Hidden Gem Wedding Venues in Rhode Island

Engaged couples in Rhode Island have a lot to choose from when it comes to wedding venues. But with rising costs and high expectations, many have had to get creative when choosing where to host their nuptials. Backyard weddings, campground weddings, and other nontraditional wedding venues are more popular than ever, and for good reason. However, if a DIY affair isn’t your vibe, check out these hidden gem venues in Rhode Island that may surprise you with their style and affordability.

Hope Events on Main

Pawtucket Wedding Venue

*Photo courtesy of Atlas + Stone Photography*

This budget-friendly venue is located on Main Street in Pawtucket, with plenty of off-street parking for guests. The vibes are vintage industrial, with exposed brick walls, polished cement floors and vintage accents like an old bank vault. Clients are given creative control of the venue and can execute any type of design they desire, with many choosing draping, greenery, and candles to accent the space. Perhaps the best part is the cocktail hour space: a functional candlepin bowling alley with a bar where guests can drink and play while you take formal photos. Your friends and family will be talking about your wedding for years to come!

Shelter Harbor Inn

Westerly Wedding Venue

Shelter Harbor Inn is a quiet little abode in Westerly, Rhode Island. It is the definition of “New England eclectic,” with contemporary decor and waterfront views. Shelter Harbor Inn boasts 22 rooms for your guests in addition to private cottages, so if you’re looking for a weekend getaway experience for your guests, this is a fantastic (and affordable!) option. There’s an adorable wooden swing for photos, twinkling bistro lighting throughout the venue, and a farmhouse restaurant available for catering. Another plus: the guest minimum is only 25 people.

Newport Art Museum

Newport Wedding Venue

Looking for a historic Newport wedding venue without the mansion price tag? Check no further than the Newport Art Museum. Located on Bellevue Ave (prime photography opportunities!), this hidden gem of a venue is the perfect mix of vintage and modern. Your guests can stride the halls during cocktail hour to view the art while you take photos, either inside the museum or outside on the manicured grounds. One of the only Newport venues that allows outside catering, the Newport Art Museum is an excellent choice for creative couples.

Providence Pedestrian Bridge

Providence Wedding Venue

This is technically a wedding location, not a venue, but it’s perfect for your low key, stylish Providence wedding. Get married on the bridge over the Providence river for those gorgeous skyline views, and then pop over to one of Providence’s many amazing restaurants for your reception. The bridge offers a corner overlook with seating for up to 50 people and standing room for many more. There is no permit required, so find an officiant and you’re good to go! Since parking is limited, we recommend shuttling your guests from a hotel to the bridge for the ceremony. Photo op: there are often food trucks and ice cream stands on either end of the bridge, which would make a super cute photo before you head out!

The Landing

Newport Wedding Venue

The Landing, located on Bowen’s Wharf in Newport, is a restaurant famed for its seafood and commanding views of the Newport Harbor. And up the stairs, there is a secret wedding venue that is sure to impress your guests. This sunny spot is a large, airy room with floor-to-ceiling windows on every wall, upscale bistro lighting, and long farmer’s tables. There is a large balcony for your guests to enjoy during cocktail hour as well as a private dock for couples’ portraits. If you’re looking for a waterfront venue in Newport without the Goat Island price tag, definitely take a peek at The Landing.

Meehan Overlook

Providence Wedding Venue

This venue in Providence, RI is the perfect blend of rustic and elegant. Your guests will be surprised by the waterfront views and green space tucked away from the city, and ceremony spot gets incredible lighting for photos. The reception space has a large stone fireplace, perfect for a winter wedding floral installation and cozy photos. The best part: since it’s attached to a public park, the venue is managed by the State of Rhode Island and therefore is far less expensive than similar privately-owned venues.

The Farmer’s Daughter

South Kingstown Wedding Venue

Have you ever visited a garden center and thought, “wow, I could get married here”? You’re in luck — The Farmer’s Daughter in South Kingstown is a gorgeous flower and produce farm that hosts events in the summer and fall. Bring in your own tent and catering and let the landscaping speak for itself at this gorgeous outdoor venue. The impressive acreage allows for all kinds of vendors, from bands to food trucks to bar carts, so feel free to get creative with your event design. Not many people know about this venue option, so you can offer a totally unique experience for your guests and keep them talking for years to come.

Enjoy this list? Check out Hidden Gem Wedding Venues in Massachusetts!