

Conclusion

San Francisco offers some of the most beautiful and diverse wedding venues in the country. From historic landmarks to waterfront views, from luxury hotels to unexpected spaces, the city has something for every couple.

Your wedding day should reflect your personality and relationship. Take the time to find a venue that feels right for you. Visit in person whenever possible, and don't hesitate to ask detailed questions.

The perfect San Francisco wedding venue is out there waiting for you. And when you find it, your special day will have that magical San Francisco charm that makes weddings here so memorable.

Ready to start exploring San Francisco wedding venues? Visit San Francisco Wedding Venue to browse our comprehensive directory of San Francisco's best wedding locations. Our site makes it easy to filter venues by capacity, budget, style, and more. Start planning your dream wedding today!