The Venue Spaces at Equestria West by Bavaria Downs
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Chaska, Minnesota, Equestria West at Bavaria Downs is a wedding venue filled with modern luxury and refined elegance. This contemporary equestrian-inspired venue has garnered significant acclaim, notably being featured in the Minneapolis season of the reality TV show “Love Is Blind.” The wedding venue’s breathtaking spaces provides the perfect backdrop for heartfelt weddings. Further solidifying its notable reputation, Equestria West was honored as a finalist for the Best New Wedding Business award by Minnesota Bride in 2025, showcasing its prominence as one of the best luxury wedding venues.
What sets Equestria West apart as a luxury venue is its perfect blend of rustic charm and modern sophistication. The venue’s design emphasizes open, light-filled spaces adorned with rich finishes and plush leather furnishings, creating an atmosphere that is both inviting and opulent. Each room and space within Equestria West has been meticulously crafted to offer couples and their guests an unparalleled event experience, seamlessly integrating contemporary aesthetics with timeless elegance.
The Bridal and Groom’s Suites
To create a modern space for both sides of the party to get ready, the Belmont Suite and Club Room were designed with much intentionality.
Photos by Halle from Lulle Photo & Film
The Belmont Suite
Designed with the bridal party in mind, the Belmont Suite offers a luxurious retreat for pre-ceremony preparations. Furnished with plush seating, ample mirrors, and elegant décor, it provides a comfortable and stylish environment. A private patio extends from the suite, offering a secluded outdoor space perfect for first-look photos or moments of reflection before the festivities commence.
The Club Room
Catering to the groom and his attendants, the Club Room exudes a masculine charm with its rich wood finishes and comfortable furnishings. Equipped with entertainment options and a relaxed seating area, it serves as an ideal space for unwinding and preparing for the ceremony. The thoughtful design ensures that the groom’s party experiences the same level of luxury and comfort as the bridal party.
Ceremony Spaces at Equestria West
The Courtyard
The Courtyard at Equestria West is one of the most beloved spaces on the property. Designed for both outdoor ceremonies and cocktail hour gatherings and even hosting an outdoor dinner under the lights, this space combines modern elegance with natural charm. Surrounded by intentional landscaping and set against the backdrop of the estate’s signature architecture, the Courtyard offers a stunning open-air experience that still feels intimate and private. It’s ideal for couples who want the beauty of the outdoors without sacrificing the sophistication of a luxury venue.
At the center of the Courtyard is a stylish concrete patio framed by lush greenery, custom landscaping, and thoughtfully placed seating areas. Twinkle lights overhead create a romantic atmosphere once the sun begins to set. It’s the kind of space that looks beautiful in every season. In the spring and summer, fresh blooms and greenery bring the area to life. In the fall, the colors of the trees surrounding the estate add warmth and vibrancy. Even in early winter, the neutral palette and clean design provide a striking contrast to the Minnesota snow, which photographs beautifully.
What makes the Courtyard truly special is how versatile it is. Many couples choose to host their ceremony here, especially when they want a shorter walk from the bridal suite or an easy transition to the reception space. Others use it for cocktail hour while the ballroom is transformed for dinner. If you’re wanting to have your dinner outside, you can also host your dinner reception out in the courtyard. It also serves as a perfect spot for mingling, lawn games, or even a cozy outdoor lounge area with fire pits on cooler evenings. The space is seamlessly connected to the rest of the venue, making it easy for guests to move from one part of the day to the next without confusion or delay.
The Wooded Ceremony Site
For couples seeking a more intimate and nature-immersed setting, the Wooded Ceremony Site at Equestria West offers a secluded enclave surrounded by towering trees. Accessible via a charming winding path, this space exudes enchantment, providing a fairy-tale backdrop for exchanging vows. The natural canopy offers shade during warmer months and a kaleidoscope of colors during the fall, enhancing the ceremony’s visual appeal.
The Small Ballroom
The small Ballroom features a beautiful stone fireplace as the perfect backdrop for an indoor wedding ceremony. This space is the perfect option for a cozy winter wedding or as an alternative for when it’s a rainy wedding day. The room is spacious, versatile, and also is commonly used as a cocktail hour location for the reception. You can dream up so many ways to use this spacious room for your wedding at Equestria West.
You can learn more about the different wedding ceremony spaces at Equestria West here!
The Main Ballroom at Equestria West
The Main Ballroom at Equestria West is the heart of the wedding venue. It’s truly what makes Equestria West one of the most impressive reception spaces in Minnesota. The ballroom is where modern design meets timeless elegance, creating an unforgettable setting for your wedding celebration. This space was built to impress—from the moment guests walk in, they are greeted with a sense of grandeur and warmth. What makes the ballroom truly stand out is its scale and style. The soaring vaulted ceiling gives the room a spacious, open feel, while the two-tiered chandeliers add a touch of glamour. At the far end, a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace anchors the room. It’s both dramatic and cozy, offering the perfect backdrop for a head table or heartfelt toasts.
Ballroom Space Flexibility and Variety
Natural light pours in through large black-trimmed windows that frame the surrounding landscape. These windows not only brighten the room but also bring in the beauty of the outdoors. The contrast of rustic stone, sleek black metal, and white accents creates a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. The layout is open and adaptable. Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner or a 200-person dance party, the ballroom offers flexibility. It can accommodate a wide range of floorplans without ever feeling crowded. Many couples choose to place the dance floor at the center, keeping their guests surrounded and involved throughout the night.
Another standout feature is how well the space transitions from day to night. During daylight hours, the room glows with soft, natural light. In the evening, the chandeliers and fireplace cast a warm, inviting glow that feels both luxurious and intimate. This dynamic lighting makes it easy to set the perfect mood at every stage of your celebration. Lastly, the Main Ballroom’s proximity to other spaces makes guest flow seamless. Guests can enjoy cocktail hour in the Courtyard or Small Ballroom, then easily transition into the Main Ballroom for dinner and dancing. The thoughtful layout ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone from start to finish.
Outdoor Photography Locations at Equestria West
There are so many incredible outdoor locations for taking portraits at Equestria West. For sunset, we recommend the field right out front for the perfect view of the setting sun and a great way to capture the sky as well. There’s also the wooded ceremony location with the tall trees surrounding, and the many walking paths along the venue’s property. Truly, there is no shortage of locations for taking wedding portraits at Equestria west.
Equestria West: The Perfect Wedding Venue for All Seasons in Minnesota
One of the standout features of Equestria West at Bavaria Downs is how beautifully it works for weddings year-round. While many venues in Minnesota are limited by seasonal weather, Equestria West adapts effortlessly to every season. Couples never have to compromise on comfort, beauty, or atmosphere—no matter when they choose to get married.
Spring Weddings at Equestria West
In spring, the property bursts to life with fresh greenery, budding flowers, and soft natural light. The Courtyard and Wooded Ceremony Site feel especially vibrant during this time. These outdoor spaces are ideal for ceremonies, portraits, and time spent enjoying the season.
Spring weddings at Equestria West often feature soft pastels, blossoming trees, and the bright energy of a new season. These details pair beautifully with the venue’s neutral architecture. The contrast highlights both the natural setting and the refined design.
Summer Weddings at Equestria West
Summer is perfect for using all the outdoor spaces Equestria West has to offer. With over 200 acres of scenic beauty, couples can plan an outdoor ceremony, a Courtyard cocktail hour, and an indoor reception in the Main Ballroom.
The layout supports a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. Guests can enjoy golden-hour portraits, warm breezes, and long, sunny evenings. Later, everyone can head inside for dancing, dinner, and a climate-controlled celebration.
Thanks to the venue’s modern amenities, couples don’t have to worry about heat or weather interruptions. Equestria West offers both the atmosphere and the backup plan—without sacrificing style.
Fall Weddings at Equestria West
Autumn brings depth and richness to the landscape. The surrounding trees shift into bold hues of gold, red, and amber. These vibrant colors make for unforgettable ceremonies, especially in the Wooded Ceremony Site or on the open lawns.
Couples often pair the colorful scenery with cozy indoor touches. Inside the Main Ballroom, the grand stone fireplace becomes a natural centerpiece. The warmth and glow add to the inviting feel of fall weddings.
Fall celebrations at Equestria West are known for their texture, contrast, and timeless beauty. The natural backdrop and sophisticated interiors create the perfect seasonal blend.
Winter Weddings at Equestria West
Winter weddings at Equestria West are peaceful, romantic, and full of charm. The snow-covered grounds look like something out of a fairy tale. Even better, couples and guests stay warm and cozy inside the spacious, light-filled ballroom.
The fireplace, chandeliers, and grand windows combine to create an elegant, intimate setting. Guests can admire the snowy scenery without braving the cold. Meanwhile, the Belmont Suite and Club Room offer convenient spaces for getting ready indoors.
Because of these thoughtful design features, winter weddings here are as seamless and stunning as any warm-weather event.
A Year-Round Wedding Experience
Equestria West is truly a venue for all seasons. Its thoughtful layout and luxury features give couples the best of both worlds—indoor comfort and outdoor beauty.
Whether you’re dreaming of a garden ceremony in spring, a twilight summer reception, a fall celebration in the woods, or a cozy winter wedding by the fire, Equestria West brings it all to life. Every season offers something different, and every wedding here feels uniquely special.
Frequently Asked Questions About Equestria West at Bavaria Downs
Where is Equestria West located?
Equestria West is located at 3913 Bavaria Road in Chaska, Minnesota, just a short drive from the Twin Cities. Although the venue feels tucked away in nature, it’s conveniently accessible for both local and out-of-town guests.
How many guests can Equestria West accommodate?
Equestria West can comfortably host up to 250 guests. The venue is perfect for both intimate weddings and large celebrations. With multiple ceremony and reception space options, you can customize the experience to fit your guest list.
What ceremony spaces are available at Equestria West?
Couples can choose from three ceremony locations:
- The Courtyard, a beautifully landscaped outdoor setting
- The Wooded Ceremony Site, tucked into the trees for a secluded feel
- The Small Ballroom, an indoor option with a cozy fireplace and chandeliers
Each space offers something different, and all are stunning in every season.
Is Equestria West a good venue for winter weddings?
Yes! Equestria West is a popular choice for winter weddings in Minnesota. The Main Ballroom is spacious, warm, and filled with natural light. Its grand fireplace, large windows, and dramatic lighting create a cozy, elegant atmosphere—even when it’s snowing outside.
How much does it cost to get married at Equestria West?
Depending on how you’re booking your wedding, the cost to get married at Equestria West Varies. One thing to keep in mind is that they offer the Essentials Package which is an all-inclusive wedding package that includes:
- 12-hour private venue rental
- Access to getting ready suites and cocktail areas
- Full-service catering (including entrees, dessert, and a hosted bar)
- Key vendors such as a DJ, photographer or videographer, and floral credit or photo booth
Pricing starts at $15,000 for 50 guests and scales to $23,500 for 150 guests, with customizable guest counts.
Are there indoor and outdoor options for the ceremony and reception?
Absolutely. Equestria West was built for indoor-outdoor weddings. You can host your ceremony outdoors and move inside for dinner and dancing—or stay indoors the entire time. The spaces flow together effortlessly, giving couples flexibility and peace of mind no matter the weather.
Does Equestria West provide tables, chairs, and décor?
Yes, many essentials are included. The venue offers high-end tables, chairs, and lighting, as well as curated décor options and centerpiece items. These inclusions help streamline your planning and reduce the need for outside rentals.
Is there a good getting ready space for the wedding party?
Equestria West features two luxury getting-ready suites:
- The Belmont Suite for the bridal party
- The Club Room for the groom and attendants
Each space includes private restrooms, seating areas, and plenty of room to relax, get dressed, and enjoy the day before the ceremony.
Is there on-site parking at Equestria West?
Yes. The venue offers ample free on-site parking for guests, as well as optional valet services for added convenience.
Can I bring my own vendors to Equestria West?
While the Essentials Package includes a curated vendor team, couples may be able to choose their own wedding vendors. While the venue is owned by Bellagalla which has it’s own in-house catering, DJ, photography, and videography, choosing your vendors is an important part of your wedding day. It’s important to work with people who align with your style, vision, and personality.
Is Equestria West available for tours?
Yes! You can schedule a private venue tour through the Equestria West contact page. During your tour, you’ll get to see the entire property, explore the ceremony and reception spaces, and get answers to any questions you have about planning your wedding at the venue.
Hire Lulle Photo and Film to Capture Your Wedding at Equestria West
As a husband and wife team, we don’t just show up to take photos and film—we show up as people who truly care about your experience. At Lulle Photo and Film, we believe that your wedding day isn’t about posing or performing. It’s about presence. It’s about being surrounded by your favorite people and soaking in every moment while trusting that it’s all being documented beautifully behind the scenes.
We’ve photographed and filmed weddings all over Minnesota and the U.S., and would be so honored to be part of telling your story at Equestria West at Bavaria Downs. What sets us apart is our ability to document your day with intention—without disrupting it. We work together seamlessly, capturing your day from both perspectives while staying in sync with your timeline and your priorities. You won’t have to worry about coordination between your photo and video teams, because we’re already in rhythm.
Our approach is fun, relational, and unobtrusive. We’re not just vendors; we’re on your team. And at the end of the day, we’re not just delivering pretty pictures and highlight films—we’re preserving your legacy. Your photos and video should feel like you, and they should bring you right back to how your day felt every time you press play or flip through your album.
If you’re getting married at Equestria West and want a creative team who’s just as invested in your experience as you are, we’d love to connect.
