As a Colorado wedding photographer, I’m excited to showcase one of Colorado’s most unique wedding venues – Cherokee Ranch and Castle. This stunning Scottish-style castle wedding venue, located just 30 minutes from downtown Denver, offers couples an extraordinary blend of historic architecture, mountain vistas, and luxurious amenities. Let me take you through this incredible venue through the lens of a gorgeous wedding I photographed here.
The Castle Wedding Venue With Panoramic Mountain Views
Cherokee Ranch and Castle sits majestically atop a 3,400-foot elevation ridge with panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, Pikes Peak, and the Denver skyline. This Colorado castle venue features stunning stone architecture, complete with turrets and Scottish baronial design elements that make it one of the most distinctive wedding venues in Colorado. The castle’s elevated position creates breathtaking photo opportunities, especially during Colorado’s famous golden hour sunsets.
Ceremony and Reception Spaces at Cherokee Ranch and Castle
The venue offers multiple ceremony locations, each with its own unique charm:
- The Castle Gardens: Perfect for intimate ceremonies surrounded by manicured landscapes
- The Grand Terrace: An outdoor ceremony space with sweeping mountain views
- The Great Hall: An indoor option featuring historic architecture and elegant decor
Historic Charm Meets Modern Luxury
Built in 1924, Cherokee Ranch and Castle combines historic Colorado charm with modern amenities. The venue features:
- Stone courtyard for dancing under the stars
- Bridal suite with vintage mirrors and natural lighting
- Groom’s quarters in the castle’s historic library
- Commercial kitchen for catering
- Climate-controlled indoor spaces
- Multiple outdoor terraces for cocktail hour
- Historic great room for receptions
Why Choose Cherokee Ranch and Castle for your wedding?
Cherokee Ranch and Castle combines authentic castle architecture, panoramic mountain views, and luxurious amenities to create an unforgettable wedding experience.
As a photographer, I’m particularly drawn to the castle’s bridal suite, which features historic details and abundant natural light. The getting-ready space includes vintage mirrors, elegant furnishings, and large windows overlooking the mountain landscape. The groom’s quarters, housed in the castle’s historic library, offers a distinguished atmosphere with rich wood paneling and leather furnishings.
The photo opportunities at this venue are truly endless. From the grand stone staircase to the manicured gardens, every corner tells a story. I always recommend scheduling ample time for portraits to take advantage of the castle’s various locations. Some of my favorite spots include the castle turrets against the mountain backdrop, the stone archways, and the terrace during golden hour when the sun sets behind the Rockies.
FAQS
What is their capacity? Cherokee Ranch and Castle can accommodate up to 200 guests for your wedding celebration.
Is there parking available? Yes! The venue offers ample on-site parking for guests. For larger events, they can assist with additional parking arrangements and provide guidance for shuttle services if needed.
Can I bring my own vendors? The venue works with a list of preferred vendors, but is generally flexible with vendor selection. They require that you work with licensed and insured professionals. A day-of coordinator or wedding planner is required to ensure smooth execution of your event.
What happens in case of inclement weather? The castle offers beautiful indoor spaces that can accommodate your full guest count, making it a truly weather-proof venue choice.
Cherokee Ranch and Castle Wedding Cost
Wedding pricing at Cherokee Ranch and Castle varies based on season and day of the week. Rental fees typically range from $7,000 to $15,000, depending on whether you’re booking a peak season Saturday (May-October) or an off-peak season or weekday event (November-April).
The rental fee includes:
- Exclusive use of the castle and grounds for your event
- Access to both indoor and outdoor ceremony locations
- Luxury getting-ready suites
- Tables and chairs
- Climate-controlled spaces
- On-site parking
- Basic security
- Access for photography prior to the event
- Stunning mountain and city views
For the most current pricing information, I recommend contacting the venue directly as rates may vary by season and specific requirements.
Booking Your Cherokee Ranch and Castle Wedding
This premier Colorado castle wedding venue books quickly, especially during peak season (May-October). I recommend securing your date 12-18 months in advance!
Hire Your Cherokee Ranch and Castle Wedding Photographer
Once you’ve booked your wedding at Cherokee Ranch and Castle, I’d love to hear all about it (and celebrate with you)! Hi, I’m Logan, a Colorado Wedding Photographer who puts your experience above all else. While creating beautiful imagery is the end goal here, you’re getting so much more along the way. As your photographer, my approach is rooted in serving you, honoring your vision, and celebrating alongside you. It’s my mission to serve you well, and together, we’ll create wedding photos that are joyous, authentic, and vibrant.
If you are interested in having me capture your wedding day, you can read more about my wedding photography packages here and then reach out to me to officially get started!
Images were captured by Mrs. Ferree Photography while second shooting for Tyler Rebekah Wright.
Top Colorado Wedding Venues
If you’re still looking for the perfect Colorado wedding venue and are imagining what your dream wedding could look like, check out a few of my other favorite venues!
Let’s break it down by vibe! For forest fairytale feels, The Woodlands creates pure magic under its canopy of trees. Want European elegance? Villa Parker brings Mediterranean romance, transporting you and your guests to another world. Mountain lovers, you’ve got options – Camp Hale in Vail for that total mountain escape, or Della Terra Mountain Chateau and Black Canyon Inn for those Rocky Mountain National Park views. The Manor House pairs red rock scenery with city sophistication, and Highlands Ranch Mansion? Pure historic Colorado charm with the prettiest grounds ever.
