When Will Wedding Venues Open In New York?

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many wedding plans, with couples, venues, and vendors all facing uncertainty. Wedding venues in New York have had to adapt to various restrictions and guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As of March 15, 2021, wedding receptions were allowed to resume in New York with several limitations in place. Venues could operate at 50% capacity, with a maximum of 150 people per event, and all attendees were required to undergo COVID-19 testing prior to the event. Social distancing, mask-wearing, and contact tracing measures were also implemented. These restrictions presented unique challenges for couples planning their special day, and many had to make difficult decisions about postponement or elopement. Wedding insurance also became a popular consideration to protect against unforeseen cancellations or postponements due to the pandemic.

Outdoor wedding venues in New York

The Boathouse, Central Park

The Boathouse, nestled in Central Park, offers a romantic setting with indigenous birds and butterflies. The historic building provides a unique backdrop for celebrations, accommodating up to 230 guests. They offer comprehensive packages, including buffet options, hors d'oeuvres, bar services, and more.

Swan Club on the Harbor

Swan Club on the Harbor is a Gold Coast landmark that has been reimagined for the 21st century. It offers panoramic waterfront views, exceptional cuisine, and personalised services. The venue can accommodate up to 150-325 guests for a seated ceremony and up to 720 for a cocktail-style event.

The Mansion at Glen Cove

The Mansion at Glen Cove, located in Glen Cove, New York, is a Georgian estate that exudes elegance and luxury. It offers both indoor and outdoor spaces for celebrations, including a winding driveway and glorious gardens.

The Sterling

The Sterling, located in Akron, New York, is a brand-new wedding venue set within the grounds of Arrowhead Golf Club. It offers seven unique areas to host memorable celebrations, blending rustic charm with modern elegance.

NYIT de Seversky Mansion

NYIT de Seversky Mansion, situated on Long Island's historic Gold Coast, is an elegant venue built in 1918. It boasts a classically romantic setting with experienced event specialists to ensure a seamless celebration. The venue can accommodate up to 150 guests.

Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park

Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion, nestled in the Finger Lakes region, offers a picturesque backdrop for weddings. The 50-acre property, originally a summer home in the late 1800s, features lush gardens and a historic mansion for intimate celebrations.

The Timberlodge at Arrowhead

The Timberlodge at Arrowhead, located in Akron, New York, is a rustic and charming barn and farm wedding venue. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding nature and provides a serene atmosphere for celebrations. The venue includes both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Cortlandt Colonial Manor

Cortlandt Colonial Manor, a family-owned venue in Westchester, New York, specialises in creating elegant and memorable weddings. They strive to coordinate an event that reflects the couple's vision, offering both indoor and outdoor spaces.

The Rainbow Room

The Rainbow Room, located on the 65th floor of Rockefeller Center, is an iconic venue with a revolving dance floor and stunning views. It features a domed ceiling, crystal chandeliers, and crystal curtains, creating a magical atmosphere. The space can accommodate up to 300 guests.

The Yale Club of New York City

The Yale Club, located in Midtown Manhattan, offers a unique and elegant setting for grand celebrations. The Grand Ballroom, with its soaring ceilings and ornate details, can accommodate up to 260 guests. Additionally, the Main Lounge provides a beautiful setting for more intimate gatherings.

Pier Sixty Collection

Pier Sixty, Manhattan's largest waterfront event venue, boasts 20,000 square feet of space and accommodates up to 1,650 guests. It features a spacious glass-enclosed terrace, private suites, and flexible breakout spaces. Their wedding experts provide personalised services to ensure a flawless celebration.

The Burden Kahn Mansions

The Burden Kahn Mansion, a historic landmark in New York City, dates back to 1918. The venue features a grand ballroom, a banquet hall, soaring ceilings, marble walls, and elegant décor, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. It can accommodate up to 250 guests.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Brooklyn Botanic Garden spans 52 acres and offers a tranquil and picturesque setting for weddings. The Palm House can accommodate up to 250 guests, while the Atrium provides a more intimate space for 125 people. The lush gardens and outdoor terraces create a magical backdrop for celebrations.

The Prospect Park Boathouse

The Prospect Park Boathouse, a historic venue in Brooklyn, offers gorgeous views of the Lullwater and the bridge. It features French doors, vintage décor, and a neutral colour palette, creating a charming atmosphere. The venue can accommodate up to 150 guests for a seated dinner or 225 for a cocktail-style reception.

These venues provide a glimpse into the diverse range of outdoor wedding venues available in New York. Each venue offers its own unique features, amenities, and settings to create unforgettable celebrations.

Restaurant wedding venues in New York

New York City is one of the most beautiful cities in the world to tie the knot. Its vibrant atmosphere offers a variety of unique and stunning venues for weddings. From Central Park and the Brooklyn Bridge to luxurious rooftop terraces and historic landmarks, couples can indulge in some of the world's best cuisine, music, and entertainment to create an unforgettable wedding experience in the Big Apple.

The View at The Battery

The View at Battery Park is a luxurious restaurant venue that hosts weddings and other milestone events. This waterfront property, located on the southern tip of Manhattan, offers sweeping harbor views and can accommodate both indoor and outdoor celebrations.

Papillon Bistro & Bar

Papillon Bistro & Bar is a charming venue with the atmosphere of a bustling Midtown Manhattan bistro. Just steps from Central Park and the Museum of Modern Art, it offers an authentic New York experience for your special day.

Mezcali

Mezcali is a mezcal and tequila bar in New York City, founded by two best friends from South California. This vibrant eatery offers a unique setting for weddings, with a slice of Californian beauty in the heart of the Big Apple.

Bella Union Bar

Bella Union Bar is an upscale, American-style saloon restaurant and wedding venue in New York City. With a rich Western charm, it provides a one-of-a-kind experience for couples looking to infuse a dash of the Wild West into their celebration.

The Ivory Peacock

The Ivory Peacock is an elegantly designed neighborhood cocktail bar and wedding venue in the Nomad area of New York City. With a flexible and stylish space, it aims to create the perfect atmosphere for couples celebrating their big day.

The Malt House FiDi

The Malt House FiDi, located in the Financial District of New York, boasts over three levels with a spacious 7,000-square-foot bar. It offers a variety of craft beers, cocktails, and an extensive American menu, making it an ideal spot for wedding receptions of all sizes.

Paul's on Times Square

Paul's on Times Square is a restaurant wedding venue that provides an all-inclusive culinary experience led by Chef Dino Redzic. With the dazzling lights of Times Square as your backdrop, this venue offers a magical setting for your special day.

Bottino

Bottino is a beautiful patio venue located in New York, covered from spring to fall and fully enclosed for winter celebrations. It features an array of charming event spaces, making it perfect for couples seeking an elegant outdoor wedding experience.

The Tippler

The Tippler is a groovy cocktail destination steeped in New York City's rich history. Located in the cellar below the Chelsea Market, it offers a vintage feel with reclaimed water tanks, subway tiles, and other unique design elements.

Manhatta

Perched sixty floors up, Manhatta is a bright, open space with wraparound windows offering stunning views of Manhattan. This flexible venue, inspired by the spirit of New York, is ideal for couples seeking a modern and airy atmosphere for their wedding celebrations.

These are just a few examples of the diverse and exciting restaurant wedding venues that New York City has to offer. Each venue offers its own unique charm, catering to different styles, budgets, and guest capacities. Whether you're looking for a rustic bistro feel, a sophisticated rooftop bar, or a charming patio setting, New York City has something to make your wedding day unforgettable.

Intimate wedding venues in New York

Wedding venues in New York can open, and there are plenty of options for intimate weddings.

If you're looking for a small, intimate wedding venue in New York, you're in luck! The city has a variety of unique and beautiful spaces that can accommodate 50 or fewer guests. Here are some options to consider:

• The Ravel Hotel – a luxurious, elegant hotel in Long Island City with intricate designs and event spaces across ten floors.
• Midtown Loft & Terrace – a stylish, urban retreat in Manhattan with stunning views of the Empire State Building.
• Papillon Bistro & Bar – a charming bistro in Midtown Manhattan with the atmosphere of a bustling old-time bistro.
• City Cruises – a unique venue offering intimate ceremonies and grand receptions on the Hudson and East Rivers, with iconic NYC views.
• 620 Loft & Garden – a tranquil rooftop venue overlooking Fifth Avenue, accommodating up to 165 guests.
• The William Vale – a soaring 23-story hotel in Brooklyn's Williamsburg with a rooftop offering breathtaking views.
• The Box House Hotel – an upscale, intimate rooftop venue in Brooklyn with original factory details and modern touches.
• The New York Botanical Garden – a scenic, year-round venue recognised as a National Historic Landmark, with pristine gardens and elegant event spaces.
• The Lake House on Canandaigua – a small, intimate wedding venue in New York with a capacity of 50 or fewer guests.

When planning your intimate wedding in New York, consider your preferred location, guest count, and budget. These venues offer a range of indoor and outdoor options, so you can find the perfect setting for your special day.

For a small wedding, you may also want to consider locations near Penn Station, Soho, Garment District, and the Theater District, as well as Brooklyn, especially Williamsburg, and Astoria in Queens. These areas offer many unique and quirky spots for an unforgettable celebration.

Large wedding venues in New York

Wedding venues in New York City are allowed to operate at 100% capacity, with no social distancing requirements. However, guests are required to wear masks at all times, except when seated and eating or drinking.

Tribeca Rooftop

Tribeca Rooftop is a 15,000-square-foot event space with a giant rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city and the Hudson River. It can accommodate up to 720 guests for a cocktail reception or 150-325 guests for a seated ceremony. The venue features high ceilings, a pinspot lighting system, and an enormous dance floor.

The Pierre, A Taj Hotel

The Pierre Hotel, located across from Central Park, offers over 20,000 sq ft of wedding space, including the Cotillion Room, the Garden Foyer, and the Grand Ballroom. It can host up to 350 seated or 500 standing guests in the Cotillion Room, 150 seated or 400 standing in the Garden Foyer, and 700 seated guests in the Grand Ballroom.

The St. Regis New York

The St. Regis New York, a historic 5-star hotel in Midtown Manhattan, offers 13 event spaces, including the Roof Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 220 guests. The largest space can hold up to 250 individuals, while smaller, more intimate spaces are also available.

620 Loft & Garden

620 Loft & Garden is a year-round rooftop venue overlooking St. Patrick's Cathedral, with gardens, sparkling pools, and a gorgeous fountain. It can accommodate up to 165 individuals and offers the option of setting up a tent for protection from bad weather.

The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel

The Beekman, located in Lower Manhattan, offers indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings, including a nine-story atrium and a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere. It can accommodate up to 90 people for a wedding ceremony or reception.

The Plaza

The Plaza, one of America's most celebrated hotels, features a luxurious interior that has been featured in many movies. It can accommodate 500 individuals for a seated celebration and offers spaces such as a gorgeous canopy, the Grand Ballroom, and the Terrace Room.

The Yale Club of New York City

The Yale Club, located in Midtown Manhattan, boasts a stunning Grand Ballroom with a capacity of 260 guests, making it ideal for grand celebrations. The space features soaring ceilings, ornate architectural details, and exquisite chandeliers. The Main Lounge is also available for more intimate gatherings.

Aspire at One World Observatory

Aspire at One World Observatory, located on the 102nd level of One World Trade Centre, offers panoramic skyline views and 9,000 square feet of event space. It can accommodate 250-350 guests and offers packages that include a wedding suite, event planning, lighting, sound, catering, and more.

The Rainbow Room

The Rainbow Room, located on the 65th floor of Rockefeller Center, features a revolving dance floor, a domed ceiling, crystal chandeliers, and stunning views of New York City. It can accommodate up to 300 individuals and offers a variety of menu choices and photo opportunities.

The New York Public Library

The New York Public Library, an iconic landmark on Fifth Avenue, offers multiple event spaces, including the Celeste Bartos Forum and the McGraw Rotunda, accommodating 425 and 200 seated guests, respectively. The library provides a grand and luxurious setting for couples seeking a unique and elegant wedding venue.

Mandarin Oriental

Mandarin Oriental, located in Columbus Circle, offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and can easily accommodate up to 900 guests for a standing format or 550 guests for a seated event. The modern design with large windows makes it easy to customize the space.

Midtown Loft & Terrace

Midtown Loft & Terrace, located on 5th Avenue, offers 9,400 square feet of event space, including the Midtown Loft and the Midtown Terrace. The Loft accommodates up to 300 guests for a cocktail hour or 180 for a seated meal, while the Terrace can host up to 150 guests for an open-air ceremony.

The Burden Kahn Mansion

The Burden Kahn Mansion, a historic landmark in New York City, features a grand ballroom, a banquet hall, and elegant decor elements such as soaring ceilings, marbled walls, and a grand staircase. It can accommodate up to 250 guests and offers professional assistance for a stress-free wedding experience.

Industrial wedding venues in New York

Wedding venues in New York are allowed to operate, and the state even offers an online service to help couples apply for a marriage license.

Now, if you're looking for industrial wedding venues in New York, you're in luck! Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Tribeca Rooftop

This venue is located in the trendy Tribeca neighbourhood of Lower Manhattan. It offers a unique industrial space in a former printing press building, with stunning views of the city and the Hudson River. Tribeca Rooftop can accommodate up to 720 guests for a cocktail reception or 150-325 guests for a seated ceremony. The venue features a giant rooftop terrace, a 15,000-square-foot event space, and a beautiful glass-enclosed atrium. High ceilings, a pinspot lighting system, and an enormous dance floor add to the allure of this location.

26 Bridge

26 Bridge is a former metal factory located in Brooklyn that has been transformed into a stunning event space. The venue boasts tall ceilings with steel beams, high windows, and an abundance of original exposed brick, creating the quintessential industrial aesthetic. The space is ideal for hanging floral installations, and the steel beams provide a unique touch. With a capacity of up to 250 seated guests or 375 for a standing reception, 26 Bridge is a versatile choice.

Liberty Warehouse

Liberty Warehouse is a giant, modernised warehouse located in Red Hook, Brooklyn. This waterfront venue offers breathtaking views of the New York Harbour, the Statue of Liberty, and the Verrazano Bridge. With a capacity of up to 1000 guests, it is one of the largest venues on our list. Liberty Warehouse provides flexibility for indoor or outdoor events, with ample natural light flooding through its giant windows.

Brooklyn Winery

Brooklyn Winery, situated in Williamsburg, offers a bright atrium with a peaked glass ceiling, creating an intimate and unique ceremony space. While it may not be the largest venue, it certainly makes an impression. In addition to its cool cocktail bar, Brooklyn Winery also provides delicious wine, crafted on-site.

The Green Building

The Green Building, also in Brooklyn, is a massive industrial space that can be transformed to suit any wedding style. This raw, versatile venue features indoor and outdoor areas, including a gorgeous courtyard. The indoor space showcases exposed brick walls, polished concrete floors, and an abundance of natural light. The Green Building can accommodate up to 250 guests for a seated dinner, making it perfect for couples seeking an intimate yet sophisticated celebration.

Greenpoint Loft

The Greenpoint Loft, located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is a large, repurposed rope factory with beautiful wooden beams and an abundance of windows. The main room features a two-story wooden ceiling, allowing for a mezzanine level that overlooks the space. Additionally, the venue boasts a small but amazing rooftop with sweeping city views.

Dumbo Loft

Dumbo Loft is nestled in the heart of one of Brooklyn's most photogenic areas, just blocks away from the water. This venue offers an intimate setting for couples seeking a unique, industrial-chic ambiance. The space features exposed brick walls, polished concrete floors, and natural light, creating a stylish and versatile atmosphere.

Midtown Loft & Terrace

Midtown Loft & Terrace is situated on 5th Avenue in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. This venue captures the essence of New York City with its 360-degree views of the cityscape. The indoor area is bright and white, providing an excellent backdrop for photographs. With a capacity of up to 300 guests for a cocktail hour or 180 for a seated meal, Midtown Loft & Terrace is a versatile choice.

Sunset Terrace at Chelsea Piers

Sunset Terrace at Chelsea Piers is a unique industrial venue built on a pier over the Hudson River. The walls are made entirely of windowed garage doors that open fully, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor spaces. As the name suggests, this venue is perfect for sunset ceremonies and receptions, with wide-open skies creating a magical atmosphere.

Wythe Hotel

Wythe Hotel, located in Brooklyn, offers multiple event spaces, including classic red brick rooms and an intimate penthouse with skyline views. This venue is perfect for couples seeking a luxurious and intimate setting for their special day.

The Foundry

The Foundry, a former factory in the heart of Williamsburg, offers a unique blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. It features red brick walls, an open-air urban garden, and four glass-enclosed loft suites with breathtaking views. The marriage of original brickwork, vaulted pine ceilings, edgy artwork, and bold city views creates a distinctively Brooklyn vibe.

These venues offer a range of options to suit different tastes and preferences. Each venue has its own distinct character and charm, so be sure to visit them in person to truly appreciate their allure!

Frequently asked questions