How to elope in New York City?

Adorned with world-class wedding venues, picturesque scenic views, contemporary streets, cultural pinnacles, and breathtaking skyscrapers – New York has surely been winning the hearts of couples forever. This city offers a plethora of amazing options for you and your partner to elope. Be it a destination wedding or a local one – tying the knot in NYC will set your heart on fire. We bet that the liveliness of The Big Apple will provide a memorable and momentous spot for your elopement!

The charm, character, and vibrancy associated with NYC are unparalleled. The city that never sleeps offers the perfect environment for you and your partner to elope. All the sparkling lights, iconic skyscrapers, and exquisite skyline – everything looks spectacular. New York offers so many extraordinary places where you can turn your elopement dream into reality. The backdrops for your elopement photographer are endless! There is SO much to explore in the city. Mark our words; you will be quite thrilled by all of the fascinating places New York City has to offer.

Tips for Your Dream Elopement

Maybe it’s vibrant vibes or urban New York City parks, but we love that New York City is calling your name! Whether you have been dreaming of a small intimate elopement or are planning for an epic destination wedding with just your closest friends and family members; we have got you covered! We are just as excited about your iconic day as you are and therefore have curated this blog post to help you plan your special day without any hassle.

Here are some PRO TIPS for you to consider if you wish to have an incredible NYC elopement ceremony:

• New York has been ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world to get married. While the iconic skyscrapers, stunning locales, and over-the-top stylish buildings are totally worth it, the city has been well-known for featuring expensive lavish hotels, venues, and suites. But does this hinder you from fulfilling your dream? We don’t think so! We always encourage our couples to plan beforehand and allot their budget for their New York elopement. Setting a wedding budget is crucial to ensure the success of the event. Knowing your finances will help you avoid stress during the planning process.
• We always recommend our amazing couples to be vigilant of timings. Keep in mind that everything takes longer than you think it will, such as transportation, etc. The hustle and bustle of The Big Apple can cause delays and stress at the last moment. To avoid the occurrence of any possible delays, please leave an hour before you think you should be somewhere. This is a golden tip for having an epic NY elopement. Plan ahead, be considerate of time and voila, you are all set to rock your big day!

For more valuable tips and information, let us dive into the entire wedding guide NYC! Have a look:

How to Elope in NY?

If the thought of eloping in New York thrills you and gives you butterflies, definitely go for it! We are certain it will be the most momentous occasion of your entire life. Here’s how you can elope in NYC:

Start planning your elopement and decide where and when you wish to host your big day

First thing first, start planning your big day timely. Think about what kind of wedding theme you would like to have, where you wish to get married and how you want to host your iconic day. You and your partner will have to check in with the date and availability of your chosen venue. Whether you are opting for an intimate wedding or wish to tie the knot just the two of you, we always suggest our couples start planning in advance. Planning ahead ensures that you have a stress-free day. Your elopement is going to be one of the most special and adventurous experiences of your life, so make sure that you personalize it according to your desired theme and aesthetics.

Secure a marriage license, find an officiant and a witness

Getting married in NYC is as easy as pie. Anyone can get married in New York! All you need to do is pay a visit to city hall and speak to the city clerk aka marriage bureau, fill out a simple application form, secure your marriage license, find an officiant and bring that license to your ceremony so you and your soon-to-be-spouse can be declared married by the officiant. That’s it! You are done.

To ensure your special day is perfect, you can follow the tips on our micro wedding checklist.

Here are some valuable tips for you:

• The city clerk is open from Monday till Friday. Make sure that you get there early to secure your license without any hassle. It remains closed on major US holidays.
• Always carry your ID card, passport, driver’s license, and credit card with you. Trust us, you will need these things to get a marriage license and to fill out the application form.
• NYC elopements require only one witness. But if you wish to have more, you can definitely do that!
• After signing your paperwork, make a copy and send it to the city clerk. You will receive your marriage certificate within 3 to 7 weeks.

What is the best season for eloping in New York City?

Spring and early summer serve to be spectacular seasons for getting married in New York. These beautiful romantic seasons begin in mid-March and last till the start of August. They are referred to as “peak wedding seasons” and create the perfect backdrop for your New York elopement. The temperatures are fairly pleasant, radiant flowers are blooming everywhere, and the grass is thriving in its full glory – ahh, the sight looks magical! On top of that, golden sunlight, bright blossoms, and beautiful colors create the gorgeous mise-en-scène for your elopement pictures! What we love the most about these seasons is the fact that they allow couples to have the wedding of their dreams.

The second most admirable season for NYC elopement is the fall. It usually ranges from October to mid-November. The crowds are fairly calmer during this time just before the holidays and so you can have a full blast on your wedding day. Pleasant climate, gorgeous crisp foliage, and seasonal-inspired décor – this celebratory season has so much to offer for your NYC elopement.

Keep in mind that the winters can get really cold and the summers really hot! This is due to the fact that NYC is basically a concrete jungle, so the seasonal temperatures can get more dramatic. That being said, it is always better to plan ahead and take these things into consideration! When it is super cold, bring a cover-up to elevate your style. As for hot summer elopements – make sure your attire is made from breathable materials and pick sunrise or sunset to tie the knot.

Best Venues for Your New York City Elopement

Given the ton of stunning options that it offers – eloping in New York is spectacular. You will be spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing a venue in NYC for your big day. From intimate botanical gardens and lush green parks to the Gothic arches of the Brooklyn Bridge – New York has got it all! From Manhattan to Brooklyn, there are so many amazing locations where you can elope and have iconic wedding portraits captured. Be it a destination wedding or a small intimate ceremony, you can find awe-inspiring locations to tie the knot. Some of our top favorite and highly recommended venues are:

1. Bow Bridge

Nestled in the heart of The Central Park, Bow Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in NYC for wedding proposals, elopements, and romantic dates. Its unique design and magnificent setting offer panoramic views of the Bethesda Terrace.

The reddish-orange trees and brownish leaves during the autumn season create a gorgeous backdrop for your wedding pictures. The scene looks nothing less than a dream. This charming venue offers the perfect setting for intimate wedding festivities along with featuring the scenic beauty of The Lake and San Remo.

This dreamy bridge has been regarded as one of the most photographed landmarks – both in real life and reel life. The gothic and neo-classical design of this venue will leave you in awe. The arches, rowboats, and beautiful views of The Cherry Hill will provide you with a myriad of options to have fun and enjoy your big day to the fullest. You can also book a walking tour or Horse Carriage Ride across Central Park to explore the city and celebrate your elopement.

The best part about eloping on Bow Bridge?

There are tons of breathtaking photography spots! You heard that right. The beautiful colors, stunning foliage, Arches, panoramic views of the Lake, and clear blue turquoise water – all of these elements contribute to capturing spectacular elopement portraits.

2. Wagner Cove

Another amazing venue in our New York elopement guide is Wagner Cove. This secluded spot boasts serene views of the lake and Cherry Hill. There is a historical wooden gazebo located at the center of this idyllic wedding venue. It is one of the most intimate and private landmarks for couples to elope. The level of intimacy, charm, and romance that this location offers is unmatched. Since it is quite famous for hosting small intimate weddings, you can easily find an officiant and witness. If you and your soon-to-be spouse are dreaming about a private getaway to tie the knot, Wagner Cover is the perfect option for you.

If you are opting for a micro-wedding, then consider hosting the ceremony at the wooden cove and the reception at the renowned restaurant on the Upper West Side. We bet your guests will be thrilled by the stunning location.

Wagner Cove offers a variety of breathtaking views. Be it the botanical English Garden adorned with colorful blossoms or the panoramic Lake views, iconic skyscrapers featuring the city’s skyline, or the historical Wooden gazebo – there is so much worth exploring! It’s a private spot and we highly recommend it to those couples who wish to have a special and meaningful ceremony.

3. Bethesda Terrace

Constructed in 1859, Bethesda Terrace is a historical landmark consisting of a large plaza. It is also composed of an incredible foundation featuring an Angel of the Waters statue and an Arcade. Over the years, this remarkable locale has gained immense popularity among lovely couples to tie the knot.

If you are eloping in New York and wish to opt for a place overlooking the southern shore of the lake and offering panoramic views of Central Park, Bethesda Terrace is the ultimate option for you. The high tiled ceilings and classic architectural setup make it the perfect place for tying the knot. You can host your ceremony by the fountain featuring scenic views of Bow Bridge and Central Park. We always encourage our couple to get married in Bethesda Terrace during the weekdays. Since it is a well-known famous tourist spot, it is usually crowded on weekends. For more privacy, sunrise elopements are the best fit!

The carved sandstones, water foundation, famous arcade, mosaic-tiled ceiling, wide spectacular terrace, and painted murals – there are so many spots where you can have your amazing romantic portraiture. The acoustic sounds and jazz music playing over there make this place even more swoon-worthy for elopements and micro-weddings.

4. Prospect Park

If you are in love with Brooklyn vibes or the natural scenic beauty of Central Park, eloping in Prospect Park seems to be the ideal fit for you. The park is located adjacent to the famous Brooklyn Museum overlooking the panoramic views of the Brooklyn Garden. There are two iconic historical settings where you can host your elopement; The Picnic House and the Boathouse. Get ready to amaze your guests with the turquoise Lullwater and striking beauty of the 90-acre Long Meadow. It also boasts the famous wooden bridge aka Binnen Bridge where you can exchange your vows whilst surrounded by the panoramic views of The Lake. There is also an idyllic ceremony backdrop nearby known as Binnen Waterfall. All of these incredible locations can easily be visited in Prospect Park. It’s a one-in-all kind of wedding venue for adventure-loving art-inspired couples who wish to create a unique wedding experience.

5. Treehouse for Dreaming

Hands down the most tranquil, intimate, and lovely spot for an NYC elopement!

The Treehouse for Dreaming (or Dene Summerhouse) wedding is an amazing amalgam of modern and boho-chic aesthetics. The beauty and tranquility of this stunning location will leave you in awe. From the panoramic views of the Raging River to the green canopy of leaves serving as background for your wedding pictures – everything about this wedding venue is oh-so-amazing!

Composed of magnificent trees, giant staircases, and wooden benches, this pace is bound to steal your heart. Make your big day even more special and meaningful by exchanging the vows in this unique venue. The scenic scenes incorporate the splendid beauty of NYC.

6. Cop Cot

Imagine saying “I do” in an intimate secluded spot, standing under the beautiful canopy of green leaves, and surrounded by the alluring beauty of Central Park. There is something so magically enchanting about the rustic roofs and botanical theme. Perfect place for nature-loving laidback couples! You can also take a stroll around the Park and explore the city. The Cop Cot is also known as “New York’s backyard” and can host up to 60 guests at a time. The best season to tie the knot in Cop Cot is spring when the black locust trees are blooming fully. The scene looks dreamy! The spot is so aesthetically pleasing and the canopy provides shelter from rain and other elements. We bet you and your guests will be impressed by this outdoor wedding venue.

7. Archer Hotel Spyglass Rooftop Bar

If you want unforgettable wedding photos and a uniquely intimate experience while eloping to New York, look no further than getting married in the Archer Hotel Spyglass Rooftop Bar. The venue is a perfect embodiment of how to make your big day more special and memorable. Featuring panoramic views of the Empire State Building, luxe guest rooms, world-class cuisines, and rooftop venues – the Archer Hotel Spyglass is surely one of the most iconic venues for having an NYC elopement. The luxurious setting of this rooftop venue will enable you to mold your big day exactly how you have envisioned it. The outdoor terrace offers splendid views of the Empire State Building so you can create memorable memories of your elopement.

8. New York Public Library

If you and your partner have an affinity for literature and classical setup, love versatile and grand libraries, or are looking forward to creating a unique wedding experience instead of a traditional one- exchanging vows in New York Public Library is perfect for you! Rated as one of the “most beautiful libraries” in the world, the New York Public Library will leave you in awe. What’s more romantic than saying “I do” while surrounded by the majestic and grand interior setup with the sunlight illuminating the glass ceilings and rooms? It’s the perfect place to host an intimate and romantic elopement. The library is steeped in history and full of character. There is a grand staircase where you can have an amazing wedding photoshoot done. The decorative glass ceilings and spectacular arches make it the perfect place for hosting a luxurious affair. The intimate festivities are usually celebrated at the banquet hall whereas the grand and luxe weddings are often conducted at the Astor Hall. The impeccable arches, dark marble floors, stunning architecture, high ceilings, and massive staircases to add the quintessential NYC touch to your wedding day.

9. Grand Central Station

If you wish to plan an iconic elopement in New York at one of the most archetypal spots, there is no better choice than tying the knot at the Grand Central Station. It is one of the world’s most famous landmarks in Manhattan that features incredibly arched walkways, high ceilings, magnificent glass windows, and Strauss-crystal chandeliers. The MOST amazing thing about Grand Central Station is the Tiffany Glass Clock. The place is enriched with history, romance, and timeless artifacts. Daily, hundreds of couples elope in Grand Central Station. The privacy and intimacy associated with this location are phenomenal. The historic and old-world charm of Grand Central Station makes it an ideal place to elope in NY at any time of the year!

10. Ladies Pavilion

Ladies Pavilion is truly one of the most iconic and magical wedding spots in NYC. If you are eloping in New York and are determined to witness the City’s skyline in its full glory, exchanging vows in Ladies Pavilion is the best option for you. Located across the lake on the west side of the park – it has breathtaking views of the lake that will curate the gorgeous background for you to click your post-ceremony pictures. There is a gazebo that is beautiful enough to make your big day even more memorable and special. The Ladies Pavilion is perfect for hosting intimate elopements and micro-weddings. Since it is a famous place and couples from all around the world come here to get married, we recommend that you plan ahead and get a permit if you are thinking about tying the knot in this spectacular wedding post. The place is surrounded by botanical trees that look ethereal all around the year. Whether you are opting for a fall-inspired celebration or spring/summer-themed fête, the beauty of this small wedding venue in NYC will amaze you.

11. North Woods

There is only one word that can describe the North Woods: timeless elegance.

Situated away from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets, the North Woods is a boreal forest nestled in the heart of New York. The splendid views of the surrounding Alpine forests are a treat for adventurous souls. You can hike, ride or bike! The place is filled with lots of fun-filled adventurous activities. The northernmost part of the Park is a literal example of heaven on Earth. Best views, hidden coves, and adventurous activities – the North Woods in Central Park have it all.

12. Coney Island

If you love colorful vibes, entertainment spots, and magical backdrops – hosting your NYC elopement in Coney Island will prove to be a stellar choice for you. The brilliant colors, incredible entertainment spots, glitz, and glamor of Manhattan will enable you to create a wonderfully unique wedding experience.

We are just as excited as you are about your big day and wish to make the process of eloping in New York super easy and simple for you!

Can You Get Married in a NYC Park?

Couples eloping in New York often find themselves in the bewilderment of whether or not they can get married in parks. To your surprise, you CAN get married in outdoor parks without any hassle in New York. Yes, you heard that right! The lovely setting of the park radiates freshness and liveliness. Parks in New York offer a plethora of amazing spots where you can tie the knot with the love of your life. You can add subtle decorative items to add a glamorous touch to your special day. Generally, all of these locations are beautiful by the lush green botanical gardens. The spectacular views of the lakes, skyscrapers, and natural landscapes will create a beautiful backdrop for your pictures.

The best part about getting married in a park is that you can personalize the whole wedding experience according to your desires. Do you wish to have a picnic after exchanging your vows? Check! Do you want to stroll across the park and admire the beauty of nature? Got it! Do you love to experience the rowboats in your wedding dress? No problem! Wish to have a unique and adventurous wedding experience? We have got you covered!

Given below is a list of our favorite parks for eloping in New York. Have a look:

Elope in Central Park

If you haven’t visited Central Park at least once in your life, you are missing out on some amazing things. The idyllic spots, diverse flora and fauna, beautiful wedding venues, and pleasant weather – everything looks like a dream. There are so many one-of-a-kind hidden spots located all around the park.

This piece of heaven on Earth is the perfect place for tying the knot. Surrounded by lush green gardens, fairy meadows, beautiful turquoise lakes, breathtaking bridges, and spectacular views of the nearby historical sites – The Central Park will take your breath away at first glance. Nestled in the heart of New York, this urban park is an embodiment of glorious landscape architecture. To elope in Central Park, make sure you have the following:

• Marriage license
• Officiant
• Witness
• Photographer

And one of the most important things of all, there are thousands of spectacular spots available where you can capture your wedding portraits.

Elope in Fort Tryon Park

Fort Tryon is a famous 67-acre public park located on the outskirts of Manhattan. It boasts breathtaking views of the Lower Hudson Valley and urban cityscapes of Manhattan. Fort Tyron Park is the perfect place to elope for couples who wish to have an intimate, secluded, and private event. To prepare, you will need:

• Marriage permit (costs $20-$30)
• To plan for the beautiful weather and turquoise blue waters for an extraordinary experience

Elope in Brooklyn Bridge Park

Brooklyn Bridge Park is one of the world’s most renowned parks located along the East coast River in New York City.

This waterfall front park has been winning the hearts of couples for several years now. There are three different locations where you can hold your ceremony and ALL OF THEM are equally spectacular and exceptional. These are; The Pier 1 Granite Prospect, Empire Fulton Ferry Boardwalk, and Main Street Pebble Beach. Don’t forget to bring a:

• Marriage license
• Officiant
• Photographer
• Witness

Where to Stay for Your NYC Elopement?

If you are wondering where to stay for your NYC elopement to have the most lavish and memorable experience of your life, we have got you covered!

New York is an awe-inspiring city full of romance, character, and charm. There are so many beautiful places and areas where you can stay during your elopement, such as Manhattan, Brooklyn, etc. Imagine exploring the city with the love of your life, going on romantic date nights, booking hot massage sessions, and witnessing the breathing skyline of the incredible city while munching on the delicious cuisine. Sounds amazing, right?

New York offers a bunch of amazing hotels, Airbnbs, and suites where you can stay for your wedding night. We have rounded up some of the best recommendations for you:

Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

Hands down the best luxury hotel in New York City!

Stationed under the Brooklyn Bridge, this hotel offers the most spectacular views of the Brooklyn Bridge. The waterfront setting is exceptional. There are so many amazing fun activities that you can do with your sweetheart over here. From arranging a picnic in green gardens to taking Dumbo Ferry and strolling through York Street Subway – best believe that you are going to have THE time of your life.

The Pierre

Is there anything more romantic than booking a lavish hotel and enjoying a relaxing date night with the love of your life?

This luxurious hotel features delicious foods, white-glove service, and glorious views of the city’s skylines. On top of that, it faces Central Park where you can take a walk easily and explore the city. High-end shopping malls lie in the hotel’s close vicinity. Highly recommended if you are looking for a comfortable and excellent experience.

Greenwich Hotel

If you are a big fan of spas, luxury suites, and artistic elements – there is no better place than the Greenwich hotel. It offers incredible romantic and private space to couples.

The Cub House in Bears Ville

This is one of the best Airbnbs that offer immense romance and enchantment to couples. Filled with a luxurious setting area, lantern room, and staircases.

Getting Around and Exploring the Breathtaking City

There are so many ways through which you can explore the city. Since it is the cultural hub, it offers excellent public transportation facilities so you can stroll around the city, visit world-famous locations, and get inspired by the glory and charm of NYC.

You can walk around the neighborhoods or book an Uber to reach your destination. In addition to this taxis, yellow cabs, and subways are also available. You can also rent a private car and explore the city.

You will be spoiled by choice in this city that never sleeps. There are tons of amazing options available for you to explore and discover. Whether you hire a tourist guide or explore the city yourself, we bet that you will have THE BEST time of your life. The fashion hub of the world has something to offer for everyone. Be it visiting cinemas, walking through rolling hillsides of the Central Park, or exploring Grand Central Terminal.

List of Our Favorite Vendors

The most important tip that will ensure a successful NYC elopement is to hire a professional vendor. We cannot emphasize this enough!

Vendors are experienced in what they do and they know how to execute your dream elopement aesthetics. For eloping in New York City, it is important that you plan ahead and allocate your budget. Wedding planners know trends and with years of experience, they know how to conduct an amazing day. Hiring a professional photographer, videographer, florist, and DJ can transform your day into the best day of your life. You can also hire professional décor vendors. Tell them your dream theme and ask them to personalize accessories and decorative elements to make the whole experience even more meaningful and memorable.

For intimate weddings and elopements, it is better that you consult the marriage bureau to secure your license. You can also hire a professional officiant from there.

Visit our website to find the best vendors to help you plan out an epic NYC elopement.

Plan your Dream Elopement with Simply Eloped

New York has something to offer everybody. Whether you are looking for an intimate wedding experience or “just the two of you” elopement, you can turn your dream into reality by eloping in New York. Hope the above New York wedding guide proves to be helpful for you. We aim at helping our couples to plan their big day without any stress so they can enjoy their unforgettable milestone to the fullest. We would be so happy to help you plan your NYC elopement. Get in touch with us today and choose the all-inclusive NYC elopement package that suits you the best. As said before; there is something for everybody! If you want your iconic day to be the best and most memorable moment of your entire life, our NYC elopement guide and elopement packages will be the right fit for you.