The holidays and new year tend to inspire folks to pop the question. And if your Facebook feed is anything like ours, this season was no different. Hundreds of couples are now excitedly planning their nuptials—and we’re here to help. San Francisco is a town that prides itself on originality, especially when it comes to weddings. Adventurous pairs should look no further than these 10 recommendations for delightfully unexpected walks down the aisle.
The San Francisco Zoo Why stop with the birds and bees when you can include lions and monkeys? Yep, you can get married at the zoo. With (human) event planners at your disposal and exclusive (animal) encounters available to guests, we’re pretty sure your wedding will be the talk of the trough.
The Presidio Log Cabin This 1937 structure is actually a log cabin—but one big enough to hold your crazy, now-combined family. We like the idea of couples exchanging vows in such a historically significant and stunning setting.
The Swedenborgian Church There’s only one word to describe this 1895 landmark—gorgeous. The cozy, creative space has been hosting weddings for more than 100 years and welcoming same-sex unions since 1978.
Casa de la Vista Officers’ Club As the name makes clear, this is a venue with a view. Treasure Island is an oft-forgotten part of San Francisco, and hosting a wedding mid-San Francisco Bay is a great way to take advantage of the world-famous skyline.
Forbes Island Alternatively, get hitched on your own private isle. The charmingly kitsch restaurant located on a man-made island next to Pier 39 hosts private events, including weddings. Take advantage of the 40-foot lighthouse for some truly unforgettable photo ops.
Cartoon Art Museum Pow! Zap! I do! The quirky Cartoon Art Museum has been the setting of some very chic, fun weddings. Guests can easily entertain themselves while the happy couple is off taking photos or stuck talking to weird cousin Mo.
Headlands Center for the Arts Just over the Golden Gate Bridge lies the stunning Marin Headlands, and within them, the extraordinary Headlands Center for the Arts. Comprising historic buildings adorned with some amazing art, this creative community occasionally offers couples the chance to rent space on its campus for weddings. Events with more than 25 guests must use the on-site caterer, but her reviews are stellar.
Verdi Club Oh, how we long to attend a retro wedding at the Verdi Club! Located just off Potrero Avenue, the place opened in 1916 as a private Italian social club, and still carries a vintage Sinatra vibe. The massive dance floor can seat 185 for dinner, and the old-school stage is the ideal spot for a band or DJ.
Trocadero Clubhouse at Stern Grove Who knew this was here? Stern Grove’s charming 19th-century clubhouse has been the scene of some truly special occasions. The pretty, bright yellow structure is the perfect place to party after a ceremony in the redwood grove.
Golden Gate Bridge You can actually get married on the Golden Gate Bridge. This couple did it. It’s open to the public during daylight hours, and while you shouldn’t block the path or endanger any of your guests by forcing them to cram along the walkway, the bridge definitely provides enough room for a couple, an officiant and an ocean of love.