2500 W Marina Pl, Seattle, WA 98199
www.theadmiralshouse.com
info@theadmiralshouse.com
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The Admiral House
Seattle, wa
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This venue isn’t just beautiful—it’s packed with character and history. Originally built in 1944, The Admiral’s House served as the official residence of the U.S. Navy’s commanding admiral in Seattle for decades. Today, it’s been restored to host elegant events, with a carefully preserved historic charm that blends seamlessly with modern wedding style. Located in Seattle’s quiet Magnolia neighborhood, the house sits on a bluff overlooking Elliott Bay, just minutes from downtown but tucked away enough to feel like a private estate.
*photo credit: all images in this post have been taken from The Admiral House website
spaces to get ready at the admiral's house
While The Admiral’s House doesn’t have traditional hotel-style suites, it does offer beautiful getting-ready spaces that are perfect for photos and pre-ceremony moments. The upstairs bridal suite is filled with natural light and vintage charm, making it ideal for hair and makeup prep.
There’s also a separate area for the groom and groomsmen to get ready, which helps keep everyone organized and comfortable throughout the day. One of my favorite tips is to schedule some time for a quiet “first look” on the balcony or one of the tucked-away garden paths—it’s a great way to take advantage of the venue’s private, romantic vibe before the celebration kicks off.
Ceremony Options with a View
When it comes to outdoor ceremonies, it’s hard to beat the ceremony lawn at The Admiral’s House. I’ve seen countless jaws drop when guests first take in the sweeping views of downtown Seattle, the Space Needle, Mount Rainier (on a clear day!), and Elliott Bay—all perfectly framed behind the couple as they exchange vows.
Most ceremonies take place on the lower lawn, which feels secluded and serene thanks to the surrounding gardens and mature landscaping. It’s the kind of setting that needs very little decor—just let the natural beauty do the work. I usually recommend soft floral accents on the ceremony arch, or a clean, modern setup that lets the view take center stage.
A detail that not many people know is that the sun sets just behind the skyline, so a golden hour ceremony here feels straight out of a movie. If you time it right, you’ll have that warm, glowy light in your photos and an unforgettable ambiance for your guests.
Receptions Under the Stars (or a Tent!)
The Admiral’s House is an ideal venue for couples who love the idea of an outdoor reception. The upper lawn and paved areas behind the house offer the perfect space for cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing. You can opt for an open-air setup with string lights overhead (a favorite of mine!), or bring in a clear tent to give you weather protection without losing the view.
There’s something incredibly special about dining al fresco here, surrounded by water views and the Seattle skyline twinkling in the background. I always recommend timed lighting—starting with soft candles and transitioning to bistro or uplighting once the sun sets.
One important planning note from an experienced washington wedding planner:
The venue does not provide tables or chairs, so you’ll want to work with a rental company to bring in everything you need. As a planner, I actually love that—because it means we can completely customize the look and feel of your reception, from layout to linens to lounge setups.
Outside Catering welcome at The Admiral's House
While The Admiral’s House doesn’t provide in-house catering, they welcome outside licensed caterers, which gives couples the flexibility to customize their menu to fit their style and taste. From elegant plated dinners to interactive food stations or Pacific Northwest-inspired buffets, you can truly make the dining experience your own. A licensed bartending service is required for all alcohol service, and many couples opt for custom signature cocktails and locally sourced wines to elevate the guest experience. As a planner, I love working at venues like this because it gives us the freedom to create a food and beverage plan that’s personal, meaningful, and delicious.
Admiral’s House Seattle Wedding Cost: What to Expect
As of this writing, rental rates for The Admiral’s House typically range from $5,000 to $8,500, depending on the season and day of the week. This fee includes a full-day rental, giving you access to the venue from 10am to 10pm (with additional time for setup and breakdown). You'll have exclusive access to both indoor and outdoor spaces, plus use of the getting-ready rooms and lawn areas.
Keep in mind:
- Rentals (tables, chairs, tents, etc.) are not included.
- You can bring your own licensed caterer, which gives you flexibility on food and beverage costs.
- You’ll want to budget for additional vendors like security, valet (if desired), and a planner/coordinator to keep everything running smoothly.
As a planner, I help my couples get a clear picture of the total cost early on—including rentals, vendor estimates, and decor—so there are no surprises along the way. The venue is incredibly customizable, which means we can build something beautiful within a range of budgets.
More information about the Admiral's house seattle
Some of my favorite nearby hotels include:
- The Edgewater Hotel – Waterfront views and luxury amenities.
- Hotel Ballard – Chic and cozy with boutique charm.
- The Mediterranean Inn – Great value and walking distance to Queen Anne.
- MarQueen Hotel – Historic elegance just a short drive away.
- Palihotel Seattle – A stylish downtown option for out-of-town guests.
Pro tip: I always suggest setting up a room block or sharing a recommended hotel list in your wedding welcome materials, so guests can plan ahead and stay close to the festivities.
Does THe Admiral's House in Seattle have accommodations for our guests?
- Discovery Park – Just minutes away, this is Seattle’s largest green space with walking trails and bluff views.
- Pike Place Market – A must-see for visitors (and great for grabbing last-minute floral accessories!).
- Chihuly Garden and Glass – A stunning art experience just a quick Uber away.
- Space Needle – Iconic, close by, and a great way to see the city from above.
- Seattle Waterfront – Shops, seafood, the aquarium, and a relaxing stroll all in one place.
Adding a little “things to do” card in your welcome bags or wedding website is a thoughtful touch your guests will appreciate!
What are some nearby attractions in seattle for our guests to enjoy?
- The view (obviously!)—it’s unbeatable in the city.
- The sense of privacy—you truly feel like you’re in your own world.
- The flexibility—you can bring in your own vendors, rentals, and caterers.
- The layout—it flows beautifully for ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception.
- The photos—every corner of the property is photogenic.
There’s also ample space for a live band or DJ, interactive food stations, lounge setups, and other unique elements that can really bring your celebration to life.
As a washington wedding planner, what do you love most about the admiral's house?
If you’re envisioning a wedding that feels elegant, private, and surrounded by unforgettable views, an Admiral House Seattle wedding might be exactly what you’re looking for. It’s perfect for couples who want a flexible outdoor space, love the idea of personalizing every detail, and want to give their guests a true “wow” experience.
From a planner’s perspective, it’s one of the most inspiring venues to work at—not just because of the views, but because of the joy and calm it brings to the day. It’s a hidden gem in the middle of the city, and once you see it for yourself, you’ll understand why so many couples fall in love with it.
If you're thinking about hosting your wedding at The Admiral's House, I'd be happy to share more insights, vendor recommendations, and planning tips to make your day absolutely unforgettable.
how do i know if the Admiral's House in seattle is the right venue for us?
Why Harlow Events Loves Planning Weddings at The Admiral's House in Seattle
As a wedding planner here in Washington State, I’m lucky to work at some of the most beautiful venues in the Pacific Northwest—but there’s something especially magical about planning an Admiral House Seattle wedding. Perched high above Elliott Bay with unobstructed views of the Seattle skyline, this historic home offers a unique mix of charm, elegance, and breathtaking scenery. It’s one of those venues that feels like a well-kept secret, even though it’s right in the heart of the city.
With manicured gardens, a stately white exterior, and a layout that feels like a private estate, The Admiral’s House is the kind of place that immediately sets the tone for a timeless, romantic wedding day. And if you’re a couple looking for a venue that combines history, privacy, and panoramic views, this one is worth a serious look.
5 tHINGS tO kNOW...
when planning a realistic wedding budget for the spectacular day you're dreaming of.
