There’s something wildly romantic about waterfront wedding venues. The breeze. The shimmer. The undeniable “wow” of golden hour over the waves. The Potomac River offers all that and a front-row seat to some of the East Coast’s most stunning, lesser-known wedding backdrops. Stretching from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, this iconic river runs past historical landmarks, hidden beaches, and yes—one very chic private estate in Southern Maryland.

The Natural Appeal of Waterfront Weddings

“Gazing at bodies of water can help lower heart rate and blood pressure while increasing feelings of relaxation.”
— Richard Coss, Professor Emeritus of Psychology, UC Davis, via a study conducted with Craig Keller

Couples have been drawn to waterfront destinations for centuries. The feeling of tranquility is unmatched. Here’s why our historic waterway – The Potomac River – stands out in New England:

• Natural Drama – The interplay of light on water creates a backdrop that no decorator could replicate
• Accessibility – Close to major metropolitan areas like D.C., yet offering a serene escape
• Historical Significance – Events set against a backdrop that has witnessed American history since its founding
• Four-Season Appeal – Each season transforms the river, offering distinct celebration aesthetics
• Photographic Gold – Water reflections and sunset views that elevate event photography to art

Quick Guide

Full Breakdown of Destinations Along the Potomac

The Potomac stretches 405 miles, with distinct regions offering unique event experiences:

Lower Potomac (Southern Maryland)

The crown jewel for luxury celebrations, Southern Maryland’s stretch of the Potomac offers wider river views, more private access points, and a perfect blend of sophistication and natural beauty. The Pavilion at Weatherly calls this region home, with 600 feet of private riverfront in Newburg, Maryland.

Upper Potomac (Western Maryland/West & North Virginia)

Characterized by mountain views and rapids, the Upper Potomac offers rustic charm and barn venue backdrops.

Wedding venues in this region include Riverside on the Potomac and The Barn at Willow Brook.

Middle Potomac (DC Area)

The iconic section flowing through the nation’s capital delivers monument views and urban sophistication, though with significant limitations on private access and customization.

Reception venues in this region include The Wharf’s Dockmaster Building and The Potomac View Terrace.

Potomac Mouth (Where River Meets Bay)

Where the river widens dramatically before joining the Chesapeake, offering expansive water views but often with more wind and weather considerations.

Ceremony and even venues in this region include Mary’s Hope and Lower Notley Hall Farm.

If the Potomac had a VIP list, The Pavilion at Weatherly would be at the top. Tucked away in Newburg with 600 feet of private shoreline, this 25-acre estate is where colonial charm meets quiet luxury—and where your waterfront wedding dreams get the five-star treatment.

Here’s what makes us the moment (and then some):

• Private Waterfront Access – Not just a peek at the water—your own stretch of Potomac beach, no strangers in sight.

• Boat-Worthy Arrivals – Make your entrance via our 130-foot pier. Dramatic? Obviously.

• The Pavilion Itself – 7,800 square feet of glass-wrapped, climate-controlled celebration space with panoramic river views (yes, it’s as stunning as it sounds).

• Historic Manor House – Includes ultra-luxe getting-ready suites with views that deserve their own camera crew.

• Multiple Ceremony Sites – From garden-glam to riverside vows, every option comes with a waterfront backdrop.

• Fireworks-Friendly – Want to end the night with a bang over the water? We’ve got you.

• Built-In Entertainment – Let your guests play a round of splash golf into the Potomac or go head-to-head in lawn games while you’re off taking golden hour portraits.

• One Event Per Day – Because your wedding shouldn’t have to share the spotlight.

Our Spot in Southern Maryland

The Potomac may stretch for over 400 miles, but when it comes to weddings worth remembering, Southern Maryland is where the real magic happens. While DC has the monuments and Alexandria has the charm, this stretch of the river offers a kind of effortless beauty and exclusivity you just can’t buy.

Here, the river widens—literally—giving you sweeping, cinematic views that make every ceremony photo look like a still from a Vogue editorial. And unlike the more congested zones upriver, Southern Maryland gives you space to breathe (and celebrate) without a parade of tourist boats or noisy harbor traffic photobombing your big moment.

It’s also one of the few regions where true private waterfront access is still possible. Think estates with their own beaches, piers, and golden hour lighting that hits just right. The west-facing shoreline means sunsets here aren’t just beautiful—they’re practically made for wedding vows and champagne toasts.

And the best part? You’re still within easy reach of DC and Baltimore. So you get all the convenience without sacrificing that serene, away-from-it-all feeling that makes a wedding weekend feel like an actual getaway.