By Jennifer A. Johnson
SDUN Reporter
Whether you seek tenderly ringing wedding bells or fervently festive party horns, the perfect venue for any fête can be found in San Diego – even in Uptown. The hardest decision might be whether to celebrate by land or by sea. Here are a few options to help you along.
If by land…
The Prado at Balboa Park
Set against a backdrop of cultural landmarks, lily ponds and lush landscaping, The Prado provides a park setting amidst an urban environment. The House of Hospitality Grand Ballroom has taken center stage for wedding receptions and celebrations since 1935.
Featuring 27-foot hand-stenciled ceilings, custom chandeliers and a dance floor, the Grand Ballroom can make room for up to 400 guests. Call 557-9441, ext. 201, or go to balboaparkweddings.com for more information.
Park Manor Suites
Nestled in Hillcrest, this historic 1920’s era boutique hotel provides outstanding views of San Diego Bay and Balboa Park from its Top of the Park penthouse. The chandelier-adorned penthouse accommodates up to 200 guests for dining and 450 for mixers or other non-dining events. This historic site also features The Balboa Room on the second floor for smaller gatherings of up to 40 guests. From hors d’oeuvres to reception arrangements, the hotel’s wedding specialist can assist with all the details for any wedding or commitment ceremony. Call 291-0999 or go to parkmanorsuites.com for more information.
The Abbey
With its heavenly stained-glass windows and 50-foot ceilings, The Abbey easily impresses. Since 1910, the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture has been part of San Diego history and celebrations. This full-service facility conducts weddings in the former pulpit area to provide a great view of the ceremonies for all guests. The Abbey accommodates up to 300 guests and has a wedding coordinator available to help create any reception a person can fancy. Call 686-8700 or go to abbeyweddings.com for more information.
The Don Room at El Cortez
Undoubtedly, the first thing you’ll notice on entering the Don Room is the luminous 24-karat-gold carved ceiling. Placed atop the El Cortez complex on Cortez Hill, the Don Room has played host to a number of distinguished guests, including former presidents John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton. You’ll find plenty of room to move on the 10,000-square-foot outdoor terrace, which also features a wood-burning fireplace. From intimate affairs of 20 friends to corporate shindigs of up to 375 guests, the Don Room can accommodate. Call 338-8338 or go to elc.cc/home.html for more information.
If by sea…
Hotel del Coronado
Forever timeless, the Hotel del Coronado has been adding a touch of refinement to weddings and celebrations for more than 120 years. This Victorian resort has been a playground for celebrities and royalty. According to the Travel Channel, there’s no better place to say your vows – it ranked the Del as the No. 1 wedding destination in America. Among the various private indoor venues, the Del offers some amazing options for outdoor settings, including the Garden Patio, Windsor Lawn and, of course, the spectacular beach. Accommodations vary by venue. Call 800-468-3533 or go to hoteldel.com for more information.
La Jolla Shores Hotel
Brilliantly situated on the sun-soaked shores of the Pacific Ocean, La Jolla Shores Hotel is the quintessential location for a Southern California-style event. While this oceanfront hotel offers a plethora of indoor and outdoor venues, quite possibly the best location is directly on the beach. Whether a private ceremony or a substantial gala, La Jolla Shores has venues that accommodate up to 300 guests. Call 800-568-2322 or go to ljshoreshotel.com for more information. (Note: Beach wedding and commitment ceremonies are not available during July or August.)
Maritime Museum
Say ahoy to an event on the open seas – of San Diego Bay. The Maritime Museum can make it happen with four historic ships ready to set sail for your celebration. Choose from the Star of India, the Berkeley, the Californian or the H.M.S. Surprise, which was used in the filming of “Master and Commander, The Far Side of the World.” This is one of San Diego’s most sought-after wedding locations, so reserve early. Accommodations vary by ship. Contact the museum’s special events team at 234-9153, ext. 102, or go to sdmaritime.org for more information.
The Dana at Mission Bay
Set among groomed tropical landscapes, The Dana Hotel on Mission Bay is a postcard-perfect location to say your vows or host a special event. The hotel offers a bayside wedding site along with a ballroom featuring 18-foot floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the stunning waterfront. From small poolside receptions to its close proximity to the Marina Village Conference Center, the Dana’s event location options are endless. Accommodations vary by venue. Call 222-6440 or go to thedana.com for more information.
