Best NYC Wedding Venues for Different Kinds of Weddings
As a live wedding illustrator, I’ve gotten to work at dozens of NYC wedding venues, and trust me, there's nothing like falling in love in New York. If you’re engaged and diving headfirst into wedding venue research, this blog is for you! Not only am I sharing some of my personal favorite NYC wedding venues, but I’ve also recruited two local wedding planners to share their own thoughts! Keep reading to get the inside scoop from Lena of Lena Lee Events, Taylor of Taylored Events & Co, and, of course, me!
Best NYC Wedding Venues According to Lena
When I asked Lena about her favorite wedding venues in the city, she said:
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about venues that feel like the final scene of a New York rom-com—and two keep standing out to me:
The Rainbow Room is just pure movie magic. The views, the elegance, that iconic dance floor… It feels like the kind of place where love stories wrap up in sequins and champagne under the city lights.
And the Central Park Boathouse—it’s like the quiet heartbeat of Manhattan. A little escape right in the middle of everything, where the rowboats glide by and it always feels like the golden hour. It’s romantic in that effortlessly cinematic way.
Best NYC Wedding Venues According to Taylor
Taylor had two very different venues in mind!
Manhatta is a favorite venue for clients who really want to "wow" their guests with a true New York City wedding. Sitting on the 60th floor, this venue has 360 floor to ceiling windows with views of Manhattan. The staff and food are both incredible and the space has multiple rooms and spaces allowing for a flexible guest count.
For a venue with a historic flair with lots of personality, I love The Center for Brooklyn History. The Othmer Library is the perfect setting for a moody and dreamy ceremony and the grand staircase down to the gallery for cocktail hour is the grand entrance photo opp all the guests will love.
My Favorite Intimate NYC Wedding Venues
Lena and Taylor both have an incredible eye for jaw-dropping events, and their venue choices are stunning. But as a vendor, I have a completely different perspective. My favorite thing about NYC weddings isn’t necessarily the “big” event venues (although they’re all fantastic), but the small, intimate spaces that let couples celebrate in the most New York way possible. These venues are all about ambiance, close friends, and a good drink.
The Brandy Library
The Brandy Library is a classy lounge designed for intimate parties. While they only accept reservations for groups of six or smaller, you can book a private event for up to seventy guests. This venue is everything I love about NYC in a single space, and you will not be disappointed with a wedding there!
The Arlo Rooftop SoHo
I mean, the title says it all. The Arlo Rooftop is the number one bar in SoHo with skyline views and incredible food. This venue can host up to 250 guests in its 3,000 square foot open-air terrace. Or, if you’re looking for something moodier, you can host your event in the indoor lounge! Same views, just with a different vibe.
Maison May
If you dream of a cozy, yet elegant ceremony and reception in the city, Maison May is for you. Every element of this venue is intentional and unique, ensuring you will have a one-of-a-kind celebration that your guests will always remember for its heart and grace.
Ainslie
Ainslie is a beautiful Italian restaurant in Brooklyn with a variety of spaces to host your wedding. You can have a larger party in the beer garden, opt for a comfortable reception in the living room, or invite your guests to the rooftop. No matter what you choose, your wedding will have that unmistakable NYC flair.
More Traditional Wedding Venues for Larger Weddings
If you want a larger wedding that still feels quintessentially New York, don’t worry, you still have plenty of options! These venues are unique and full of character while still having lots of space for more people.
The University Club of NY
The University Club is known as an architectural landmark, and for good reason. It’s truly one of the most beautiful and well-preserved buildings in the city. Stepping inside feels like stepping back in time, and your wedding will feel glamorous in all the best ways! Plus… the ceiling. I will always be obsessed with the ceiling. You’ll understand when you see it, I promise.
3 West Club
If you want your wedding to feel like old money, you need to check out 3 West Club. Some of the words that come to mind with this venue are classic, timeless, and elegant. With stunning views of the city, multiple rooms to host different styles of events, and historic architecture, your guests will never forget your wedding.
620 Loft and Garden
A rooftop garden. Do I need to say anything more than that? Seriously, the 620 Loft and Garden is a hidden gem with beautiful 360 degree views of the city and a manicured garden, right on Fifth Avenue. If you want all the best parts of the city while still feeling removed from the bustle, this is the venue for you.
The Rooftop of The Box House Hotel
Open by reservation only The Box Hotel Rooftop is the perfect place for a jaw-dropping NYC wedding. It’s got views, impeccable service, and is available year-round. This is one of the most exclusive venues in the city and is sure to make for an unforgettable evening.
Live Illustrations for Weddings & Events
If you’re planning a wedding in any of these incredible NYC wedding venues, I would love to work with you. Live illustrations are the perfect keepsake for guests who want to remember your wedding—and if you’re at any of these venues, they will definitely want to remember. Learn more about my live illustrations and contact me to start planning your interactive wedding reception!
