Historic
The Lyman Estate

The Lyman Estate in Waltham, a National Historic Landmark dating back to 1793, is steeped in history. Shipping magnate Theodore Lyman built the Federal-style manse as a summer home. He and his kin were botanical enthusiasts and, over generations, built a series of greenhouses that are now among the oldest in the United States (they’re open during receptions for an additional fee). Couples that wed at this estate have the run of the air-conditioned mansion—with its Victorian library and oval-shaped parlor—and 37 acres of landscaped grounds. Many twosomes reserve both the indoor and outdoor areas, with a cocktail gathering in the garden and dinner and dancing in the ballroom.

Info: 185 Lyman St., Waltham, 781-891-4882 x235, lymanestate.org.
Capacity: 150–175
Fee: $1,000–$4,600
Catering: Open to select caterers
If it’s booked, try: The Codman Estate, Codman Rd., Lincoln, 781-259-8843, spnea.org/visit/homes/codman.htm.

Cultural
DeCordova Museum and Sculpture Park

Photo by Ashley O'Dell

This art museum in Lincoln has a bold modern wing, a stellar permanent collection of regional works, and some of the most beautiful grounds in all of Massachusetts—even New England. It’s a great choice for both art aficionados and couples seeking a chic canvas and spectacular views. Many choose to have their wedding ceremony and cocktail reception on the roof or sculpture terrace, where guests can watch the sun set over nearby Slints Pond. Inside, the Dewey Family Gallery creates an ideal backdrop for dining and dancing on a floor designed by artist Thomas D. Osborn. The icing on the cake: A vast, 35-acre sculpture garden, filled with a rotating display of contemporary pieces, turns staid wedding party photos into works of art.

Info: 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln, 781-259-3638, decordova.org.
Capacity: 130
Fee: $5,700–$7,600; additional fees for use of roof terrace
Catering: Open to select caterers
Special note: No children under 15; exceptions possible if children are in the bridal party
If it’s booked, try: Larz Anderson Auto Museum, 15 Newton St., Brookline, 617-522-6547, larzanderson.org.

Nontraditional
The Barn at Gibbet Hill

Photo by Michael J. Charles

If you (or your mother) can’t come to terms with the idea of having your reception in a barn, then you haven’t seen the Barn at Gibbet Hill—a completely restored, open and airy structure that dates back to the 17th century. Although the barn held cattle until 2003, it’s now a beautifully renovated, bovine-free space. Some couples serve low-key, casual barbecue fare in the barn; others elect to have gourmet, five-course feasts in a tent nearby. If you plan in advance, you can reserve an area among the photo-friendly ruins of an old hunting lodge—referred to as “the castle” because of its turret—perched high on a hill. This poetic (yet pricey)
option offers views of acres upon acres of rolling hills.

Info: 61 Lowell Rd., Groton, 978-448-3233, gibbethill.com.
Capacity: 225
Fee: Minimum $8,000 Friday and Sunday, $19,000 on Saturday
Catering: In-house
If it’s booked, try: The Milky Way Lounge & Lanes, 403–405 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, 617- 524-3740, milkywayjp.com.

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