NEWSLETTER
Plan the wedding of your dreams in New York State! Now that you’ve found your forever person, it’s time to find a venue as beautiful as your love story. Whether you’re envisioning a luxurious celebration at a castle pulled straight from a fairytale, a lowkey gathering with loved ones at the base of a waterfall, or anything in between, there’s a venue for every couple. Check out this lineup of awe-inspiring locations and tie the knot in the Empire State. Congrats! Photo Credit: @nelstudios and @plattekillmountain on Instagram.
Jump To: Adirondacks | Capital-Saratoga | Catskills | Central New York | Chautauqua-Allegheny | Finger Lakes | Greater Niagara | Hudson Valley | Long Island | New York City | Thousand Islands-Seaway
Adirondacks
Luxury: Sagamore Resort
Credit: @rich.amo on Instagram
Plan to spend your day on an all-season oasis surrounded by the timeless beauty of the “Queen of American Lakes” and the Adirondacks at the Sagamore Resort in Lake George. This AAA Four-Diamond resort offers a wide array of venue options, like the beautiful event lawn, tented lakefront terrace, or 19th-century replica touring vessel, and customizable wedding packages ideal for intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Starting price for the Sagamore Resort is $15,000. Contact for full pricing details.
Unique: Whiteface Mountain
Credit: @lift_blog on Instagram
A once-in-a-lifetime day deserves a one-of-a-kind wedding! Take your guests to the top of Whiteface Mountain on a scenic gondola ride for a mountaintop ceremony with a breathtaking backdrop. Receptions can be held at the mountain’s Cloudspin Bar & Grill or out on the Bar Deck where on-site catering will help you create your personalized menu. Contact Whiteface for pricing details.
Affordable: Paradox Brewery
If you’re looking for a lowkey venue with stunning natural views and amazing brews, say “I do” at Paradox Brewery in North Hudson. Nestled in the “forever wild” Adirondacks, Paradox combines rustic charm with modern amenities, providing an exceptional backdrop for happily ever after. Choose between the cozy taproom, perfect for more intimate gatherings, or the newly-built open-air Pavilion, ideal for largest celebrations. Contact Paradox Brewery for pricing details.
Capital-Saratoga
Luxury: The State Room
Located in the heart of downtown Albany, The State Room is perfect for couples looking to blend historic charm and modern luxury. Found in Albany’s first skyscraper, originally constructed in 1901, admire the stunning architecture and splendor of the early 20th century through the hand-painted vaulted ceilings, marble walls, grand bay windows, golden chandeliers, and gold embossed Corinthian Columns. The State Room’s starting price is $17,600 and offers a variety of packages and customizations.
Unique: Saratoga Race Course 1863 Club
You'll be racing to host your wedding celebration at The 1863 Club, the luxury clubhouse and event space at Saratoga Race Course! Located at the turn of the track, this venue is a perfect fit for those looking for a more intimate gathering alongside unbeatable views of the legendary course. Starting price for The 1863 Club is $21,000 for a standard wedding depending on time of year and event details.
Affordable: Nine Pin Cider Works
Credit: Nine Pin Cider Works
Looking for the perfect place to say “I do” to the apple of your eye? Look no further than Nine Pin Cider Works in Albany’s Warehouse District. This industrial-chic cidery offers three spaces for your special day: the outdoor cafe, production floor, or full tasting room. In-house food and bar services are also available and include Nine Pin’s award-winning cider, local beer, wine, non-alcoholic options, and more. Starting price for Nine Pin Cider Works is $500.
Catskills
Luxury: Full Moon Resort
Revel in the enchanting beauty of the Catskills and rustic yet elegant backdrop of Full Moon Resort for your big day! Nestled on 100 acres of scenic meadows, forests, and streams in Big Indian, NY, this venue features a grand wedding pavilion, picturesque barn, exquisite dining, and a variety of lodging options for your guests to stay right on site. Wedding package price: $90-$300 per person depending on day of the week and time of year. Contact Full Moon Resort for pricing details.
Unique: Plattekill Mountain
Credit: @nelstudios and @plattekillmountain on Instagram
Say “I do” from the private peak of Plattekill Mountain in Roxbury. Your guests will be wowed on a chairlift ride up to the summit, where you’ll unlock even more panoramic views of the Catskills, the perfect place for your ceremony. Continue the celebration in the rustic-chic base lodge, complete with large wrap-around deck for cocktail hour, campfires, party lights, and Catskill Mountain views as far as the eye can see. Starting price for Plattekill Mountain is $7,500.
Affordable: Thomas Cole Historic Site
Credit: @cheyannadenicolaphoto and @thomascolesite on Instagram
Looking for a venue steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty? Look no further than the Thomas Cole National Historic Site in Catskill! Once the home and studio of artist and early environmentalist Thomas Cole, the historic campus dotted with perennial gardens and the 19th century home offers a scene like no other to tie the knot. Event packages range from $5,000-$7,000.
Central New York
Luxury: Otesaga Resort Hotel
Happily ever after begins at The Otesaga in Cooperstown! Timeless charm is abundant year-round at this resort, where you can hold your ceremony down on the shores of the sparkling Otsego Lake and choose from several historic yet elegant rooms from the Grand Ballroom to the East Veranda (pictured). Starting price at the Otesaga is $17,000.
Unique: National Baseball Hall of Fame
Photo Credit: Milo Stewart Jr./National Hall of Fame & Museum
Make your wedding a home run and celebrate at the National Baseball Hall of Fame! Baseball-loving couples can hold their receptions in the Plaque Gallery (pictured), surrounded by the bronze plaques of Hall of Famers, dramatic arched entryway, and marble columns. Hall of Fame Plaque Gallery is available for receptions for $2,000 for the first hour and $1,000 for each additional hour.
Affordable: Mine Kill State Park
Credit: @_endlessadventure on Instagram
Say “I do” in front of the unrivaled beauty of Mine Kill Falls in North Blenheim! Located in stunning Schoharie Valley, head down to the base of the falls for an intimate ceremony where the rush of the falls is the soundtrack for your special day. Plan to rent the pavilion or one of the event tents, each can accommodate 45-100 people, to end the day with an amazing celebration. Pavilion, shelter, room and tent rental use fees vary based on size and amenities. Call the Mine Kill State Park office for details. Reservation fee of $7.25 is required per rental at state parks.
Chautauqua-Allegheny
Luxury: Athenaeum Hotel
Credit: Erich Camping
Set the scene for an unforgettable day with breathtaking lakeside views, sprawling gardens, and elegance around every corner at the Athenaeum Hotel at the Chautauqua Institution. A historic “Grande Dame” hotel, the Athenaeum provides several serene settings to tie the knot including the Hall of Philosophy, the 200-foot front porch, or right on the lake by the Bell Tower. Keep the festivities going in the grand hotel dining room, ballroom, front lawn, or Bell Tower. Guests can stay right onsite to experience the Victorian charm for themselves. The Athenaeum Hotel has a facility fee of $1,000. Cost for renting the Hall of Philosophy is $1,200. Pricing for packages varies.
Unique: National Comedy Center
Host your wedding at the funniest place in New York State! The 37,000-square foot National Comedy Center is sure to put a smile on you and your guests faces through a variety of event spaces that can accommodate 20 to 200 guests. Plus, you’ll get access to the museum's 50+ laugh-inducing exhibits! Contact the Comedy Center for pricing details.
Affordable: Allegany State Park
If you’re looking to say “I do” surrounded by forested valleys, glimmering lakes, and sprawling natural views Allegany State Park is the place for you! This 65,000-acre state park is the largest in the state and famous for its spectacular fall foliage. Exchange vows in front of a historic covered bridge or tranquil waterfall and then rent one of the pavilions to keep the celebration going. Cabins and campsites are also available on site. Pavilion prices range from $75 to $100 a day and can accommodate 35 to 80 people. Check availability at ReserveAmerica.com or call the Allegany State Park office for details.
Finger Lakes
Luxury: Belhurst Castle Winery
Credit: @andreajulia on Instagram
Make your fairytale wedding dreams come true at Belhurst Castle! This century-old historic castle is filled with all kinds of stunning year-round sights. Choose to exchange vows on the vibrant lawn with sparkling Seneca Lake as your backdrop or opt for an indoor ceremony in the grand ballroom. Continue the celebrations in the Meritage or Castle Ballrooms for ultimate elegance. $8,000-$16,000 minimum expenditure guarantee based on food, beverages and services for the ballrooms from May through October and a $4,500 minimum guarantee from November through April.
Unique: Rochester Museum & Science Center
Credit: Rich Paprocki Photography
Plan a wedding under the stars at the Strasenburgh Planetarium in Rochester! Prepare to wow-ed as the stars align for an unforgettable night that blends romance with science. Spend your special day in the Planetarium’s famous Star Theatre, where you’ll be able to gaze up at the dome-style ceiling and admire a view of the night sky. You can even personalize the view so it reflects the night you first met! Dance the night away under a sky full of stars or choose to hold your reception in one of the galleries. Ceremony only: $4,000, reception only: $5,000, ceremony and reception: $6,500.
Affordable: Taughannock Falls State Park
Credit: @annam228 on Instagram
If you’ve ever dreamed of a waterfall wedding, Taughannock Falls is the place to do it! Plunging 215 feet past rocky cliffs, the overlook or base of the falls are both picturesque spots for an intimate ceremony. Afterward, rent out one of the three pavilions to keep the celebration going. Prices range from $50 to $200 and can accommodate 25 to 100 people. Reservations can be made 11-months in advance through reserveamerica.com. Call the Taughannock Falls State Park office for details. Weddings are not allowed at the base falls on weekends and holidays or the overlook between 10am-3pm. It’s also recommended to plan for a weekday as Taughannock Falls tends to be more crowded on the weekends throughout the warmer months.
Greater Niagara
Luxury: Bent’s Opera House
Credit: Bent's Opera House
Unlock old school grandeur and modern day luxury when you tie the knot at Bent’s Opera House in Medina. First opened to the public in 1865, this former opera house and architectural gem’s elegant interior still has its iconic performance hall features including a mezzanine, box seat, green room, and stage which saw countless productions. You guests can stay right on site at Bent’s Boutique Hotel. Saturday full day Rental is $6,500. Full weekend Rental is $9,500.
Unique: Maid of the Mist
Credit: @maidofthemist on Instagram
Whether you are a fan of The Office or just looking for a one-of-a-kind wedding, start forever in front of the roar of Niagara Falls aboard the Maid of the Mist! Swap throwing rice for the spray of the falls as you get an up-close view of the iconic sight. To get married like Jim and Pam, be sure to bring your own officiant, Maid of the Mist captains don’t perform marriages. Perfect for smaller gatherings and elopements, you and your guests will need to pay general admission (group rates are available) and may be joined by other passengers. The Maid of the Mist doesn’t take reservations. You’re already in the honeymoon capital, so why not extend your stay and get the full Niagara Falls experience?
Affordable: Resurgence Brewing Company
Industrial charm, modern elegance, and a casual inviting atmosphere can be found at Buffalo’s Resurgence Brewing Company. Nestled in the city’s west side, Resurgence offers several versatile spaces which can be tailored for every vibe from lowkey gatherings or elegant events. Options include the indoor beer garden with rustic brick walls, the cozy fireplace lounge, stylish resurgence room, and more! Spending minimums depend on event space and range from $500-$10,000.
Hudson Valley
Luxury: Thayer Hotel at West Point
Credit: @thethayerhotel on Instagram
Set on a majestic hilltop overlooking the Hudson River, the Thayer Hotel at West Point is as iconic as it is historic. Exchange vows with commanding river views as your backdrop and then admire the Gothic Revival architecture as you make your way into the grand ballroom. Various packages and customizations are available with prices starting around $18,800.
Unique: Clover Brooke Farm
Credit: Clover Brooke Farm
Walk down the aisle alongside a furry friend at Clover Brooke Farm in Hyde Park! Enjoy sprawling, scenic views and celebrate your special day on the farm from the outdoor pavilion or rustically-charming barn. Let the farm’s friendly alpacas and llamas join in on the fun and make your day extraordinary! These trained furry friends are travelers and can even join you at the location of your choice. Travelling llamas cost $750 within 50 miles, otherwise an extra $75 travel fee. Pavilion rentals are $75/hour and barn space rentals are $125/hour. Both have a four hour minimum.
Affordable: Clermont State Historic Site
Immerse yourself in the charming beauty of the Hudson Valley and Clermont State Historic Site. This country estate, once belonging to the prominent Livingston family, has a wide selection of beautiful outdoor selections including wooded hideaways, century-old gardens, and plenty of stunning vistas. The site can accommodate between 50 and 150 guests with rental fees ranging from $1,000 to $2,800.
Long Island
Luxury: Oheka Castle
Credit: @ambientevents on Instagram
Fairytale wedding dreams come true at Oheka Castle! Located on Long Island's coveted Gold Coast, revel in majestic scenery and magnificent architecture reminiscent of an elegant French Chateaux. Say “I do” on the sprawling lawns, in the formal gardens, or indoors in the regal castle. Dance the night away in a magical ballroom, enjoy award-winning cuisine and white glove service in formal dining spaces, and more to complete your happily ever after. Venue rental fees start around $20,000.
Unique: Long Island Aquarium
Journey under the sea for a wedding as unique as your love story at the Long Island Aquarium in Riverhead! Surround yourself with captivating backdrops and aquatic ambiance in the Coliseum Room, where brightly-colored marine life like tropical fish, a giant Pacific octopus, and several species of shark glide through the water. Adventurous couples can even say “I do” with an underwater shark diving ceremony! Pricing packages start at $6,995 for up to 50 guests.
Affordable: Planting Fields State Historic Site
Credit: @a.ty_photography on Instagram
With 409 acres of gorgeous gardens and a Gold Coast-era mansion, Planting Fields in Oyster Bay is a dreamy wedding destination like no other. The Cloister Garden, Blue Pool Garden, and West Portico embody the elegance of Gilded age design and wonderful spots for a romantic ceremony. Rental location pricing ranges from $2,500-$5,000 for up to 60 people.
New York City
Luxury: Aspire at One World Observatory
Start forever from the tallest skyscraper in the country! Found on One World Observatory’s 102nd floor, Aspire’s 9,000-square-foot private event space offers unrivaled 360 degree views, elevated culinary experiences, space for up to 450 guests, and contemporary architecture to make your day one-of-a-kind. Venue rental fees for One World Observatory start around $35,000.
Unique: Bronx Zoo
Credit: @orangestoapples on Instagram
Go wild with a wedding at the Bronx Zoo! The zoo’s indoor and outdoor venue, Schiff Family Great Hall, provides the perfect setting for a one of a kind wedding, year round. Exchange vows at the historic Zoo Center or sip cocktails as sea lions look on. All event proceeds help support the Wildlife Conservation Society’s mission to help save wildlife and wild places around the globe. Rental fee is $5,000. Ceremony fee is $2,000. Packages start at $200/person.
Affordable: Queens Botanical Garden
Credit: Julienne Schaer
There’s no better backdrop for happily ever after than 39 acres of bright blooming florals at the Queens Botanical Garden! Hold your ceremony in the Wedding Garden, an intimate setting framed by flowering plants, charming bridges, and an elegant gazebo enclosed by a white picket fence. Your reception awaits just steps away whether you choose the Terrace, Auditorium, or Meeting Room. Starting site fee for Queens Botanical Garden is $2,500. Contact for complete pricing details.
Thousand Islands-Seaway
Luxury: 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel
Tie the knot at a luxurious retreat and AAA Four Diamond property nestled on the scenic shores of the St. Lawrence River in Clayton! Choose from the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel’s waterfront patio with dazzling St. Lawrence River views as your backdrop, or the more formal, elegant ballroom for your special day. A variety of customizable packages are available to make your day one-of-a-kind. Plus, you and your guests can spend the night in one of the deluxe hotel rooms and suites. Wedding packages start at $119/person.
Unique: Singer Castle on Dark Island
Credit: @rbbramlett on Instagram
Wedding dreams become reality at Singer Castle! Found on a seven acre island in the St. Lawrence River, this century-old, 28-room Scottish-inspired castle is overflowing with picturesque scenery around every corner. Choose to have your ceremony in the magical Rose Garden, the covered back pergola, or on the beautifully manicured greens. Keep the celebrations going and hold your reception right on the island. Live like royalty and stay overnight in the Royal Suite, where you’ll have the castle all to yourself at a discounted rate. Singer Castle costs $400/hour per space and $15/person.
Affordable: Bayshore Grove
Rolling greens, sprawling open space, and breathtaking views Lake Ontario is a recipe for an unforgettable wedding. At Bayshore Grove in Oswego, exchange vows at the elegant pergola with sparkling water views as your backdrop and then head indoors to dance the night away. Contact Bayshore Grove for pricing details and packages.
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