The Inside Scoop: Our 10 Favorite Venues in Ouray
- evelynwdesigns
- Sep 1, 2025
- 3 min read
You can’t beat the local views—but the right venue makes them unforgettable.
At Ouray Mountain Events, we know that choosing a location is the first step in telling your story. Whether it’s a black-tie gala or a "boots-on" mountain elopement, Ouray offers a backdrop that feels like a movie set! We recently helped a couple celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary at Horsethief Bluff, and seeing the sun set over the peaks reminded us why we love what we do! To help you start dreaming, we’ve pulled together a guide to the spaces we trust to deliver a magnificent experience.
Venue #1 - KJ W Distillery
Vibe: Industrial Chic & High Spirits
Founded by K. John Wood, this space is the result of a decade-long passion for fine craft beverages. Beyond the award-winning Colorado Whiskey and Heritage Gin, the distillery offers a warm, open layout.
Planner’s Tip: This is our go-to for a "boogie-down" dance floor or an intimate, high-energy rehearsal dinner.
Venue #2 - Horsetheif Bluff
Vibe: High-Alpine Luxury & Total Privacy
This 40-acre getaway offers unparalleled views from Mount Abrams to the Grand Mesa. With a mix of rustic western quarters and luxury suites, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who don’t want to sacrifice comfort.
Planner’s Tip: Perfect for private & unique elopements or fairytale ceremonies!
“Some people look for a beautiful place. Others make a place beautiful." – Hazrat Khan
Venue #3 - Gold Mountain Lodge
Vibe: Exclusive Ranch Elegance
When you pass through the gates of Gold Mountain, the world slows down. Rick and Sandra have created more than a venue; they’ve opened a home.
Why We Love It: The mountain backdrop here is unlike any other property in Colorado, making for wedding photos that look like paintings.
Venue #4 - Red Mountain Alpine Lodge
Vibe: Off-Grid Micro-Weddings
Sitting at 11,000 feet, this custom timber-frame lodge is the definition of "adventure luxury." It’s located on Red Mountain Pass, offering a cozy, off-grid feel for weekend events and elopements.
Perfect For: intimate parties of 18-20
Venue #5 - Wright Opera House
Vibe: Victorian Grandeur
Built in 1888, the Wright is the historic crown jewel of Main Street. Its stunning Mesker Facade and recent renovations provide a sense of timelessness.
Perfect For: Couples looking for a "grand stage" feel for their ceremony or a sophisticated gala.
"Into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul” – John Muir
Venue #6 - Ouray City & County Venues
Vibe: Versatile & Community-Focused
Sometimes the best spot is a hidden corner of our humble mountain village. From the Fellin Park greenery to the Top of the Pines vista, these spaces are perfect for family reunions and summits.
Venues Include:
Ouray County Fairgrounds
Top of the Pines
Venue #7 - The Imogene
Vibe: Sophisticated History with a View
Once a wild-west saloon, The Imogene Hotel was meticulously restored in 2020. Between the custom wood-stove sauna and the rooftop bar with panoramic views, it’s the ultimate spot for a chic cocktail hour.
Venue #8 - The Beaumont Hotel
Vibe: Five-Star Heritage
For over 135 years, the Beaumont has hosted kings, presidents, and movie stars. If you are dreaming of an elegant ballroom or a sun-drenched courtyard, this is the height of Ouray sophistication.
“Because in the end, you won’t remember the time you spent working in an office or mowing the lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain.” ~ Jack Kerouac
Venue #9 - The Western Hotel
Vibe: Modern Glamour meets Old West
Newly restored (2020–2023), The Western blends dark wood and leather furnishings with light-filled suites. It’s a stylish, moody, and luxurious home base for your bridal party.
Venue #10 - The Venue @ CSB
Vibe: Modern, Accessible Rooftop
Boasting 360-degree views right off Main Street, this is the premier spot for a modern micro-wedding (up to 50 guests). It’s state-of-the-art and fully ADA accessible, ensuring every guest can enjoy the rooftop magic.
So Many Venues to Explore ; Not Enough Time
Planning the Perfect Experience
This list is just the "peak of the mountain." When is comes to your dream mountain event the opportunities are endless. Finding the right venue is only half the battle—coordinating the logistics at 8,000+ feet is where we come in.
Ouray Mountain Events handles every detail, from scouting the perfect ridgeline to managing local vendors, so you can focus on the view.
Which of these venues catches your eye? Let us know in the comments below!
Ready to start planning?
Reach out today to see how Ouray Mountain Events can help you find the perfect location and make your dream event come to life!
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