If you’ve seen one banquet hall, you’ve seen… every beige wall in California. That’s why more couples are skipping the hotel route and heading into the open air. Outdoor wedding venues in Los Angeles offer the kind of wow-factor Pinterest dreams are made of.
But we get what you feel. There are so many options, and it is very easy to feel overwhelmed. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you filter the options, and maybe even imagine a perfect LA luxury picnic under string lights while you say “I do.”
Garden Wedding Venues Los Angeles 🌸
🎙️ From the Picnic Makers Team:
“Garden weddings have something extra. There’s a softness to the space, a quiet energy that makes everything feel more personal. That’s why we love designing in gardens. Nature does half the work.”
When it comes to luxurious wedding venues in Los Angeles, you’re spoiled for choice. These spaces are ideal if you’re dreaming of that feeling of being tucked into something special.
And if you’re planning an outdoor wedding in Los Angeles, a garden might just be the perfect match.
Here are three we love:
The Maxwell House – Pasadena 🏛️
Best for: Couples who love vintage charm, soft lighting, and timeless details.
This restored 1929 estate has real character. It’s got ivy on the walls, olive trees in the courtyard, and old-school tile work that photographs beautifully. It feels like a romantic hideaway without trying too hard.
Design opportunity: Use a floral aisle in soft, earthy tones and create a vintage lounge space near the fountain for pre-ceremony drinks.
Los Angeles River Center & Gardens – Cypress Park 🌿
Best for: Smaller weddings with a cozy feel and a lot of visual charm.
Tucked behind green walls and iron gates, this Spanish-style space has two separate garden courtyards and lots of room to move between ceremony and reception without leaving the vibe.
Design opportunity: Add a picnic-style lounge under the trees and hang soft lights or greenery along the tiled walls.
Orcutt Ranch Horticultural Center – West Hills 🌳
Best for: Couples who love being outside and want a natural, relaxed setting.
This spot is full of big oak trees, citrus groves, and blooming roses. It’s not overly polished, and that’s what makes it feel easy and real. There’s plenty of room to make it your own.
Design opportunity: Set up your ceremony under the oak trees and use the orchard for a styled dinner or post-vow picnic.
Backyard Wedding Venues Los Angeles 🏡
💬 From the Picnic Makers Team:
“Backyard-style weddings are some of our favorites. Couples feel more at ease. It’s less formal and the setups can be really special without being over the top.”
If you’re looking for a cozy setup, backyard wedding venues in Los Angeles might be exactly what you need. These spaces are a place where you can be yourself.
They’re also great for smaller weddings, pre-wedding gatherings, or even just a quiet place to host close friends and family before the big day.
Think micro ceremonies, welcome dinners, or next-day brunches with a little Picnic Makers flair and a few boho wedding ideas or small wedding ideas to bring it to life.
Here are a couple of spots we love:
The Ruby Street – Highland Park 🌹
Best for: Couples who want backyard charm but with way better lighting and way less cleanup.
This place feels like someone’s artsy home, in the best way. There’s a lawn out back for your ceremony, an indoor space if needed, and plenty of character all around.
Design opportunity: Lay down a few rugs for the aisle, go with mix-and-match chairs, and keep the flowers loose and fun.
Valentine – DTLA 🌿
Best for: Couples who want greenery without leaving the city.
Valentine is tucked away in downtown LA but feels like a secret garden. There’s a courtyard full of plants, and it’s super flexible for small ceremonies or a laid-back dinner.
Design opportunity: Use picnic low tables, layered textures, and pillows on the ground for an easygoing dinner or picnic vibe.
Free Outdoor Wedding Venues Los Angeles (Yes, Really) 💸
💡 Budget Tip from Picnic Makers:
“Free doesn’t mean boring. With a little styling, even a public park can feel like a luxury venue.”
Not every wedding needs a $10k venue to feel magical. If you’re looking to save your budget, these free outdoor wedding venues in Los Angeles that couples love could be the perfect fit.
They’re all public spaces, so you’ll need to secure a permit, but the settings? They are surprisingly beautiful!
Here are a few favorites:
Vista Hermosa Natural Park – Echo Park 🌿
Best for: A simple ceremony with skyline views and sunset light.
This park is quiet, photogenic, and feels tucked away even though it’s right in the city. There’s a flat grassy area with views of downtown and plenty of parking.
Design opportunity: Use a low picnic setup for a sunset toast and add lanterns or pampas for ceremony decor.
Barnsdall Art Park – Los Feliz 🖼️
Best for: Creative couples looking for open space and city charm.
This hilltop park gives you open lawns, great light, and views of Griffith Park and the Hollywood Sign.
Design opportunity: Add a blanket lounge or boho-style welcome table near the edge of the lawn.
Will Rogers State Historic Park – Pacific Palisades 🌲
Best for: Laid-back couples who want room to breathe and beautiful backdrops.
Wide lawns, eucalyptus trees, and horses nearby make this park feel like a country escape.
Design opportunity: Style a private picnic lounge under the trees or bring in soft rugs and low tables for a relaxed meal.
Make a free space feel luxe with styled decor from Picnic Makers. You’ll keep the view and lose the stress.
Wedding in a Park: Nature-Loving Locations 🌿
🌿 Why We Like Park Weddings
They’re open, easy to personalize, and don’t cost a fortune. Trees, views, and space to spread out—what’s not to like?
Planning a wedding in a park is a smart move for couples who want a room to do things their own way. These public spaces bring a calm energy and work especially well for smaller gatherings or couples who prefer a laid-back plan.
These three parks stand out for their charm.
Exposition Park Rose Garden – USC area 🌹
Best for: Couples who want flowers everywhere without paying for a florist.
Rows of roses, quiet walkways, and colorful blooms fill this spot. It’s great for short ceremonies, vow renewals, or a calm afternoon with friends and family.
Design opportunity: Keep it simple with a short rug aisle and flowers tied to guest chairs.
Heads-up: Book early during spring. It gets busy fast.
Ernest E. Debs Regional Park – Montecito Heights 🌳
Best for: Couples who want wide views and a peaceful, less crowded location.
This hilltop park has open lawns and room to spread out. It works well for a ceremony that doesn’t feel rushed or packed with people.
Design opportunity: Add floor pillows, soft lighting, and a picnic-style dinner setup.
Plan ahead: Check the wind forecast and see if there are bathrooms close to your chosen area.
Franklin Canyon Park – Beverly Hills 🌿
Best for: Couples who like trees, water, and a quiet setting that’s still in the city.
This park has tall trees, walking trails, and a small lake. It’s a good choice if you want something calm and green without leaving LA.
Design opportunity: Use a shaded spot for your vows and set out rugs and cushions nearby for a relaxed hangout.
Quick tip: Some spots may need permits or early booking, so check before locking it in.
Best Outdoor Wedding Venues Los Angeles by Vibe 🎉
When you look at the best outdoor wedding venues Los Angeles has to offer, there’s a real range, from beach views to estate lawns to clean, modern spaces that don’t need much styling.
Here’s a quick look at three very different styles. Pick the vibe that matches you most.
1. Coastal / Beach 🌊
Venue to check out: Bel-Air Bay Club – Pacific Palisades
This oceanfront venue gives you a private bluff, lots of natural light, and an ocean breeze without feeling like a beach party. It’s polished but still relaxed.
Design idea: Add neutral florals and low seating near the overlook for a laid-back moment after the ceremony.
We also have a lot of things to share in this guide for beach wedding ideas!
2. Estate / Luxe 🏰
Venue to check out: Hummingbird Nest Ranch – Simi Valley
It has open courtyards, mountain views, and a ton of space. You can do your ceremony, dinner, and dancing all without changing locations.
Design idea: Create lounge zones with soft rugs and layered textiles to make the outdoor space feel more personal.
3. Minimal / Modern ✨
Venue to check out: The Harper – Costa Mesa
Clean lines, an open courtyard, and no fussy extras. Great for couples who want something simple but still stylish.
Design idea: Stick with all-white florals, bring in wood accents, and let the space stay open and clean.
These are just a few of the best outdoor wedding venues Los Angeles couples love for style and flexibility. Pick what feels right for your day.
Tips for Choosing Outdoor Wedding Locations in LA 📝
When you’re visiting wedding locations Los Angeles couples recommend, it helps to know what to ask and what to look for. Outdoor venues can be beautiful, but they also come with a few things to plan around.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your spot:
1. Check the Sun ☀️
What time will the sun hit your ceremony space? Try to avoid blinding light during vows or harsh shadows in photos. Ask if there’s any natural shade or if you’ll need to bring some in.
2. Have a Backup ⛺
Always ask about a Plan B. If the weather turns or the wind kicks up, you’ll want a sheltered area or tent option you can fall back on without stress.
3. Listen for the Sound 🎶
Open spaces can be tricky for speeches, music, and vows. Ask about sound systems or bring your own. If the venue is near traffic or loud areas, be ready to work around it.
4. Ask: Can We Picnic Here? 🧺
Some venues welcome styled picnics or boho setups, while others may have restrictions. If you’re thinking about a pre-ceremony picnic or a relaxed dinner on rugs and cushions, ask early and get it in writing.
After your planning, don’t forget to clarify wedding party roles early so everyone knows what to expect.”
Finding Your Perfect LA Outdoor Venue 💍
As our team always believes, you don’t need a ballroom to have a beautiful wedding. The open sky and fresh air can turn a simple ceremony into an unforgettable setup.
Maybe it’s a barefoot walk down a grassy aisle, or a vow exchange under a favorite tree. Soft fabrics, cozy seating, and quiet moments with your closest people. These are the details that are important and might also end up in your wedding video songs highlight reel.
There are plenty of outdoor wedding venues Los Angeles couples can choose from. What matters most is finding a place that fits your pace and your style.
Let Picnic Makers help you create a ceremony space as intentional as your love story.
FAQs
1. Do I need a permit to get married in a public park in Los Angeles?
Yes, most public parks require a permit, especially if you’re setting up chairs, decor, or any kind of sound system. It’s best to contact the park office early to secure your date.
2. What time of day is best for an outdoor wedding in LA?
Late afternoon is usually ideal. You avoid the midday heat, the lighting is softer, and golden hour photos are a win.
3. Are outdoor venues in LA more affordable than indoor ones?
It depends on the venue, but many outdoor spaces, especially public or semi-public ones, can be more budget-friendly. Some are even free if you just need a simple spot and permit.
4. What should I have as a backup plan for an outdoor wedding?
Always ask your venue about weather options. Consider renting a tent or having access to an indoor space just in case.
5. Can I style an outdoor wedding with picnic-style seating?
Absolutely. That’s one of the best parts. Rugs, floor pillows, low tables, and string lights work really well outdoors. Just check with your venue for any setup rules.
