Historic Estate Wedding Venues in Council Bluffs, IA

The former Elk’s building was built in the colonial-revival style of architecture. Wide porches, supported by large columns, extend along the entire front of the building, with the upper balcony extending over the entrance in artistic architectural detail. On October 21, 1900, the cornerstone was laid for Lodge No. 531, B.P.O.E. on the north side of Bayliss Park in the heart of Council Bluffs. The inside of the building is furnished in classic Victorian style with rich burgundy and green hues. The original cigar stand and bundle counter is located immediately to the right of the front entrance. The grand oak stairway curves to the right and to the left and draws you up to the second-floor reception area and a ballroom that features a hard maple floor and mahogany-paneled walls. The second floor balcony provides guests with a breathtaking view of Bayliss Park and its beautiful fountain.

Castle Unicorn is located on a 400-acre private estate in the Loess Hills of Iowa and is located only 20 minutes from downtown Omaha. The Castle and outdoor Pavilion provide a breathtaking backdrop for both your wedding and reception. At Castle Unicorn, we have inclusive packaging that includes nearly everything you will need to make your planning and your wedding day less hectic.

1969 was the last Presbyterian service. In 2012, artist Zack Jones purchased this 1873 church as a artist live/work space. Today the studio apartment is available for the wedding party and preparations. Art Church Weddings is located in a 1873 de-sanctified Church in Malvern, IA. and is a permanent gallery to oil painter Zack Jones. Better known as Art Church Iowa, this unique building is coming back to life with exhibits, concerts, and private events.

Lilac Hill is a family owned 80 acre property in Louisville, NE, about 25 minutes from Omaha and 45 minutes from Lincoln. The original founders of Lilac Hill, Don and Bev Maxon, bought this old run down property in the 80's and set out to create their own arboretum. There are dozens of old growth trees, hundreds of blue spruce, and thousands of flowering shrubs and plants, which provide beautiful color and depth everywhere you go. The space combines elements of BoHo, Rustic, Elegant, and Industrial in a romantic natural landscape. So many of our guests comment that they don't feel like they're in Nebraska anymore! The property is enclosed by trees, providing a feeling of seclusion and exclusivity where your guests can hang out under our 100' tall cottonwood trees and smell the lilac scented breezes. With seating inside for up to 300 guests, our space can accommodate nearly all party sizes. Come visit soon for a tour!

Looking for character and charm? Our building is a staple in Omaha, first built in 1887 as the Bemis Brothers bag company. More than a century ago, the Ballroom was a loading dock for the Bemis company. The wood floors danced on are original to the space. Today, it's an Omaha Landmark and on the national register of historic places. Turn your wedding day into a weekend event. Our Ballroom is surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and dance clubs. Begin the day at our neighboring salon and spa and follow it with photos of the surrounding natural brick backdrops. Choose from a number of outdoor ceremony options or say “I Do” in our temperature-controlled ballroom.

Transport your guests to an Italian oasis at Omaha Palazzo. The charm of the space is enhanced with show-stopping chandeliers, a dance floor, and a champagne bar to encourage a celebratory atmosphere. Omaha Palazzo accommodates corporate and social events for up to 500 cocktail style or 400 seated guests. Our intimate patio is excellent for getting fresh air in between courses or dances, complete with bistro lighting and seating. This elegant venue sits on eight acres of sprawling land and is the ideal backdrop for your next celebration.