Top Waterfront Wedding Venues in Philadelphia | Sweetwater
Our Favorite Waterfront Wedding Venues in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
After over a decade of shooting weddings, one thing we’ve learned: waterfront wedding venues in Philadelphia just have something extra. Whether it’s the way the light moves across the water, the refreshing calm that comes with a breeze off the river, or the fact that people just seem to slow down and enjoy the sunset views—it all shows up in the photos. Philly and its surroundings have a solid list of waterfront spots, each with its own vibe. Some lean historic, some industrial, some rustic—but all offer something worth paying attention to if you’re planning a wedding.
Glen Foerd
Jamie Hollander Catering
Glen Foerd sits quietly on the edge of the Delaware River, tucked into the kind of setting that feels like you’re far outside the city, even though you’re not. The mansion itself is full of gorgeous details: big staircases, tall windows, an art gallery, and all the good old-world details that play well in portraits. Outside, there’s space to breathe, with plenty of trees and meadows. The river makes for a great reason to sneak out at sunset for five minutes when you’re ready for a little break. You’ll usually find more than a few guests out there making use of the stunning views for photos as well.
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Waterfront wedding venues in Philadelphia
Bartram’s Garden
Jamie Hollander Catering
Tucked into the edge of West Philly, Bartram’s Garden is a botanical escape right inside the city. Wild but intentional, it’s got river views, old stone buildings, and enough plant life to keep things interesting all day long. Bartram’s is Philadelphia’s hidden gem whether it be for a wedding or a simple picnic.
What I love about shooting here is that nothing feels overly manicured. It’s beautiful without being too polished. The light filters through trees, the wind moves the grasses—it’s simple, and it lets the people stand out in the best way.
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Pen Ryn Estate on the Deleware
Penn Ryn is one of those estates where you can immediately picture how the day will flow. Ceremony on the lawn with the Delaware as a backdrop, portraits under the trees, dinner in a ballroom with big windows, and that soft evening light pouring in. The property’s spread out just enough to give you variety—great for keeping photos fresh without needing to leave. It’s quickly becoming one of our favorite waterfront wedding venues in Philadelphia.
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Waterfront Wedding Venues in Philadelphia
Switch House Hotel
Cescaphe
This one’s for the couples who love a raw space with personality. Once a PECO power plant, the Switch House has been transformed into a unique venue that marries industrial charm with modern luxury. Switch House still carries its industrial roots—tall ceilings, huge windows, exposed beams—but it’s been cleaned up just enough to feel polished. You’ve got direct river views and an open-air vibe without giving up structure or weather protection.
The light in this space is no joke. Even on cloudy days, it bounces around just enough to keep things bright but never harsh. And since the inside is basically a blank canvas, every couple brings their own style and energy to it so it always feels new.
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Lake House Inn
Jeffrey A. Miller Catering
Up near Lake Nockamixon, this spot feels like a destination wedding without the flight. The Lake House Inn feels cozy and intimate, like a weekend away with all your friends. The incredible lake views shift from calm blues to gold as the day winds down. The ceremony site overlooking the lake is one of the best we’ve seen.
Even better, the cocktail hour is elevated up on the deck so your guests have a full view of the lake as the sun is setting. As the light dims, everyone descends into the pavilion with draped soaring ceilings and a full glass wall overlooking the water. It’s dreamy and has a romantic yet relaxed, feel.
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Moshulu
As the world’s oldest and largest square-rigged sailing vessel still afloat, Moshulu offers a nautical setting that’s both historic and unique. Yes, it’s a literal ship. Docked on the Delaware. Moshulu is fun and genuinely unique. You’ve got river views, skyline views, and the layered textures of a historic tall ship—weathered wood, brass railings, nautical rope—all adding character.
Portraits on deck feel cinematic, especially when the sun dips behind the city. At night, the string lights and city glow add a moody atmosphere that works really well for dance floor shots and nighttime portraits.
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River House at Odette’s
This place manages to feel sleek and cozy at the same time. Right along the Delaware in New Hope, River House has strong design details—velvet chairs, clean wood floors, intentional lighting, and panoramic river views that bring the outside in.
There’s a rooftop lounge space that’s perfect for golden hour and nightcaps. You’re close to the water and the woods, which means your portrait options aren’t limited to one look. And the indoor spaces are good enough that if the weather shifts, you’re still set.
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Waterworks
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Waterworks has one of the best locations in Philly—right under the Art Museum, next to the river, with Boathouse Row lighting up the background. The mix of stone architecture and riverfront space means you get that classic Philly history vibe but with fresh air and space to spread out.
What works here is the combination: the elegant columns, the museum in the background, the river, the sunset —it’s simply iconic.
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The Farm at Eagles Ridge
Okay, this one’s technically a bit outside Philly, but it’s worth including. Eagles Ridge sits on a big stretch of land with water features, rolling fields, and an updated barn that feels more polished than rustic. It’s quiet, open, and full of natural texture.
The pond reflects evening light beautifully, and the ceremony set up under the trees always feels calm and grounded. If you want a setting that feels rooted in nature without losing the structure of a solid venue, this is it.
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Waterfront Wedding Venues in Philadelphia
Ironworks at Pencoyd Landing
This spot feels like a quiet surprise just outside the city. Iron Works, with its industrial bones and riverfront setting, gives you the kind of contrast that makes photos feel layered and interesting. The textures—steel, brick, glass—mixed with the calm of the Schuylkill give the space a cool, understated edge. It’s got history without being stuffy, modern lines without being sterile.
The venue is made up of multiple spaces—Lark, The Pumphouse—so the day can really flow from one vibe to the next. You’ve got indoor spots with clean architecture and warm light, plus easy access to the riverwalk for portraits that feel more relaxed. It’s polished but not precious, which makes it a really solid choice for couples who want something a little different without straying too far from Philly.
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