Joslyn Art Museum Wedding Venue Guide
There’s no other venue in Omaha quite like The Joslyn. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be in awe of the architecture. It’s not just one of Omaha’s most iconic buildings — it’s a nationally recognized architectural gem. If you’re considering a Joslyn Art Museum wedding, I already know you’re a couple who values thoughtful design, striking spaces, and an experience that feels both meaningful and stylish.
As an Omaha wedding photographer, I’ve photographed weddings in so many beautiful places, but The Joslyn really is special. Whether you’re exchanging vows beneath the glass atrium or hosting dinner in the Fountain Court, your day will feel elevated and intentional.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of my favorite spaces, share a few insider tips, and help you start dreaming up what your Joslyn Art Museum wedding day could look like.
About The Joslyn Art Museum
The Joslyn Art Museum is hands-down one of the most stunning wedding venues in Omaha — and if you ask me, one of the must-see spots in the Midwest. After a $100 million renovation, this iconic space has been completely reimagined in the most jaw-dropping way.
The architecture is grand and modern, with a glass atrium that floods the space with natural light, rose-colored marble throughout, and thoughtfully preserved Art Deco details that nod to its history.
When I walk into The Joslyn, it feels magical. The light, the lines, the atmosphere — it’s all so calming and creatively inspiring for a photographer. A Joslyn Art Museum wedding doesn’t just look beautiful…you can feel the beauty, too.
The Joslyn is tucked just west of downtown Omaha, so it’s super easy to get to but still feels a little bit set apart. A hidden gem. You’re just a few minutes from the Old Market, Midtown, and so many great hotels and restaurants, which makes it perfect if you want to keep everything close by for your guests.
What I love about Joslyn Art Museum weddings
The Joslyn is a photographer’s dream. From marble arches to the grand staircases, every detail is so elegant and magnificent. It’s a space that feels both classic and contemporary, which means I can document your day in a way that feels timeless but fresh. Whether I’m capturing a quiet first look or a grand entrance into your reception, this venue elevates every. single. moment.
The Art Gallery is such a treat, but the whole building is a masterpiece. In fact, it was once named one of the top 100 finest buildings in the United States.
Between the fine art collection, the soaring ceilings, and the rose marble details, this space brings something extraordinary to your big day. There truly is no place like the Joslyn for a ceremony or reception — not just in Nebraska, but anywhere nearby. A Joslyn Art Museum wedding truly feels like hosting your day inside a piece of art.
Joslyn Art Museum wedding ceremony and reception spaces
One of the things I love most about a Joslyn Art Museum wedding is how many beautiful spaces there are to choose from. Whether you’re dreaming of a light-filled ceremony, an elegant seated dinner, or a stylish cocktail hour, there’s a space here that will make it feel intentional and stunning from start to finish.
Here’s a quick rundown of each space and what makes it so special:
Entry Atrium
This is the first space your guests will see, and it makes a seriously gorgeous first impression. With its soaring ceiling, clean lines, and beautiful natural light, the Entry Atrium is a perfect spot for a ceremony, welcome area, or even an elegant first look. The architecture is refined but never stuffy — it sets the tone in the best way.
- Vibe: Grand and architectural but with a soft, welcoming glow
- Capacity: Up to 200 guests
- Great for: ceremonies, cocktail hour, receptions
Cafe Atrium
Bright, airy, and surrounded by soft marble and glass, the Cafe Atrium is ideal for cocktail hour or a stylish reception. I love how the space fills with golden-hour light — it feels open and inviting but still intimate enough for meaningful conversation and toasts. (Also, that hanging Chihuly piece is *chef’s kiss*)
- Vibe: Sun-drenched and ever so sophisticated
- Capacity: Up to 300 guests
- Great for: cocktail hour, receptions
The Bridge & The Overlook
These spaces are perfect if you’re looking for something striking and design-forward. The Bridge stretches through the glass atrium with views of the gardens, while The Overlook provides a unique elevated perspective over the museum space. Both are stunning options for ceremonies or creative receptions, and the lighting is to die for!
- Vibe: Sculptural and modern with bold visual impact
- Capacity: Up to 150 guests
- Great for: ceremonies, cocktail hour, smaller receptions
The Fountain Court
This space brings a sense of calm and sophistication. With its soft palette, symmetrical design, and peaceful ambiance, The Fountain Court is a beautiful option for a dinner reception or indoor ceremony. I especially love the way florals and candles transform the space. It’s clean and versatile in the best way.
- Vibe: Art Deco meets Old World Europe
- Capacity: Up to 175 guests
- Great for: ceremonies, cocktail hour, receptions
Sculpture Garden
As the only outdoor wedding space at The Joslyn, the Sculpture Garden is also the largest, making it an excellent option for couples who want to host a wedding on the larger side. It’s quiet, green, and artfully landscaped — perfect for portraits, ceremonies, al fresco cocktail hour, or dinner under the stars. It’s also a great backup for couples who want to sneak outside for golden hour photos.
- Vibe: Spacious, refined, and effortlessly artistic
- Capacity: Up to 400 guests
- Great for: ceremonies, cocktail hour,
There are also some smaller spaces for couples envisioning a micro wedding or intimate reception, including the Community Room and the Founder’s Room.
My favorite spots for Joslyn Art Museum wedding photos
There are so many incredible photo spots throughout the museum! As a wedding photographer, I especially love the natural light in the glass atrium and the drama of the grand staircases. The second-floor arches are perfect for timeless portraits, too.
Another favorite spot: the outdoor steps in front of the museum! Using my drone, we can get absolutely stunning photos that capture the venue’s grand architecture while keeping you two front-and-center.
Even the hallways offer soft shadows and refined textures that add depth to your wedding gallery. Every turn provides something magical! That’s why I find Joslyn Art Museum weddings always end up becoming such visual standouts.
What type of couple would love The Joslyn?
This is the perfect setting for a chic, modern couple who wants to get married in a bright, light-filled space. A Joslyn Art Museum wedding is ideal for someone who appreciates clean lines, curated details, and unique architectural design that sets the tone for a grand celebration.
I will note that, because of the size and layout, this wedding venue is best suited for couples who are working with an experienced wedding planner and designer. (I’m a big fan of Elle Seals and Unfolding Events!) Working with professionals will help you truly make this space feel like your own.
Insider tips for planning a wedding at The Joslyn
As I mentioned above, I highly recommend working with a professional wedding planner and a team of experienced vendors who know how to make the most of the space. This venue is breathtaking, but it’s also very large — and that means having a solid plan for flow, lighting, and design is essential.
But the venue’s size is also one of its prize features, as there are so many locations to take advantage of! One of my favorite ways to structure a Joslyn Art Museum wedding is to use the natural flow of the building to guide the day: say your vows on The Bridge, The Overlook, or The Entry (all of which are beautifully lit), then move to The Café Atrium or The Fountain Court for cocktails and dinner. The building’s layout makes it easy to create a smooth and elevated guest experience.
How much does a Joslyn Art Museum wedding cost?
The Joslyn Art Museum is one of Omaha’s most premium wedding venues, so I recommend a higher-end budget that allows room for the venue rental, a full-service wedding planner, and a design team who can match the space’s sophistication.
For a traditional weekend wedding at The Joslyn, venue rental fees can range from $4,000 to $15,000 depending on your preferences.
- Full Buyout of The Joslyn: $15,000
- Ceremony & Reception: $10,000
- Reception Only: $8,000
- Ceremony Only: $4,000
A Joslyn Art Museum wedding is an investment, but if you’re dreaming of a one-of-a-kind experience in a world-class space, it’s absolutely worth it.
Joslyn Art Museum: At a Glance
Here’s a quick look at everything you need to know about planning a Joslyn Art Museum wedding:
- Location: Downtown, off I-480 and near Creighton University
- Address: 2200 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102
- Phone: (402) 342-3300
- Website: The Joslyn
- Capacity: Up to 300 guests
- Venue Spaces: Entry Atrium, Cafe Atrium, The Bridge, The Overlook, Fountain Court, Sculpture Garden
- Exclusive Vendors: Yes — in most cases, couples must book from a list of approved vendors.
Let’s capture your Joslyn Art Museum wedding in the best way
If you’re dreaming of a wedding day that’s as artful, intentional, and design-centered as you. I’d be honored to document it. Get in touch to learn more about working together.
Not tied to The Joslyn? Check out my list of the best Omaha wedding venues!
