12 New York Wedding Venues That Will Wow Every Couple
It's no secret that New York is known for its diversity—both in terms of cultures and landscapes. What's more, throughout its nearly 55,000 square miles, you'll find everything from beaches and mountains to lakes and woodlands. That said, when it comes to finding the best New York wedding venues, couples have plenty of options, including breweries, barns, rooftops, ballrooms and even—get this—castles.
Of course, when planning a New York wedding, couples should keep in mind that the Empire State is a true four-season destination, meaning winters are cold (and can get pretty snowy, depending on how far north you are), while summers are hot and sunny (though, if you're by the water, you can expect a balmy breeze). With this in mind, it's a great idea to book a venue that offers both indoor and outdoor event spaces to choose from in the event of rain, snow, wind and other inclement weather. The weather in The Empire State can be unpredictable—think: 65 degrees and sunny one day, 40 degrees and rainy the next. Ask the venue coordinator about their backup plan during inclement or cold weather.
While rounding up the best wedding venues in New York was no easy feat, we did the research to find the top picks throughout the state. Also, check out The Knot Vendor Marketplace for even more New York wedding venue inspo.
Find More New York Wedding Venues: Small | Barn | NYC
The Briarcliff Manor in Briarcliff Manor, New York
Overlooking the Hudson River, The Briarcliff Manor is, hands down, among our favorite wedding venues in Westchester, New York. The elegant manor—which is just an hour outside of New York City—is suitable for both micro-weddings and larger gatherings of up to 175 guests. Outdoor ceremonies can take place on the patio, while the banquet room, with its crackling fireplaces and elegant French doors, is equally stunning. Finally, if the weather's warm enough, consider hosting your cocktail hour outside in the manicured gardens, which also make for prime photo ops.
Rochester Museum and Science Center in Rochester, New York
The Rochester Museum and Science Center is one of the most unique upstate New York wedding venues. The museum wedding venue offers a tranquil woodland area for smaller ceremonies. Meanwhile, the spectacular Star Theater, which features a dome-style ceiling that depicts the night sky, accommodates up to 120 people. Other equally impressive event spaces include the Eleanor Eisenhart Morris Ballroom and Palm Court, which are ideal for smaller soirees of up to 60 people.
3 West Club in New York, New York
Between its nearly 100-year-old history and stunning rooftop terrace, it's no wonder why 3 West Club is one of the most popular wedding venues in New York, NY. A favorite among NYC-based couples, the venue—which is both a New York City Landmark and a National Historic Landmark—offers a slew of on-site event spaces. The Grand Ballroom stands out for its lavish design, including crystal chandeliers and a striking marble staircase, while the Grand Salon, flanked by two roaring fireplaces topped with marble mantlepieces and mirrors, is sure to wow both you and your guests. The Lounge, with its baby grand piano, is ideal for smaller, intimate weddings, and the sun-drenched Solarium, which also includes access to the aforementioned terrace, is perfect for couples craving an outdoor wedding.
Marina del Rey in Throgs Neck, New York
As one of the most stunning waterfront wedding venues in the Bronx, Marina del Rey offers a handful of indoor and outdoor event spaces. Exchange vows out on the Wedding Pavilion, which features a romantic white gazebo and manicured gardens; the sweeping views are just the icing on the cake. There's also an open-air pier and a private grotto, the latter of which is dotted with firepits and lounge-style seating, making it an optimal spot for cocktail hour. The indoor ballrooms are just as impressive and can host anywhere from 100 to 800 guests; expect glamorous design elements like sweeping windows and dazzling chandeliers.
The State Room in Albany, New York
The State Room stands out as one of the most elegant and historic wedding venues in Albany, New York. Dating back to 1901, the bank-turned-wedding venue—which hosts up to 250 guests—boasts striking architectural details, including grand columns and hand-painted vaulted ceilings. Couples can choose from several wedding packages based on personal preference and budget.
Saratoga National Golf Club in Saratoga Springs, New York
Thanks to its lush, landscaped grounds—complete with bridges, ponds and lakes—the Saratoga National Golf Club is among the most picturesque wedding venues in Saratoga Springs, New York. Inside, the 200-person banquet hall offers prime golf course views and is elegantly decorated with sparkling chandeliers, bespoke murals and rich woodwork. Ceremonies and cocktail hours can be held outdoors; the covered porch and patio, which is surrounded by fire pits, is a beloved spot.
Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park in Canandaigua, New York
An extravagant 19th-century-era summer home-turned-wedding venue, Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park spans 50 scenic acres and exudes romantic charm in every sense. The lush, flora-filled gardens at this Finger Lakes wedding venue serve as the perfect backdrop for alfresco ceremonies, while the spacious reception tent holds up to 250 of your nearest and dearest. Finally, it's worth noting that indoor soirees can be held inside the mansion—so as long as it's under 75 guests.
Allegria Hotel in Long Beach, New York
Dreaming of a beach wedding in New York? Look no further than the oceanfront Allegria Hotel. This idyllic Long Island wedding venue offers not one but two grand ballrooms complete with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Atlantic. However, the true star of the show here is the 4,686-square-foot Jack's Rooftop (max: 200 people), an enclosed rooftop space complete with elegant albeit contemporary decor plus postcard-worthy views of the beach.
Drowned Lands Brewery in Warwick, New York
Housed in a 100-year-old refurbished building, Drowned Lands Brewery is teeming with distinct charm and character, making it one of our favorite wedding venues in New York State. The brewery wedding venue offers an expansive patio where guests can mix, mingle and take in the sweeping mountain views—with craft brews in hand, of course—while the sun-drenched River View Room, which offers exposed beams and other rustic-chic touches, is well-suited for receptions of up to 150 guests. Meanwhile, the industrial-inspired taproom offers exposed brick and a cozy, pub-like atmosphere. There's even a private deck that accommodates up to 50 seated guests.
500 Pearl in Buffalo, New York
Although 500 Pearl's beautiful Buffalo wedding venue dates back to 1914, it retains its distinct old-world charm and elegance. The Grand Aeries reception room featured arched windows, striking chandeliers and ample space for up to 220 guests with a dance floor. The Forbes Theater, which also accommodates 220 guests with a dance floor, is equally majestic with ornate ceilings. The contemporary Fuhrmann Room can be used for ceremonies of up to 300 and receptions of up to 130 (with the addition of a dance floor), while the aptly named 1914 Room embraces a cozier, more intimate ambiance with a crackling fireplace with space for up to 80 people with a dance floor for receptions or 180 people for ceremonies.
Cedar Lakes Estate in Port Jervis, New York
Nature- and outdoor-loving couples can hold their special day at Cedar Lakes Estate in the Hudson Valley, which can accommodate larger weddings of up to 315 people. The venue, flanked by tranquil trees, rolling hills and towering peaks, offers indoor and outdoor event spaces. The wildflower-laden Mountain Top ceremony site is the perfect place to say "I do," as is the Deck, which overlooks the lake. Cocktail hours can be held at the open-air Pavilion, which offers romantic bistro lights, bluestone floors and an oversized fire pit. Finally, receptions are held inside the restored 5,400-square-foot barn. Prepare to be dazzled by the floor-to-ceiling glass panels, handcrafted wood tables, crystal chandeliers and a 24-foot-long bar.
Oheka Castle in Huntington, New York
Just an hour outside of New York City lies Oheka Castle, which just so happens to be one of the most majestic wedding venues in New York. What's more, this fairy tale-worthy wedding venue looks like it's been plucked straight from the European countryside thanks to its French-style architecture and formal, manicured gardens. While there are several indoor and outdoor event spaces to choose from—including expansive lawns and a formal dining room—it's the Grand Ballroom that truly stands out with its sleek hardwood flooring, glittering chandeliers and elegant drapery. Photo ops by the stunning spiral staircase are also a must.