6 Outdoor Wedding Venues In Toronto To Check Out!

Picture of Feb Cortes
Feb Cortes
A newlywed couple.

Introduction

Ah, the great outdoors. 🏞️ Not only is it good for our physical and mental well-being, but it’s also a wonderful place to tie the knot! 💍

And when you’re already in a city as colorful and vibrant as Toronto, then an outdoor celebration should be pitch perfect! 

But before you go ahead and get hitched, make sure to check out our top choices for the most underrated outdoor wedding venues in Toronto, all hand-picked to make your big day all the more memorable! 

Let’s get to it! ✨

Table of Contents

1. Guild Inn Estate

Does the idea of exchanging “I dos” with breathtaking views of Lake Ontario in the background sound like a romantic idea to you? If so, then look no further than the Guild Inn Estate! 

Nestled right within the beautiful Guild Park and Gardens, this estate offers a serene and quick escape from the city’s usual hustle and bustle, making it one of our top picks for outdoor wedding venues in Toronto. 

Featuring lush gardens, historical sculptures, and again, views of the lake, this outdoor space is filled with natural beauty perfect for all your romantic wedding photos.

Toronto has plenty of estates that make for great outdoor wedding venues.
  • What Makes it Unique: Combination of art and nature, providing a picturesque setting.
  • Available Facilities: Tented reception area, bridal suites, ample parking.
  • How to Make the Most of It: Schedule a sunset ceremony to capture the magical golden hour light. The tranquil ambiance and artistic charm should make it ideal for a romantic and elegant wedding.

2. Evergreen Brick Works

Want a more industrial feel for your wedding? Or perhaps you want to pull off a barn-themed wedding? If so, then we’re sure you’d feel right at home in our next suggestion for outdoor wedding venues in Toronto: Evergreen Brick Works! 

Found in Don Valley, this former brick factory has since been transformed into an eco-friendly event space surrounded by lush greenery!

And right outside is a sprawling garden and a covered pavilion, ideal for both ceremonies and reception parties… so don’t forget to bring your Toronto wedding DJ!

Brick buildings are one of our favorite outdoor wedding venues in Toronto.
  • What Makes it Unique: Commitment to sustainability and rustic, industrial aesthetic.
  • Available Facilities: On-site catering, event coordination, bridal suite.
  • How to Make the Most of It: Incorporate eco-friendly elements like biodegradable confetti or a farm-to-table menu for the wedding buffet! The venue’s unique combination of history and nature makes it memorable for environmentally conscious couples.

3. Edwards Gardens

Want your wedding to remain tranquil despite being set outside? If so, then we’re sure you’d find your peace in Toronto Botanical Garden’s Edwards Gardens. 

Easily one of our top outdoor wedding venues in Toronto for its simplicity, this garden will provide you with several picturesque spots for ceremonies, including manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, the historic Milne House, and the elegant courtyard!

Gardens make for one of the best outdoor wedding venues in Toronto.
  • What Makes it Unique: Botanical diversity and meticulously maintained landscapes.
  • Available Facilities: Reception hall, outdoor ceremony sites, ample parking.
  • How to Make the Most of It: Plan a spring or summer wedding to take full advantage of the garden’s blooming beauty. The vibrant floral displays and serene atmosphere create an enchanting backdrop for a fairytale wedding.

4. Graydon Hall Manor

Located in North York, this next pick in our top outdoor wedding venues in Toronto features an elegant Georgian-style estate with beautifully landscaped gardens. 

Perfect for couples that want some historical charm in their family wedding photos, the Graydon Hall Manor comes equipped with an outdoor terrace and garden providing a romantic setting for ceremonies and receptions, with stunning views of the manor and its surroundings.

A manor with manicured lawns fit for an outdoor wedding.
  • What Makes it Unique: Timeless elegance and historical charm.
  • Available Facilities: On-site catering team, bridal suites, dance floor.
  • How to Make the Most of It: Opt for a garden-themed wedding with floral decorations that complement the lush surroundings. The sophisticated ambiance and classical architecture make it ideal for a chic and timeless wedding.

5. Toronto Islands

You’re already holding your wedding outside, so why not make the most out of it by picking a spot with a wonderful skyline? For that, the Toronto Islands stands as one of our favorite outdoor wedding venues in Toronto! 

Venues like Artscape Gibraltar Point provide a serene escape with their sandy beaches, wooded areas, and open lawns. The islands offer a variety of spots for ceremonies and receptions, from intimate beachside gatherings to larger garden parties.

The Toronto Islands has plenty of spots perfect for an outdoor wedding!
  • What Makes it Unique: Combination of natural beauty and city views.
  • Available Facilities: Ferry access, picnic areas, outdoor pavilions.
  • How to Make the Most of It: Plan a beachside ceremony followed by a casual, laid-back reception with lawn games and a bonfire. The relaxed island vibe (complete with some island DJ music, perhaps?) and picturesque scenery create a unique and unforgettable setting for a wedding.

6. Ancaster Mill

Last but not least in our list of outdoor wedding venues in Toronto is the famed Ancaster Mill!

Located just outside of the city, this historic mill and its beautiful grounds provide a picturesque setting with lush gardens, serene ponds, and get this… a waterfall! So, if you and your partner are eager to take some romantic waterfall photos, then this should be the perfect spot.

An old and historic mill.
  • What Makes it Unique: The enchanting waterfall backdrop and historical charm.
  • Available Facilities: Outdoor ceremony sites, indoor reception hall, bridal suites.
  • How to Make the Most of It: Plan a ceremony near the waterfall for a dramatic and beautiful setting. Utilize the natural beauty of the surroundings for stunning wedding photos. The combination of historical elegance and natural beauty makes Ancaster Mill a perfect choice for a romantic and picturesque wedding.

Tips For Pulling Off A Successful Outdoor Wedding

A newlywed couple taking outdoor wedding photos.
  • Plan for Weather: Since you’re having an outdoor affair, always have a backup plan in case of rain! Tents, umbrellas, and indoor spaces can save the day in these cases.
     
  • Seasonal Considerations: Of course, choosing a season that suits your vision and is comfortable for your guests is always a good thing. Spring and summer offer blooming flowers, while fall provides vibrant foliage. Winter weddings can be magical with the right preparations, but ensure your guests stay warm!

  • Permits and Regulations: Ensure you have all necessary permits for outdoor venues, especially for public spaces. Check with local authorities about noise ordinances and other regulations that might affect your event.

  • Comfort for Guests: Provide amenities like shaded areas, fans, or heaters to keep guests comfortable. Offer sunscreen and insect repellent if necessary. Consider providing blankets or shawls for evening events when temperatures drop and it gets chilly!
     
  • Sound Systems: Outdoor venues may require additional sound equipment to ensure your vows and speeches are heard clearly. Hire a professional DJ (like our buddies over at DJing.ca!) to handle the setup and operation.

  • Lighting: Consider the time of day and natural light when planning your ceremony and photos. String lights and lanterns can add ambiance for evening events. Ensure pathways and key areas are well-lit for safety and convenience too.

  • Bug Control: Depending on the location, you might need bug repellent or citronella candles to keep insects at bay. Consult with your venue about pest control measures they may have in place.

  • Decor: Use the natural beauty of the venue to your advantage. Simple, elegant decor can enhance the setting without overshadowing it, especially if you’re already amidst nature!

  • Logistics: Ensure there are accessible restrooms, parking, and transport options for guests. Provide clear signage and directions to help guests navigate the venue. Consider hiring a coordinator to manage the logistics on the day of the event.

  • Catering: Choose a catering service that can accommodate outdoor events and offer a menu that complements the season and setting. Consider food stations or a buffet for a relaxed dining experience.

  • Entertainment: Plan for music, games, or activities that suit the outdoor environment. Lawn games, a live band, or a photo booth can add to the fun and keep guests entertained!

Final Thoughts

And there you have it, all of our top outdoor wedding venues in Toronto! Whether you prefer a garden, an island, or an estate, these underrated venues should provide all the stunning backdrops and unique experiences you want for your special day! 

But just in case you’ve already picked the perfect outdoor wedding venue, why not preserve all your wedding memories professionally by working with us at Photo Kings? 

As one of the largest providers of photography services across Canada, our team consists of top-rated and experienced photographers all ready to help assist with your big day, all at affordable rates! 

So plan thoughtfully, hit us up for a quote, and let’s get a leg up on that wedding checklist together! 

Get Quote

Continue Reading