The Ultimate 3-Day Wedding Weekend in Indianapolis
Gone are the days of the one-day wedding whirlwind. Couples today are embracing a new approach: the full wedding weekend. With a thoughtful 3-day itinerary, you can turn your big day into a memorable experience for your guests—and make the most of all that Indianapolis and 1899 Events have to offer.
Whether your guests are coming from across the state or across the country, Indy's walkable neighborhoods, buzzing food scene, and central location make it the perfect setting for a destination-style wedding weekend that's both elevated and accessible. Here's how to plan a 3-day wedding experience your guests will talk about long after the last dance.
Day 1: Welcome to Indy – Rehearsal & Kickoff Celebration
Afternoon:
Your guests begin arriving in the city, checking into local hotels or Airbnbs. Since 1899 is centrally located, accommodations downtown or in the nearby Bottleworks District, Mass Ave, or Fletcher Place neighborhoods are convenient and full of charm.
Consider creating a digital welcome guide or providing a printed one at check-in with key details like transportation, timing, and your favorite coffee shops and local landmarks.
Evening:
Start the celebration with your rehearsal and welcome party. Hosting both at 1899? The venue's layout makes it easy to hold a private rehearsal followed by cocktails and light bites—all in one beautiful space.
Ideas for a standout welcome event:
- Craft beer tasting featuring local breweries
- Elevated barbecue or taco bar with custom signage
- A live jazz trio or local acoustic act to set the mood
- A late-night walk to a nearby cocktail bar or speakeasy for the after-after party
Day 2: The Main Event – Ceremony, Reception, and After Party
Morning:
Keep the morning relaxed with optional yoga, a group run on the Cultural Trail, or breakfast at local favorites like Milktooth or Bluebeard. For bridal parties, 1899 offers spacious getting-ready areas with natural light and elegant backdrops—ideal for photos, champagne, and quality time.
Afternoon:
It's go time. Guests begin arriving for your ceremony. If the weather allows, host it in 1899's outdoor courtyard for an intimate, garden vibe. Prefer to keep things indoors? The venue's interior is warm, timeless, and photo-ready with minimal décor.
Evening:
The reception begins, and 1899 truly comes to life. With high ceilings, historic architecture, and plenty of room for dancing, you can transition seamlessly from seated dinner to dance floor—no room flips, no awkward pauses.
After Party:
Rather than ending the night early, take advantage of the venue's flow to keep the party going. Create a lounge vibe with soft lighting and late-night snacks (pizza bar?). If you want to change locations, rent out a nearby cocktail bar or bring everyone to a karaoke lounge to keep the celebration going.
Day 3: Farewell Brunch & Explore Indy
Late Morning:
Give your guests one last chance to connect with a relaxed farewell brunch. This can be hosted at a nearby restaurant, in a private dining space, or even back at the venue if you're extending the rental. A DIY mimosa bar, breakfast burritos, and playlists from the weekend make for the perfect sendoff.
Afternoon:
Encourage your out-of-town guests to spend their final day exploring the city:
- Newfields: A beautiful art museum and garden space
- The Bottleworks District: Local shops, restaurants, and the restored Art Deco Bottleworks Hotel
- Mass Ave: Great for shopping, coffee, and people-watching
- The Indianapolis Cultural Trail: Bike rentals and walkable art installations throughout downtown
Why 1899 Is Perfect for Your Wedding Weekend
Planning a multi-day celebration doesn't mean you need multiple venues. With its flexible layout and central location, 1899 makes it easy to host your rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony, reception, and even farewell brunch—all in one place.
Here's what makes 1899 ideal for a wedding weekend:
- Central Indy location near hotels, restaurants, and nightlife
- Gorgeous indoor and outdoor spaces for multiple events
- Spacious getting-ready suites and vendor-friendly amenities
- Historic charm with modern comfort and customization
- A team that's used to coordinating multi-day events with ease
Start Planning Your Wedding Weekend Now
Your wedding is more than a single day—it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bring your favorite people together for an unforgettable experience. Let 1899 Events be the venue that brings it all to life.
Ready to turn your wedding day into a full weekend celebration?
Schedule a private tour to see how 1899 can host every moment of your 3-day wedding in style.
