The Top 5 Wedding Venues in the Tri-State Region (Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin)

The Driftless -- Magnolia Room

Choosing the perfect wedding venue isn't easy. There are multiple options to choose from, whether you're looking for a stunning barn, a luxurious ballroom, an intimate restaurant, or a scenic stretch of beach.  Our team reviewed hundreds of venues within the tri-state region, which includes Iowa, Wisconsin and Illinois. We excluded venues in downtown Chicago. The Destination Publishing team examined several criteria, including uniqueness of venue, interior decor, customer service, quality of in-house dining/catering, and even bar menu. It was not easy to narrow down our list to 5, but we are confident with our final winners!

5.  Emerson Creek Pottery and Tea Room -- Oswego, Illinios

​This Instagram-worthy venue is elegant, modest and rustic all in one. The owners are extremely accommodating and will cater to a bride’s wish list of furniture, tools, and props needed for their dream wedding. Not to mention, brides get ready in a “Bridal Coop.” We loved the unique and intimate feeling you get for weddings in this venue. 

4.  Osthoff Resort -- Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

Located on 500 feet of sandy beaches, The Osthoff Resort features beautiful ballrooms, spacious suites, indoor and outdoor ceremony locations, fantastic dining, horse-drawn carriage rides, wedding spa packages, and gift-opening locations. The bride and groom also receive a complimentary one-night stay on the wedding night, plus complimentary reception decorations.

3.  The Pfister Hotel --  Milwaukee, Wisconsin

A grand, luxurious, and historic building, the Pfister is home to some of Wisconsin’s most beautiful ballrooms. With bountiful drapery, antique chandeliers and marble accents, plus one of the most beautiful views of downtown Milwaukee, this space can’t be beaten when it comes to elegance. Located only blocks away from Lake Michigan. 

2. The Charmant Hotel -- Lacrosse, Wisconsin

One of our favorite hotels in the tri-state region. The Charmant is an upscale boutique hotel in downtown La Crosse, WI. Charmant is the French word for “charming,” a reflection of the hotel’s friendliness, whimsy and allure. Charmant stands out from its elegance of the building and most importantly the incredible service staff. They also have great food options for your event.

1. The Driftless -- Dubuque, Iowa

The surprise winner of this year's list is the Driftless.  New to the scene, this venue has quickly become a rising star. Ultimately, we chose this venue, not only because of its stunning interior design, but because of its impeccable customer service and high-quality food. The management team was once a part of the Biltmore hotel in Asheville, NC, and now they have brought their service and culinary skills to Dubuque, IA. Winner of the Iowa Main Street Award and Ken Kringle Award for outstanding Interior Rehabilitation, The Driftless is a uniquely curated and customizable event space located in the heart of the Dubuque Millwork District. Brides and grooms even have a champagne loft available for pre-wedding and overnight stay!

Source: Destination Publishing

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About Destination Publishing

Destination Publishing
P.O. Box 1086
Dubuque, IA
52001