Top Santa Cruz Venues

• Spaces for 79-500 Guests
• 3 Outdoor Spaces
• 3 Parks
• 3 Ranches

Roaring Camp Railroads is a historic narrow-gauge railroad and event destination nestled among ancient coastal redwoods in Felton, California, in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The 1880s-themed property transports guests back in time through a covered bridge gateway into a working heritage site where steam locomotives dating to 1890 still carry passengers over trestles and through towering groves to the summit of Bear Mountain. The grounds accommodate groups from 25 to 2,500 guests across indoor and outdoor spaces. Bret Harte Hall, a 6,120-square-foot 1880s-style structure with a 32-foot ceiling, raised theatrical stage, and on-site prep kitchen, serves corporate events, receptions, reunions, concerts, and trade shows. Reserved forested picnic areas along Deer Creek seat groups ranging from 79 to 250 guests, each with BBQ pits shaded by redwoods and oaks. Weddings, birthday parties, alumni gatherings, and corporate team-building events can all incorporate heritage train excursions, Chuckwagon BBQ catering, and activities including gold panning and candlemaking — giving every gathering a setting and experience that cannot be replicated elsewhere.

• Spaces for 150-200 Guests
• 3 Outdoor Spaces
• 1 Historic Space
• 3 Total Spaces

Fern River Resort is a third-generation, family-owned property nestled in the redwood forest of the Santa Cruz Mountains in Felton, California. Originally established as Griffin's Resort in 1929, the 5.25-acre grounds sit along Highway 9 near Gold Gulch Creek and have been stewarded by the Martin family since 1971, with an on-site redwood mill supplying materials for decks, gazebos, and furnishings throughout. The resort offers four distinct outdoor ceremony and reception areas — including the Redwood Gazebo Meadow, Arbor Garden, River Overlook Area, and Cocktail Lawn — accommodating ceremonies of up to 200 guests and receptions of up to 150 guests. For groups seeking exclusive use of the full property, all 15 cabins across 62 guest beds are available for a full three-night buyout. Across all events, the site rental includes ceremony and reception seating, dining tables, LED uplighting, café lighting, a professional sound system, access to a private river beach, and a campfire ring. The resort sits directly across from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, offering guests direct access to hiking trails through old-growth forest.

• Spaces for 50-200 Guests
• 1 Event Space

Are you planning an event a wedding reception, anniversary party, birthday party, business or organization meeting, or other special activity? Scotts Valley is truly a beautiful place for a memorial event. We have the rental rates very attractive to make it easy for you to take advantage of our community facilities. You will find our friendly and helpful staff ready to assist you with arrangements and pricing. We look forward to assisting you with your event in Scotts Valley. Make your reservation by completing a Facility Application form (PDF) at our office. Book your next event today! We have a variety of facilities to serve your needs.

• Spaces for 150-300 Guests
• 2 Outdoor Spaces
• 1 Historic Space
• 2 Total Spaces

We Have a Mission However, Kennolyn has been the site of world-renowned summer camp programs since 1946, when it first opened its doors to host weddings, special events, and retreats for guests. From its beginnings as a mere 60 acres at Stone Creek Village, it grew to 300 acres with the addition of Hilltop Hacienda Estate in 1956, and it has now grown to 450 acres with the addition of Soquel Ranch, which began as a mere 60 acres at Stone Creek Village. The vast majority of the land has remained undeveloped to this day because Kennolyn's commitment to harmony and awe for nature is inextricably linked to the preservation of natural life and beauty. Nonetheless, we have not shied away from providing all of the amenities, resources, and activities that will create one-of-a-kind memories and connections for those who visit our facilities. Kennolyn Events is still in business today, bringing people together for weddings, retreats, and other types of special occasions. Consider the Wedding of Your Dreams Weddings are a reflection of who you are as a couple: the things that make you laugh, the things you've learned about each other and about yourselves, and the things you want to take with you as you begin your new life together. At Kennolyn, we are driven by the desire to assist you in bringing those qualities to life and transforming that representation into an unforgettable celebration. Our private, all-inclusive venues can be completely customized to reflect your personality and the setting of your dreams.

• Spaces for 200 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 1 Event Space
• 1 space at this venue

Aptos Village Park is a 10.3-acre County of Santa Cruz park tucked between the Santa Cruz beaches and the Aptos hills, about 15 minutes south of downtown Santa Cruz. Mature redwoods and stately trees frame an expansive lawn, a charming gazebo, and Aptos Creek, creating a naturally scenic backdrop for outdoor celebrations. The park's primary event space is the Clubhouse and one-third Lawn, which accommodates up to 200 guests during peak season (April through October) and up to 100 guests in winter. The rental includes a fully equipped kitchen, 125 chairs, 20 six-foot banquet tables, and seven picnic tables. Amplified sound is permitted outdoors until 8 p.m., with indoor amplification allowed later in the evening. Aptos Village Park hosts weddings, outdoor ceremonies, vow renewals, private parties, and festivals — all managed through Santa Cruz County Parks. Reservations can be made up to one year in advance on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Spaces for 50-120 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 1 Historic Space
• 2 Total Spaces

Quail Hollow Ranch County Park is a 300-acre historic horse ranch and nature preserve nestled deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains near Felton, California. Acquired by Santa Cruz County in 1986, the property traces its roots to 1866 and was once owned by the Lane family — publishers of Sunset Magazine — who developed it as a working ranch from 1937 through 1991. That history is woven into the ranch house's architecture and decor, giving every event a sense of place that purpose-built venues rarely offer. Two distinct settings accommodate different group sizes and seasons. The historic ranch house and its rambling oak-shaded porch host indoor gatherings of up to 50 guests year-round, while the spacious lawn — framed by an apple orchard, a pond edged with red willows, and forested mountain ridgelines — accommodates up to 120 guests for outdoor celebrations from April through October. Rentals include 100 white stacking chairs, 15 rectangular banquet tables, 10 picnic tables, and reserved parking for 50 vehicles. Quail Hollow Ranch is available for weddings, receptions, and private celebrations. Catering is bring-your-own, and beer, wine, and champagne service is permitted with an alcohol permit.

• Spaces for 80 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 1 Event Space
• 1 space at this venue

Valencia Hall is a restored 1880s historic hall nestled on the outskirts of Aptos, California, managed by Santa Cruz County Parks. Built by Frederick Hihn as part of a once-thriving logging community, Valencia Hall and the adjacent historic General Store and Post Office are the last two surviving structures from the original settlement of Valencia — giving the property a sense of history that few event venues can match.\n\nThe charming white-clapboard hall accommodates up to 80 guests and lends itself naturally to intimate weddings, receptions, and private gatherings. Its covered porch serves as an inviting ceremony space, while the interior hall handles celebrations of all kinds. A bordering orchard and a backdrop of coastal redwoods provide a scenic, secluded setting that makes guests feel transported from everyday life.\n\nSanta Cruz County Parks manages reservations for weddings, meetings, and special events. The venue's rural character, historic architecture, and redwood surroundings make it a distinctive choice for couples and groups seeking a one-of-a-kind setting in the Santa Cruz Mountains foothills.

• Spaces for 200 Guests

Nestldown is a story in and of itself, and the ideal spot to begin your own. Nestldown, a small retreat in the Redwoods, rests on acres of beautifully maintained property. Nestldown, located just outside of Silicon Valley, hosts events that are guaranteed to be remembered by all. At Nestldown, you can turn your California party into an unforgettable experience with ponds, waterfalls, and lush gardens. This is the spot to throw your next event because of its rustic elegance, vivid garden backdrop, and isolated ambiance. Just admit it: you're anxious to visit Nestldown and see it for yourself. At your next special event celebration, start your fairytale here among the trees with everyone you care about. There's nothing quite like it. The Nestldown family has expanded over the years to include not just ourselves and our children, but also our workers and visitors. We draw inspiration from all of our "family" members, and we are grateful to see individuals come to celebrate their special occasions here again and again. Thank you for your years of support and for sharing your enthusiasm for this precious site with us.

The most beautiful location in the Santa Cruz Mountains! The family estate of Apple co founder Steve Wozniak is now available for weddings and special events. We have wedding and reception facilities that can accommodate up to 100 guests. Located at the summit of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Redwood Ridge Estate is a lovely wedding destination. For marriages and wedding photography, the Estate's 25 acres of land provides a captivating background. The peaceful koi pond has an island in the center, and the happy couple walks across a bridge to the location where their ceremony will take place on the island. Guests will be surrounded by towering redwood trees and will be able to see and hear a waterfall falling into a pond as they enter the property. The reception will be hosted in a rustic barn surrounded by the Pinot Noir Vineyard, with towering ceilings of exposed beams and fairy lights adorning the walls. Its enormous windows and wide barn doors allow guests to move easily from inside the barn to the 4,000 sq. ft. patio, where they may take in the sunset vista views of Monterey Bay, the Santa Cruz Mountains, and valleys. About the Estate Nestled in the redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains in Northern California, overlooking both Monterey Bay and Santa Clara Valley, the Wozniak estate is an ideal wedding location. Towering redwood groves and colorful flowers lie around every corner. In addition to redwoods throughout the estate, there are lovely hardwoods like this majestic madrone on the edge of our koi pond. We are a bonded winery and the reception hall sits in the middle of the Pinot Noir vineyard. Llamas and alpacas graze the surrounding 25 acres. An Outdoor Wedding The serenity of the pond creates the ideal spot for that cherished moment. Inside the two thousand year old redwood “cathedral” is one of several location choices for joining families. Or create your own location. An island in the redwood-sheltered pond provides an intimate ceremony location. On the shore we have room to seat a hundred guests. The serene waterfall provides the ideal backdrop for the newly weds photo. Reception The 4,000 sq ft patio surrounding this rustic barn was once home to our llamas and alpacas. The facility has handicapped-accessible restrooms and nighttime illumination. Complete wedding packages are provided by outside professional caterers. The patio has a sweeping vista of the Santa Cruz Mountains, providing for a panoramic sunset.

• Spaces for 125 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 1 Barn
• 1 Historic Space

Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains just 10 minutes from downtown Los Gatos, the Pavilion at Redwood Estates is a 3,500-square-foot cedar building set beneath towering redwoods on the grounds of the Redwood Estates community. Open-beam, knotty pine ceilings and large picture windows overlooking the surrounding mountains lend the space a warm, rustic character suited to weddings, receptions, corporate gatherings, and milestone celebrations alike. The pavilion seats up to 125 guests on its 1,800-square-foot maple dance floor and opens onto a spacious redwood deck and manicured lawn — both available for ceremonies, cocktail hours, or outdoor receptions under the trees. Rental includes the use of the pavilion and grounds, tables, chairs, a barbecue pit, and a full audio/visual package. Catering is flexible: renters may select their own vendors or provide their own food and beverages.

• Spaces for 40-130 Guests
• 1 Winery

We make world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the ancient Novitiate Winery in Los Gatos where we blend centuries-old winemaking practices with state-of-the-art technology. Rob and Diana Jensen have been working closely with Bill Brosseau, Director of Winemaking, since 2000. Testarossa has consistently produced over 1,500 different wines, all of which have received Outstanding 90+ point scores. In our 19th Century Cellars, step back in time for a completely unique experience. Any event, from a small business meeting to a grand gala, benefits from the charm and rustic elegance of handcrafted stone walls. This is only the beginning of the historic setting. Add our acclaimed prime Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, carefully coupled with the freshest cuisine prepared for you by our imaginative culinary team and it all adds up to an amazing event. Our largest private room is decorated with historic photos from the original Novitiate Winery and is decorated in turn-of-the-century elegance. The Cave, Patio, Tasting Room, and Cask Room are all available as part of a package deal.

• Spaces for 50 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Dio Deka, with its outstanding Hellenic food, and the attractive Mediterranean environment of Hotel los Gatos make for the perfect backdrop for your special day. In addition, both indoor and outdoor function space are offered, each with a breathtaking view of the neighboring Santa Cruz Mountains and the surrounding valleys. Dio Deka is the only Michelin-starred Greek restaurant on the West Coast, and it is located in Santa Monica. It embraces the culture of filoxenia - the Greek phrase for traditional hospitality, in which a stranger is instantaneously made a friend after being welcomed into one's house. The restaurant serves traditional Greek cuisine. With a focus on Hellenic cuisine – a fusion of Greek and Mediterranean influences – Dio Deka's menu is filled with nutritious and seasonal dishes such as fresh fish, high-quality meats, and sun-loving fruits and vegetables. Dio Deka is located in the heart of downtown San Diego. Greek items such as seafood, cheeses, olive oil, oregano, and thyme-scented honey play prominent roles on the menu, as do other Mediterranean ingredients. Our Pool Terrace and Mediterranean Courtyard Patio provide the scene for a beautiful outdoor ceremony or celebration, with the pool serving as the perfect backdrop. When it comes to dinner and dance, our larger area, the Monte Sereno Room, can accommodate up to 140 guests.. With French doors opening to adjoining verandas and balconies, this magnificent room is flooded with natural light, which complements the room's lush Mediterranean décor. Allow us to make your wedding the most magnificent and unforgettable occasion possible.

• Spaces for 100-240 Guests
• 1 Museum
• 1 Landmark

The New Museum Los Gatos (NUMU), formerly the Museums of Los Gatos, is a public non-profit art and history museum in downtown Los Gatos. It was created in 1965. NUMU's aim is to engage the community via innovative, locally relevant, and internationally relevant exhibitions, events, and experiences at the crossroads of art, history, and education. NUMU's Private Parties offer a one-of-a-kind celebrating experience created just for you! Come to the museum with your guests for a fantastically entertaining evening in the Flick Studio and Maker Space. Then, if you're really ambitious, take over the NUMU Club and turn it into a movie theater, a bar, a lounge, or a dance floor. And it only gets better! Eat, drink, relax, and chat with your guests on NUMU's private outside patio. Last but not least, you and your friends are free to explore NUMU's two floors of exhibition galleries to enhance your creative interests. Through innovative, locally relevant, and internationally relevant exhibits, events, and experiences, we engage the community at the nexus of art, history, and education. Through our operations, exhibitions, public events, and permanent collection, NUMU provides equal and equitable representation, opportunities, and services to all stakeholders.

• Spaces for 32-130 Guests
• 3 Hotels
• 1 Event Space
• 3 Meeting Spaces

Luxurious linens and enhanced bath amenities are included. In-room Keurig coffee service is available at an additional cost. There will be a luxurious honor bar with food, beverages, and sundries. There is an ironing board in the room. There is a laundry and dry cleaning service available. Mediterranean refinement is combined with California charm to produce a hotel that is evocative of a private residence in the hills of California. The Hotel Los Gatos, located in the heart of the picturesque downtown hamlet of Los Gatos and at the foot of the Santa Cruz Mountains, is Silicon Valley's best luxury hotel address. The color and beauty of a Tuscan home are captured in the atmosphere of the guestrooms. With early notification and in accordance with our pet policy restrictions, which include particular room types and additional fees, we can accommodate dogs in our lodgings. Set in a breathtaking environment amid the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Los Gatos, California, and its surrounding area are a sophisticated choice for a wedding venue that is second to none. Our quaint hotel provides excellent amenities to allow visitors to hold wonderful small events and rehearsal dinners in a beautiful setting. A gourmet catering service is offered to turn every meal or cocktail reception into a memorable event. As an added service, our events staff can assist newlyweds in planning out the details of their wedding and booking an appropriate number of rooms so that their guests and family may feel right at home during their California dream wedding.

• Spaces for 100-200 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 1 Vineyard
• 1 space at this venue

Redwood Retreat at Fernwood Cellars is a historic estate winery nestled in a canyon at the base of the Santa Cruz Mountains, located at the end of Redwood Retreat Road in Gilroy, California. Established in 1863 with six generations of family stewardship, the property encompasses towering ancient redwoods and 100% estate-grown vineyards farmed using sustainable practices. The venue accommodates private events of up to 100 guests across its grounds, offering ceremonies among the redwoods and reception space that draws on the estate's natural and historic character. A historic tasting room serves as a getting-ready suite for weddings, and the estate provides indoor/outdoor flexibility suited to year-round gatherings. Weddings, corporate retreats, family reunions, and private celebrations are all hosted here. Every private event includes full estate access, a personal event coordinator, a customized wine selection, setup and breakdown time, and ample on-site parking.

• Spaces for 130 Guests
• 1 Event Space

The Forest of La Forêt La Forêt, located in San Jose's New Almaden foothills, is one of the area's most sought-after event locations, offering a one-of-a-kind blend of superb French cuisine, impeccable service, and a charming romantic setting. We encourage you to relax in the timeless and traditional environment of the charming converted boarding home on the outskirts of San Jose, which has delighted generations for more than two decades. With stunning views of the surrounding environment and a nearby creek, La Forêt is one of the region's most unique and diverse event sites. The large windows look out onto the private garden and manicured lawn, creating a light, airy place with a relaxing and inviting feel. Fresh vegetables, smoky fragrances, and home-made delights are featured on the menu, which is inspired by classic French and Continental cuisine. The restaurant can accommodate up to 130 people and can be booked in a variety of layout arrangements. La Forêt, one of San Jose's finest event locations, allows you to create an intimate setting for your celebration or conference. Our San Jose Location The elegance and historic location are ideal for elevating the sophistication of your forthcoming meetings and events. Our fully-trained crew is available to provide an unassuming but classy dining experience whether you are arranging a wedding reception, wedding rehearsal, birthday party celebration, corporate event, or not-for-profit luncheon. From business meetings and conferences to private dining experiences and celebrations, La Forêt provides award-winning hospitality. We can accommodate any requirements with a variety of indoor and external areas and plan layouts to make your experience one-of-a-kind and memorable. Celebrate your special occasion or get-together in one of San Jose's most historic event locations, which has been in operation since 1848. Your business or private event will be held in a spectacular and inspiring setting at La Forêt.

Villa Montalvo is a beautiful venue for weddings, parties, business meetings, company or family retreats, and more! We are currently filling our 2021 and 2022 calendars, but there are still plenty of opportunities to hold your wedding or other event with us. We are following all current health mandates in order to offer you and your party a safe and memorable experience.

• Spaces for 200 Guests

• Spaces for 50-500 Guests
• 1 Meeting Space

Take a moment to imagine your perfect wedding day taking place in a breathtaking natural outdoor setting complete with fresh breezes, natural creeks, and towering redwoods. Your wedding will be a full-service affair that you and your guests will thoroughly enjoy from beginning to end. Our all-outdoor venue has everything you could possibly want: breathtaking natural beauty, a convenient location, and mouth-watering catering options to choose from. Allow our catering team to put together the perfect menu for your special occasion! Our comprehensive catering services make the catering process simple and delicious! Working with our team at Saratoga Springs, you will be able to plan a day that you and your guests will remember for a long time to come. Allow us to create a customized agenda for your event while you relax. Ultimately, we want to provide your group with an experience that fosters tremendous team building, increases morale, and re-energizes employees. Taking advantage of our all-inclusive packages will make planning your next event a breeze! Your private picnic grove, unlimited beverages, corn hole games, and other extras are included in all catered packages. On weekends when we have 350 or more guests booked in the park, we open our Fun Zone to the public for everyone's enjoyment. More information about the Fun Zone can be found in the Gallery section below.

• Spaces for 40-180 Guests
• 2 Historic Spaces
• 2 Gardens

Hakone Estate and Gardens is one of the oldest residential-style Japanese gardens open to the public in the Western Hemisphere, established in 1915 on 18 acres in Saratoga, California, at the edge of the Santa Cruz Mountains overlooking Silicon Valley. The estate combines authentic Asian gardens, historic buildings, and a serene natural setting that sets it apart from conventional event venues in the Bay Area. Three event spaces accommodate gatherings of varying sizes, from intimate dinners to outdoor receptions of up to 180 guests. The Madrone Mound, an outdoor reception area tented from late fall through mid-spring, hosts evening events for up to 180 guests. The Cultural Exchange Center seats up to 50 guests for dinner and opens onto an outdoor viewing deck, while the Lower House (Dry Garden House) offers a more intimate setting for up to 40 guests. Ceremony and reception areas are wheelchair accessible. Hakone welcomes weddings, receptions, corporate events, and special occasions. Outside caterers are permitted with approval, and guests enjoy full access to the surrounding gardens throughout their event.