There’s a New York chapter in almost every great love story. Iconic to say the least, it’s been the home of meet cutes, whirlwind romances, and unforgettable elopements. Due to the pandemic, outdoor elopements have surged in popularity and have been intimate, special events shared with a select few. Perhaps the most “New York” way to be married in this magical city is in a public space where there may be some onlookers cheering from a distance when you’re pronounced married.
To help you out with your planning, we’ve compiled a list of the most unique spots within Brooklyn and Manhattan to say “I Do”.
Brooklyn
1. Green Dome Garden in McCarren Park
The secret garden with meandering stone paths is an oasis and feels like a green bubble in the middle of Brooklyn. This garden is open to the public select hours 3 days a week, so if you are tying the knot here, you will be one of few who gets to say they did. It’s the perfect space for a private, magical morning elopement.
Monday 9–11AM
Thursday 10:30AM–12:30PM
Saturday 10AM–4PM
Photo by Gianna Leo Falcon
2. Domino Park in Williamsburg
Named after the Sugar Factory that used to be there, Domino Park has many photo op locations. There are the wide double pathways backdropped by the City skyline and iconic pink Williamsburg Bridge. The illuminated fountain with large seating steps directly in front of the Landmark Refinery building, and also the elevated walkway promise a panoramic view. *Pro tip, for your ceremony, choose a spot on the north end of the park to avoid the sound of the train passing over the bridge.
3. Jane’s Carousel in Brooklyn Bridge Park
A whimsical location to tie the knot! With either the lights and colors of the carved wooden carousel or the lights of the city behind you, you can’t go wrong with this joyous spot.
When your surroundings mirror the glee in your heart. Captured by CPT Photo.
Two Love Birds facing Jane’s Carousel, celebrating with bubbles on Pebble Beach.
4. A Favorite Restaurant-L’industrie Pizzeria
People in New York love a reason to celebrate! That’s also true for many of your favorite local businesses. One slice shop that is well known for bringing people together in the name of festivity is L’industrie Pizzeria. We’ve partnered with them to bring you a pop-up wedding venue this Valentine’s Day (2/14/22) with other future events in the works.
A cheerful gathering at a neighborhood favorite. Photo by Ryan Sutton.
5. Grand Ferry Park
This location is rarely known by name, so many people who venture here feel as though they just came across a secret spot to read a book or take in the same sweeping views of the city skyline that Domino Park (directly south) offers. The paved stone path curves around a garden and leads to a rocky coast. This is the location for a more private ceremony with unobstructed photos.
Newlyweds wave to onlookers cheering them on.
Pretty summer ceremony at the water’s edge.
6. Brooklyn Bridge Park in DUMBO
Brooklyn Bridge Park has it all; stunning views, glistening water, private gardens, numerous pathways, and of course, Pebble Beach. In the park between The Granite Prospect and Pier 1 Salt Marsh is a beautiful walkway for your entrance. There are so many secret spots within the park to say “I do” as well as cobblestone streets throughout DUMBO to capture that perfect, romantic photo. Drop a pin and we’ll meet you there!
On one of the coldest days of 2021, these soulmates made it official.
Saying ‘I do’ by St. Ann’s Warehouse in Brooklyn Bridge Park.
A fairytale wedding at Pebble Beach. Photo by Larisa Shorina Photography.
Manhattan
1. Grand Central Station
“Spectacular” is the word that best describes this location. It’s one of the most gorgeous and historic buildings in New York City. Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, the world stands still for a moment as you and your partner exchange your vows in the magnificent grand hall. This location is one of the only indoor spots in Manhattan where you can elope without a permit or renting out the space, making it perfect for cold, rainy, or snowy days.
*Grand Central Station has a few reasonable guidelines, reach out and we will fill you in on the best spot to set up for your ceremony.
Their love so grand. Photo by Elvira Kalviste.
A moment together in the big city. Photo by Rebecca Ou Photography.
2. The High Line
This location gives another meaning to “on top of the world”. With many picturesque nooks and overlooks along the suspended path, this is the place for your memorable NYC elopement ceremony
A windy day on cloud nine.
3. The Steps of the New York Public Library
Add your line to the storybook romance that is the New York Public Library. Truly a landmark location with it’s grand stone archways and iconic marble statues. We recommend an early morning wedding to enjoy a more private elopement.
These two traveled from Melbourne to wed. Photo by Vicki Grafton.
Celebrating in the street on 2/29/20. Photo by The DV Image.
4. Washington Square Park
An illuminated marble archway, a magnificent fountain, and winding stone pathways are all characteristic of Washington Square Park. Adjacent to New York University, this park is known for it’s avant-garde style and is the perfect spot for a small elopement.
5. Riverside Park
Parallel to Central Park, this green oasis is lesser known so there is a stronger likelihood of a very private ceremony. With so many spots to choose from, we love The Garden People. This spot, accented with pops of color from the blooming flowers, was featured in the last scene of You’ve Got Mail.
Spoiler alert! in the 90s RomCom, You’ve Got Mail, after emailing via AOL for months, Meg Ryan’s and Tom Hanks’ characters meet for the first time at this magical garden where she declares, “I wanted it to be you”. A true storybook romance destination.
