All of my blog posts were fun to write, but this one is probably my favorite. Back in April, my boyfriend of five-and-a-half years proposed to me! We have been talking about getting married in the Grand Forks area for a while, so this blog is one part fun to write and another part personal research. My quest to find the ideal location revealed a stunning array of wedding venues in the Grand Forks region that could set the stage for an unforgettable wedding ceremony and reception. Read on to explore eight of the region’s gems, each offering a unique blend of elegance, charm, and scenic beauty.

Wedding Venues in the Grand Forks Region

Ralph Engelstad Area
Alerus Center
Cloud 9
Gorecki Alumni Center
Hopper-Danley Memorial Chapel
1908 House
Naastad Acres
The Opal

Image of Molly Hane over blue background and text that reads "What's Cooler Today?"

About The Author

Hi! My name is Molly Hane. I am originally from Hallock, MN and attended the University of North Dakota. After graduation, I decided to stay in Grand Forks and am now the Chief Operating Officer for the start-up company, Fenworks. We provide after-school esports and drone racing to K-12 schools. Outside of work, I am currently on the board of directors for the Greater Grand Forks Young Professionals. I am also a member of the Greater Grand Forks Women’s Leadership Cooperative and serve on the UpNext committee. In my free time, I like to play video games, take walks, watch anime, play volleyball, attend community events, and learn new things (I’m currently learning Chinese and Japanese). The best part of Grand Forks is the amount of opportunities young professionals have. My goal is to help expand and grow the experience for others.

1. For The Hockey Lovers – Ralph Engelstad Arena

If you ask someone to name an iconic landmark in Grand Forks, I guarantee the Ralph Engelstad Arena will be at the top of their list (just like this list!). With ample space and stunning architecture, this Grand Forks venue is a great choice for both ceremonies and receptions. Expansive facilities and well-maintained surroundings make it an ideal location for capturing cherished memories with large guest lists. With multiple packages available, this venue can accommodate events for 50 to 650 people. And don’t worry – just because this venue holds a world-class ice rink doesn’t mean you’ll get cold feet.

2. For The Couple With a Huge Guest List – Alerus Center

As one of the region’s premier event venues, the Alerus Center offers a blend of sophistication and modernity. Its sleek design coupled with top-notch amenities and flexible event spaces makes it an excellent choice for a wedding ceremony or reception. The Alerus Center’s dedicated staff and comprehensive event services ensure you’ll have a seamless and memorable celebration. The venue can hold events of 50 to 600+ guests. It has a variety of choices for the reception as well as additional packages for adding a ceremony, rehearsal dinner, and a gift opening brunch.

3. For Those Who Love Rustic Charm – Naastad Acres

Nestled in the countryside just outside Grand Forks, Naastad Acres offers a picturesque rural setting for a wedding celebration. With its charming barn, open fields, and stunning sunsets, this venue epitomizes rustic elegance. Naastad Acres provides a versatile canvas to create a unique and personalized outdoor wedding, and the peaceful surroundings create an intimate atmosphere for cherished memories of a graceful outdoor ceremony and celebration. This venue can host up to 450 guests.

4. For Luxurious Lovebirds – Cloud 9

Perched atop the Edgewood Corporate Plaza, Cloud 9 offers a truly unique setting for an intimate wedding. Beautiful chandeliers adorn high ceilings and stunning floor-to-ceiling windows frame panoramic views of downtown Grand Forks, making it a picturesque place to hold a personalized reception. If you’re on a budget or dread the idea of decorating, this is the perfect spot for a minimalist couple with maximalist taste. The venue can hold up to 350 guests.

Bonus for the Bride: Cloud 9’s reception hall will be directly connected to the Olive Ann Hotel when it opens sometime later this year. Just outside the Cloud 9 reception space the hotel offers a massive hotel room that wedding parties could rent out for the weekend. This is perfect for getting ready or as a lounge area for out-of-town guests.

5. For a State of the Art Wedding- Gorecki Alumni Center

As a graduate of UND, I can attest that one of the most recognizable buildings on campus is the Gorecki Alumni Center. With its beautiful design, high ceilings, and large glass windows, it creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The venue is no stranger to hosting various events. The Gorecki can accommodate up to 225 people for both ceremonies and receptions with a great entry/lobby, private rooms for the wedding party, and a main event space that shines with floor-to-ceiling windows. You can also find a great patio space for cocktail hour and lawn games, too.

6. For The Traditional Sweethearts – Hopper-Danley Memorial Chapel

For couples seeking a serene and spiritual ambiance, the Hopper-Danley Memorial Chapel presents an idyllic venue choice. This chapel on UND’s campus sits on the English Coulee and the sanctuary provides a tranquil space for a wedding ceremony. The chapel is ideal for couples who want a church-like setting but might not be affiliated with a church in the area. This venue is perfect for a ceremony of up to 150 guests and is ideal for those who want to avoid the uncertainties of summer weather. It has lovely French doors so on a gorgeous day, the wind can flow through.

7. For The History Buffs- 1908 House

Located near Hatton, steeped in history, and surrounded by enchanting gardens, the 1908 House is a hidden gem for couples desiring a rustic and charming wedding venue. The venue’s vintage architecture, sprawling grounds, and romantic ambiance create a scenic setting for an outdoor ceremony or reception. The 1908 House’s commitment to personalized service ensures a truly unforgettable wedding experience.

8. For An Elegant Affair – The Opal

If you want an industrial vibe for your wedding reception, the Opal delivers. It has an open ceiling, amazing lighting, and can easily be converted into an indoor/outdoor space with the help of garage doors. It is located just off Gateway Drive, near downtown and the Red River. It is also surrounded by beautiful natural surroundings and can accommodate up to 250 guests.

Other Grand Forks wedding venues that I did not have the chance to personally tour, but may still be great choices for you:

On the whole, you’ll find a treasure trove of wedding venues in Grand Forks, each offering its own distinct charm and beauty. From the grandeur of the Ralph Engelstad Arena and Alerus Center to the intimate ambiance of Cloud 9 and Hopper Danley Spiritual Center, and the rustic elegance of the 1908 House and Naastad Acres, there’s a perfect venue for every couple’s dream wedding or ideal reception. Whether you prefer modern sophistication or a touch of history, these remarkable locations will provide the ideal backdrop for your special day, creating memories to last a lifetime.