Lake Front Wedding VEnue, Lake Guntersville, Alabama
Lake front Modern Wedding Venue At City Harbor
Waterfront
Full Alcohol
350
Starting at $4,500
Driftwood Venue at City Harbor is a stunning and versatile event center nestled in the heart of the growing Lake Guntersville community. Located at 2469 Paddle Wheel Drive in Guntersville, Alabama, this 9,000-square-foot waterfront venue boasts breathtaking lake views and serves as a centerpiece of the vibrant City Harbor development—a 55,000-square-foot destination featuring premier restaurants, lively entertainment, unique retail outlets, and exceptional hospitality services.
Venue Features – Driftwood Venue at City Harbor
Versatile Event Space
Driftwood is thoughtfully designed to host a wide range of events, including weddings, receptions, banquets, conferences, and corporate gatherings. Its spacious layout, elevated style, and scenic waterfront backdrop make it a perfect choice for both intimate celebrations and large-scale functions.
Modern Amenities
Driftwood Venue offers state-of-the-art facilities that ensure a seamless experience for both event organizers and their guests. From elegant finishes to thoughtful functionality, every detail is curated for comfort and excellence.
Accessibility
Conveniently located at City Harbor, Driftwood is easily accessible by both land and water. The venue offers day slips for boaters and access to 50 covered slips with lifts available for long-term rental—making arrival and departure as scenic as the event itself.
Discover More about driftwood Venue
Driftwood at City Harbor was built as part of the visionary City Harbor development, a dynamic waterfront destination designed to bring together exceptional dining, entertainment, lodging, and event experiences at Lake Guntersville. This thoughtfully planned venue enhances the area’s appeal by offering a premier space for celebrations, gatherings, and corporate events—while complementing the charm and convenience of the surrounding harbor community.
When you host your event at Driftwood at City Harbor, you gain access to more than just a stunning venue—you experience the ease and elegance of a thoughtfully equipped space, paired with the comforts of City Harbor hospitality. Your booking includes:
Tables & Chairs
A full inventory of event-ready tables and chairs is available for your use, making setup and planning seamless and stress-free.
Bridal Suite
Enjoy exclusive access to a beautifully appointed bridal suite—perfect for getting ready, relaxing, and capturing special behind-the-scenes moments.
Overnight Accommodations
Convenient on-site lodging is available at City Harbor Suites, offering elegant waterfront accommodations for you and your guests—just steps away from the venue.
Guests attending events at Driftwood can enjoy a variety of on-site amenities throughout the City Harbor development, including:
Dining Options
Restaurants such as Big Mike’s Steakhouse, Another Broken Egg Café, La Esquina Cocina, and Levi’s on the Lake offer diverse and delicious culinary experiences.
Retail & Entertainment
Visitors can explore unique shops like The Cigar Room and Home Re.Decor, or enjoy live entertainment at various venues within the harbor—creating a full experience beyond the event itself.
Patrick Lawler, a native of Guntersville, Alabama, returned to his hometown after a successful real estate development career in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Recognizing the untapped potential of Guntersville’s waterfront, he embarked on transformative projects, including the Reserve at Lake Guntersville, the Landing at Snug Harbor, and the Creek Path residential area. In 2023, Lawler and his family relocated permanently to North Alabama, marking a significant commitment to the region’s development.
His most ambitious project, City Harbor, is a $50 million mixed-use development that has revitalized Guntersville’s waterfront. Situated at a prime location on Lake Guntersville, City Harbor offers a blend of dining, shopping, entertainment, and lodging options, including a 6,000-square-foot event center, various restaurants, retail shops, and plans for a Hilton-branded hotel.
Lawler’s vision extends beyond Guntersville. He is planning similar waterfront developments in other Alabama cities, such as a $30 million mixed-use project near Decatur’s Ingalls Harbor. These initiatives aim to leverage the natural beauty of Alabama’s waterways to create vibrant community spaces that boost local economies and tourism.
Through P. Lawler Enterprises LLC, Lawler continues to focus on developing properties that enhance the quality of life in North Alabama, demonstrating a deep commitment to his roots and the region’s future.
PRIVATE & CORPORATE EVENTS
Driftwood Venue at City Harbor is not only a sought-after wedding destination—it’s also a versatile, waterfront setting for a wide variety of private and corporate events. Whether you’re planning a holiday celebration, family reunion, team-building retreat, corporate banquet, or business function, Driftwood offers flexible indoor and outdoor spaces that can be customized to match your event’s style, size, and schedule.
Indoor Amenities
The climate-controlled event hall at Driftwood provides a spacious and inviting atmosphere year-round. With an open floor plan, polished concrete floors, high ceilings, and abundant natural light, it’s ideal for seated dinners, speaking engagements, networking mixers, and award ceremonies. A built-in bar and catering prep area enhance functionality for hosted meals or full-service catering.
Outdoor Options
Step outside to enjoy the covered patio and open-air lakeside surroundings—perfect for casual social events, outdoor lunches, or laid-back company picnics. These scenic spaces invite guests to relax by the water while also offering room for team-building activities, entertainment, or games.
I Do Details
Our most frequently asked questions.
We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help answer any inquiries you may have. However, we understand that every wedding is unique, and you may have questions not listed here.
We hope you find the answers to your questions here, but if not, please feel free to contact us directly. We are excited to help make your wedding day an unforgettable experience!
Venue
Driftwood Venue at City Harbor is located at 2469 Paddle Wheel Drive, Guntersville, Alabama 35976, within the vibrant City Harbor development on the scenic shores of Lake Guntersville. This premier waterfront destination combines stunning lake views with a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, making it an ideal setting for weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings. The venue is easily accessible by both land and water, featuring day slips for boaters and 50 covered slips with lifts available for long-term rental.
Driftwood Venue at City Harbor offers 9,000 square feet of versatile indoor and outdoor event space, perfectly positioned along the scenic waterfront of Lake Guntersville. With a total guest capacity of up to 350 people, Driftwood is an ideal choice for weddings, corporate functions, banquets, and private celebrations of all sizes.
The Upper Deck is an elevated, open-air patio providing panoramic views of Lake Guntersville, ideal for cocktail hours, sunset ceremonies, or intimate gatherings.
In the event of rain or unfavorable weather conditions, all outdoor ceremonies and gatherings can be seamlessly transitioned into the venue’s spacious indoor Grand Hall. With 9,000 square feet of climate-controlled space and a capacity of up to 350 guests, the Grand Hall comfortably accommodates both ceremonies and receptions without sacrificing atmosphere or style.
Yes—absolutely! At Driftwood Venue at City Harbor, we welcome couples to bring their own décor to personalize the space and bring their unique vision to life. Whether you’re dreaming of romantic florals, custom signage, statement lighting, or a theme that’s all your own, our flexible venue layout makes it easy to tailor the setting to your style.
You’ll have access before your event for setup, and our team is happy to coordinate with your planner or decorators to ensure everything is just right.
Yes, we do! At Driftwood Venue at City Harbor, we provide convenient and comfortable getting-ready accommodations to make your day seamless:
On-Site Bridal Suite
Our beautifully appointed Bridal Suite offers a private and serene space for pre-ceremony preparations, touch-ups, and special moments with your wedding party. With ample natural light, mirrors, and comfortable seating, it’s designed for both function and relaxation.
Overnight Accommodations Nearby
Just steps from the venue, City Harbor Suites offers elegant, waterfront lodging available for rent—perfect for the couple, family, and out-of-town guests. Staying on-site allows everyone to be close to the celebration while enjoying all the amenities City Harbor has to offer.
Driftwood Venue at City Harbor offers a thoughtfully designed lighting setup that enhances both the functionality and ambiance of your event:
Natural Daylight: Large windows in the Grand Hall allow for abundant natural light during daytime events, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.
Overhead Lighting: The venue is equipped with modern overhead lighting fixtures that provide ample illumination for evening events, ensuring visibility and comfort for guests.
Dimmable Options: Lighting systems with dimmable features allow you to adjust the brightness to suit different moments of your event, from lively receptions to intimate dinners.
Outdoor Lighting: The Upper Deck and surrounding outdoor areas are fitted with ambient lighting, enhancing the waterfront setting and providing a charming backdrop for evening gatherings.
Our team takes care of the heavy lifting!
At Driftwood Venue at City Harbor, our staff is responsible for setting up and arranging all tables and chairs according to your planned layout—whether it’s for a ceremony, reception, or corporate event.
However, please note:
We do not set linens, table décor, centerpieces, or place settings. Those items should be arranged by your planner, coordinator, or designated helpers.
Yes, Driftwood Venue at City Harbor offers convenient and luxurious overnight accommodations through City Harbor Suites, located just steps away from the event space.
City Harbor Suites
These boutique suites provide a comfortable and upscale lodging experience for you and your guests:
Spacious Suites: Each suite features two bedrooms with king beds, two full bathrooms, a living area, and a fully equipped kitchen.
Modern Amenities: Enjoy in-suite washer and dryer, high-speed Wi-Fi, keyless entry, and pet-friendly options (up to two dogs under 30 lbs).
Stunning Views: Private balconies offer unparalleled views of Lake Guntersville, enhancing your stay with scenic beauty.
Convenient Location: Situated within the City Harbor development, guests have easy access to on-site dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
Yes, Driftwood Venue at City Harbor offers convenient on-site parking for guests. The venue is part of the City Harbor development, which provides ample parking options to accommodate visitors attending events, dining, shopping, or staying overnight.
Additionally, City Harbor is easily accessible by both land and water, featuring day slips for boaters and 50 covered slips with lifts available for long-term rental.
Planning
While we do not provide an on-site coordinator, our venue manager will serve as your point of contact on the day of your event to assist with venue-related needs. However, we do require all clients to hire a professional wedding planner or day-of coordinator to manage the overall flow, timeline, and logistics of the event. This ensures that your day runs smoothly and that all details are handled with care and attention, allowing you to fully enjoy your celebration.
Yes, we do require all clients to hire a professional wedding planner or day-of coordinator to manage the overall flow, timeline, and logistics of the event.
The timeline for planning a wedding at our venue can vary depending on your preferences and availability. We recommend booking your date well in advance to secure your preferred date and allow ample time for planning and coordination.
Yes, the ceremony rehearsal is included in the rental fee. We understand the importance of a smooth and well-coordinated ceremony, and our team will be there to assist you during your rehearsal. Rehearsal dinners or additional events will be subject to charge.
Good news—there are no restrictions on music or entertainment at Driftwood Venue at City Harbor!
Whether you’re planning to hire a live band, DJ, or other forms of entertainment, you’re welcome to design your event exactly how you envision it. Our venue supports both indoor and outdoor setups, so you can create the perfect atmosphere—from high-energy dance floors to relaxed acoustic sets by the water.
Certainly! You can have a ceremony rehearsal on-site to ensure that every moment of your special day is picture-perfect.
No need to shuttle between sites—everything is in one place!
At Driftwood Venue at City Harbor, both the ceremony and reception are conveniently located on the second level of the venue. The indoor and outdoor spaces are separate but seamlessly connected, allowing for smooth transitions between portions of your event.
Outdoor ceremonies can be held on our lakeside terrace.
Indoor receptions take place just steps away in the spacious Grand Hall.
Guests can easily access the second level via elevators or stairs, making the venue accessible and comfortable for everyone.
Yes, tables and chairs are included in the rental fee. We provide a variety of seating options to accommodate your needs and preferences.
At Driftwood Venue at City Harbor, we provide a versatile and elegant canvas for a wide range of wedding styles. With stunning lake views, a bright and modern interior, and customizable indoor and outdoor spaces, our weddings are effortlessly elevated, deeply personal, and beautifully memorable
Miscellaneous
Driftwood Venue at City Harbor is a pet-friendly venue, welcoming your furry friends to be part of your special day.
Pets Allowed: Dogs are welcome at the venue.
Leash Requirement: All pets must be kept on a leash while on the property.
Owner Responsibility: Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and ensuring they do not disrupt the event.
Restrictions: Please note that certain areas of the venue may have restrictions on pet access.
Yes—we do allow sparklers!
At Driftwood Venue at City Harbor, we love a magical ending to a perfect celebration. Sparkler exits are welcome and make for stunning photos as you say your grand farewell.
A few quick notes:
Sparklers must be used outdoors only
All sparkler activity should be supervised for safety
We recommend assigning someone to manage cleanup and disposal
Bar & Catering
Driftwood Venue at City Harbor does not provide in-house catering services, allowing you the freedom to select the caterer that best fits your vision, taste, and budget.
We offer:
Access to a catering prep area for your selected vendor
Flexibility to choose your own licensed caterer
Support from our venue manager to coordinate access and setup
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own caterer!
At Driftwood Venue at City Harbor, we offer the flexibility to choose a caterer that fits your style, menu preferences, and budget. All outside caterers must be licensed and insured.
Yes, you are allowed to bring your own alcohol to events at Driftwood Venue at City Harbor.
Here’s what you need to know:
All alcohol must be served by a licensed and insured bartender
Self-service or unattended alcohol stations are not permitted
You are welcome to provide beer, wine, and spirits of your choice
We recommend coordinating bar service timing and logistics with your planner or catering team
Driftwood Venue at City Harbor features a catering prep kitchen designed to support your chosen food service team. While it is not a full commercial kitchen, the space is equipped to handle staging, plating, and service coordination for your event.
Yes, we have a curated list of trusted vendors who are familiar with Driftwood Venue at City Harbor and have experience working on-site.
Using the preferred list is not required, but it can be a great starting point if you’re looking for reliable recommendations. Our venue team is happy to share this list upon request and can even offer suggestions tailored to your event style and budget.
Day Of
You’ll have access to Driftwood Venue at City Harbor starting at 10:00 AM on the day of your event, providing ample time for setup, vendor arrivals, décor installation, hair and makeup in the bridal suite, and any pre-ceremony preparation such as sound checks or rehearsals. This full-day access ensures that your celebration unfolds smoothly and without unnecessary stress. All events must conclude by 11:00 PM, with cleanup and breakdown completed by midnight.
While we aim to accommodate your schedule, events must conclude by a set time in compliance with local regulations, ensuring a smooth experience for you and your guests. Let us know your needs, and we’ll help create a timeline that works best for your day!
Yes, Driftwood Venue at City Harbor carries liability insurance for the venue itself, ensuring coverage for general operations and venue-related risks.
However, we do require all clients to provide their own day of event liability insurance as part of the rental agreement. This coverage protects you and your guests and is standard practice for private and public events. Policies are typically easy to obtain and affordable through most event insurance providers.
All events at Driftwood Venue at City Harbor must conclude by 11:00 PM. Music and entertainment should end by this time to allow for a smooth and respectful wrap-up.
Vendor have until midnight (12:00 AM) to complete cleanup and breakdown.
Logistics & Activities
The closest international airport to Guntersville, Alabama, is Birmingham–Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), located approximately 61 miles southwest of the city. BHM offers a range of domestic flights and has facilities to handle international arrivals, making it a convenient option for travelers coming to the area.
Guntersville, Alabama, offers a diverse array of activities that cater to nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, history buffs, and those looking to relax by the water.
Lake Activities: Enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and scenic views at Lake Guntersville or explore trails and wildlife at Lake Guntersville State Park.
Shopping & Dining: Browse unique boutiques and dine at local favorites like Top O’ The River, Crawmama’s, and restaurants within City Harbor.
Wineries & Breweries: Sip fruit wines at Harbor View Winery or enjoy craft beer at Main Channel Brewing Company with lakeside views.
Arts & Events: Visit the Guntersville Museum, catch a show at the Whole Backstage Theatre, or attend annual festivals like HydroFest and Art on the Lake.
Guntersville, Alabama, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities amidst its natural beauty.
Hiking & Biking: Explore over 36 miles of scenic trails at Lake Guntersville State Park, perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
Water Activities: Enjoy boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and world-class fishing on Lake Guntersville.
Scenic Paths: Walk or bike the Guntersville Lake Bike Path, offering beautiful lakeside views.
Wildlife Viewing: Visit Sauta Cave Refuge in summer to see thousands of bats emerge at dusk—a one-of-a-kind natural spectacle.
Yes, tours of Driftwood Venue at City Harbor are available by appointment only.
We’d love to show you around and discuss how our space can bring your event to life.
To schedule a tour, please fill out the inquiry form at the bottom of this page, and a member of our team will be in touch to coordinate your visit.
Booking & Payments
To reserve a date for your wedding at Driftwood , simply reach out to our team to check the availability of your desired date. Once confirmed, we will guide you through the booking process and assist you in securing your chosen date. Our dedicated staff is here to ensure a seamless experience from start to finish, helping you every step of the way as you plan your special day. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Yes, a 35% retainer is required to secure your wedding date at our venue. This retainer serves as a first payment and ensures that your chosen date is reserved exclusively for your event.
The retainer is due at the time of booking or shortly thereafter to secure your wedding date. Our team will provide you with specific details regarding the payment process and timing.
Yes, there are additional fees. These fees are outlined in detail in our contract and may include:
- Day-of-Event Insurance: Couples are required to purchase day-of-event insurance to ensure coverage for their wedding day. The cost of this insurance varies depending on the provider and coverage options selected.
- Administrative Fee: An administrative fee is charged, which is a flat fee based on the package you select. This fee covers the administrative costs associated with coordinating your event and ensuring everything runs smoothly.
- Add-On Hours: If you require additional hours beyond the standard rental period, we offer add-on hours for the venue or bridal suite.
Our team is happy to provide more details and help you understand all associated costs as you plan your special day.
The final payment for your wedding or event is typically due 30 days before your event date. Our team will provide you with specific details regarding the final payment deadline and the payment process well in advance, ensuring you have ample time for preparation. We’re here to make the financial aspect of planning as smooth as possible, allowing you to focus on creating unforgettable memories on your special day.
Celebrating Love: Heartfelt Testimonials
Very nice entertaining venue. It has restaurants, bars, and shopping on the waterfront.
Tim Monella
Happily Ever After
If this sounds like your dream wedding, take the next step.
Are you ready to start planning your dream wedding? Our expert team will guide you and ensure every detail is handled, so you can focus on enjoying your special day.
Contact our team to ask questions, check date availability, and see our pricing. See the magic for yourself and let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime!
