A Grand European-Style Wedding in California — Without the Passport

If you’ve ever dreamed of saying “I do” beneath ornate arches, in a chapel glowing with centuries-old stained glass, you might assume you’d need to book a flight to Italy, France, or Spain. But what if that romantic, old-world setting was right here in California?

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in Riverside delivers exactly that — a breathtaking European-inspired experience without the jet lag.

A Venue with a Legacy

Built in 1876 and expanded over decades into the largest Mission Revival-style building in the United States, the Mission Inn is more than a hotel — it’s a living piece of history. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977 and has hosted presidents, royalty, and Hollywood icons.

Today, it continues to host hundreds of weddings every year, drawing couples from all over California and beyond. And with California topping the charts in 2024 with 219,617 weddings — the most of any state — this venue stands out as one of the most sought-after destinations for couples seeking something truly extraordinary.

Why Couples Love the Mission Inn

With California hosting over 219,000 weddings in 2024 (more than any other state), finding a venue that truly stands out is essential. The Mission Inn delivers with:

  • Ceremony fees from $1,000–$2,800
  • Catering from $52–$99 per guest
  • All-inclusive packages from $15,000–$25,000
  • Guest capacity from 40 to over 300

Whether you envision an intimate chapel ceremony or a grand ballroom reception, there’s a space for every love story.

  • St. Francis of Assisi Chapel – 18-karat gold-leaf altar, Tiffany stained glass
  • Grand Parisian Ballroom – Up to 300 guests, crystal chandeliers, wood-beamed ceilings
  • Outdoor Courtyards – Manicured gardens and fountains for dreamy golden-hour photos

More Than Just the Wedding Day

And here’s something many people don’t realize — you don’t have to host your entire wedding here to enjoy its beauty. If you already have another venue booked for your ceremony and reception, you can still reserve the Mission Inn for an engagement photo session. It’s an incredible way to capture your love story against a backdrop of historic architecture, romantic courtyards, and European-inspired charm.

If you want to step into a wedding day that feels like it’s been lifted from the pages of a fairytale — or simply capture your engagement in a setting worthy of a romance novel — the Mission Inn is your stage. Book us now so we can start planning right away!