New York City, with its mesmerizing skyline and rich cultural tapestry, is home to some of the most stunning wedding venues in the United States. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or an intimate gathering in 2024-2025, the Big Apple has something unique for every couple in terms of event spaces for any guest count. As seasoned wedding photographers who have been capturing love stories in NYC for over 15 years (and you can tell that wedding photos are important to us :)), we have had the privilege to work in many of its iconic venues. Based on our experience with anything related to wedding photography in NYC including wedding ceremonies, reception venues, actual wedding planning process, and the feedback from our clients, we’ve curated a list of top 16 wedding venues that not only provide a beautiful backdrop for your big day but also deliver excellent service. Our client’s experience is paramount to us, and we recommend venues that share the same commitment to client satisfaction.
What factors should be considered when choosing a wedding venue?
When choosing a wedding venue, especially in NYC, factors such as location, distance from important places, capacity, cost, amenities, and ambiance should be considered. It’s important to find a venue that aligns with your wedding vision and meets your needs in terms of size, budget, and desired atmosphere.
While it is not the place to talk about rental fees, we know the right locations to go to for unique atmosphere, special memories, storybook settings, lush greenery, literally any vibe you want for the perfect place to say your vows and to tie the knot at.
What we’re not going to cover here? Botanical gardens, country clubs, city hall, chapel weddings, castle weddings (yes we do these), destination weddings, elopement marriage – these are for different times!
Best part? We have prepared for you, our couples and readers (and perhaps planners?) the perfect mix of marquee wedding venues in NYC so if anything, you will also always have a backup plan!
Table of Contents
- Mandarin Oriental
- Lotte New York Palace
- Guastavino’s
- Gotham Hall
- Loeb Boathouse
- St Regis
- The Plaza Hotel
- 620 Loft and Garden
- Tribeca Rooftop
- Rainbow Room
- The Pierre
- Museum of Natural History
- New York Public Library
- Cipriani Wall Street
- The Metropolitan Club
- Blue Hill Stone Barns
- Capitale
1. Mandarin Oriental: Sky-High Luxury
The Mandarin Oriental is an exquisite venue for upscale weddings, offering breathtaking views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline. Their stunning ballroom is adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows that allow natural light to permeate the space, creating a romantic ambiance for your special day. The Mandarin Oriental provides tailored wedding services, ensuring that every detail is taken care of and bringing your dream wedding to life. Additionally, their luxurious amenities like fine dining and spa treatments make it an ideal location for a memorable wedding experience.
2. Lotte New York Palace: Royal Elegance
Lotte New York Palace offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern luxury, making it an ideal setting for your wedding reception. The venue boasts a historic courtyard, majestic staircase, and elegant rooms that exude grandeur and sophistication. This royal choice for your wedding promises to create a memorable experience for you and your guests. The Lotte New York Palace is located in the heart of Manhattan, offering stunning views of the city skyline and easy access to some of the city’s most popular attractions. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, this iconic hotel will provide the perfect backdrop for your special day.
3. Guastavino’s: Architectural Marvel
Guastavino’s is an architectural masterpiece that boasts soaring granite arches and a stunning Catalan vaulted tile ceiling. The venue’s spacious interior and lush garden make it the perfect location for hosting a variety of events, from intimate ceremonies to grand receptions. Its unique design and exceptional beauty have made it a popular choice among event planners, architects, and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking to host a corporate event or celebrate a special occasion, Guastavino’s is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
4. Gotham Hall: Grandiosity Embodied
Gotham Hall is a breathtaking venue that boasts grand architecture, featuring a stunning dome ceiling and intricately designed marble flooring. The dramatic setting of the hall is perfect for large-scale weddings, offering a majestic backdrop for your special day. With its rich history and opulent decor, Gotham Hall is sure to leave a lasting impression on you and your guests. Whether you dream of an intimate ceremony or an extravagant celebration, this iconic venue will make your wedding day unforgettable.
5. Loeb Boathouse: Serene Lakefront Charm
Loeb Boathouse, situated beside the Central Park lake, is a well-known venue for weddings. The location provides stunning views of New York City and boasts an intimate setting that is perfect for romantic occasions. The boathouse offers both indoor and outdoor wedding spaces, allowing couples to choose the perfect spot for their special day. With its picturesque surroundings and iconic charm, Loeb Boathouse is a popular choice for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience.
6. St Regis: Timeless Sophistication
St Regis is a name synonymous with luxury, and for good reason. The hotel offers a breathtaking rooftop ballroom that provides sweeping views of Central Park, perfect for hosting your special event. In addition to the stunning ballroom, St Regis also boasts elegant rooms and a grand ballroom that exudes a timeless and sophisticated ambiance. Whether you’re planning a wedding reception or a corporate event, St Regis is sure to provide an unforgettable experience that will leave you and your guests in awe.
7. The Plaza Hotel: A Timeless Classic
The Plaza Hotel is renowned for its timeless elegance and luxurious amenities, which make it a top choice for couples who want a fairytale setting for their special day. Its opulent ballrooms and picturesque interior spaces are perfect for creating a romantic ambiance that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. The hotel’s iconic status and rich history also add to the charm of the venue, making it a popular choice for high-end weddings and events. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or an extravagant reception, the Plaza Hotel is sure to exceed your expectations and offer you an unforgettable experience.
8. 620 Loft and Garden: A Rooftop Gem
620 Loft and Garden provides an exceptional wedding venue that seamlessly combines indoor and outdoor spaces, offering breathtaking views of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Rockefeller Center. The venue creates an idyllic ambiance for couples seeking a romantic setting for their big day. With its unique blend of natural beauty and architectural splendor, 620 Loft and Garden is the perfect backdrop for a dreamy wedding ceremony or reception. The location offers unparalleled views of New York City’s iconic skyline, making it an ideal choice for couples who want to create unforgettable memories on their special day.
9. Tribeca Rooftop: Chic with a View
Located in the upscale and fashionable neighborhood of Tribeca, this rooftop venue offers a stunning industrial chic design that provides a modern and stylish ambiance for your wedding. With its panoramic skyline views, it is the perfect setting to celebrate your special day with your loved ones. The venue’s unique design and breathtaking views are sure to make your wedding unforgettable.
10. Rainbow Room: Elegance Above The Skyline
The Rainbow Room, located on the 65th floor of the Rockefeller Center, offers unparalleled panoramic views of New York City. Its sophisticated decor and iconic dance floor create a glamorous atmosphere, making it a quintessential venue for a classic New York wedding. The space can accommodate up to 300 guests, providing ample space for dining, dancing and celebrating. With its stunning views and elegant ambiance, the Rainbow Room is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after wedding venues in the city.
11. The Pierre: Luxurious and Prestigious
Known for its luxurious settings and prestigious reputation, The Pierre offers a sophisticated ambiance for an unforgettable wedding experience with its rich history and refined service.
12. Museum of Natural History: A Unique Wedding Backdrop
Offering a blend of history, science, and elegance, the Museum of Natural History provides a unique and intriguing backdrop for your wedding celebration.
13. New York Public Library: A Grand Historic Venue
The grand architecture and historical significance of the New York Public Library make it an iconic venue, with majestic spaces offering a unique and sophisticated setting for your wedding.
14. Cipriani Wall Street: Extravagant Elegance
Cipriani Wall Street exudes Italian elegance and grandeur, making it a lavish choice for couples seeking a luxurious wedding venue with a rich history.
15. The Metropolitan Club: Exclusive Sophistication
The Metropolitan Club offers an air of exclusive sophistication with its richly decorated interiors and elite ambiance, making it a classy venue for a refined wedding celebration.
17. Capitale: Historical Grandeur
For those who appreciate luxury, sophistication, and historical elegance, Capitale is a top choice. Located at 130 Bowery, New York, NY, this venue can host up to 1,500 people, making it ideal for a grand celebration amidst an opulent setting steeped in history.
New York City’s diverse array of wedding venues caters to every couple’s unique preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of a historic ballroom, the chic modernity of a rooftop garden, or the unique ambiance of a museum, the city’s venues offer something special for everyone. As you plan your wedding in 2024-2025, consider these top venues to find the perfect match for your dream day.
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