If you’re dreaming of a cozy fall ceremony surrounded by autumn leaves, a snowy winter wonderland wedding, or a beautiful sunset beach summer wedding with roaring fireplaces and timeless romance, Northern Michigan offers some of the most magical venues around. Whether you envision a rustic barn, a waterfront view, or a charming historic inn, there’s something up here for every couple.
We’re sharing our Top 5 Favorite Wedding Venues in Northern Michigan—perfect for elegant, romantic, rustic, or classic wedding styles.
1. Castle Farms – Charlevoix, MI
Style: Romantic | Elegant | Fairytale
Best For: All four of our wonderful seasons - weddings with grand architecture and indoor elegance.
This iconic castle venue is a Northern Michigan favorite year-round, but it's especially breathtaking in fall when the gardens burst with color—or winter when snow dusts the stone towers. Indoor reception spaces like the Knight’s Castle and Queen’s Courtyard offer warmth and elegance, ideal for cooler months.
Why we love it: It feels like a European getaway right in Charlevoix. Stunning backdrops for photos, great vendor flexibility, and guest accommodations nearby.
🔗 Book Castle Farms https://castlefarms.com/weddings/venues/
2. Jordan Valley Barn – East Jordan, MI
Style: Rustic | Warm | Intimate
Best For: Fall or Summer weddings full of color and cozy barn vibes.
If rustic elegance is your dream, Jordan Valley Barn is your venue. This post-and-beam barn glows in golden hour light. Inside, warm wood tones and romantic string lights create a welcoming ambiance.
Why we love it: The perfect combination of rustic and refined. It’s family-owned and beautifully maintained. Not to mention there's onsite housing!
🔗 Explore Jordan Valley Barn https://www.michiganweddingbarns.com
3. The Inn at Bay Harbor – Petoskey, MI
Style: Coastal Classic | Luxury | Timeless
Best For: Spring and Summer weddings with lakeside charm and luxury hospitality.
Nestled along Little Traverse Bay, this luxury resort is a hidden gem for summer weddings. Picture a ceremony on the beach, cocktails on the deck, and an elegant reception. The Inn offers catering, bar service, and spa services, ideal for a relaxing weekend celebration.
Why we love it: The views. The luxury. The spa. This venue checks every box for an elevated summer wedding experience.
🔗 View The Inn at Bay Harbor https://www.innatbayharbor.com/weddings/venues
4. Shanahan’s Barn at Charlevoix Country Club – Charlevoix, MI
Style: Barn Chic | Sophisticated Rustic | Family-Friendly
Best For: Large weddings with rustic charm and indoor comfort.
This massive barn, originally a 1910s equestrian facility, is now one of Northern Michigan’s largest barn venues. Features wood beams and golf course views.
Why we love it: Historic charm + modern amenities.
🔗 Tour Shanahan’s Barn https://www.shanahansbarn.com
Get our free download “How to Plan a Seamless Barn Wedding in Michigan”
5. The Boathouse on Lake Charlevoix – East Jordan, MI
Style: Waterfront | Nautical | Cozy
Best For: Spring, Summer, and Fall weddings by the water.
The Boathouse is an incredible venue for couples looking for a lakefront wedding. With large windows, a warm interior, and Lake Charlevoix just steps away, it offers a peaceful and intimate atmosphere.
Why we love it: Perfect for small or large weddings, has a blank space so your vision can truly come to life. The sunsets are serene and magical.
🔗 Check Out The Boathouse https://miboathouse.com
Bonus Venue Mentions:
Stafford’s Perry Hotel – Petoskey: Charming, vintage, great for outdoor/tented weddings.
Charlevoix Yacht Club or Country Clubs in the area: Ideal for formal summer receptions, and to have the view of the water.
✨ Planning a Wedding in Northern Michigan?
We’d love to help bring your cozy, elegant, or rustic vision to life. Whether you’re eloping on the bay or throwing a grand celebration in a castle, our planning and coordinating services are tailored for you. Learn more on how we can help you make your wedding seamless and stress-free at bloomingbythebay.net
📥 Download our Free “Wedding Planning Checklist”
Want to see these venues in action? Follow us on Instagram @eventplanner_leahjames for real wedding reels & tips! Need help choosing a date or planning from afar? Contact us at https://bloomingbythebay.hbportal.co/schedule/6707ebb9ff45ff0019d98098 for a FREE consultation.
Let your love story bloom beautifully in Northern Michigan. ☀️❄️🍂
