Fruitlands Museum Wedding: A Natural Beauty
the great outdoors
In 2024, nearly 72% of couples chose outdoor venues for their wedding ceremony. That number seems to signal that couples may be looking for a more natural setting - some just love being outside and some may have a deep connection to nature. Either way, if you're looking for a venue that goes far beyond the cookie-cutter ballroom experience, the Fruitlands Museum in Harvard, MA is a terrific choice. Perched on a hilltop with over 200 acres and incredible views of the Nashua River Valley, Fruitlands also boasts a historic farmhouse, the first Shaker Museum and two additional Art Galleries.
Why Choose the Fruitlands Museum?
Photo Locations
As photographers, we always look forward to venues like the Fruitlands that offer so many options - we could spend all day doing portraits here. With so many incredible views, rolling fields and romantic spaces among the trees and rock walls, you really can't go wrong.
- Starting with the getting ready spaces in the farmhouse you'll have spacious rooms with beautiful window light.
- The field between the farmhouse and the barn is a beautiful landscape - the light can be harsh earlier in the day, but there is also plenty of open shade from the tree-lined path as well as the barn itself.
- The ceremony lawn is of course perfect for saying "I do" but it is also terrific for photos of you and your printer - the light is constantly changing and gets better as the day goes on. The views of Wachusett Mountain and Mt. Manadnock are pretty amazing as well.
- The side lawn adjacent to the tent offers great views but also has some more private spots with tall pine trees and wildflowers.
Logistics That Work for your vision
Fruitlands Museum is part of The Trustees of Reservations, an organization known for hosting high-end, detail-focused events, so they are very good at making your wedding day come to life. They have an in-house event team that collaborates closely with couples and planners to make sure the day runs smoothly.
- The Ceremony Lawn: Facing west, ideal for late-day ceremonies.
- The Event Tent: A soaring sailcloth tent (permanent structure) with flooring, lighting, and space for up to 192 guests.
- The Historic Grounds: Opportunities for portraits near the Shaker Museum, farmhouse buildings, and art galleries.
Pro Tip: Book early. Fruitlands only hosts one wedding per day. Saturdays in fall are gone fast—sometimes over a year in advance.
Guests Actually Enjoy Themselves Here
Weddings are for you. But they’re also for your friends and family. Fruitlands balances elegance with a casual, relaxed feel. Your guests can explore the grounds, take in art, or just hang under a tree with a cocktail. It doesn’t feel forced and there is space inside and (especially) out for everyone to find fun.
Bonus: Parking is ample and straightforward. No off-site shuttles. No headache.
Pro Tip: There is a walk from the farmhouse to the ceremony site - it's not too far but be sure to let the staff know if anyone needs some extra help getting up the hill as you can use a vehicle to drop them off.
Fruitlands Museum Wedding Cost
Fruitlands is available for weddings between May and October for up to 192 guests. The seasonal tent set on a large brick patio as well as use of the adjacent Prospect House are included in the rental cost. There are a variety of combinations and choices for hors d’oeuvres as well as dinner service - you can see your options here.
Venue & Food Package Fees*
Food Package Minimum
Monday - Thursday After 5:00pm - $5,000
Friday 5:30-10:30pm - $9,500
Saturdays 5:30-10:30pm - $13,000
Sunday 5:30-10:30pm - $9,500
Venue Rental
Monday - Thursday After 5:00pm - $1,500
Friday 5:30-10:30pm - $2,500
Saturdays 5:30-10:30pm - $4,000
Sunday 5:30-10:30pm - $3,000
Ceremony Fee
$500
Note: The Town of Harvard requires a police officer to be present for all functions. Fee is $572 (subject to change).
bar fees
$34- $39 per person depending on the type of bar service you opt for (Consumption or Open Bar)
Bar service will end 30 minutes prior to the conclusion of your event. Soft drinks will be served through the remainder of the event. Bar must close at 10pm according to local ordinances.
*All taxes and gratuity for food and beverage are not included in these prices
Fruitlands Museum Wedding Photos
