The Best Elopement Locations in NYC (That Aren’t in Manhattan)
Eloping in New York City doesn’t have to mean a crowded Central Park ceremony or dodging tourists at City Hall. If you’re looking for a spot that’s a little quieter, a little cooler, and way less expected, it’s time to look beyond Manhattan.
From scenic waterfront views to hidden garden escapes, here are some of the best places to elope in NYC—without ever setting foot in Midtown.
🌉 Brooklyn: Where Romance Meets Grit
Brooklyn is the go-to borough for couples who want stunning backdrops without the Manhattan chaos. Whether you’re into brownstone-lined streets, skyline views, or a hidden slice of nature, Brooklyn delivers.
📍 Brooklyn Bridge Park
✅ Iconic skyline views without the Manhattan crowds.
✅ Tons of options—from pebble beaches to lush green spaces.
✅ Perfect for golden hour ceremonies with the bridge in the background.
💡 Pro Tip: Head to Jane’s Carousel for dreamy post-ceremony photos, or grab a celebratory drink at Cecconi’s or 68 Jay Street Bar.
📍 Prospect Park
✅ Central Park vibes, but without the tourist overload.
✅ Wooded trails, quiet meadows, and the stunning Boathouse.
✅ Perfect for couples who want nature without leaving the city.
💡 Pro Tip: If you love historic architecture, the Prospect Park Boathouse makes for a stunning elopement backdrop.
📍 Green-Wood Cemetery
✅ Yes, really. It’s one of the most breathtaking spots in NYC.
✅ Rolling hills, historic monuments, and insane sunset views.
✅ A bold choice for couples who love history (or just want something unexpected).
💡 Pro Tip: Say your vows near the Gothic Arch Entrance for peak drama.
🌳 Queens: Underrated and Unexpected
Queens doesn’t always get the love it deserves when it comes to weddings, but if you’re looking for hidden gems, waterfront views, and a total lack of pretense, this is your borough.
📍 Gantry Plaza State Park
✅ Jaw-dropping skyline views (without Manhattan prices).
✅ Quiet, scenic, and perfect for sunset elopements.
✅ Easy access to bars and restaurants for a low-key reception.
💡 Pro Tip: Grab a post-ceremony drink at LIC Bar, one of the best hidden gems in the city.
📍 The Noguchi Museum Garden
✅ A minimalist, artsy backdrop for a modern elopement.
✅ Surrounded by sculptures and peaceful greenery.
✅ Feels intimate and private without needing a ton of planning.
💡 Pro Tip: This spot does require a permit, so plan ahead!
📍 Fort Totten Park
✅ A quiet, historic waterfront fortress with insane views.
✅ Feels completely removed from the city.
✅ Perfect for couples who want a secret garden moment.
💡 Pro Tip: If you love ghost stories, this location has some eerie history. Just saying. 👀
🏖️ The Bronx & Staten Island: NYC’s Best-Kept Secrets
If you’re looking for something truly different, consider heading to The Bronx or Staten Island. These boroughs have beautiful waterfront views, lush gardens, and a total lack of wedding industry hype.
📍 Wave Hill (The Bronx)
✅ A dreamy mix of botanical gardens and river views.
✅ Feels like an escape from the city (without actually leaving).
✅ One of the most stunning spots in NYC that no one talks about.
💡 Pro Tip: The Pergola Overlook is the best ceremony spot for sunset.
📍 Pelham Bay Park (The Bronx)
✅ It’s three times the size of Central Park.
✅ Quiet beaches, woodsy trails, and hidden waterfront spots.
✅ Feels like a mini-upstate getaway without leaving the city.
💡 Pro Tip: Head to Orchard Beach for a dreamy oceanfront ceremony.
📍 Staten Island Greenbelt
✅ A legit forest in NYC.
✅ Perfect for couples who want a rustic, woodsy vibe.
✅ Endless scenic backdrops, from bridges to waterfalls.
💡 Pro Tip: Pack a picnic and make a day of it—this is your wedding, after all.
Final Thoughts: Eloping Outside of Manhattan Just Hits Different
Manhattan may get all the wedding attention, but some of the best places to elope in NYC are in the outer boroughs. Whether you want a waterfront ceremony in Brooklyn, an artsy museum wedding in Queens, or a quiet, nature-filled moment in The Bronx or Staten Island, you’ve got options.