If you’re planning a wedding in Northern Minnesota and dreaming of a venue that offers natural beauty, wide-open skies, and elegant spaces, a golf course wedding might be your perfect match. Northern Minnesota is home to some truly breathtaking golf courses that double as stunning wedding venues—offering everything from classic country club charm to resort-style amenities nestled among pine forests and lakes.
Here’s a curated list of 9 beautiful golf course wedding venues in Northern Minnesota to help you find your perfect setting:
1. Northland Country Club – Duluth, MN
With sweeping views of the surrounding Northwoods and a timeless, refined atmosphere, Northland Country Club in Duluth offers one of the most elegant wedding settings in the region. Their Grand Ballroom can host up to 260 guests, and the outdoor verandas overlook manicured fairways and tall pines—ideal for cocktail hours and photos.
2. Geneva Golf Club – Alexandria, MN
Known for its rolling greens and beautiful landscapes, Geneva Golf Club is a top pick for couples looking for a peaceful yet polished venue. The spacious clubhouse can be transformed into a stunning reception space, and the scenic course makes for postcard-perfect wedding portraits.
3. Perham Lakeside Golf Club – Perham, MN
This charming venue offers more than just fairways—it features lakeside views, relaxed energy, and a warm, welcoming vibe. Perham Lakeside Golf Club is a great choice for couples who want a tranquil outdoor wedding with the flexibility of both indoor and outdoor spaces for dining and dancing.
4. Madden’s on Gull Lake – Brainerd, MN
Madden’s is a beloved name in Minnesota for good reason. This lakeside resort includes multiple golf courses, giving couples a variety of settings to choose from. Whether you want a ceremony by the lake or a reception in one of their upscale lodges, Madden’s combines classic golf course charm with full-service resort luxury.
5. Grand View Lodge Golf Resort & Spa – Nisswa, MN
This venue truly has it all: lakeside ceremony sites, rustic yet elegant lodges, and golf course backdrops perfect for photos. Grand View Lodge is known for its high-end experience, making it an ideal spot for couples looking to turn their wedding into a full weekend retreat for guests.
6. Cragun’s Resort and Golf Club – Brainerd, MN
Cragun’s offers an expansive and versatile venue that includes championship golf courses, lakeside patios, ballrooms, and everything in between. With on-site accommodations and a full event planning team, this is a fantastic venue for couples looking to host a destination-style wedding without leaving Minnesota.
7. Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center – Alexandria, MN
For couples looking to mix elegance with convenience, Arrowwood Resort has you covered. Their golf course offers gorgeous views, and the property includes indoor and outdoor venues that can accommodate everything from intimate ceremonies to large receptions. It’s also perfect for hosting out-of-town guests thanks to its on-site lodging.
8. Breezy Point Resort – Pequot Lakes, MN
This classic Minnesota resort offers a cozy lakeside vibe paired with expansive golf course views. Breezy Point Resort provides several venue options—including a lakeside chapel, event center, and golf course clubhouse—giving you the freedom to customize your big day in a way that feels uniquely yours.
9. Thumper Pond Resort – Ottertail, MN
Thumper Pond is a hidden gem, offering lush surroundings and a serene, wooded golf course setting. The resort includes both indoor and outdoor ceremony locations, along with a spacious lodge-style reception hall. It’s a lovely choice for couples seeking a peaceful, all-in-one wedding venue with a touch of northern charm.
Whether you’re envisioning a classic country club affair or a relaxed lakeside gathering, these Northern Minnesota golf course venues offer a variety of styles and settings for your special day. With their natural beauty, spacious grounds, and built-in amenities, each one is ready to help you create a wedding experience that’s both stunning and stress-free.
Saying ‘I Do’ on the Green: The Pros and Cons of a Country Club or Golf Course Wedding
When it comes to planning a wedding, the venue sets the tone—and for many couples, that means looking beyond traditional banquet halls. Country clubs and golf courses have become increasingly popular wedding venues, offering an elegant mix of charm, scenery, and convenience. But as dreamy as those rolling green hills may look in photos, there are some important factors to consider before booking your big day on the fairway.
Here’s a look at the pros and cons of getting married at a country club or golf course.
The Pros
1. Breathtaking Scenery
There’s no denying it—golf courses and country clubs are beautiful. With lush green lawns, pristine landscaping, and scenic water features, these venues offer picture-perfect backdrops that require little additional décor. Whether you’re planning a summer soirée or a fall celebration among changing leaves, the natural surroundings will elevate the entire experience for you and your guests.
2. All-in-One Venue
One of the biggest advantages of a country club wedding is the ability to host every part of your day in one location. From the ceremony to cocktail hour and reception, many clubs offer multiple spaces for each stage of the event. This convenience cuts down on travel time for guests and makes logistics much easier for the wedding party.
3. Professional Event Services
Country clubs are no strangers to hosting events. Most have in-house coordinators, catering teams, bartenders, and even valet services—making planning far more streamlined. These seasoned professionals are used to executing events with precision, which can reduce stress and ensure a polished final product.
4. Privacy and Exclusivity
Because most country clubs are private or semi-private, weddings held there tend to feel more intimate and controlled. You’re less likely to encounter outside distractions or competing events, and the gated nature of many clubs adds a level of exclusivity that other venues may lack.
5. Versatile Spaces
Country clubs usually offer both indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing you to tailor the setting to your vision—and have a backup plan in case of weather. From open terraces to grand ballrooms, you can create a wedding that flows beautifully from start to finish.
The Cons
1. Cost
The charm and convenience of a country club wedding come at a price. These venues are often on the higher end of the pricing spectrum, but in Northern Minnesota, it is typically less expensive than the Cities. Do note that some clubs also a minimum spend or charge more during peak seasons.
2. Rules and Restrictions
Country clubs often have strict rules about décor, music, and event timing to protect their well-manicured greens and early tee times the next morning. Want to bring in your favorite food truck or use sparklers for your send-off? It might not be allowed. You’ll need to review all guidelines carefully to ensure the venue aligns with your vision.
3. Membership Requirements
Some clubs only allow members to host weddings—or require that a current member sponsor your event. While this is not as big of an issue up north, it can limit your options.
4. Scheduling Conflicts
Because these venues serve other purposes—like regular tee times, tournaments, or member events—your date options may be limited. It’s not uncommon to work around golf schedules or settle for a Friday or Sunday wedding during peak months.
5. Weather Dependence
Even the most beautiful golf course ceremony is at the mercy of the elements. While many clubs offer indoor alternatives or tent rentals, it’s crucial to have a solid backup plan and know what will happen in case of rain, wind, extreme heat, or even snow! It is Minnesota after all!
A country club or golf course wedding can be stunning, elegant, and surprisingly convenient—but it’s not the right fit for everyone. If you’re drawn to the beauty and service these venues offer, make sure to visit in person, ask detailed questions, and get everything in writing. Understand what’s included, what’s extra, and what’s non-negotiable.
In the end, it comes down to your priorities—whether that’s scenery, convenience, budget, or flexibility. And if you decide that tying the knot on the green is right for you, your big day is bound to be one to remember.
Questions to Ask Before Booking a Golf Wedding Venue
Asking the right questions upfront can save a lot of stress down the line. Here’s a comprehensive list of smart, essential questions any couple should ask a country club before booking their wedding reception:
Venue & Availability
- Is my preferred wedding date available?
- How many weddings/events do you host per day?
- Is there a discount for off-season or non-Saturday weddings?
- How many guests can you accommodate comfortably (seated and dancing)?
- Is the space climate-controlled (especially important for outdoor tents or patios)?
Pricing & Payments
- What is the total cost of hosting a wedding here?
- What’s included in the rental fee?
- What’s the deposit, and when is the final balance due?
- Are there any additional fees (service charges, admin, setup/cleanup)?
- Are gratuities included in the final price?
Membership Requirements
- Do I need to be a member to book a wedding here?
- Can a member sponsor my event if I’m not one?
- Are there any limitations for non-member events?
Ceremony & Reception Options
- Is there a separate ceremony site? Is there an additional fee to use it?
- What’s the backup plan for outdoor ceremonies in case of bad weather?
- How early can we access the venue on the wedding day?
- How long do we have the space for, and is overtime allowed?
Food & Beverage
- Do you offer in-house catering? Are outside caterers allowed?
- Can we do a tasting before selecting the menu?
- Are there food and beverage minimums?
- Is alcohol included? What bar packages are available (hosted, cash, consumption)?
- Can we bring our own wine or liquor? If so, is there a corkage fee?
Décor & Setup
- Are there any restrictions on décor (candles, confetti, sparklers)?
- Are tables, chairs, linens, dinnerware, and glassware provided?
- Can we rearrange the furniture or bring in specialty rentals?
- Who is responsible for setup and teardown?
Vendors
- Can we bring in our own vendors (DJ, florist, planner, photographer)?
- Do you have a preferred vendor list? Are we required to use them?
- Is there a coordinator or point-of-contact on the day of the event?
Logistics
- Is there adequate parking for guests? Is valet available?
- Are there dressing rooms or suites for the bridal party?
- Are restrooms accessible and adequate for the number of guests?
- Are there noise restrictions or an end time for music?
Contracts & Insurance
- What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
- Do you require event insurance?
- Are there penalties for changes or cancellations?