9 Unconventional Wedding Venues in New York City

With a rich history and ever-exciting future, New York City is widely recognized as one of the most dynamic cosmopolitan locations on the planet. For that reason, it’s also one of the world’s most romantic cities, with countless stunning locations that would be perfectly suited to a picturesque wedding. Because NYC is brimming with creative energy, it’s home to plenty of unique and unexpected venues and spaces. A list of such venues could frankly be miles long, but keep reading for our carefully curated list of nine beautifully unconventional wedding venues in NYC.

1. A breathtaking mansion in the heart of Greenwich Village

As we’ve mentioned, New York City has a long, rich history. This magical mansion and museum, built in the mid-19th century, presents the perfect opportunity to take advantage of that history in planning your wedding. As many as 125 guests can explore the ballroom — with 20-foot ceilings —parlor, dining room, glass gallery, outdoor deck, and other luxurious features of this home. The ballroom was designed by Stanford White, the same architect who created Grand Central Terminal, the Washington Square Arch, and other world-renowned landmarks.

2. A West Village penthouse with a 360-degree view

At the very top of this iconic 1920s building is a glorious penthouse with surrounding views of the city. The interior features lots of antique furniture and art, while the outdoor space is covered in leafy greenery. Invite as many as 100 guests to this sumptuous venue. As one reviewer commented: “From the spiral staircase, to the evocative art adorning the walls, to the terraces that offer 360-degree views of Manhattan, it really is an extraordinary place.” This hidden gem is by far one of the greatest unconventional wedding venues in NYC.

3. A breathtaking outdoor/indoor space with views of the city

Here’s another picturesque venue that boasts incredible views of NYC. The indoor space is also appealingly open and modern. As many as several hundred guests can attend your wedding here. Plus, proceeds from your rental will help to provide free, nutritious meals to those who are unable to shop or cook for themselves.

4. An old-school yet elegant Brooklyn loft and event space

Head to Brooklyn to host your wedding in one of NYC’s iconic loft spaces. The vibe will be distinctive for sure: as the hosts describe, it “makes the perfect location for high-end events that want a down-to-earth feel.” That combination of industrial grit and elegance makes lofts like this one among the most appealing unconventional wedding venues in NYC. Not to mention that your wedding photos will be ultra-stylish!

5. A gorgeous and swanky Williamsburg bar and event space

Also in Brooklyn, this elegant bar and restaurant is located in Williamsburg, a neighborhood known for its hip and trendy scene. The old-fashioned, richly decorated bar is a feast for the eyes, while the rest of the space is equally warm and welcoming. The space measures 2,000 square feet, with a total seated capacity of up to 100 guests. It would be ideal for a lovely and intimate small- to medium-sized wedding.

6. A posh penthouse lounge with awe-inspiring city views

In the heart of bustling midtown Manhattan, this incredibly lavish lounge sits on the 40th and 41st floors of a high-rise. Its stunning interiors were designed with themes of James Bond and Art Deco in mind, and it shows. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer a breathtaking view of the city skyline, a view that’s especially captivating after dark. There are several bars throughout the venue space, as well as outdoor space in the form of several luxurious terraces.

7. A geodesic dome multi-use space in Williamsburg

Here’s another Williamsburg gem! Notice that when you refuse to limit yourself to venues billed only as “wedding venues,” you find spaces like these: truly unique and magnificent! Your guests will be amazed when they gaze up at the intricate ceiling of this warmly colored geodesic dome, a mesmerizing yet inviting setting for this important gathering of friends and family. The space is also quite expansive, accommodating as many as 200 people.

8. An exceptional waterfront event venue in Long Island City

Don’t overlook yet another breathtaking element of New York City: its waterfronts. After all, it’s a city defined, historically and presently, by its coastal location. The fact that this venue is located in Long Island City, at the western tip of Queens, means you’ll have mind-blowing views of the Midtown skyline. The warehouse itself is a spacious, airy blank slate for whatever aesthetic you love best and, backed by views of the water, lends itself beautifully to a festive and romantic atmosphere.

9. A stunning restaurant located in Midtown

Consider hosting your wedding at a visually appealing restaurant like this one, which is designed to be inviting, as well as stylish. You can hold the ceremony in the main room, a cocktail hour in the bar area and mezzanine, and then a seated dinner in the main room. The location is decorated with art created by local artists, and the hosts describe the overall atmosphere as a “sophisticated bistro vibe.”

Your big day is an incredibly exciting and important occasion, so it’s crucial to ensure that you’re having it in a location that suits your unique tastes as a couple. This may not just be the standard banquet hall, hotel ballroom, or other generic event spaces that are marketed as “wedding venues.” Instead, you might approach this from a different angle,and consider a wide variety of event spaces. By broadening your options to include some of the most unconventional wedding venues in NYC, you’ll be able to create a wedding experience that you and your spouse will remember fondly for years to come.

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