There is certainly no shortage of beautiful wedding venues in beautiful Boston—but some of the most magnificent and magical sites are located on the city’s many unique universities. Whether it’s your alma mater, your favorite college sports team or you simply love the idea of infusing a bit of intellectualism into your wedding day, check out these Boston-area universities where you can get married:
Boston University
One of Boston’s best-kept secrets is Boston University’s historic manor, simply called The Castle. Located on Bay State Road, the vine-covered Tudor Revival mansion is truly a hidden gem in the midst of the city. Historically charming and lavishly decorated, the mansion features mahogany paneling, beamed ceilings, a massive fireplace, and crystal chandeliers. Walk down the aisle in the Great Room, where you’ll say your vows in front of a sweeping staircase. Host cocktails on the outdoor patio overlooking the Charles River, then retreat to the Music Room for your reception.
Harvard University
Harvard is the perfect wedding venue for the quintessential Bostonian couple. You’ll have several gorgeous options for your wedding ceremony and reception at this Ivy League institution. The Harvard Faculty House and Loeb Mansion, which are located at 20 and 17 Quincy Streets in Cambridge are just a quick walk from Memorial Church—the interdenominational Protestant church which stands at the heart of historic Harvard Yard. Decorated in 19th-century style and surrounded by flower gardens, you can also use a tent for an outdoor wedding. You can also consider The Harvard Art Museums newly renovated Calderwood Courtyard which is feels like a Roman piazza with a glass roof and offers gorgeous views through grand archways into the art galleries.
The Wellesley College Club
Nestled in the beautiful grounds of Wellesley College (famous alums include Hillary Clinton, Diane Sawyer, and Madeline Albright), this stunning venue feels like you’re deep in the countryside even though you’re just off the main road in downtown Wellesley. While the College Club building itself is lovely, it’s the surroundings that make this a dream destination for a wedding reception. Set on five hundred acres of pristine woodlands, the venue overlooks Lake Waban. A great wedding locale for the city couple who wants to feel closer to nature on their big day.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Getting married at The MIT Chapel is a little tricky; it’s technically available only available for weddings for MIT students, staff, faculty, alumni and children of MIT alumni—and you can only use it when school is out of session. The Cambridge campus chapel is a cylindrical building made of floor to ceiling brick with marble flooring. A stained glass entryway leads to the chapel featuring a solid marble altar and the only window in the chapel is a beautiful domed skylight. Simplistic and chic, the chapel also features amazing acoustics so your ceremony music will sound incredible here.
Tufts University
Located on the gorgeous campus of Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts is the Goddard Chapel—a 130-year-old historic church features brilliant stained glass, high ceilings, and stunning wood paneling. After your elegant ceremony, you can host your cocktail hour on the campus library’s rooftop, which offers striking views of the Boston skyline. The Goddard Chapel will host your wedding ceremony regardless of your religion or faith.
