Top Wedding Venues in New York City
New York City Weddings
There is nowhere else like New York City. The capital of the world has an electricity that will make a wedding even more thrilling. The city has an almost unlimited amount of things to see and do. New York is made up of neighborhoods that I love to explore with my couples. The city becomes a third member of the wedding day story.
New York City is known as the concrete jungle, but it boasts great amounts of natural beauty as well. The style, architecture, and nature make this place what it is. The best NYC wedding venues make the best of the city’s character.
New York City is a year-round wedding destination. Each season has a lot to offer couples getting married here. Fall is my favorite though. The changing leaves, holiday decorations, and cool weather are all wonderful. Even winter is a nice option in New York City. It can be fun to get bundled up for your wedding! A destination winter wedding can be a very unique event. As a destination wedding photographer, I believe a couple can’t go wrong with New York City. The city is the star, and it is always a spectacular backdrop.
The Best Wedding Venues NYC
The best NYC wedding venues are unique and varied. For most couples, the vision of their wedding day revolves around the choice of venue. The dress, flowers, and even photography style often result from fitting that vision. So, venue choice is very important and affects every other aspect of your wedding!
I’ve compiled a list of the best NYC wedding venues. Many have been around for decades and are already full of historic details. They come with awesome surroundings and decor built right in! No matter how good an event designer is, they won’t be able to replicate anything as special or unique. History, architecture, landscaping, views, location, and art are all at these venues. Now, onto the list. These are some of my favorite NYC wedding venues.
NY Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwarzman Building – Midtown Manhattan
It’s hard to think of a more stunning venue for a wedding than the New York Public Library. The building is an icon among NYC wedding venues. It’s stylish, historic, and Carrie Bradshaw tied the knot there (well, almost)! There are several options within the library for ceremonies and receptions, each full of character and amazing details.
Astor Hall is one of the largest and most dramatic spaces in the library. It offers stunning white marble walls, columns, and archways. The hall is only available after hours and is particularly magical at night. Candles and special lighting can dramatically transform the area.
Celeste Bartos Forum is another large space. It offers a traditional ballroom-type layout, though the forum features a 30-foot high glass dome ceiling. You won’t find that in other generic ballrooms around New York City. It’s best used for large receptions and also benefits from creative lighting.
The McGraw Rotunda is a smaller space. It’s great for cocktails or intimate receptions. The space features high ceilings with murals that tell the history of writing. The space is bordered by walnut pilasters and arched window bays, creating an air of French opulence.
The Edna Barnes Salomon Room was originally a 19th-century style picture gallery. It still retains that feel but has been updated recently. There is a good amount of space for creating a medium to large reception space. You’ll celebrate beside paintings of notable New York City society elites of the past.
All event fees go back to support NYPL services and programs. That’s a great benefit of getting married here. I should mention, this venue is only available for civil ceremonies. There are no religious ceremonies or affiliations allowed.
620 Loft and Garden – Midtown Manhattan
620 Loft and Garden is all about location and views. It’s poised seven floors above Rockefeller Center and 5th Avenue. That’s high enough to get stunning views but close enough to still feel like you are a part of the action below. This historic spot features a reflecting pool and a tented area in case of inclement weather. St. Patrick’s Cathedral rises prominently in the background, adding to the European feel of the manicured rooftop. This is an especially festive option during the holiday season, offering great views of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice skating rink. It’s a bonus that no other NYC wedding venues can match.
The Plaza Hotel – Midtown Manhattan
The iconic Plaza Hotel is a NYC landmark. It’s known for its elegance and history. The Plaza sits on the corner of 5th Avenue and Central Park South. That’s about as great a location as you could ask for. The area is perfect for capturing that famous NYC feel. You’ll be able to have stunning photos from central park, Midtown, and the Plaza itself.
The facilities here are top notch. The grand ballroom is famous for large, lavish celebrations. It’s so much more than a generic hotel ballroom. It has plenty of New York City guided age charm. There is plenty of room for custom touches as well. Making your wedding day exceed your own vision is always a priority at the Plaza Hotel.
The Carlyle Hotel – Upper East Side
The Carlyle Hotel, a timeless symbol of elegance and sophistication, offers a luxurious setting for a wedding. Located on the Upper East Side, this iconic hotel has hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries. The Carlyle’s classic interiors, stunning city views, and exceptional service ensure an unforgettable wedding experience. The hotel’s grand ballroom and intimate reception spaces provide versatile options for both large and small celebrations.
The Pierre, A Taj Hotel – Upper East Side
The Pierre, located at the corner of 61st Street and Fifth Avenue, offers breathtaking views of Central Park. This historic hotel combines old-world charm with modern luxury. The Rotunda, adorned with intricate murals, and the Grand Ballroom, with its soaring ceilings and crystal chandeliers, provide a romantic backdrop for weddings. The Pierre’s dedicated staff ensures that every detail is executed flawlessly.
American Museum of Natural History – Upper West Side
The American Museum of Natural History is world famous. From movies to literature, the museum is a New York City treasure. At first glance, the museum may not seem like the most elegant place for a wedding. But on further inspection, this is one of the most beautiful of NYC wedding venues. The location, right across from Central Park, is perfect for capturing great photos. The building itself makes a classic statement as well. The castle like entrance and huge exhibit halls are full of drama, especially at night.
The Milstein Hall of Ocean Life is a stunning space that can host a very large reception. The Hall is home to a 94 foot blue whale model hovering above guests and below the glass ceiling. This gallery is instantly recognizable by young and old. It’s such a wonderful place for large wedding receptions. When I say large, I mean large. A seated dinner here can hold 800 guests with no issues.
The Theodore Roosevelt Rotunda is another favorite for slightly smaller guest counts. It holds up to 750 guests and the most incredible display of dinosaurs anywhere around. The vaulted 100 foot ceilings make this space feel even larger. You won’t find a black tie venue that is more fun!
The Beekman – Financial District
The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel, is a restored historic building with a stunning nine-story atrium. The hotel’s vintage charm and modern amenities make it an excellent choice for a wedding. The Temple Court, with its ornate ceilings and grand staircase, provides a dramatic setting for ceremonies and receptions. The Beekman’s unique blend of history and contemporary design creates a memorable experience for couples and their guests.
Gramercy Park Terrace – Gramercy Park
The Gramercy Park Terrace, located in the Gramercy Park Hotel, is an intimate and elegant venue. The terrace offers stunning views of the city and Gramercy Park, providing a serene backdrop for ceremonies and receptions. The hotel’s classic design and luxurious amenities create a sophisticated atmosphere for weddings. The Gramercy Park Terrace is perfect for couples looking for a stylish and romantic setting.
Tribeca Rooftop – Manhattan
Do you want your wedding with a view? Tribeca Rooftop offers one of the most dramatic vistas in all of NYC. Downtown Manhattan rises gracefully behind this open-air location. While the star of the show is the rooftop, there is an even larger indoor space. It’s a great backup option if the weather doesn’t cooperate. It also has great views for your guests to enjoy during the reception.
Gallow Green at the McKittrick Hotel – Chelsea
Speaking of amazing rooftop gardens, Gallow Green is another unique option. Located in the McKittrick Hotel (not a real hotel), Gallow Green is unlike other rooftops in the city. Think of an old industrial building being reclaimed by nature. Greenery is everywhere—vines, flowers, and grass grow all over the space. There is even a canopy of greenery covering an old train track. As you can imagine, springtime weddings are especially nice here!
No matter what time of year, you are guaranteed amazing views. You can see almost everything from the Empire State Building to the Hudson River. Gallow Green has another benefit that no other NYC wedding venues can claim: it sits above one of the city’s most talked about destinations. The McKittrick Hotel is home to “Sleep No More,” the theatre experience based on MacBeth. Of course, the star of the McKittrick, for our purposes at least, is the food and drink. Everything’s provided in-house, so you are sure to get the same creative cocktails and dishes.
Cipriani 25 Broadway – Financial District
Cipriani 25 Broadway is a landmark building that offers a grand and opulent setting for weddings. The venue’s soaring ceilings, marble columns, and stunning chandeliers create a majestic atmosphere. The spacious ballroom can accommodate large receptions, while the private dining rooms offer more intimate settings. Cipriani’s renowned catering ensures that every meal is a culinary masterpiece.
Brooklyn Wedding Venues
The Boathouse at Prospect Park – Brooklyn
The Boathouse is a gem among NYC wedding venues. It sits in the beautiful surroundings of Prospect Park in the heart of Brooklyn. Built in 1905, it exudes glamorous turn-of-the-century New York City charm. The Boathouse is located right on the edge of Lullwater and the Lullwater Bridge. The building features floor-to-ceiling windows that let light into the space, tile ceilings, columns, and hand-painted murals. The covered balcony overlooks the Lullwater, providing a picturesque setting for your wedding.
The large terrace is one of the highlights of this venue. It is perfect for outdoor ceremonies, cocktails, and even dinner. Couples can also open the large doors to bring the outdoor ambiance inside, making it a great option for evening receptions. The space can hold up to 150 guests for a seated dinner, making it an excellent option for smaller, classic New York City weddings. For those with a larger guest count, its next-door neighbor might be a great option.
Brooklyn Botanical Gardens
Located across the street from The Boathouse is The Brooklyn Botanical Garden. NYC wedding venues here provide several wonderful options for wedding ceremonies and receptions. The most recognizable is The Palm House.
The Palm House is newly renovated and features an all cast iron and glass exterior. It is one of the more recognizable New York City wedding venues. Like the Boathouse, it dates from around the turn of the last century in the Beaux Arts style. It also features a terrace with lily pools and lampposts. It can accommodate up to 275 seated guests.
The Atrium is a fantastic option for couples with a smaller guest count. The modern space has walls of floor-to-ceiling windows. Outside is a terrace next to the Cherry Esplanade. The Atrium is ecologically sustainable. Native wildflowers and grasses grow on its roof. It all makes for a unique atmosphere that is not found elsewhere in the city.
With these venues, couples have the option of many great outdoor ceremony locations. Many choose to schedule their wedding around seasonal blooms. The stunning pink cherry blossoms in spring are a favorite. There are many areas to explore for photos as well. The Brooklyn Botanical Gardens is a great addition to any list of NYC wedding venues.
Brooklyn Grange – Brooklyn Navy Yard
Here is one more rooftop garden for your consideration. Brooklyn Grange sits on top of twelve floors in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. It’s incredible rooftop has stunning views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the East River.
But the real draw here is the rooftop itself. The patio is surrounded by a 65,000 square foot working farm. The rows of produce make an amazing backdrop for your wedding day. You feel surrounded by nature wherever you go, but always with the city on the horizon. Flowers from the farm can even be used for your wedding’s floral arrangements. Plus, the venue’s caterers use vegetables grown on the rooftop for your dinner. It’s a rare bonus among NYC wedding venues. The area can host about 150 people without problem.
The Weylin – Williamsburg
The Weylin, a restored historic bank in Williamsburg, offers a unique and elegant setting for weddings. The venue’s grand dome, intricate mosaics, and marble details create a luxurious atmosphere. The Weylin’s versatile spaces can accommodate both large and intimate gatherings, making it an excellent choice for a variety of wedding styles. The combination of historic charm and modern amenities ensures a memorable experience.
The Wythe Hotel – Williamsburg
The Wythe Hotel, a converted factory in Williamsburg, offers a trendy and industrial-chic setting for weddings. The hotel’s rooftop terrace provides stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, while the rustic charm of the interior spaces creates a unique atmosphere. The Wythe Hotel’s blend of historic architecture and modern design makes it a popular choice for stylish and contemporary weddings.
The Foundry – Long Island City, Queens
The Foundry is a versatile wedding venue in Long Island City, Queens. This restored 19th-century metal foundry offers an industrial-chic aesthetic with exposed brick walls, steel beams, and arched windows. The space features a main hall that can be customized for both ceremonies and receptions, a lush outdoor courtyard, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The combination of historic charm and modern amenities makes The Foundry an ideal choice for couples seeking a unique and stylish setting for their wedding.
The Bronx Zoo
Another amazing option among NYC wedding venues is the Bronx Zoo. It offers a surprisingly elegant backdrop with lots of fun thrown in.
The Schiff Family Great Hall is the most common location for weddings. It features an outside ceremony location on Astor’s Court. The area is surrounded by the original old Beaux-Arts style buildings of the zoo. It’s also right by the iconic sea lion pool and Indian Peacocks that roam free. Couples can also get married indoors at the Zoo Center, the most recognizable building at the zoo.
For more intimate receptions, look into the Congo Gorilla Forest. You can have a seated dinner or cocktails with lowland gorillas. There are also De Brazza’s monkeys, okapis, mandrills, and red river hogs. That’s a pretty unique experience for you and your guests! It’s something you can’t replicate at other NYC wedding venues.
Wave Hill – Riverdale, The Bronx
Wave Hill, located in the Riverdale neighborhood of The Bronx, is a 28-acre public garden and cultural center offering a serene and picturesque setting for weddings. The venue features beautifully landscaped gardens, historic architecture, and sweeping views of the Hudson River and the Palisades. Couples can exchange vows in the Pergola, followed by a reception on the Great Lawn or in the Armor Hall. Wave Hill’s natural beauty and elegant ambiance make it a perfect choice for couples looking to celebrate their wedding in a tranquil, scenic environment.
I love NYC Weddings
New York City offers a plethora of unique and stunning wedding venues, each with its own charm and character. From the historic elegance of the New York Public Library to the natural beauty of the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, there is a perfect venue for every couple. Whether you prefer a grand celebration at the Plaza Hotel or an intimate gathering at the Bronx Zoo, NYC has something for everyone. Explore these venues and create unforgettable memories on your special day.
If you are thinking about getting married in New York City, I’d be thrilled to connect and tell your story. Please learn more about me, why I’m different than other Wedding photographers, then reach out.
Manhattan Wedding Venues
NY Public Library Stephen Schwarzman Building
620 Loft and Garden and The Rainbow Room
The Plaza Hotel
The Carlyle Hotel
American Museum of Natural History
The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel
Gramercy Park Terrace
Tribeca Rooftop
Brooklyn Wedding Venues
The Boathouse at Prospect Park
The Weylin
The Brooklyn Botanical Gardens
The Wythe Hotel
Brooklyn Grange
501 Union
Queens Wedding Venues
The Bronx Wedding Venues
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