While Hoosier weather this time of year might be laughable – one second you’re ready for margaritas at the pool, the next you’re building an igloo – it’s never too early to begin planning an outdoor wedding at an Indianapolis outdoor venue. Central Indiana offers a variety of locations for that ideal backdrop: From idyllic gardens in the suburbs to serene settings by the Central Canal Downtown, the outdoors can define the scene of your fairy tale wedding. We’ve got a few venues worth checking out… Just don’t forget your umbrella.

THE CANAL TRIO
Location: Downtown Indy | 500 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis

Setting: A bastion of Native American and Western art, wedding guests can muse at the Eiteljorg building’s rustic architecture inspired by the Southwest’s winding canyons and pueblos, or gaze out on the placid Central Canal and sparkling skyline.

Location: Downtown Indy | 450 W. Ohio Street, Indianapolis

Setting: Be swept up under the stars in the Stardust Terrace Cafe indoors, or enjoy the real sky’s reflection in the water of the Central Canal on the Kruse Family Stardust Terrace. Guests can also glide to Eli Lilly Hall, where they will feel like royalty amid imported Italian marble floors and walnut columns, or enjoy the clear, panoramic view of the downtown skyline from the fourth-floor’s Gibson Board Room. More intimate spaces are also available throughout the History Center.

Location: Downtown Indy | 650 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis

Setting: Talk about dressed to impress: The Governor O’Bannon Great Hall features a 100-foot high ceiling and a 55-foot tall Indiana Obelisk– and a great view of the canal. Guests can saunter on Ball Family Terrace and sing along to the steam clock.

LIONS AND TIGER LILLIES, OH MY!

Location: Downtown Indy | 1200 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis

Setting: With its sprawling lawn and flower-packed pergola, the Efroymson Wedding Garden oozes beauty. Or check out the Party Pavilion at the Zoo for a wild scene.

Location: Midtown Indy | 4600 Sunset Avenue, Indianapolis

Setting: Part urban legend, part reality, Holcomb Gardens has had an on again, off again relationship with outside rentals and campus activities.  The space is formally available for rent again, but must be coordinated carefully with Butler Bulldog staffers.  A great “top secret” spot in our opinion!

SUBURBAN SERENITY

Location: Far Westside | 6259 E. County Road 91 N, Avon

Setting: The definition of serenity: Guests can stroll five acres of impeccably landscaped gardens dotted with up to 500 candles illuminating brick-lined pathways.

Location: Far Westside | Private Residence in Plainfield
Setting: For a down on the farm feel, host your wedding at a real working farm, where guests can sit on burlap-covered straw bales and linger over dinner in the nut grown beneath trees bedecked with lights.
Location: Far Northside | 9101 Moore Road, Zionsville

Setting: An elliptical deck and patio are nestled between the facility’s garden, lawn and pastures, providing a relaxing setting. Not your thinking? Check out the rustic Red Barn.


For other event venues around Indianapolis check out our list of fabulous venues on Snappening. Share your event planning tips and ideas with us on Facebook or Twitter. For even more event planning inspiration check out our pinboards on Pinterest.