Best Wedding Venues In New York

Choosing the perfect wedding venue is an exciting first step in your wedding planning. New York has many great options like vineyards, historic estates, elegant hotels, and country clubs. It can feel a little overwhelming at first!

As a wedding photographer in New England, I’ve visited many top wedding venues in New York. I’m excited to share some of my favorites with you.

Start by deciding what matters most for your wedding day. Do you want stunning views?

Look at lots of photos. Visit the venue’s website and check photographers’ blogs for real weddings there. Pinterest and Google business profiles also have many pictures from couples and guests.

Next, read reviews on Google, WeddingWire, The Knot, and Facebook. Many 5-star reviews are a good sign!

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

• Best View Barn
• Colloca Estate Winery
• Emerson Park Pavilion
• The Lookout at Hope Lake
• Marriot Syracuse Downtown
• The Lincoln Loft
• The Sinclair of Skaneateles
• SKY Armory
• Tailwater Lodge
• The Lodge in Skeaneateles
• Timberbanks
• Traditions at the Links
• Turning Stone Casino
• Windridge Estate
• Hartlot Happening

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1. Best View Barn – Munnsville, NY

Best View Barn in Munnsville, NY is a warm and rustic wedding venue. Set on peaceful farmland, it’s perfect for couples who want a relaxed, country-style wedding.

The barn has wooden beams, soft lights, and plenty of space for dining and dancing. The fields and hills around create beautiful spots for photos.

As a wedding photographer, I love the natural light and happy moments here. Best View Barn is great for couples who want a cozy and charming celebration.

If you want a rustic barn wedding near Munnsville, Best View Barn is a top pick.

2. Colloca Estate Winery – Sterling, NY

Colloca Estate Winery in Sterling, NY is a beautiful place to get married. Surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, it offers a warm and elegant setting for your special day.

The venue has both indoor and outdoor spaces. You can say your vows outside among the grapevines or celebrate inside the cozy tasting room.

As a wedding photographer, I love the soft light and lovely colors here. The vineyard views make every photo feel romantic and timeless.

If you want a wedding near Sterling with great views and charm, Colloca Estate Winery is a wonderful choice.

3. Emerson Park Pavillion – Auburn, NY

Emerson Park Pavilion in Auburn, NY is a charming outdoor wedding venue located by the scenic Owasco Lake. This pavilion offers a relaxed, natural setting perfect for couples who want a simple and beautiful lakeside wedding.

The open-air pavilion lets in fresh air and natural light, while the surrounding park provides lovely spots for photos. It’s ideal for ceremonies and smaller receptions with a peaceful, laid-back vibe.

As a wedding photographer, I enjoy capturing the natural beauty and genuine moments that happen here. Emerson Park Pavilion is perfect for couples who want a wedding close to nature and full of heartfelt memories.

If you want a beautiful, easy-going venue near Auburn’s lake, Emerson Park Pavilion is a great choice.

4. The Lookout at Hope Lake – Cortland, NY

The Lookout at Hope Lake is a stunning wedding venue perched on a mountaintop in Cortland, NY. With breathtaking views of Hope Lake and the surrounding mountains, it offers a perfect mix of nature and elegance for your special day.

The venue features rustic yet modern spaces with large windows that fill the rooms with natural light. Outdoor ceremony spots overlook the lake, creating a peaceful and memorable backdrop.

As a wedding photographer, I love the warm light and beautiful scenery that make every photo feel magical. The Lookout is ideal for couples who want a scenic, intimate, and unforgettable wedding experience.

If you want a wedding surrounded by nature’s beauty in Cortland, The Lookout at Hope Lake is a perfect choice.

5. Marriot Syracuse Downtown – Syracuse, NY

Marriott Syracuse Downtown is a stylish wedding venue in the heart of Syracuse, NY. This historic hotel blends classic charm with modern amenities to create a perfect setting for your special day.

With elegant ballrooms, high ceilings, and large windows, the space feels bright and inviting. The hotel offers flexible event spaces that work well for both intimate gatherings and large celebrations.

As a wedding photographer, I love how the natural light and timeless design make every photo look elegant and fresh. The downtown location also adds a vibrant city vibe to your wedding day.

If you want a mix of history, style, and convenience in Syracuse, Marriott Syracuse Downtown is a fantastic choice for your wedding.

6. The Lincoln Loft – Watertown, NY

The Lincoln Loft in Watertown, NY is a bright and modern wedding venue. It has high ceilings, big windows, and exposed brick walls that make the space warm and inviting.

This venue works well for both small and large weddings. Its open layout lets you add your own style and make the day your own.

As a wedding photographer, I love the natural light and the mix of modern and historic details. It’s a great place to capture beautiful, timeless photos.

If you want a modern and charming spot for your wedding in Watertown, The Lincoln Loft is a top choice.

7. The Sinclair of Skaneateles – Skaneateles, NY

The Sinclair of Skaneateles is a beautiful wedding venue by the lake. Just steps from Skaneateles Lake, it offers both indoor and outdoor spaces with classic style and modern touches.

The bright, open rooms have large windows that let in lots of natural light. The outdoor terrace is great for ceremonies or cocktail hours, with views that make every moment special.

As a wedding photographer, I love capturing the timeless beauty and happy moments at The Sinclair. Its mix of elegant design and natural views makes it a perfect choice for couples who want a memorable lakefront wedding.

If you want a stylish and scenic venue in Skaneateles, The Sinclair is a wonderful place to say “I do.”

8. SKY Armory – Syracuse, NY

SKY Armory in Syracuse, NY is a modern, urban wedding venue with a cool, industrial-chic vibe. Located in the heart of downtown, this space is perfect for couples who want a city-style celebration that’s sleek, stylish, and one-of-a-kind.

With multiple loft-style event spaces, SKY Armory gives you options to match your guest list and vision. High ceilings, exposed brick, and large windows create a clean, bright look that works with any theme—from modern minimal to bold and eclectic.

As a wedding photographer, I love the dramatic lighting, sharp lines, and city energy this venue brings. The downtown location also offers great backdrops for portraits—think rooftops, alleys, and glowing street lights.

If you’re planning a wedding that’s modern, customizable, and full of personality, SKY Armory is a standout venue in Central New York.

9. Tailwater Lodge – Altmar, NY

Tailwater Lodge in Altmar, NY is a one-of-a-kind wedding venue that blends rustic charm with modern comfort. Once a schoolhouse, this beautifully restored space now offers warm wood accents, high ceilings, and cozy lodge vibes—all surrounded by the natural beauty of upstate New York.

With indoor and outdoor ceremony options, spacious guest rooms, and on-site dining, it’s the perfect place for couples who want a full weekend wedding experience. The outdoor spaces are lush and peaceful, while the interior gives off that relaxed, elegant feel.

As a wedding photographer, I love how the soft lighting and rich textures make every photo feel timeless. From riverside portraits to dancing in the lodge, Tailwater is made for unforgettable moments.

If you’re dreaming of a laid-back, stylish wedding in the woods with everything in one place, Tailwater Lodge delivers.

10. The Lodge in Skaneateles – Skaneateles, NY

The Lodge in Skaneateles, NY is a charming and elegant wedding venue surrounded by natural beauty. Located just minutes from the lake, this rustic-modern space offers a cozy yet upscale feel for your big day.

The venue features exposed beams, warm wood details, and a bright, open layout that works beautifully for both ceremonies and receptions. Outside, there’s a private patio and lush greenery that create a perfect backdrop for wedding photos.

As a wedding photographer, I love the soft light, rich textures, and laid-back elegance of The Lodge. Every corner feels warm and inviting—ideal for couples who want a relaxed day full of personal touches and real moments.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding in Skaneateles that blends comfort, style, and nature, The Lodge is a top pick for a day you’ll never forget.

11. Timberbanks – Baldwinsville, NY

Timber Banks in Baldwinsville, NY is a scenic wedding venue along the Seneca River. With views of the water and a beautiful golf course, it’s a peaceful and elegant place to say “I do.”

The bright, open ballroom has high ceilings and large windows that let in lots of natural light. There’s also a lovely outdoor space for ceremonies, perfect for warm-weather weddings.

As a wedding photographer, I love the wide-open greens, golden hour light, and stylish details. Every part of the day looks great in photos, from the riverside to the dance floor.

If you’re looking for a venue near Syracuse with natural beauty, modern style, and helpful staff, Timber Banks is a great choice for your big day.

12. Traditions at the Links – East Syracuse, NY

Traditions at the Links in East Syracuse, NY is a classic and elegant wedding venue known for its beautiful golf course views, warm hospitality, and timeless charm. With both indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s a perfect setting for couples who want a relaxed yet refined wedding day.

The ballroom features high ceilings, large windows, and plenty of natural light, creating a bright and welcoming space for your reception. The outdoor ceremony space overlooks the greens, making it ideal for romantic vows surrounded by nature.

As a wedding photographer, I love shooting at Traditions at the Links. The sunsets over the course are stunning, and the venue’s layout makes for a smooth, stress-free timeline. From golden hour portraits to fun dance floor moments, it’s a dream location for capturing real, joyful memories.

If you’re planning a wedding in Central New York, Traditions at the Links offers great service, scenic views, and a classic setting that never goes out of style.

13. Turning Stone Casino – Verona, NY

Turning Stone Casino in Verona, NY is a luxury wedding venue that blends modern elegance with five-star service. With several event spaces to choose from—including grand ballrooms, chic lounges, and scenic outdoor areas—this venue is perfect for couples looking for a stylish, all-in-one wedding experience.

From spa services and fine dining to on-site accommodations for your guests, Turning Stone offers everything you need in one location. It’s ideal for both large celebrations and intimate weddings, with flexible options to match your style and vision.

As a wedding photographer, I love the variety this venue offers. The natural light in the ballrooms, the clean architectural lines, and the dramatic indoor and outdoor backdrops make every photo feel elevated and timeless.

Turning Stone Casino is perfect for couples who want a polished, high-end wedding day without sacrificing convenience or comfort. It’s one of Central New York’s most versatile and luxurious wedding venues.

14. Windridge Estate – Cazenovia, NY

Windridge Estate in Cazenovia, NY is a breathtaking wedding venue that combines classic elegance with natural beauty. Set on rolling hills with wide open skies, this historic estate offers the perfect backdrop for a romantic, timeless wedding day.

The venue features a beautiful mansion, manicured lawns, and plenty of space for both indoor and outdoor celebrations. Whether you’re planning a formal affair or a relaxed garden party, Windridge Estate provides the flexibility and charm to bring your vision to life.

As a wedding photographer, I love the soft light, open landscapes, and timeless feel of this venue. From golden hour portraits in the fields to joyful moments under the tent or inside the elegant reception space, every part of the day is full of stunning photo opportunities.

Windridge Estate is ideal for couples who want a scenic, memorable wedding in Central New York—where every detail feels elegant, personal, and true to them.

15. Hartlot Happening – Elbridge, NY

The Hartlot Happening is a beautiful wedding venue in Elbridge with a bright white barn and open fields. It has a warm, relaxed feel with string lights and plenty of space to enjoy the day.

As a wedding photographer, this venue is a dream. The natural light is perfect for photos all day long. The simple, clean spaces let me capture every special detail. There’s lots of room for both quiet moments and big celebrations. This venue feels cozy and full of heart—the perfect place to tell your wedding story.

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