San Antonio wedding photographer’s guide to the best open-air venues
Planning your wedding and dreaming of open skies, romantic gardens, or historic courtyards under the stars? San Antonio is home to some of the most beautiful outdoor wedding venues in Texas—and as a San Antonio wedding photographer who has spent over 20 years capturing weddings here, I’ve had the privilege of seeing some real gems.
This list features outdoor wedding venues in San Antonio and highlights wedding venues with outdoor spaces that are not only breathtaking but also loved by both couples and wedding vendors alike. Whether you’re envisioning a charming garden wedding venue in San Antonio, a rustic Hill Country backdrop, or something elegant and timeless near the Riverwalk, these are places that deliver a seamless experience and unforgettable photos.
Why Choose an Outdoor Wedding Venue in San Antonio?
Before we dive into the venues themselves, let’s talk about why outdoor weddings in San Antonio have become such a beloved choice for couples planning their big day. Whether you’re a local or planning a destination wedding, the city offers some undeniable perks when it comes to celebrating in the open air.
Mild and Mostly Sunny Weather
San Antonio enjoys a warm climate that makes outdoor weddings possible nearly year-round. While summer can be toasty, spring and fall are especially perfect—with golden light, cooler evenings, and vibrant Texas skies. There’s a reason so many couples plan sunset ceremonies in San Antonio—the glow is unreal.
Photographer tip: Fall weddings offer soft, flattering light and comfortable temps for both you and your guests—and it looks incredible in photos!
Diverse Scenery for Every Aesthetic
One of the best things about getting married in San Antonio is how many scenic outdoor wedding venues you have to choose from. Want a romantic garden? A historic mansion? A rustic Hill Country backdrop? Or maybe even a riverside courtyard downtown? You don’t have to drive far to find something that feels exactly like you.
From lush floral landscapes and mature oak trees to Spanish-inspired architecture and modern courtyards, San Antonio’s wedding venues are anything but cookie-cutter.
Picture-Perfect Backdrops for Every Shot
As a San Antonio wedding photographer for over 20 years, I can honestly say: nothing beats the natural light and rich textures of outdoor spaces. Whether it’s your ceremony, portraits, or first dance under the stars, outdoor weddings offer a timeless elegance that translates beautifully into your photos.
With thoughtfully landscaped gardens, warm stone paths, and wide-open skies, you’ll have built-in backdrops that elevate every photo—no need for over-the-top décor.
Post-Pandemic Peace of Mind
Since 2020, there’s been a significant shift in how couples approach their wedding plans. More people are leaning into open-air ceremonies and outdoor receptions in San Antonio for the added peace of mind. It’s not just about fresh air—it’s about creating a celebration where everyone feels relaxed, safe, and present.
Guest Experience and Flow
Outdoor venues often allow for flexible layouts, which means you can plan a flow that feels natural: ceremony in the garden, cocktails on the patio, dinner under twinkle lights. It creates a wedding day that feels effortless—and unforgettable.
And now in no particular order let’s start with:
The Gardens at West Green
San Antonio’s secret garden wedding venue
Tucked away just minutes from The Rim, The Gardens at West Green is a magical place that feels like your own secret garden. It’s one of my personal favorites—not just because it’s gorgeous, but because it’s where I got married back in 2010.
With 95% of the venue being outdoors, you’re truly immersed in nature. Think: twinkling lights above the dance floor, towering trees lining the ceremony site, and the soft sounds of a water feature nearby. It’s incredibly romantic and just the right size for an intimate wedding in San Antonio.
Why couples love it:
- Picture-perfect ceremony and reception areas
- Private bridal and groom suites
- Super easy access from major highways
- Ample free parking for guests
- Incredibly affordable for what’s included
Venue Details:
- Location: 21650 Milsa Dr, San Antonio, TX 78256
- Capacity: Up to 80 guests
- Pricing: Starting at $2,850 for up to 60 guests; additional guests at $15/person
- Features:
- Two and a half acres of manicured lawns
- Eight-column loggia and three-tier water fountain
- Indoor foyer, dressing rooms, and restrooms
- Clear covered pavilion and two smaller covered patio areas
- Option to bring in outside caterers
- Open-air dance floor surrounded by mature oak trees
- Market lighting included for evening ambiance
- On-site ceremony coordinator included with booking
- Private entry gate and signage to welcome guests
- Venue provided tables and white garden chairs
- Quiet, tucked-away atmosphere—yet only minutes from The Rim
- Weekend morning and evening booking slots for flexible timing
Ideal For: Intimate weddings, vow renewals, elopements.
Photography tip: The golden hour light through the trees here is stunning. It feels like something out of a storybook.
Planning Tip: Since The Gardens at West Green is a more intimate venue with a tight guest cap, consider a shorter guest list and splurging a little on extras like a live musician for the ceremony or custom cocktails during the reception. Also, because the space is mostly outdoors, offer handheld fans or parasols for warmer months, and consider cozy shawls or blankets for evening weddings in the fall. Small touches go a long way in a setting this personal.
For more information about The Gardens at West Green please visit their site.
The Lambermont Mansion: A Fairytale Outdoor Wedding Venue
A romantic and historic castle wedding venue near The Pearl
The Lambermont Mansion is straight out of a period romance. This historic outdoor wedding venue in San Antonio is located just a few blocks from The Pearl and Hotel Emma, making it a perfect location for both locals and destination couples.
The Lambermont Castle boasts a stunning outdoor garden area for ceremonies and an elegant lawn that can easily be transformed into a dinner reception under the stars. One of the coolest things? No two weddings here ever look the same. You truly get to make the space your own.
What Stands Out:
- Historic 1894 architecture that oozes charm
- Overnight accommodations for you or your guests
- Elegant garden and lawn spaces
- Near the hottest downtown attractions for guests to explore
Venue Details:
- Location: 950 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78208
- Capacity: Up to 300 guests
- Pricing: From $3,500; weekend packages available
- Features:
- Overnight guest suites
- Garden & lawn ceremony sites
- Walkable to The Pearl and Hotel Emma
- Private use of the entire estate for weddings and events
- Indoor ballroom with historic woodwork and chandeliers
- Front lawn ideal for tented receptions or lawn games
- Indoor library or parlor perfect for cocktail hour or portraits
- Wraparound porch for mingling or seated al fresco meals
- Access to private dressing rooms and flexible ceremony flow
- Pet-friendly venue for couples who want their furry family members includedrl for guest convenience
Ideal For: Classic weddings, destination weddings, black-tie affairs.
Planning tip: Consider booking the mansion for a full weekend so you can host your rehearsal dinner and farewell brunch all in one place.
Photographer Tip: Plan a couple’s portrait in the library room—timeless and editorial.
For more information about The Lambermont Mansion please visit their site.
Granberry Hills Event Facility: Two Ceremony Site Outdoor Wedding Venue
Spacious and customizable outdoor venue
If you’re looking for flexibility and size, Granberry Hills is one of the most accommodating open-air wedding venues in San Antonio. This spacious venue boasts two different ceremony sites—each with a completely different vibe—plus a covered reception pavilion and well-manicured grounds.
Whether you’re leaning rustic, modern glam, or classic garden, you can style this space to match your wedding aesthetic with ease. It’s also known for being vendor-friendly and accommodating, which always makes a big difference in the planning process.
Highlights include:
- Two outdoor ceremony sites to choose from
- Covered outdoor reception space
- Private getting-ready rooms
- Tons of room for larger weddings
- A+ staff that helps keep things running smoothly
Venue Details:
- Location: 6390 Granberry, San Antonio, TX 78239
- Capacity: 290–350 guests
- Pricing: From $4,250
- Features:
- Multiple ceremony & reception layouts
- Indoor backup options
- Helpful planning staff
- Separate Hillside and Gardenside venues with distinct aesthetics
- Spacious paved parking lot with guest and vendor access gates
- On-site kitchen space for caterers
- String lights and built-in DJ booths in covered reception areas
- Outdoor dance floor options available
- Ample space for food trucks, lounge setups, or custom backdrops
- Customizable rental options from basic to all-inclusive packages
Ideal For: Larger weddings, themed weddings, multicultural celebrations.
Photography tip: There’s plenty of space for sunset portraits, and you won’t have to worry about cramped timelines or lighting issues.
Planning Tip: They allow outside catering, which is perfect if you have a specific culinary vision
For more information about Granberry Hills Event Facility please visit their site.
The Veranda: Charming Outdoor Wedding Venue
Captivating estate with indoor-outdoor flow
Located in the heart of Castle Hills, The Veranda is another jewel of a venue that blends indoor and outdoor spaces beautifully. With its stone architecture, giant oaks, and cozy patio areas, The Veranda is a charming addition to the city’s list of garden wedding spots in San Antonio.
There are multiple areas for both ceremonies and receptions, giving you the option to mix and match spaces throughout the evening. Whether you’re planning an intimate micro-wedding or a 150-person celebration, it works well for both.
What we love:
- Expansive lawn shaded by mature trees
- Indoor bridal suite and groom prep areas
- Enclosed reception space with air conditioning (yes!)
- Plenty of charm for a romantic garden wedding in San Antonio
Venue Details:
- Location: 1746 Lockhill Selma Rd, San Antonio, TX 78213
- Capacity: 220–500 depending on layout
- Pricing: From $450 to $5,000
- Features:
- Ceremony lawn
- Indoor pavilion with A/C
- Catering by Spice of Life
- Private garden nooks perfect for first looks or family portraits
- Spacious wraparound veranda ideal for cocktail hour
- Outdoor bar setup available upon request
- Flexible floor plans for seated dinners, stations, or mingling receptions
- String lighting and uplighting available for added ambiance
- On-site coordination team familiar with the flow of the property
Ideal For: Cocktail-style weddings, foodie couples, garden party vibes.
Planning tip: Their team offers bundled services, which can take a lot of stress off your plate.
Photographer Tip: The Veranda’s ceremony lawn is framed by tall oaks that filter sunlight beautifully—plan your ceremony start time for late afternoon to get the softest, most flattering light through the trees. For portraits, sneak away to the private garden nook just before sunset—the dappled light and stone textures make for dreamy, romantic shots without being far from the action.
For more information about The Veranda please visit their site.
Jack Guenther Pavilion at The Briscoe: Downtown Outdoor Wedding Venue
Downtown luxury on the San Antonio Riverwalk
For couples dreaming of a stylish city wedding without sacrificing the magic of nature, Jack Guenther Pavilion at The Briscoe is a modern favorite among wedding locations in San Antonio with an outdoor space and offers a luxurious yet laid-back experience right on the San Antonio Riverwalk. With both indoor galleries and a breezy terrace overlooking the water, it’s an ideal spot for modern outdoor weddings in downtown San Antonio.
It’s also super convenient for guests—hotels, restaurants, and attractions are literally steps away, making it great for out-of-town friends and family.
Reasons to consider it:
- Prime location next to The Briscoe Western Art Museum
- Indoor/outdoor flow for ceremony and reception
- Gorgeous views of the Riverwalk
- Capacity to host both small and large celebrations
Venue Details:
- Location: 210 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205
- Capacity: 250–400 guests
- Pricing: Varies by floor and day
- Features:
- Sculpture garden
- Downtown access
- Indoor/outdoor flexibility
- Three levels of event space, including rooftop terrace and riverside courtyard
- Floor-to-ceiling windows with natural light and Riverwalk views
- Elevator access and ADA-compliant spaces
- Adjacent museum galleries available for private tours or cocktail hour add-ons
- Open vendor policy with curated preferred list
- Modern AV setup for toasts, slideshows, or live music
- Riverwalk-side photo locations just steps from the reception
Pro tip: Consider doing your first look along the Riverwalk before guests arrive—it adds a cinematic feel to your wedding story and keeps portraits stress-free later.
Photography Tip: Sunset portraits near the riverfront are unbeatable.
For more information about The Jack Guenther Pavilion at The Briscoe please visit their site.
FAQs About Outdoor Weddings in San Antonio
When is the best time to have an outdoor wedding in San Antonio? The most popular months for San Antonio outdoor ceremony locations are March–May and October–November due to cooler temps and less rain.
What happens if it rains? Many of the open-air wedding venues in San Antonio include both garden settings and indoor ballrooms or backup options. Always ask your venue about their rain plan.
Are outdoor weddings more affordable? Not necessarily. Outdoor weddings save on some décor, but rentals (tents, fans, heaters) may increase the budget depending on the season.
Do I need a permit for an outdoor wedding in a public space? Yes. If you’re considering a public park, be sure to apply for permits well in advance.
Bonus Tips for Planning an Outdoor Wedding in San Antonio
Planning an outdoor wedding comes with its own set of unique considerations. Here are some key tips from a local wedding photographer in San Antonio:
Weather Prep
Even with San Antonio’s mild weather, it’s smart to have:
- A rain backup plan (tent, indoor space, etc.)
- Fans for spring/summer weddings
- Blankets or heaters for cooler months
Guest Comfort
Provide:
- Plenty of seating in shady spots
- Hydration stations (especially important in the heat!)
- Bug spray or citronella candles for evening events
Permits & Rules
Some venues or public parks may require permits or special arrangements for things like amplified music, tents, or alcohol.
Lighting
If your reception is outdoors after sunset, make sure your venue has:
- String lights
- Uplighting for trees or buildings
- Path lighting for guest safety
Final Thoughts from a San Antonio Wedding Photographer
There’s something truly magical about saying “I do” beneath the Texas sky—whether it’s in a lush garden, on the lawn of a historic mansion, or beside the gentle flow of the Riverwalk. Outdoor wedding venues in San Antonio offer some of the most romantic, versatile, and visually stunning backdrops for your celebration. These locations aren’t just beautiful; they set the stage for unforgettable moments, laughter, and love that lives on through every photo.
San Antonio is full of hidden gems, grand estates, and picture-perfect gardens—each with its own personality and charm. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering under the trees or an all-out celebration in the heart of downtown, there’s a space here that perfectly fits your story. I’ve had the joy of working with so many couples across these venues, watching as their visions come to life surrounded by the people they love most.
As a seasoned San Antonio wedding photographer, I’ve captured tearful first looks, joyful first dances, and quiet moments of connection in these very places. If you’re still exploring your options, I’d be honored to help you choose the venue that fits your day—or to document the next chapter when it arrives.
Looking for more guidance? I’m always happy to chat about wedding logistics, venue vibes, or photography packages. Let’s make something beautiful together.
Last Updated on May 1, 2025
