wedding 2024 | Tips for Choosing a Venue

date posted: February 26, 2024

One of the biggest wedding decisions you’ll need to make is the setting for your grand production. (Even small, simple weddings are grand, just because they’re weddings.) Here in the Hudson Valley, your choices range from glamorous mansion halls to repurposed vintage barns, from mountain meadows to chic post-industrial lofts.

Here in the Hudson Valley, venue choices range from glamorous mansion halls to repurposed vintage barns, from mountain meadows to chic post-industrial lofts.

To ensure lots of choices, you’ll want to start looking at least a year before you plan to marry — many places are booked that far ahead. Seek places that take your breath away, then consider the following factors before you make that final decision.

• Be generous with dates: You’ll have more options if you start your venue search with several possible dates or a date range, rather than a single date set in stone.

• Think outside the banquet-hall box: Many places that you might not expect — historic sites, parks, entertainment venues — offer weddings. Check with your favorites before you assume that your only choices are places that specialize in getting folks hitched.

• Clarify the venue space: Make sure you’re very clear on what each place offers in terms of spaces. Is that pagoda included in your reservation, or will another group be having a retirement bash there?

Photo by Jeanette Joy Photo. Wedding at Whitby Castle.

Photo by Teresa Horgan Photography. Wedding at The Ryan Family Farm.

Wedding at Seminary Hill.

Be clear about a venue’s rules, policies, and exactly what services and equipment are provided.

Will you be able to use that dramatic staircase as a photo backdrop? Ask lots of questions and take lots of pictures.

• Know what’s included: Be equally clear about exactly what services and equipment are provided. At some places, you may need to bring in everything from extension cords to tablecloths, but if they’ve done weddings before, they may well have suggestions about where to find what you need; other places offer wedding packages that include all the trimmings, but may not be flexible about working with outside vendors, and many places are somewhere in between. Just get it all written down so you can compare.

• Avoid surprises: Be sure you know the rules and policies. Some places have to shut down amplified music past a certain time. Others need you to get your own event permit and/or insurance. Unsexy little details like these are important in avoiding unpleasant surprises.

• Logistics: Make sure you’ll have plenty of parking, and that the spots where the action will be (and the restrooms!) are handicapped accessible.

Wedding at Indian Ridge Farm.

Wedding at Hutton Brickyards.

Wedding at Ole Savannah Southern Table & Bar.

BEAVERKILL VALLEY INN

Lew Beach, 845-439-4844, beaverkillvalleyinn.com

Historic Catskill lodge offering a weekend destination in a picturesque valley, yet only two hours from NYC. Over 40 acres of meadows, gardens, and hiking trails. Rustic barn for ceremonies and dancing, heated indoor pool, fitness center, tennis court, self-serve ice cream parlor, 18 rooms for guests. Custom menus crafted by the Inn’s executive chef. Call for a tour and discover the amazing BVI.

BLOOMING HILL FARM

Monroe, 845-238-5004, bloominghillevents.com

Blooming Hill Farm is a family-owned working farm in the Hudson Valley. The property can be used for both an intimate, backyard wedding and as a place to host 200 of your closest friends and family in their Sailcloth-style tent. The seasonal menus are designed around the farm’s organically grown produce. They offer comprehensive packages that include catering, bar, decor, and wedding planning.

BROOKLYN CIDER HOUSE/TWIN STAR ORCHARDS

New Paltz, 845-633-8657, npevents@brooklynciderhouse.com, twinstarorchards.com

Twin Star Orchards is the home orchard of the award-winning farm cidery Brooklyn Cider House. Our venue is an idyllic setting for special events or for a casual weekend outing with friends and family. Stop by for hand-crafted ciders, local wine, and beer, along with wood-fired pizzas, burgers, and barbecue, or email us to book your farm-style wedding, rehearsal dinner, or corporate event.

COLONY WOODSTOCK

Woodstock, 845-679-7625, colonywoodstock.com

Just steps from the heart of Woodstock, Colony’s impeccably restored dance floor, bar, and wraparound balcony set the stage for an unforgettable wedding. Colony is the perfect venue for music lovers to celebrate in the town which birthed the iconic festival and one of the earliest art colonies in America. This venue includes a complete sound system, lights, stage, and billiard room for added entertainment.

ELEGANT CATSKILLS PRIVATE HOME

Fleischmanns, 718-864-6492

Experience the ultimate in luxury and relaxation. Rent this breathtaking, centrally located, private home for your family to stay near your Catskills wedding. Complete with manicured lawn, playground, magnificent private trail and mountain top views, indoor and outdoor seating, and lounging. Accommodates 8-12 guests. Call or text to reserve.

HEMLOCK NEVERSINK

Neversink, 845-985-1183, hemlockneversink.com

Hemlock Neversink/Foster Supply Hospitality is set on 230 serene, gloriously woodsy acres full of trails and nooks to explore. Your all-inclusive rate includes all meals, activities, workshops, and a personal Experience Guide; there’s a spa with treatment rooms, meadow-view gym, indoor pool, hot tub, a crafting space with instruction, a Goat Field, and much more.

HISTORIC BARNS OF NIPMOOSE

Buskirk, 518-944-4414, nipmoosebarns.org

The Historic Barns of Nipmoose provide an idyllic setting for rustic chic weddings. Perched on a knoll overlooking a breathtaking landscape of farm fields, the Scottish Barn, German Barn, and Corn Crib are superb examples of America’s rich agricultural heritage. All three barns are included in a single wedding event, offering couples a unique opportunity to plan their wedding, whether elegant or casual.

HOMESTEAD FARM RESORT

Margaretville, 845-586-4482, homesteadfarmresort.com

Think of the barn at Homestead Farm Resort for your wedding or other special occasion. Located on 250 acres in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, the barn has been fully refurbished and features an elevated deck, bar area, caterer’s kitchen, buffet room, and men’s and women’s bathrooms. The barn is heated, so late-fall and wintertime dates are available. 26 guest rooms on property. Email: homesteadfarmresort@gmail.com.

HOTEL DYLAN

Woodstock, 845-684-5422, thehoteldylan.com

Conveniently located near several wedding venues, Hotel Dylan is an ideal destination for bridal parties. When the hotel is reserved, guests can enjoy exclusive use of the grounds and prepare for the big event in complete privacy. Staff will help set up hair and makeup services and secure transportation to your venue. They can also arrange for next-day brunch services at their on-site restaurant. The staff is dedicated to making guests feel well cared for, whatever their needs might be.

HUDSON RIVER CRUISES

Kingston, 845-340-4700, Hudsonrivercruises.com

Join Hudson River Cruises aboard the Rip Van Winkle II for your event. We are the perfect on-water venue for your rehearsal dinner, reception, welcome party, sightseeing tour, or any special event for your wedding guests. Let us help you plan an unforgettable experience! Events up to 300 guests. Departing from the waterfront in historic Kingston, NY.

HUTTON BRICKYARDS

Kingston, huttonbrickyards.com

Sweeping Hudson River vistas and majestic industrial architecture create the ultimate backdrop for your indoor or outdoor wedding. Welcome your guests to a full weekend immersed in nature with our 43 accommodations, where they can enjoy fine dining at our open-air River Pavilion restaurant and partake in various outdoor amenities. Our historic pavilions are versatile, accommodating weddings of every size, whether you envision an intimate gathering or a grand celebration. Make your wedding an unforgettable experience amidst the beauty of nature and industrial charm.

INDIAN RIDGE FARM

Highland, 845-883-3208, indianridgepreserve.com

Looking for a unique location with a country style? You’ve found the right place. Indian Ridge Farm offers beautiful indoor and outdoor options for a wedding, family reunion, birthday party, christening, weekend getaway, corporate retreat, or any other event. With acres of privacy, beach entry to their lake, paddle boats, a beach volleyball court, and a large tent area, their unique offerings are perfect for any party.

THE INN AT KETTLEBORO

New Paltz, 914-213-2487, kettleboro.com

At the Inn at Kettleboro, we take your vision of the perfect day and turn it into reality. From small summer outdoor weddings to intimate dinner parties, we provide a stunning venue nestled amidst orchards with the peaks of the Shawangunks as an iconic backdrop. The essence of the historic inn is tasteful and elegant. From simple elopements to small, jeweled celebrations of wedding vows, we will help you create that special lifetime memory.

LASTING JOY BREWERY

Tivoli, 917-561-1177, lastingjoybrewery.com

Driving down the winding country road to Lasting Joy, take your first peek at our unique tasting room through willow trees and hay-baled fields. Meander past rows of barley and wildflowers. Step inside to see what the buzz is all about. There is no place quite like this. Reserve this special space to wow your guests and create memories that will last a lifetime.

LIPPINCOTT MANOR

Wallkill, 845-895-2474, lippincottmanor.com

Nestled in scenic Ulster County, Lippincott Manor features a beautiful country-rustic setting in the Hudson Valley for outdoor weddings. This unique site, situated on 15 charming acres, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Wallkill River and Shawangunk Mountains. A full-service facility celebrating only one event per day, Lippincott Manor allows for a one-of-a-kind Hudson Valley wedding.

MAHONEY’S IRISH PUB & STEAKHOUSE

Poughkeepsie, 845-471-7026, mahoneysirishpub.com

With several spacious private rooms available, you’ll have everything you need to celebrate your special event at Mahoney’s Irish Pub & Steakhouse. Whether you’re planning a chill, intimate wedding or rehearsal dinner, or a raucous reception in true Irish fashion, our mouthwatering fare will keep even the pickiest eaters coming back for seconds. Choose from three event rooms with full catering menus and bar service available. Rooms hold parties of 25-200. Call for details.

OLE SAVANNAH SOUTHERN TABLE

Kingston, 845-331-4283, olesavannah.com

Ole Savannah is a popular venue for weddings and events in the Hudson Valley. Our Sperry Sailcloth tent is perfect for weddings, rehearsal dinners, day-after brunches, bridal/baby showers, graduation or anniversary parties, corporate events, and more. We can accommodate parties from 20 to 140 people. Whether planning a casual buffet, cocktail party, pig roast, or elegant sit-down dinner, our waterfront location in downtown Kingston is unlike any other.

OWLS HOOT BARN

West Coxsackie, 518-755-1706, owlshootbarn.com

Celebrate your wedding weekend in the heart of the Hudson Valley with friends and family at Owls Hoot Barn, a historically registered farm circa 1804. Exclusive use for gatherings over multiple days, up to 180 guests with 32 overnight. Just 20 minutes to the Hudson Amtrak.

PLAY CATSKILLS

Roxbury, 607-326-6333, playcatskills.com

Escape to the serene and enchanting Catskill mountains and discover a yoga studio like no other. Nestled amidst the breathtaking wilderness, our studio offers a magical and unique space for intimate weddings, rehearsal dinners, wedding party yoga, and bachelorette and bachelor yoga parties.

RUSTIC RIDGE VIEW FARM

Kerhonkson, 203-858-3634, rusticridgeview.com

Get married on a horse farm and dance the night away in a covered, open-air pavilion. Stunning 360-degree mountain views and rolling pastures make this weekend-long rental an unforgettable venue for a ceremony and reception. There is no shutdown time, so you can keep the party going as long as you like. Planning services are available. Ask about staying over!

SEMINARY HILL

Callicoon, 845-887-4056, seminaryhill.co/weddings

An all-season venue with stunning views overlooking the Delaware River Valley. You and your guests may wander through our holistic orchard, enjoy the award-winning design of our Tasting Room, or dance the night away in an elegant tent with seating for 250 guests. In-house catering features seasonal ingredients from local farms and our own distinctive cider. Onsite accommodations for 50 guests, with ample additional accommodations nearby.

SOYUZIVKA HERITAGE CENTER

Kerhonkson, 845-626-5641, soyuzivka.com

Have the wedding of your dreams at this historic Shawangunk estate. This hidden gem offers multiple indoor and outdoor venues with in-house catering, restaurants, and bars. Nestled on over 150 woodland acres, your guests will enjoy spectacular Catskill Mountain views, hiking trails, and a spring-fed pool. With overnight accommodations, an outdoor pool, and volleyball and tennis courts, Soyuzivka is the perfect place for you and your guests to celebrate your weekend wedding with charm.

THE FALCON

Marlboro, 845-236-7970, liveatthefalcon.com/weddings

A world-class music venue nestled in the heart of the Hudson Valley with layers of decks and gardens that overlook the upper waterfall of Lattintown Creek. Ideal in any season, The Falcon includes two stories of unique event space and offers full-service celebrations.

THE GROVE AT GARVAN’S

New Paltz, 845-255-7888, garvans.com

A centuries-old locust grove estate is the setting for your dream wedding. Vow your lasting love on the vast lawn, capture your memories in our lush gardens, gaze at the love of your life surrounded by family and friends. The Grove event space is where we make your wedding vision a reality! Call us today to schedule a tour!

THE INN AT WEST SETTLEMENT

Roxbury, 518-610-3449, innatwestsettlement.com

Nestled on 64 acres overlooking the pristine West Settlement valley, our historic barn has been re-imagined as the perfect romantic, rustic, and elegant space. Enjoy an unplugged weekend with no curfew or noise restrictions; live music is welcomed and encouraged. The organic cutting gardens are available for all your flower needs. Come to relax, celebrate, and create memories that last a lifetime.

THE PHOENICIAN

Phoenicia, 845-688-9800, thephoeniciansteakhouse.com

Located in the charming town of Phoenicia, surrounded by the Catskills, is The Phoenician, a true local gem. With a party-friendly backyard situated on the Esopus Creek, a selection of delectable food, and a friendly tavern serving craft brews and cocktails made from locally sourced ingredients, this place has something for everyone. The indoor and outdoor catering and event areas are perfect for intimate weddings, rehearsal dinners, and after-parties.

THE RYAN FAMILY FARM

Lagrangeville, 908-625-8516, theryanfamilyfarm.com

Country charm meets rustic elegance. Located in Hudson Valley, Upstate NY, this historic, elegant wedding barn, built in the early 1800s, contains original wooden beams and authentic hardwood floors. A private country estate farm with modern-day amenities, the barn can accommodate 165 guests comfortably along with a large, raised patio and multiple ceremony locations. Through partnering with local professional vendors, we truly provide an all-inclusive venue.

THE SABLEWOOD

Schoharie, 518-461-6013, thesablewood.com

An exquisite 1870s barn venue on 120 acres in the Catskill Mountains, the lovingly restored, climate-controlled, fully modernized Sablewood includes 50 windows, soaring 40’ ceilings, and a breathtaking 1920s crystal chandelier. Our manicured property includes multiple outdoor ceremony locations, the white barn and veranda, and a weather-protected outdoor cocktail space. An unforgettable experience, the Sablewood hosts weddings up to 175 guests.

THE VENUE UPTOWN

Kingston, 845-802-7007, thevenueuptown.com

The Venue Uptown gives you freedom to dream. Imagine: With 8,800 square feet of flexible space to accommodate up to 250 guests, your wedding can be as intimate or lavish as your heart desires. Our on-site hotel (The Best Western Plus–Kingston) allows your guests to relax and enjoy the fun, all in one luxurious setting.

WHITBY CASTLE

Rye, 914-777-2053, lessingsweddings.com

Whitby Castle boasts a striking similarity to the details of the original Whitby Abbey in England, including some of the original Abbey stones. Set on 126 acres in Rye, NY, Whitby Castle is conveniently located, yet seemingly worlds away. Perfectly manicured lawns, breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound, a grandiose ballroom, plus two private reception rooms offer the perfect backdrop for an affair of any size.