Six Seattle Landmarks Made for Marriages

With the news of Seattle’s out mayor Ed Murray officiating the marriage of a lucky same-sex couple in the “Marry Me in Seattle” campaign, we couldn't help dreaming of a perfect Emerald City wedding. The picturesque Northwest metropolis sure has you covered when it comes to idyllic backdrops for your wedding pics. Here are our suggestions:


1. In the sky:
Space Needle Skyline Level
400 Broad Street
(206) 905-2100
 

Tie the knot at 100’ elevation Skyline Level which features a 360 panoramic view of Seattle, the snow-capped Mt. Rainer, and the neighboring mountain ranges. There are options for your wedding accommodation: the Lake Union Room and Puget Sound Room are ideal for a ceremony/reception with up to 200 guests; the Seattle Room is great for smaller parties; or the option of taking all three spaces to host up to 300 guests. There is also the option of booking the Space Needle’s observation deck that features an unforgettable outside view of the Puget Sound.

2. In the water:|
The MV Skansonia
205 NE Northlake Way “A” Dock
(206) 545-9109
 

The history of the Skansonia dates back to its beginning in 1929 as a Washington State ferry. Since then, it has been given new life as a premier private event facility that specializes in outdoor or indoor weddings and receptions. The boat now sits on the north short of Lake Union and offers a great view of Seattle and the Space Needle. Maximum guest capacity is 300.

3. In the park:
Olympic Sculpture Park
2901 Western Avenue
(206) 654-3140
 

This venue is one of three locations that the Seattle Art Museum offers for private events. The Olympic Sculpture Park can hold either indoor or outdoor wedding ceremonies and receptions with wonderful views of the large sculptures on Seattle’s waterfront. The Paccar Pavilion can accommodate up to 300 guests for a reception, while the outdoor terrace can host up to 120 guests.

4. In the mountains:
Salish Lodge at the Snoqualmie Falls
6501 Railroad Ave. Snoqualmie, WA
(425) 888-2556
 

The lush nature, and beautiful waterfall lends itself to be a great backdrop for a wedding. At the Salish Lodge, guests can choose the Hidden Terrace, an intimate venue  which features clear sliding panels to let in the breeze and “roar of the falls." There are five other venues, including the outdoor Centennial Green, which shows great views of the falls and the river valley.

5. In the zoo:
Woodland Park Zoo
901 N. 59th Street
(206) 548-2500
 

Couples can expect a wide range of zoo venues to plan their wedding event. The Woodland Park Rose Garden offers a more traditional option, while venues like the Elk Overlook, Penguin Exhibit and the African Village are a bit more exotic and afford views of zebras, giraffes, and gazelles.

6. In the library:
Seattle Central Library
1000 Fourth Avenue
 

This architecture of the 10-year-old public library — designed by starchitect Rem Koolhaas — can be the perfect background for your wedding or reception. The modern building will definitely leave lasting impressions of your special day.