The Best Aquarium & Zoo Wedding Venues in California

The Best Aquarium & Zoo Wedding Venues in California

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12 Wedding Venues in California

Aquariums, zoos
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Carlsbad Windmill by Wedgewood Weddings 

5.0

Carlsbad, CA
  • Up to 300 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $7,915
  • Offer

An Iconic Carlsbad Landmark Completely Reimagined. San Diego’s newest 5-star wedding venue. With flower fields on one side and the ocean waves on the other, The Carlsbad Windmill by Wedgewood Weddings combines a quirky Danish-style building with luxe modern amenities and a trendy locale. It's all topped off with spectacular event spaces, expert staff, raved-about service, a dressing suite fit to spoil you, and standout decor that feels both grand and grounded.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Natural elegance with open spaces
  • Bridal suite on site

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you're looking for a sleek and contemporary space
  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • Not wheelchair accessible
Awarded Best of Zola
The Carlsbad Windmill is a beautiful venue and I loved having it as an all in one package. It made wedding planning so easy while still being customizable in many ways. We had an amazing day and everything went smoothly. As a bride, I did not have to worry about much. My only caution is that they can change the food options at their discretion so the food that is there when you book with them may have slight changes when you get to closer to your actual wedding date. This was not a big deal for us but they did change the filet mignon option to a sirloin. Other than that, every one we worked with there are kind and helpful. They are quick to answer any questions you have throughout the whole process. Would highly recommend for anyone looking to plan a wedding in the area. The ceremony, cocktail hour and reception are all on the same property/building which makes a very easy transition for the guests from place to place. Many beautiful options for photos on site as well along with the beach and flower fields close by.
Courtney C., 6 months ago
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Exploratorium 

5.0

San Francisco, CA
  • Up to 500 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $11,900

Our LEED platinum sustainably designed facility—located in the vibrant heart of the historic Embarcadero at Pier 15—is an unforgettable venue for everything from intimate gatherings to large events. With spectacular views of both city and Bay—plus access to our lively landscape of hundreds of exhibits—the Exploratorium’s waterfront home offers an exciting, imaginative setting for just about anything you can dream up.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Accommodates more than 200 guests
  • Dressing room available
  • Flexible event spaces

Venue considerations

  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • Couple must handle cleanup and setup
The staff and venue exceeded expectations. They provided great suggestions and stayed in contact to answer any questions and concerns. The venue was beautiful and provided ample space for all vendors and guests. We would definitely return for other celebrations.
P C., a month ago
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Green Gables 

5.0

San Marcos, CA
  • Up to 425 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor

Earthy, light, airy and feathery- In the shade of a lush, landmark forest, this historic garden estate is surrounded by ivy-covered arbors, blooming rose gardens, trickling fountains, picturesque statuary, and thousands of bright twinkling lights. A grand bridal parlor and vintage gentlemen’s speakeasy, outfitted with timeless, charming accents and furnishings, provide the perfect scenery for your preparations before reciting your vows in one of our three breathtaking ceremony spaces.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Natural elegance with open spaces
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests
  • Blends luxury with trendiness

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • Not for you if you don't want a rustic vibe
  • Best for events with big guest lists
Awarded Best of Zola
I am not going to lie, there were a few times we were very nervous about booking with Trademark Venues at Green Gable. Our coordinator changed very early in the process, and we weren’t informed why. We did the food tasting and we were so disappointed with everything we tried. We then spoke to someone higher up who helped us customize our menu without getting extra costs. Day of the wedding, everything went absolutely perfect. Gina was a god send, paying attention to every detail. She handled everything and made sure the day was stress free for us. So many guests told us how delicious the food was, so we were thrilled as that was what we were most nervous about. And I can confirm that the cupcakes were sooooo good! Seriously could not be happier. Gina was amazing and the venue is absolutely breathtaking. We absolutely recommend booking Green Gables!!
Sandra & M., 10 months ago
Seymour Marine Discovery Center 

5.0

Santa Cruz, CA
  • Up to 140 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $5,010

The Seymour Center is an oceanfront hideaway for an intimate wedding that your guests will be talking about for years to come. One of the most unique wedding venues on the Central Coast, The Seymour Center boasts breathtaking ocean views and multiple bluff-top terraces. After the ceremony, come inside and sip cocktails while your guests gaze upon the marine life of the Monterey Bay. Unveil a one of a kind wedding at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Call or email us directly to learn more.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Flexible event spaces
  • Private area for the wedding party

Venue considerations

  • Additional event staff required
  • Does not allow pets
  • Limited cleanup and setup services
The Seymour Center was absolutely perfect! The ocean view from the bluffs was an amazing backdrop to our ceremony and the exhibit hall was such a unique space for the reception. All of our guests raved about how amazing our venue was and the touch pool was a big hit with the kids. It was also meaningful to us that our money goes to fund marine outreach and education. The event staff were so accommodating, professional, and prompt when answering our hundreds of questions. Thank you Emily, Audrey, and the rest of the staff!
Andrew, 6 months ago
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Reptacular Animals Ranch 

5.0

Sylmar, CA
  • Up to 500 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $4,995
  • Offer

Reptacular Animals specializes in hands-on entertainment with live kid-friendly animals. We have reptiles, pony rides, petting zoos, parrots, bunnies, puppies, bugs and so much more. With 3 locations to serve you, we offer shows throughout Southern California! Reptacular Animals was created to fulfill the dreams of children and adults everywhere, giving audiences an opportunity to interact directly with animals in a safe environment. Reptacular Ranch is owned by Jennifer and Cory Lagusker whose lifelong passion for animals brought them together. They built Reptacular Ranch, and together, took a bunch of animal enthusiasts and turned us into a Reptacular family.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Accommodates more than 200 guests
  • Has a dance floor for celebration
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site

Venue considerations

  • No on-premises lodging options
  • No venue-provided food services
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
My husband and I had an amazing wedding at the fun, unique, beautiful and animal-filled Reptacular Animal Ranch!!! We looked at a LOT of options, and this was hands down our favorite. I would highly recommend this venue for anyone looking for an event space that is customizable and will keep guests talking for a long time. We had several animals at our wedding. Alpacas, dressed as a bride and groom, greeted guests as they arrived for the ceremony, we had a petting zoo for guests to explore during happy hour and we rode in on camels for our grand entrance. The camels were the highlight of our year and a great surprise for our guests! The owners, Cory and Jen, are very responsive to texts, calls and emails, helped with an array of questions and day-of needs and provided all information in an organized and easy to understand manner, with no hidden fees. They are open to creativity, with most things being allowed, so long as it is legal and safe for their animals and permit weddings to go on until 2AM, if you choose. The pricing structure is fair and reasonable. We took advantage of many of the venue offerings, such as: a firepit, a bar, large fridge (for drinks, cake and leftovers), the dance floor, free parking, changing trailer, restrooms, alter, tables and chairs. My husband and I love this place so much that we would like to go back to the ranch for our anniversary! *I would NOT recommend Diana as the day-of coordinator.
Nicole K., 3 months ago
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Children's Fairyland 
OAKLAND, CA
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $4,000

With whimsical sets, 10 acres of beautifully tended gardens, colored fairy lights, and a picturesque setting on the shores of Lake Merritt, our park is the ideal venue for a one-of-a-kind wedding. We offer a canopied amphitheater with both indoor and outdoor seating options, an expansive lawn, water features, and a number of themed areas perfect for receptions and sit-down dinners. Guests will delight in discovering a pirate ship and dragons or taking a ride on the iconic Jolly Trolly train. The Chapel of Peace offers a picturesque backdrop for wedding and engagement photos. Guest capacity varies. Please contact the Fairyland Team.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Space for a large guest list
  • Promotes a party atmosphere
  • Surrounded by nature

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • Does not have a dance floor
  • No free parking
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The Marker San Francisco 
San Francisco, CA
  • Up to 150 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $125

The Marker is a San Francisco wedding venue and historic hotel with modern and updated facilities. Housed in an iconic turn-of-the-century building, this boutique and luxury hotel near Union Square is in a convenient downtown San Francisco location. Vibrant and comfortable accommodations, expansive event venues and distinct amenities sourced from local vendors are just some of the features that have made The Marker a popular spot for couples to wed. Set your celebration a tier above with high-quality catering services nothing short of amazing. We aim to surpass your every expectation with years of experience and a menu of savory dishes.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Full catering menu to choose from
  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away

Venue considerations

  • On-site parking not available
  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
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CuriOdyssey 
San Mateo, CA
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $5,000

Welcome. Now booking events at CuriOdyssey! CuriOdyssey is the ideal location for your event, wedding, meeting, birthday party, and more Enjoy our outdoor zoo & exhibits until sundown. All events held at CuriOdyssey must abide by San Mateo County Health orders, including the use of face coverings and social distancing. Whether you’re looking for an intimate gathering in the Zoo, or a lavish affair with 200 of your closest friends, CuriOdyssey is the ideal venue choice.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Space for a large guest list
  • Flexible event spaces

Venue considerations

  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
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Hartley Farms 

5.0

San Miguel, CA
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $8,925

Private organic farm in the heart of California’s Central Coast Wine Country. Unpack for the weekend and celebrate with family & friends. Our 1.5 acre garden, campgrounds, and indoor accommodations are all for your private use. Only 12 weddings are booked per calendar year - are you ready for this exclusive escape?

Why you'll love this venue

  • Natural elegance with open spaces
  • Allows pets
  • Historic touches

Venue considerations

  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Additional event staff required
Hartley farms is such a beautiful location! I love photographing amazing weddings / events there! I highly recommend Hartley farms! Barbara (owner) is so easy and fun to work with - its always a pleasure!
Blendi Reynolds, 4 years ago