Portico

Tucked within the extraordinary 55-acre Awbury Arboretum in Germantown, Portico is a hidden gem for weddings and events in Northwest Philadelphia. This peaceful, nature-filled venue is centered around the Francis Cope House, a 19th-century estate with Quaker roots, surrounded by meadows, woodlands, and gardens designed in the style of an English landscape by William Saunders—the same visionary behind the grounds of the U.S. Capitol. Portico offers a rare blend of historic charm and natural beauty in the heart of the city. Guests can dine beneath a graceful white tent overlooking the gardens, with use of the house, its columned portico, and the surrounding landscape. With a capacity of up to 160, it’s ideal for intimate weddings, mitzvahs, and milestone celebrations. Ceremonies and portraits can be set against a backdrop of shaded clearings, botanical gardens, wildflower meadows, and even a Secret Garden—each space offering its own storybook magic. For those looking to host a romantic outdoor wedding or celebration in Philadelphia, Portico at Awbury is a one-of-a-kind venue where elegance meets nature.