The Best Places to Elope in NYC (That Aren’t Central Park)
When people think about eloping in New York City, their minds go straight to Central Park — and it makes sense. It’s iconic, beautiful, and full of cinematic moments. But what if you want something a little different?
NYC is filled with public spaces, secret corners, and city views that are just as stunning — and often less crowded or complicated. Whether you’re a lifelong New Yorker or flying in for a destination elopement, here are our favorite places to get married in NYC that aren’t Central Park.
🏙 1. Brooklyn Heights Promenade
If you want that jaw-dropping Manhattan skyline behind you while you say your vows, this is the spot. With tree-lined walkways, historic brownstones nearby, and an unbeatable view of the Brooklyn Bridge, it’s no wonder this is a top Cakewalk location.
Permits? Not required for small groups.
Vibe? Romantic, classic, and timeless.
Nearby photo ops? Cobblestone streets, brownstone stoops, and views from the Brooklyn Bridge.
🌿 2. City Hall Park
Don’t confuse this with the Marriage Bureau — this is the lovely little park just outside. Full of tall trees, ironwork benches, and blooming flowers in spring and summer, it’s a peaceful, unexpected pocket of calm right in Lower Manhattan.
Permits? Not typically needed.
Vibe? Secret garden in the city.
Bonus: You can pick up your marriage license at the bureau and walk straight to your ceremony spot.
🌸 3. The High Line (Early Mornings Only)
This elevated park built on an old train line winds through Chelsea and Hudson Yards and is lined with wildflowers, city views, and public art. But here’s the key: if you want to elope here, do it early.
Permits? Technically required for formal events, but low-profile ceremonies work in the early hours.
Vibe? Modern, artsy, and architectural.
Best spots: The amphitheater steps near 10th Ave or the quieter northern stretches.
🌊 4. Battery Park
Located at the southern tip of Manhattan, this waterfront park gives you views of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty in the background. Sunset here? Unreal.
Permits? Usually needed for larger groups or setups, but small ceremonies can fly under the radar.
Vibe? Breezy, open, and quietly iconic.
Post-ceremony ideas: Toast at Pier A or ferry to Governors Island.
🌅 5. Domino Park (Brooklyn)
One of Williamsburg’s most photogenic parks, Domino Park combines industrial design with wild landscaping and wide-open views of Manhattan. You’ll find elevated walkways, funky seating, and a constant breeze off the East River.
Permits? It’s technically private, but small ceremonies can work if you're subtle.
Vibe? Hip, design-forward, and unexpected.
Photos? Fire escapes, murals, and waterfront boardwalks.
✨ Bonus Picks
Jane’s Carousel (DUMBO) — sweet, whimsical, and fun
Washington Square Park — bold, public, and very NYC
East River State Park — another Williamsburg favorite with skyline views
Fort Tryon Park — medieval walls and lush gardens up in Washington Heights
Pro Tips for Eloping in NYC (Beyond Central Park)
Always scout the spot at the time of day you want to get married. Crowds change everything.
Be flexible — New York is unpredictable. We’ve had live saxophones, protests, film shoots, and a surprise ice cream truck soundtrack a wedding.
Cakewalk helps with all the logistics — permits (if needed), timing, and backup plans if the weather turns.
Say “I Do” the New York Way
A New York City elopement should feel like you: bold, intimate, memorable, and free of all the extra fluff. Central Park is great, but it’s far from the only option. The spots above are beautiful, meaningful, and make the city itself part of your love story.
Whether you want an early-morning vow exchange before bagels, or a golden hour ceremony by the water — we’ve got you.
Get in touch with Cakewalk to start planning.