Northern Minnesota is one of the most peaceful and scenic places to get married. With its tall pine forests, clear blue lakes, and cozy lodges, this region is ideal for couples planning a wedding that feels both relaxing and connected to nature. Whether you’re envisioning a rustic cabin celebration, a lodge wedding with a lakeside view, or a weekend getaway in the woods, northern Minnesota has a venue that fits the vision.
This guide covers some of the best northern Minnesota wedding venues, including those near Crosslake, Brainerd, the North Shore, and beyond.
Whitefish Lodge – Crosslake, MN
See full venue review: Whitefish Lodge Wedding
Located in the heart of Crosslake, Whitefish Lodge offers a classic northwoods experience with indoor reception space, on-site lodging, and natural surroundings perfect for portraits. The cozy atmosphere, guest accommodations, and walkable access to town make it ideal for full weekend celebrations.
Manhattan Beach Lodge – Crosslake, MN
See full venue review: Manhattan Beach Lodge Wedding
Just down the road from Whitefish Lodge, Manhattan Beach Lodge features lakefront ceremony options, historic lodge architecture, and lodging for guests. It’s one of the most iconic wedding spots in the region for couples who want classic style in a low-key lakeside setting.
Bluefin Bay – Tofte, MN
Website: Bluefin Bay
Located on the North Shore of Lake Superior, Bluefin Bay offers lakefront ceremony options, beautiful lodging, and a peaceful atmosphere for intimate weddings. This is a great choice for elopements or smaller gatherings with unbeatable water views.
Grand Superior Lodge – Two Harbors, MN
Website: Grand Superior Lodge
A rustic-yet-refined lodge venue with indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces, full guest accommodations, and sweeping views of Lake Superior. Ideal for weekend weddings where guests can stay on-site and relax for the full experience.
Larsmont Cottages – Two Harbors, MN
Website: Larsmont Cottages
A smaller North Shore venue with charming cottages, shoreline ceremonies, and warm indoor spaces for dining and dancing. Best for couples hosting under 100 guests who want a quiet, scenic setting.
Northern Pacific Center – Brainerd, MN
Website: Northern Pacific Center
A unique venue located in a repurposed railroad building. The Northern Pacific Center combines industrial charm with northern Minnesota history, offering several indoor event spaces with vintage textures and dramatic lighting.
Camp Wedding Venues in Northern MN
Many couples choose to rent out cabins, camps, or resorts in the northwoods for a multi-day celebration. These venues often provide:
- Lodging for guests
- Lake access
- Bonfire pits
- Canoeing, hiking, and recreation
- Ceremony space with a forest or lake backdrop
Some popular options include:
- Camp Miller – near Sturgeon Lake
- Camp du Nord – near Ely
- YMCA Camp Warren – near Eveleth
These venues offer flexibility, privacy, and a strong sense of community. They’re especially popular for creative, DIY-style weddings or couples who want to host an extended stay experience.
Why Choose Northern Minnesota?
Couples choose northern Minnesota for weddings that feel:
- Grounded in nature
- Quiet and intimate
- Free from distractions
- Full of quality time with guests
This region is best for those who want to make their wedding feel more like a retreat, with space to slow down and soak it all in.
Ready to Plan Your Northern MN Wedding?
We love photographing weddings across northern Minnesota. Whether you’re planning a lakeside ceremony in Crosslake or a cozy lodge reception along the North Shore, we’ll help you capture every moment with intention and care.
See more Minnesota wedding venues or contact us here to talk about photography packages.
Couples can choose from lakeside lodges, North Shore resorts, cabins, rustic barns, and private camp-style retreats.
June through October is the most popular window, but winter weddings can be magical indoors with the right lighting and lodge atmosphere.
Yes. Venues like Whitefish Lodge, Manhattan Beach Lodge, and Grand Superior Lodge offer on-site guest accommodations for weekend weddings.
Many northern venues are designed for multi-day use, including space for rehearsal dinners, ceremony, reception, and next-day brunches.
Absolutely. Many venues are ideal for intimate gatherings and small weddings, especially locations on the North Shore or in remote cabin areas.
