Small Wedding Venue Ideas for NYC
New York City is the ultimate destination for couples looking to tie the knot in an intimate, memorable setting. From the iconic rooftops of Manhattan to hidden gardens, chic boutique hotels, and stunning art galleries, small wedding venues in NYC offer unique spaces that make every celebration special.
Whether you’re after a serene courtyard ceremony, a stylish hotel rooftop, or a sleek courthouse wedding, you can easily craft an event that’s as personal as it is unforgettable. And with a range of culinary options—ranging from delicious street food to world-renowned chefs—your guests will enjoy a feast as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Ready to explore the city’s one-of-a-kind venues? Let’s dive in!
This guide shares:
- Intimate wedding ceremony locations and reception venue suggestions for all budgets
- Small wedding venues listed by type, neighborhood and features
- Tips on planning a small or micro wedding in NYC
- An interactive map of NYC with small venues and ceremony locations marked
Table of Contents: Small Wedding Venues NYC
- What Size Small Wedding Venue do You Need?
- Questions to Ask Small Wedding Venues
- What are the Ceremony Location Fees for Small Wedding Venues in NYC
- Where are the Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC?
- Map of Small Wedding Venues in NYC
- Find Small Wedding Venues by Type and Location
- The Most Iconic Small Weddings Venues in NYC
- The Best Views for Intimate Weddings in NYC
- The Best Indoor Places
- The Top Neighborhoods For Small Wedding Venues in NYC
- The Best Places for Small Weddings in Queens
- More Top Places for Small Weddings in NYC
Not sure where to start? Book a free consult call!
What Size Small Wedding Venue in NYC?
What one defines as “small, intimate or micro wedding” will vary depending on who you ask! For my purposes, I tend to think of small wedding venues as falling into 3 categories based on guest count.
Small Wedding Venues for 10 Guests
Many venues and restaurant private dining spaces can accommodate 10 guests for your elopement celebration or small wedding reception. You will have the most options for a dinner or lunch with a guest count this size. However, your options for dancing or other traditional wedding events will be impossible or limited. Of course, that may be the idea! A few venues come to mind, Family Meal at Blue Hill , their garden room accommodates up to 14 guests or the Chef’s Table at Il Buco. If privacy is less of a concern, most restaurants will be able to accommodate that guest count in their main dining rooms.
Small Wedding Venues for 20-25 Guests
In this range you will require a private room or space for your reception. There are some that will have enough space for dancing, but many will be dining only capacity. For dinner and dancing, consider Zou Zou’s or Freeman’s or a hotel space. I often recommend L’Artusi Supper Club, City Vineyard, Milk and Roses, Leuca or Little Owl Townhouse in this capacity range.
Small Wedding Venues for 50 Guests
With this guest count and higher (I consider up to 80 to still be an “intimate” wedding) you are looking at a restaurant buyout, unless it is a larger restaurant with multiple dining rooms or a dedicated event space is available. You’ll need more space if you want to include dancing in addition to a seated meal. You’ll need less space for cocktail style party. If dancing isn’t an option at the event, plan a fun after party! Just make sure it is not too far away. I’d look at Locande Verde, One if By Land, Two if By Sea, American Cut, 620/620 Loft and Gardens, Sistina, The Skylark and many more!
Jump to the Full List Below
Questions to Ask Small Wedding Venues
In addition to menus, capacity limits and costs, you will want to ask additional questions to ensure the venue will be ideal for your wedding. By asking these questions, you’ll be able to gauge the venue’s experience and determine whether it meets your needs, ensuring your wedding day goes as smoothly as possible. Plus, understanding their offerings will help you make an informed decision about how to supplement their services if necessary (such as hiring your own coordinator or handling decor).
- How often do you host weddings?
- Understand the venue’s experience with weddings to gauge how smooth things might go.
- Do you provide an event coordinator?
- Ask if there’s a coordinator on-site, or if you need to hire your own for extra help.
- Will the coordinator assist with breakdown and decor removal?
- Confirm if they’ll help with cleanup at the end of the event.
- Do you offer a rain backup plan for outdoor ceremonies?
- Ensure there’s an indoor option if weather doesn’t cooperate.
- What time can we arrive to set up?
- Clarify the earliest time you can access the venue for setup.
- What’s included in terms of decor and flowers?
- Ask what the venue provides and what you’ll need to arrange on your own.
- Is there a coat check available?
- Check if there’s a coat check for guests, especially for winter or formal events.
- Are there any additional charges or restrictions?
- Inquire about extra fees for services like coordinators, decor, or cleanup.
- When can we book?
- Some of the best small wedding venues may not be available to book very far in advance. Weekday evenings can be less competitive, but it will depend on the time of year.
Let’s make your small wedding unforgettable. Contact me!
What are the Ceremony Location Fees for Small Wedding Venues in NYC?
In deciding which place is the best for your intimate wedding ceremony in NYC, certainly you will need to consider the fees and permits required. Undeniably, the sky is the limit in terms of the investment you can make. After all, this is New York City! However, there are many amazing places to get married in NYC for free or cheaply.
Firstly, you will need a license from the NYC clerk to marry in New York City, which is $35. (You can also get this at any clerk’s office in NY state.) After that, here are the best places to have a small or micro wedding ceremony in NYC ranging from free to luxury budgets.
No fee or less than $25
- Marriage Bureau Ceremony, $25
- Central Park, free or $25 for a site permit
- Any NYC city-managed park with less than 20 guests, free
- Any street or sidewalk, free
- The High Line, less than 20 guests
- Brooklyn Heights Promenade
- Grand Central
- Brooklyn Bridge
Fees under $500
- Central Park Conservatory Garden
- Top of the Rock
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Gantry State Park ($30)
$500+
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden
- Battery Park City
- Hotels
- Restaurants
- Wedding/Event Venues
Ready to say ‘I do’ to stunning photos?
Where are the Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC?
If you aren’t familiar with the geography of NYC, then have no fear! New York City is massive. As a result, it has taken me years to learn all the different neighborhoods, areas and acronyms like SOHO, NOHO, NOMAD and DUMBO. However, the vast majority of elopements and intimate weddings take place in Manhattan and Brooklyn (the waterfront area) for locals and destination couples. If you want something different nevertheless, consider Queens or New Jersey.
Here is a map highlighting the location listed below so you can get a general sense of the landscape.
Map of Small Wedding Venues in NYC
Best viewed on a desktop or view directly in Google Maps here.
Find Small Wedding Venues by Type and Location
Having spent the last decade photographing weddings and elopements in NYC, I’ve had the opportunity to visit and return to many locations. Some are very popular and beloved for their instantly identifiable “New York” location, for example, the Bethesda Terrace in Central Park, or the Brooklyn Bridge. While others are more obscure or favorited by locals, like Astoria Park or Governors Island. In light of all of these option, you will find my list of the best places to elope in NYC below. However, it is not an exhaustive list. As a result, I’m always on the lookout for new (or new to me) locations. Many of the locations do not require a fee or permit, unless noted.
The Most Iconic Small Weddings Venues in NYC
Central Park
Especially due to its lush greenery, picturesque bridges, and serene lakes, Central Park is a favorite location for couples looking for a romantic outdoor setting. Whether it’s the iconic Bethesda Terrace, the charming Bow Bridge, or the intimate Shakespeare Garden, Central Park offers a multitude of options for an unforgettable ceremony and portraits.
Cost: $25 permit, but not required for less than 20 people, more if selecting Tavern on the Green or The Boathouse
Learn more: How to get married in Central Park
Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO
The Brooklyn Bridge is not only an engineering marvel but also a symbol of love and connection. Couples can exchange vows on the pedestrian walkway, with the Manhattan skyline as their backdrop or from Brooklyn Bridge Park in DUMBO. Likewise, the bridge’s iconic architecture and breathtaking views make it a popular choice for couples seeking a unique and memorable elopement location. It is also easily accessible from the Manhattan or Brooklyn Marriage Bureaus and offers many wedding ceremony locations as well. And finally, it has many options for a celebratory meal or drink.
Cost: Free to $426.00, depending on location
See more: A real DUMBO elopement
Top of the Rock
For couples who want to exchange vows with a view, the Top of the Rock observation deck at Rockefeller Center provides a stunning setting. Accordingly, its panoramic views of the cityscape, including the Empire State Building and Central Park, this location offers a truly breathtaking backdrop for a romantic ceremony.
Cost: Get the Express Pass $85 – $105, per person
NYC City Hall Marriage Bureaus
Accordingly, for couples who prefer a simple and intimate ceremony, New York City Hall is a classic choice. Located in Lower Manhattan, the Marriage Bureau offers a historic and elegant setting for exchanging vows. Furthermore, there are many portrait locations nearby like the City Hall Subway Station and the Brooklyn Bridge. There is a marriage bureau in each borough, but Manhattan is the most popular for visitors.
Cost: $25 for a ceremony. Appointments available weekdays 9:00am-3:30pm
Learn more: How to get married at City Hall
The High Line
The High Line, a converted elevated railway turned public park, offers a unique and urban setting for an elopement ceremony. Particularly due to its beautiful gardens, art installations, and city views, the High Line provides a one-of-a-kind backdrop for couples looking for a modern and artistic wedding experience. It is also near the West Village, making it a popular addition to that area.
Cost: No permits under 20 people
Small Wedding Venues in NYC with a View
Small Wedding Venues in NYC with Waterfront & Skyline Views
Especially given the geography, NYC offers many locations with stunning waterfront and or skyline views. At the present time, are the best small wedding venues with gorgeous waterfront or skyline views. See the map above for locations.
Cost: Free and no permit
- Pier 17 (pictured)
- Brooklyn Bridge Park (may require a permit/fee)
- Brooklyn Heights Promenade
- Liberty State Park (in NJ)
- Hoboken, NJ
- Red Hook, Brooklyn
Fees or Min. Purchases:
- Top Of the Rock
- The Skylark
- Aspire at One World Observatory
- Peak Hudson Yards – Sky Cellar
- Private dining space in residential buildings (with access, if you know someone!)
- The River Cafe
- Manhatta
- City Winery and City Vineyard
- Grand Banks (Manhattan) and Pilot (Brooklyn Bridge Park)
- ILA Penthouse
- Manhattan Penthouse
- 610/620 Loft and Gardens
See more: Pier 17 Elopement
Gardens & Parks to host your Micro Wedding (Fees)
These lush escapes in and around Manhattan require a fee & or permit for an elopement ceremony or photos. Generally, NYC-managed parks do not have fees if under 20 guests, which includes Central Park (except for the Conservatory Garden) Prospect Park in Brooklyn and Fort Tyron Park. However, you can reserve a specific location if available.
Cost: From $25+
- Central Park Conservatory Garden (closed until 2025)
- Jefferson Market Garden, West Village (Pictured)
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden
- Merchant’s House Museum
- The Battery (no fees under 20 guests)
- Battery Park City
- Gantry State Park, Long Island City
- Four Freedoms Park, Roosevelt Island
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Fort Tryon Park (free, under 20)
Governors Island Intimate Weddings
Just a short (often free) ferry ride from Lower Manhattan lies this magical park. Formerly occupied by the military, the island has undergone a decades-long renovation project while preserving the historical buildings. In addition to fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan, it is now open year round. Undoubtedly, this oasis is not to be missed.
Cost: Varies, must apply for a permit
Learn more: A real wedding on Governors Island
Street Art Fans Micro Wedding
Nothing says NYC to me more than interesting street art and graffiti. There are some fantastic areas that always deliver a colorful background for photos. I’m also happy to research the current offerings and make suggest.
Top areas include: First Street Art Park, Bushwick Collective (Brooklyn) and Lower East Side (pictured)
Cost: Free
Liberty State Park and Hoboken
Besides Brooklyn, New Jersey offers the best views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. If skylines are your thing, then don’t overlook Hoboken. For example, you can marry on the waterfront on a pier, and there are many restaurant options nearby like Anthony David’s, which has a nice private dining room. In addition, Liberty State Park offers amazing views for photos, and ceremonies are possible at the Liberty House or possibly Maritime Park.
Cost: No permit for photos or small ceremony in Hoboken. Liberty State Park ceremonies are only allowed in venues like Liberty House, but no permit for photos.
The Best Indoor Small Wedding Venues in NYC
Grand Central Station
Renowned for its grand architecture and bustling terminal, this train station is one of the best places to elope in NYC. Don’t expect privacy, but the many corridors make for stunning ceremony and portrait options. And there is always the Campbell Apartment for celebratory drinks.
Cost: None. There are permits available, but wedding and photos typically don’t require them.
Hotels for Small Wedding Ceremonies or Accommodations
For the highest level of service and ease, some hotels have options for intimate events, like The Library Hotel near the New York Public Library, and The Wythe Hotel Penthouse. In addition, The Whitby and the Soho Grand (pictured) have large suites with terraces, giving you indoor and outdoor options. Even if not suited to your intimate ceremony, selecting an excellent hotel to stay in a great location will be a worthwhile investment in your wedding.
Cost: Varies
- Library Hotel (terrace part covered)
- Soho Grand (South and North Lofts plus new terrace suites)
- Sanctuary Hotel
- Hotel Giraffe
- James Hotel
- The Crosby Street Hotel (Meadow Suite is amazing!)
- The Whitby
- The Beekman
- 33 Seaport
- Casa Cipriani
- Ritz Carlton Nomad & Central Park
- The NoMo SoHo
- The Fifth Avenue Hotel
- The Bowery Hotel
- Virgin Hotel, Conservatory
- Wythe Hotel
- Waldorf Astoria (reopening in September 2025, booking now)
- TWA Hotel
- Public Hotel
- Four Seasons New York (57th Street)
- Four Seasons Downtown
- The Mark
- The Carlyle
- The Plaza
- 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
- Sofitel
- The Ludlow
Restaurants for Micro Weddings in NYC
Whether for a celebratory dinner for 2 or several dozen, NYC restaurants offer some of the best places to elope in NYC. In addition to private dining options suitable for intimate weddings and possibly enough space for a ceremony, there are options for all tastes, cuisines and budgets. These are just a few suggestions.
Cost: Varies
- L’Artusi Supper Club
- City Winery – City Vineyard
- The River Cafe
- Milk and Roses -Brooklyn
- Freemans
- Sant Ambroeus
- Locande Verde
- American Cut
- Legacy Records
- Russian Tea Room (pictured)
- Little Owl Townhouse
- Il Buco
- Gemma Wine Room (Bowery Hotel)
- The Skylark
- Bobo
- One If by Land, Two If By Sea
- Cathedrale
- Celestine
- Eleven Madison Park
- The Smith (multiple locations)
- Musket Room
- Crown Shy
- Le Jardinier
- Jean George (multiple venues)
- Le Coucou
- Laser Wolf
- The Milling Room
- Shun Lee
- Sadelle’s
- The Modern
- Robert
- The Ellington
- Sistina
- Zou Zou
- Carbone
- Tavern on the Green
- Central Park Boat House
- Le Rock
- La Tete d ‘Or
- Leuca
Other Venues for Small Weddings in NYC
There are many spaces where you can have a small wedding in NYC that don’t fall into a category like restaurant or hotel. This section includes loft spaces, bars, galleries and other unique spaces. Some larger weddings venues will allow small weddings to book on weekdays or more last minute. Bear in mind, you will likely need to bring in your own caterer, bartender, decor etc with some of these spots.
- Raines Library Law Room (Chelsea and William Hotel)
- Banc Cafe
- 610/620 Loft and Gardens
- Carroll Hall (Brooklyn)
- Housing Works Bookstore (Soho)
- The May Room at Carnegie Hall
- Deity (Brooklyn)
- The View
- Museum of the City of NY
- Glasshouse Chelsea
- Brooklyn History Center
Houses of Worship, Government Offices
Just because you are eloping doesn’t mean you can’t have a ceremony in your faith. I’ve photographed weddings at All Souls NYC and other houses of worship.
In addition to the Marriage Bureaus at NYC City Hall, your country may offer marriages at their consulate in New York.
Small weddings, timeless photos. Inquire now!
The Coolest Neighborhoods For Small Wedding Venues in NYC
West Village Venues for Micro Weddings
The West Village is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in all of Manhattan. It is truly one of the best places to elope in NYC due to its leafy brownstone-lined streets, some with cobble stones, to the plethora of dining options. Some also suited to a ceremony.
Cost: Varies
Brooklyn Heights and Promenade
If you can’t decide between DUMBO and the West Village, then I recommend this neighborhood along the Brooklyn waterfront.
In addition to gorgeous brownstones lining quiet residential streets there is the promenade with Manhattan skyline views. Consequently, this is one of my favorite areas for photos. In fact, I actually photographed my very first elopement ceremony on the promenade!
- Brooklyn Heights Promenade (free)
- Fornino
- Pilot Boat
South Street Seaport
Indeed the historic seaport dates back to 1625. Markedly recent renovations and upgrades have made this unique area a fun destination for tourists and for photos. Additionally, culinary options like the Paris Cafe, The Tin Building and inside Pier 17, you will easily find a place to celebrate. You can have an elopement ceremony on a terrace of the 33 Seaport Hotel (pictured) or at Pier 17. Also consider a cruise on a sailboat, which departs from nearby piers.
Cost: Free, no permits needed at Pier 17 to hotel room fees
Greenpoint and Williamsburg
If you love trendy hotels, restaurants, street art, skyline views of Manhattan and post-industrial neighborhoods, then look no further. I fell in love with this unique and historic area when I first moved to NYC and had a basement apartment in Greenpoint. Undoubtedly, the area is transforming rapidly. See my project, Brooklyn Changing, for more details.
Cost: Varies, but many free options
See an intimate wedding at the Wythe Hotel
Small Wedding Ideas in Queens NYC
Intimate Weddings in Queens, NY
While not as popular with destination elopements, Queens offers a few locations to consider. Gantry State Park is a quick ride over the Queensboro Bridge from Manhattan. It does require a permit even for photos but offers skyline view near midtown.
Another option is Astoria Park. With views of the river and some interesting architecture, it may be right for you. It would be a fun addition to an NYC adventure elopement.
Cost: No fee for Astoria Park if under 20 guests, fee required for Gantry State Park
More Venues for Small Weddings in NYC
Finally, there are many more venues for small weddings in NYC. Are you looking for truly unique or rare access? One of the benefits to hiring a planner, even for an intimate event, is their knowledge of spaces and places. Do you want to venture deeper into Brooklyn to places like Coney Island or Red Hook? Let me know and we can discuss.
