Lodge at Wakulla Springs

There are some places where time seems to slow down, and The Lodge at Wakulla Springs is one of them. Tucked inside a 6,000-acre state park and just 14 miles south of Tallahassee, this historic lodge offers something rare: the feeling of stepping into an untouched version of Florida—one with Spanish Revival architecture, ancient cypress trees, and the quiet shimmer of one of the deepest freshwater springs in the world.

Built in 1937, The Lodge is as visually rich as it is logistically reliable. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and delivers a fully immersive experience—from vintage marble floors and art deco ironwork to wildlife sightings and spring-fed waters. For couples who want something intimate, natural, and full of character, this venue delivers beauty and authenticity without pretense.

Ceremony & Reception Spaces

• The Great Lobby – A dramatic space defined by hand-hewn cypress beams, a painted wildlife ceiling, marble floors, and massive windows. It holds up to 120 guests and is often used for indoor ceremonies or receptions with a vintage aesthetic.
• The Glass-Enclosed Terrace – Overlooking Wakulla Springs, this room blends indoor comfort with full views of the surrounding nature. It fits up to 120 guests and is especially popular for dinners or sunset receptions.
• The Lawn and Gazebo – These outdoor options offer a romantic forest-and-spring backdrop. With towering oaks, Spanish moss, and the occasional manatee or egret in view, they create a cinematic setting for larger ceremonies or cocktail hours.
• The Magnolia Room – A smaller indoor space for rehearsal dinners, brunches, or intimate ceremonies. Seats up to 40.
• Intimate I Do’s Package – Designed for weddings with fewer than 40 guests, this package simplifies planning with the Terrace as the core setting and a streamlined format for stress-free elopements or micro-weddings.

Wedding Services & Staff Support

The Lodge’s event team is known for its attention to detail and flexibility. Whether you’re working with a planner or coordinating the day yourself, their staff—often named in reviews for going above and beyond—assists with menu selection, vendor guidance, ceremony logistics, and indoor contingency planning. The team is adept at pivoting when Florida’s weather demands a last-minute change, and they handle transitions without disrupting the flow of the day.

Catering & Dining

The Lodge’s in-house culinary staff delivers menus rooted in Southern hospitality. Couples can choose from plated meals, buffets, or hors d’oeuvres stations. Vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-friendly options are easily accommodated.

Standout offerings include charcuterie boards, seafood dishes, and local produce-driven entrees. The on-site soda fountain—the world’s longest marble counter—is a favorite for unique cocktail hour treats, such as root beer floats or nostalgic ice cream desserts.

All catering and bar service is handled internally, allowing for consistent quality across events. Wedding cakes may be brought in from outside vendors.

Guest Accommodations & Features

There are 27 guest rooms at the Lodge, many of which overlook either the springs or the peaceful courtyard. Each room maintains the building’s 1930s charm but is updated with modern comforts like private bathrooms, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. There are no TVs in rooms, preserving the quiet, unplugged atmosphere.

Couples are offered a bridal suite and a dedicated groomsmen prep area. Accessibility is built into the experience with wheelchair-friendly paths, ramps, and room options. Parking is free and located on-site, with no resort fees or extra charges.

Amenities & Activities for Guests

• Access to Wakulla Springs for swimming, snorkeling, or lounging
• Guided boat tours on glass-bottom vessels to view wildlife and historic filming locations
• On-site Edward Ball Dining Room and bar for casual meals and gatherings
• Wildlife viewing loops, hiking trails, and guided park excursions
• Soda fountain with classic ice cream service
• No pet policy except for service animals, ensuring a quiet environment
• 24-hour front desk and luggage assistance for guests

What Makes It Memorable

The Lodge is often described by couples as romantic, peaceful, and one-of-a-kind. It’s not flashy, but it’s rich in detail. The painted ceilings, the natural light through vintage windows, the echoes of old Florida architecture—all of it lends itself to a wedding that feels both elegant and grounded. Guests routinely comment on the food, the setting, and the ease of the planning process. And with limited rooms on-site, your celebration retains a sense of intimacy, even with a full guest list.

For couples who want their wedding to feel less like an event and more like a chapter in a bigger story—surrounded by nature, grounded in history, and supported by a team that genuinely cares—The Lodge at Wakulla Springs offers the perfect canvas.

Let engine.com assist with guest accommodations, event scheduling, and coordinating weekend details. When the setting speaks for itself, your planning gets easier—and the celebration becomes unforgettable.