If you're dreaming of a downtown Minneapolis wedding that blends timeless beauty with iconic architecture, here’s a hidden gem you’ll want to know about: Minneapolis City Hall.
Known more for its historic significance than its ceremony potential, City Hall is actually one of the most ornate and breathtaking buildings in the city — and yes, you can get married there. With its soaring ceilings, grand marble staircases, and romantic vintage detailing, it’s an incredible backdrop for couples looking to elope or host a small, intentional ceremony that feels elevated but intimate.
Why City Hall?
Minneapolis City Hall is truly one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it venues. It’s public, it’s historic, and many locals have no idea it’s even an option for weddings. But once you step inside, it’s hard not to be swept away by the Beaux-Arts architecture, elegant arches, and intricate tilework. The whole space feels like you’ve stepped into a European courthouse — in the best way.
How to Get Married at Minneapolis City Hall
Here’s how to make it happen:
- Apply for a Marriage License: First, you’ll need to apply for your license through Hennepin County. You can do that right here
- Book Your Ceremony at City Hall: To reserve space for your wedding ceremony, you’ll need to visit the county’s weddings & ceremonies page on the municipal website for availability and guidelines. Here’s the link to get started: 👉 Reserve your ceremony at Minneapolis City Hall
- Choose Your Date + Time: The city hall rotunda is available for ceremonies Wednesday through Sunday.
- Plan for Photography & Decor: The inherent beauty of City Hall doesn’t need much extra to shine — a few personal floral touches or handheld arrangements are really all you need. And yes, photo ops are magical in that central rotunda!
Note that ceremonies in city hall do not include an officiant, and you'll need to arrange for an ordained or certified professional or friend to perform the ceremony. To be married by a judge at the District Court, please call 612-322-6709 or visit Marriage Ceremonies.
Reception Options Nearby: Where to Celebrate After
City Hall is strictly ceremony-only, so once you’ve tied the knot, you’ll want to head somewhere else to toast and dine. Fortunately, downtown and the nearby riverfront are full of incredible restaurants that welcome post-wedding gatherings.
A few of our favorites:
- Boludo – For an intimate, vintage parlor inspired vibe, and the best Argentinian empanadas and pizza in the city
- Young Joni – Iconic wood-fired dishes and cocktails in a cozy, stylish space
- Mara – Upscale Mediterranean-inspired dining inside the Four Seasons
- Owamni – James Beard-winning modern Indigenous cuisine on the riverfront
- Chloe by Vincent – A chic French bistro perfect for intimate wedding dinners
- Ruth’s Chris Steak House – A classic celebration staple with elegant private dining
- Butcher’s Tale – Known for craft cocktails, house-smoked meats, and modern ambiance
Whether you’re planning a formal dinner or a casual gathering with your favorite people, these restaurants offer elevated options that match the beauty of your ceremony space.
Getting married at Minneapolis City Hall is a truly special, often overlooked option — perfect for couples who want to skip the traditional venue experience and instead focus on what matters most: celebrating their love in a beautiful, meaningful place.
If you're planning to say "I do" at City Hall and want your day captured candidly and artfully (film, Super 8mm, Polaroids and all), we’d love to document it for you.
