If you’re planning a rehearsal dinner in Jacksonville or St. Augustine, FL, then I have 10 couple-approved venues you will want to check out! We’re lucky because Jacksonville has so many amazing spots that are perfect for rehearsal dinners. From cozy and intimate to party-worthy venues to invite additional family and friends to – there’s something for everyone.
Let’s start with Jacksonville and work our way through the best rehearsal dinner venues in town and in St. Augustine.
Deerwood Country Club is a popular Jacksonville, Florida venue for weddings and rehearsal dinners. The venue has eight spaces decorated to match your aesthetic. From the cozy Deerwood Room that can seat up to 22 to the more elegant Lakeview Central, which can host more than a hundred. You’ll find enough space to celebrate before your big day. Plus, Deerwood Country Club has a full-service staff, including a chef who will customize a menu for you.
If you’re one of my clients – you know how much I love the Casa Marina Hotel! It’s one of my favorite places in Jacksonville to photograph. If you’re looking for an elegant venue that overlooks the beach, then look no further. The architecture and decor is Spanish-inspired and well-lit. There are several lovely event spaces at the venue or an oceanfront courtyard that is perfect for an after-rehearsal cocktail hour. Plus, the venue staff is friendly and extremely helpful when planning your dinner. You can never go wrong with this one!
Looking for an all-inclusive rehearsal dinner venue on the beach? Try The Golf Club of Amelia Island in Jacksonville, FL. This venue has beautiful grounds that make it hard to choose which space to rent. With indoor and outdoor spaces, coordination and decoration options, plus a beautiful backdrop – you’ll love it here. The venue is one of the largest ones on this list. It can host up to 250 people (if you need it!).
Before we leave Jacksonville and head into the St. Augustine venues, I had to add a local favorite for rehearsal dinners: Pausser’s Bar and Grille. If you’re seeking a casual and relaxed atmosphere to celebrate with your closest friends and family, this is the place to be. The venue provides both indoor and outdoor seating options, so you can choose the ambiance that suits your preferences. Plus, the event staff there goes above and beyond to make sure your dinner is unique. From custom cocktails to dessert selections that will leave your taste buds singing, they go all out.
Located in the heart of historic St. Augustine, Florida, the St. Augustine Distillery offers an industrial rustic setting for your rehearsal dinner. This distillery is known for its craft spirits and charming decor. Your family and friends will love testing all their handcrafted cocktails and menu.
For couples seeking a rehearsal dinner to match their beach theme, The Reef in St. Augustine is a great choice. This beachfront restaurant has stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a picturesque setting for your pre-wedding celebration, especially at sunset. Their menu features fresh seafood or a buffet dinner and can host up to 75 guests.
Looking for a more eclectic scene for your rehearsal dinner? Try The Floridian in St. Augustine, Florida. This restaurant is a local favorite for its Southern comfort food and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant itself can host over 20 people in their upstairs event room. The menu is a fun fusion of Southern and Floridian cuisine, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. It’s a great choice for couples who appreciate farm-to-table dining and want to create a fun and memorable evening for their rehearsal dinner.
If you’re a golf-loving couple seeking to hit the greenway before your rehearsal dinner, consider St. Johns Golf Country Club. You can dine in style with the Club’s customizable menus and elegant, modern rustic decor. The venue itself is wall-to-wall windows, so you and your guests can celebrate as you watch the sunset on the greenway. When you’re through, you can also rent the fire pit and patio area on the water to wind down before the big day. The staff is friendly and great about making sure every detail of your dinner is as you imagined.
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For those envisioning a rehearsal dinner with breathtaking waterfront views, the A1A Bayview Room in St. Augustine, FL is a must-see. Located along the scenic A1A Coastal Byway, the venue provides a beautiful view of the Matanzas River and the historic St. Augustine Lighthouse. (If you’re getting married at the lighthouse, this is also a great tease for the big day!) It’s an ideal choice for couples who seek more of an intimate, peaceful space to host their rehearsal dinner. The A1A Bayview Room sets the stage for a magical evening surrounded by the coastal charm of St. Augustine.
Finding your perfect rehearsal dinner space is about deciding how you want the night to feel. Do you want a casual, party-like atmosphere or an elegant evening of good food and conversation? Whatever your vibe, there’s a perfect venue for you. If you feel stuck, reach out to us! As professional wedding photographers, we also moonlight as professional rehearsal dinnergoers. We can absolutely recommend a venue to tour in your photography consultation.