Best Wedding Venues In New York

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February 2, 2025

Choosing the perfect wedding venue is the first exciting step in your wedding planning journey. With so many incredible options to consider in New York—vineyards, charming historic estates, elegant hotels, and beautiful country clubs—it can feel a bit overwhelming at first! As a wedding photographer in New England I’ve had the opportunity to visit many of the best wedding venues in New York, and I’m excited to share my favorites with you.

The first step is to determine your top priorities for your wedding day. Is stunning scenery a must-have for you?

I highly suggest looking at pictures. Start with the venue’s website, but also check photographers’ blogs for a full view of real weddings there. Pinterest and Google business profiles are great for more photos, including those from couples and guests.

Next, make sure to read reviews. Look on Google, WeddingWire, The Knot, and Facebook for feedback from past couples—more 5-star reviews are always a good sign!

Here are a few of my favorite to shoot at in New York


1. Best View Barn – Munnsville, NY

This barn is set on 30 gorgeous acres with amazing views of the hills and windmills in Madison County, right in the heart of Central New York. Built back in the 1940s, the Kiehn family has completely transformed it into a stunning event space—keeping its old charm while adding all the modern touches you’d want. With wide-open views, tons of space, high ceilings, and a huge 1,280-square-foot deck, it’s an incredible spot for any event.

2. Colloca Estate Winery – Sterling, NY

This unique spot has 900 feet of untouched waterfront right on Little Sodus Bay, a hidden gem off the lake. The million-dollar views alone will show you why Colloca Estate Winery has become one of the most popular wedding venues in New York State—it’s absolutely stunning.

3. Emerson Park Pavillion – Auburn, NY

The pavilion sits right on the shores of Owasco Lake and even has a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s a one-of-a-kind venue that offers all-inclusive wedding packages, plus bar and catering services handled by A&M Catering to make planning your event a breeze.

4. The Lookout at Hope Lake – Cortland, NY

Tucked away in the stunning natural beauty of Greek Peak Mountain Resort, The Lookout is the perfect spot for your special day. With breathtaking panoramic views, it sets the stage for an unforgettable wedding ceremony and reception. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a big celebration, the versatile spaces at The Lookout make sure every detail is just right.

5. Marriot Syracuse Downtown – Syracuse, NY

With room for up to 600 guests, we’ve got the perfect space for your big day! The Grand Ballroom is truly breathtaking, with towering floor-to-ceiling windows, elegant balconies, a hand-painted sky-inspired ceiling, and original hand-laid wood floors that add to its charm. If you’re looking for something with that same historic feel but a bit more intimate, the Persian Terrace is a great option. With its classic columns, arched windows and doorways, and stunning original decor from 1924, it’s full of character and timeless beauty.

6. The Lincoln Loft – Watertown, NY

The Lincoln Loft is the perfect blank canvas for creating a wedding or event that’s uniquely yours. With all the rentals and décor included, couples can transform this classic, timeless space into their dream venue. It’s a place where we can really get creative and bring your wedding vision to life, easily adapting to your style, colors, and vibe.

7. The Sinclair of Skaneateles – Skaneateles, NY

An unforgettable experience in our amazing setting. Located in the historic old Sinclair Chair Factory, built in 1871 on Skaneateles Creek, we offer stunning views and a deep appreciation for the building’s history. Our goal is to provide a unique space where you can make memories that last a lifetime. With all-day access, you’ll be the only event happening here that day, so we can give you our full attention. Plus, we’re just 1.9 miles from the heart of Skaneateles village!

8. SKY Armory – Syracuse, NY

Since they’re planners at heart, they’re approach to a unique venue is nothing like the typical banquet hall. All about customizing the event to fit your vision. As Nicole likes to say, ‘We’ve fixed all the things we didn’t like about other venues.’ When you book with SKY Armory, you get an event planner as your partner in every detail. Our focus is on amazing service, homemade food, top-notch wines (served in the right glasses!), craft beers, decor, and everything else you might need to make your event perfect.

9. Tailwater Lodge – Altmar, NY

Tailwater Lodge gives you a totally all-inclusive experience where you and your loved ones can come together to celebrate your big day. Start with a private rehearsal dinner, then raise a glass at the Tailwater Bar. Get ready for the festivities in a gorgeous suite before saying your vows in a stunning spot overlooking the Salmon River. It’s a celebration full of style, comfort, amazing food, top-tier service, and unforgettable memories. And when the night’s over, your guests can head to upscale accommodations just steps away.

10. The Lodge in Skaneateles – Skaneateles, NY

Your wedding should be one to remember, and The Lodge is the ideal spot to make that happen. With its secluded location and rustic charm, it’s the perfect backdrop for your dream day. Plus, our coordinator will be there every step of the way to help you plan the perfect celebration!

11. Timberbanks – Baldwinsville, NY

This spacious ballroom can accommodate up to 330 guests, featuring 22-foot ceilings framed with timber beams, fireplaces at each end, and a private deck that overlooks the 18th hole! With stunning chandeliers and a beautiful wooden dance floor, our Grand Ballroom creates the perfect, elegant, and romantic setting for the wedding of your dreams.

12. Traditions at the Links – East Syracuse, NY

At Traditions, you’ll team up with our talented, passionate crew to bring your dream event to life. We offer beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces that are the perfect backdrop for life’s biggest moments—or we can even bring the celebration to you! Give us a call or shoot us an email to set up a time to chat and explore all the options for your perfect party.

13. Turning Stone Casino – Verona, NY

Whether it’s at The Shenandoah Clubhouse on their championship golf course, an outdoor ceremony on The Great Lawn at The Lodge (winner of the Forbes Travel Guide Four Star Award and AAA Four Diamond Award), or one of there other amazing venues, Turning Stone has the perfect spot and wedding packages for any size or style of celebration you’ve dreamed of.

14. Windridge Estate – Cazenovia, NY

With its blend of classic New England architecture and the simple elegance of a countryside estate, our 80-acre property is the perfect place to create beautiful memories together.

15. Hartlot Happening – Elbridge, NY

Hartlot Happening is a historic industrial property turned wedding and events venue, located in the beautiful Finger Lakes region of Central New York. Just five minutes from Skaneateles, it’s built on the former site of a 19th-century commercial beanery. The property features stunning original architecture, including rare concrete board-formed buildings, complemented by modern steel and glass additions that highlight its rich history. With both indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s a versatile venue for all kinds of celebrations and gatherings.

Let’s create magic together! Whether it’s the iconic skyline, a hidden gem in the city, or a stunning rooftop at sunset, shooting with you at an amazing venue in NY will be nothing short of unforgettable. I can’t wait to bring your vision to life!

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I noticed a trend where couples were captured in beautifully staged, yet somewhat impersonal, poses. It struck me that amidst the carefully choreographed scenes, the genuine, authentic moments—the laughter, the quiet exchanges, the unscripted emotions—were often lost. This realization served as a turning point for me. I made a conscious decision to step away from the conventional, cookie-cutter approach and embark on a mission to redefine wedding photography.

Hey. I'm Grace!