The Best Wedding Venues in New York City

It’s official: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are ‘JUST+T MARRIED’. Whilst fans the world over couldn’t help rooting for their love story, their choice of wedding venue received a less enthusasitic response – as the pair tied the knot, not in one of NYC’s many beautiful hotels or houses, but in sports and entertainment arena Madison Square Gardens. For those of us who don’t need top-notch security and complete privacy, there’s plenty more elegant spots to host your dream Big Apple wedding. Here’s your complete guide to the best wedding venues in NYC.

American Museum of Natural History

Your night at the museum doesn’t have to be a comedy – in fact, it can be extremely elegant. Whether for ceremony or reception, the American Museum of Natural History can host a large guest list, all within the unique venue. Sip cocktails among the dinosaurs, dance under the iconic whale – here, you can truly live out your wildest dreams. amnh.org

American Museum of Natural History (credit: Aditya Vyas)

The Rainbow Room, 30 Rockefeller Plaza

Having opened in 1934, the 30 Rockefeller Plaza skyscraper is the centerpiece to Manhattan’s Rockefeller Center – and, since a 2014 refurbishment, The Rainbow Room has placed this NYC stalwart firmly on the wedding venue map. Inspired by New York’s timelessness, the domed ceilings and revolving dance floor act as centrepiece in a grand room that pays attention to every detail: crystal wall sconces, brass railings, and a stunning crystal chandelier that might, at times, successfully peel eyes away from unparalleled views across the city. rockefellercenter.com

New York Public Library

Live out your Carrie Bradshaw dreams at the New York Public Library in Manhattan – perhaps the most classic and iconic wedding venue in NYC. Across multiple event spaces, which can all cater to different tastes and vibes, this large and high-capacity venue is a chic blank canvas for dream weddings. nypl.org

New York Public Library

City Hall

Or, have your humble Carrie Bradshaw moment at the city’s most iconic wedding venue: City Hall. For only $25, say ‘I do’ in iconic surrounds. Bring your own photographer, keep the vows short and sweet, and opt for a short dress for a chic, carefree day. cityclerk.nyc.gov

New York City Hall

Tribeca Rooftop

Once a 1920s printing press building, this 15,000 square foot private venue maintains its industrial roots in the authentic NYC fashion. With impeccable panoramic views across the City, the spot is hailed for its large windowed walls and expansive glass atrium, providing the perfect backdrop to your NYC wedding. tribecarooftopnyc.com

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

With characteristic Brooklyn charm, Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a sophisticated option for floral lovers. Whether you opt to tie the knot en plein air or beneath the expansive living roof of native grasses and wildflowers, this wedding venue is the epitome of simple yet effective, making the most of nature’s natural decorations. bbg.org

Weylin

The historical site of the Williamsburg Savings Bank – designed in 1875 by architect George B. Post with interiors by Peter B. Wright – the Weylin is the result of an award-winning restoration. The spectacular dome, detailed mosaics, wooden carvings and tasteful use of period décor makes a delightful backdrop that remains easily customisable to the happy couple’s design preferences, whether creating a dream micro-wedding or catering for a lengthy guestlist. weylin.com

The Foundry

Over in Long Island City, steps from the East River, is The Foundry, a unique 19th century building that once played host to the manufacturing of fine varnishes and, another time, to the infamous ‘Kiss on the Lips’ party in Gossip Girl‘s first season. With ivy covered terraces, a stunning skylight, lush outdoor courtyard, and indoor greenhouse within over 3,000 square feet of event space, The Foundry is popular among those looking for a European vibe, while still having incredible views of the NYC skyline. thefoundry.info

620 Loft & Garden

Fans of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, this one is for you. Located directly above St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue, 620 Loft & Garden – an extremely customisable space – is a city oasis, boasting manicured gardens, a reflective pool and even and fountain. Inside, lofted ceilings and vast windows gaze onto the city below. rockefellercenter.com

Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown

Situated in trendy Tribeca in Lower Manhattan, steps away from the One World Trade Centre, Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown brings a chic and luxury edge to a cool urban wedding. An iconic ballroom, a celebrity baker on hand for the cake, and curated packages all make this customisable venue an ideal option. There’s accommodation on hand too, of course. fourseasons.com

The Peninsula

An iconic Manhattan destination, the prestigious Peninsula offers one of the only rooftop wedding venues in NYC. Close to Central Park and nestled in the heart of the city, the stunning surrounding views make for the most incredible photographs – especially with an on-hand photographer capturing it all. Plus, avoid a Bride Wars scenario: only one wedding takes place per day at The Peninsula, so no one will be stealing your spotlight. peninsula.com

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The Beekman

Indulge in Old New York romance at The Beekman, an architectural gem in the financial district. With unique spaces available for every step of the process – from parties to brunches to the ceremony itself – The Beekham’s glamorous mix of industrial chic is sure to impress guests. There’s also a nine-story atrium, pyramidal skylight and rooftop terrace, with a view of Brooklyn Bridge adding an enviable NYC edge. thebeekman.com

The Plaza Hotel

Few addresses carry the weight of The Plaza – and for a wedding, it’s unmatched. The Grand Ballroom, with its gilded ceilings, crystal chandeliers and capacity for up to 500 guests, is the stuff of fairy tales, while the Terrace Room offers an intimate alternative overlooking Fifth Avenue. A full suite of wedding planning services, legendary catering and a Central Park backdrop make this the New York wedding venue. theplaza.com

The Pierre, A Taj Hotel

A jewel on the Upper East Side since 1930, The Pierre has hosted some of New York’s most celebrated weddings – and with good reason. The Grand Ballroom is one of the most beautiful rooms in the city, dressed in hand-painted murals, gilded mouldings and Venetian chandeliers. With Central Park right across the street and suites for the wedding party, this is old New York glamour at its finest. thepierrecentralparkweddings.com

Cipriani 42nd Street 

Once the Bowery Savings Bank, Cipriani 42nd Street is one of the most jaw-dropping event space in the city. Its soaring Roman Corinthian columns, vaulted coffered ceilings and marble floors create an extraordinary sense of occasion. Add Cipriani’s impeccable Italian food and service, and you have a wedding that is as seamless as it is spectacular. cipriani.com

Hotel Chelsea

Few venues carry as much creative mythology as the Hotel Chelsea. Reopened after a meticulous renovation, the legendary 23rd Street landmark has been reimagined without losing any of its bohemian soul – think richly layered interiors, original artwork lining the corridors, and event spaces that feel genuinely unlike anywhere else in the city. For couples who want a wedding with cultural cachet and a rock ‘n’ roll edge, this is it. hotelchelsea.com

Prospect Park Boathouse

Brooklyn’s answer to a fairytale wedding venue, the Prospect Park Boathouse is a magnificent 1905 Beaux-Arts building set directly on the lake, with weeping willows and parkland stretching out in every direction. The loggia and terrace make for stunning ceremony and cocktail hour settings, while the boathouse interior – all arched windows and reflected light – is magical come evening. A romantic, timeless choice. prospectparkboathouse.com

James Burden & Otto Kahn Mansions

Dubbed the finest ‘Beaux Arts townhouse’ and ‘finest Italian Renaissance style mansion’ in NYC, respectively, James Burnden House and Otto Khan Mansion sit side by side on East 91st Street. With marble walls, sculpted ceilings and spiral staircases straight from the Gilded Age, these European-inspired interiors wouldn’t look out of place in a Parisian hôtel. burdenkahnmansion.org