Reception Hot-Spots in New York City
Manhattan and marriage are like the eponymous horse and carriage. Both are romantic notions that keep lovers flocking to the city every year. Should you decide on holding your reception in the Big Apple, you’ll have access to rooms with amazing views. (A budget note: The city doesn’t sleep and it don’t come cheap: If you’re cutting costs, a New York ceremony might not be the wisest choice.) Here, some popular sites for vows and views.
The Boathouse Restaurant, Central Park
A glorious spot, the Boathouse Restaurant has indoor/outdoor seating sweeping over the park’s main lake. You’ll gaze out at the rowboats gliding past ducks, swans, and turtles. Way off in the western sky, there’s a fantastic view of the famed San Remo building, where notables like Bono and Spielberg have homes (and a great backdrop for wedding photos). Open April through November.
The Ritz-Carlton, Battery Park
Lady Liberty, Ellis Island, the Staten Island Ferry, and you and your guy. If it sounds like a dream, it almost is. The Ritz-Carlton Battery Park has stellar views of the above, all cascading over the Hudson River. Don’t have too much time to check out the view? Book a room here and you’ve got your own telescope. The Ritz-Carlton doesn’t just specialize in weddings; it specializes in exceptional service. In other words, the ideal spot for picture-perfect bliss.
The Marriot-Marquis, Times Square
Ever dream of celebrating above the lights of Broadway? The View restaurant at the top of Marriot’s Times Square location has Manhattan’s only revolving restaurant. You’ll get 360 degree views of the city, including that nearby notable The Empire State Building. If that’s not enough to dazzle you, the Great White Way is literally at your feet, so you can take in a Broadway show or check out the Rockettes at Radio City. Whatever you end up doing, you’ll leave feeling like a star.
Hotel Gansevoort
Located in the heart of New York’s landmark meatpacking district, the free-standing hotel, opened in 2004, has an indoor/outdoor rooftop loft, the perfect spot for wedding receptions year-round. In addition to the garden area, there’s a 45-foot glass-enclosed pool, to take that lovers’ dip. You’ll get sweeping 360 degree views from downtown—once again, there’s that Empire State Building due north. You’re also walking distance to Chelsea, with its galleries and tres chic restaurants. If you end up staying here, however, chances are you’ll never want to get out of bed!
The River Café, Brooklyn
Located just a heartbeat away from the famous Brooklyn Bridge, the River Café has spectacular views of downtown Manhattan, whether your ceremony’s in the daytime or at night, summer or winter. The garden itself has been the focal point of many films, with a backdrop so beautiful it almost gets top billing. Book here and create a love story all your own.