So, you’re thinking about eloping in New York City? Good call. There’s something about this place—the energy, the skyline, the fact that you can get married on a bridge or in a park and then celebrate with pizza and champagne. If you’re coming from Australia or the UK, you might have some questions about how it all works. Lucky for you, we’ve got answers.

Why Elope in NYC?

First things first: why here? Well, aside from the fact that it’s New York, eloping here is surprisingly easy, even if you’re coming from the other side of the world. There’s no residency requirement, the paperwork is simple, and there’s a wild mix of locations—from iconic landmarks to quiet, tucked-away corners of the city. Plus, you get to have your wedding and your honeymoon all in one.

How to Legally Get Married in NYC as an Aussie or Brit

Here’s the no-nonsense version of what you need to do:

Get Your Marriage License – You’ll need to apply in person at the NYC Marriage Bureau (141 Worth Street, Manhattan). It costs $35, and you must wait at least 24 hours before having your ceremony.
Bring the Right Documents – A passport is usually enough, but if you’ve been married before, bring proof of your divorce or spouse’s passing (with official translations if needed).
Find an Officiant – NYC has lots of them (we’ve got great ones at Cakewalk). Your officiant just needs to be registered in the city.
Sign the Marriage License – After the ceremony, your officiant and a witness sign the license. Then, you file it with the Marriage Bureau to make it official.
Get an Extended Marriage Certificate – If you want to make things easier when registering your marriage back home, request an extended certificate ($35) and an apostille from the NY State Department ($10).

Best NYC Locations for Your Elopement

There’s no wrong place to get married in NYC, but here are some top picks:

Central Park – Classic, romantic, and filled with amazing ceremony spots.
Brooklyn Bridge – Perfect for couples who want a dramatic skyline moment.
DUMBO – That dreamy shot with the Manhattan Bridge in the background? This is where you get it.
Top of the Rock – A rooftop elopement with the best city views.
City Hall – A quick, no-fuss option with historic charm.
Hidden Gardens & Brownstone Stoops – For a truly New York, intimate feel.

Best Time of Year to Elope in NYC

Spring (April–June): Cherry blossoms, mild weather, and longer days.
Summer (July–August): Great for sunset ceremonies, but it can get hot.
Autumn (September–November): Golden leaves, crisp air, and peak NYC magic.
Winter (December–March): Dreamy snow-covered scenes (but prepare for the cold).

How to Incorporate a Bit of Home

Just because you’re in NYC doesn’t mean you can’t bring some UK or Aussie traditions into your elopement:

For Australians: Have a laid-back, barefoot ceremony in Central Park or celebrate with espresso martinis and an iconic NYC steak dinner.
For Brits: Bring a touch of London style with tailored elopement outfits or celebrate post-ceremony at a proper NYC pub.

Where to Celebrate After You Say ‘I Do’

For a Fancy Dinner: Le Coucou, Gramercy Tavern, or The River Café.
For a Casual NYC Vibe: Rubirosa, Joe’s Pizza, or Minetta Tavern.
For Drinks With a View: Westlight, Manhatta, or The Campbell Bar.
For a Classic NYC Experience: A Broadway show, a late-night jazz club, or a speakeasy.

Final Thoughts

Eloping in NYC is an adventure, and if you’re coming from Australia or the UK, it’s a trip you’ll never forget. Whether you want a grand, cinematic elopement or something quiet and personal, this city can make it happen.

Need help pulling it all together? Cakewalk’s got you. Let’s make it happen.

How to Elope in NYC If You’re Traveling from Australia or the UK