Rooftop Wedding Venues in NYC for Intimate Weddings
There’s something about a rooftop that just feels iconically New York City. Whether it’s a breathtaking view or the feeling of the hustle and bustle being close but not too close, rooftops can be the perfect spots for intimate groups. The skyline becomes a unique backdrop, adding a touch of urban charm to your celebration.
Before we get into actual venues, there are a few things to keep in mind when planning a rooftop wedding in NYC.
Weather - It's crucial to consider weather factors for your wedding day. Ensure the chosen venue has a built-in rain plan or the option to tent the space. Some venues (particularly hotels) have gorgeous rooftops that do not have a substantial enough indoor space. If that’s the case, ensure there is a private space somewhere else in the building should you have to change plans. Upon touring, ask about your venue’s flexibility in adapting to changing weather to ensure they have a backup plan already in mind. Being prepared for unexpected weather ensures a seamless celebration, allowing you to fully enjoy the rooftop experience without any hiccups
Wind - Whether your wedding day is sunny or not, you have to take wind into account. Not only is this a factor for temperature (though you should definitely let guests know a jacket is a good idea), but it’s something to consider when it comes to sound. Even with a small group, the wind can be very noisy and make it difficult to hear. If you’re having your ceremony at the same location, make sure you consider amplification to ensure that your vows and any speeches are clear and heard by everyone. Wind can affect microphones, so if you do move forward with a rooftop venue option, be sure to talk with your DJ about their equipment and how they adjust for sound.
Privacy - Lots of rooftops in NYC offer a semi-private area of their space instead of the entire rooftop, especially for smaller groups. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but make sure you do a walkthrough to get an understanding of exactly where your guests will be located in relation to the public. Having a completely private space does help ensure that your intimate celebration maintains its privacy and exclusivity, allowing you to fully enjoy the atmosphere without any unexpected disruptions from surrounding events or onlookers.
Accessibility - If you have guests who might need elevator access, some rooftop venues may not work for you. If you aren’t able to see the venue in person before booking, make sure you ask about that over the phone!
If you still feel like a rooftop is a good fit for your wedding, here are some NYC rooftops for intimate weddings to explore:
The Beekman Hotel
The Beekman Hotel has two different penthouse suites with private rooftop terraces attached. These are perfect for small guest counts and allow you to have either a small seated dinner or a slightly larger standing reception. The elevated views and exclusive spaces add a touch of sophistication to your celebration.
Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
It doesn’t get much better than the view at Harriet's Rooftop. Harriet's Rooftop at the Brooklyn Bridge offers an unparalleled view, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a semi-private reception. While your space is cordoned off, the rest of the bar remains open to the public, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
Wythe Hotel
The Wythe has an amazing intimate wedding package for those with under 50 guests. The penthouse suite has a terrace located on the 8th floor, perfect for a small ceremony followed by cocktail hour. They also have a super chic rooftop bar that is available for full-buyouts.
City Vineyard
Located on Pier 26, City Vineyard offers several private areas for intimate groups, making it one of the most affordable options in the city. If you value good wine and upscale bar food, this venue provides a delightful experience against the scenic backdrop of the city.
Box House Hotel
Already equipped with a retractable roof, this is one of the only rooftops that provides a built-in rain plan and allows you to keep the view! The industrial vibes make it feel very Brooklyn, but because it’s a blank canvas, you can easily turn up the romance with decor.
Dobbin Street
This renovated warehouse space has the best of both worlds—a minimalist indoor space and a beautiful rooftop with wood trimmings to give it some character. You’ll be able to bring in all your own vendors here, so this is a great choice if you’re looking to use your imagination.
Library Hotel
With a view of the iconic New York Public Library, the Library Hotel actually has three different rooftop spaces depending on your guest count. Located in midtown, it’s a great option for those with out of town guests who want to be right in the middle of everything.
Bowery Hotel
While not technically a rooftop, the terrace at Bowery Hotel still gives you a similar feeling to some of the other rooftop spaces. It’s super versatile, with a wraparound terrace, and two full functioning bars in the space. A very tiny group might feel a bit large here, but if you have 50 people, it’s got great vibes!
Brooklyn Grange
One of the most unique venues in the 5 boroughs, Brooklyn Grange features a rooftop with a fully functioning organic farm, surrounding you by green everywhere you turn. Offering options for ceremonies, short cocktail hours, and full-on receptions, it's a great choice for couples seeking a natural and organic atmosphere.