Top 10 Upstate New York Wedding Venues for an Unforgettable Wedding

After photographing weddings throughout Upstate New York for more than a decade, I've become convinced of one thing: We are absolutely spoiled when it comes to wedding venues around here. Seriously! There have been so many wedding days where I've pulled into a venue, stepped out of my car, and immediately thought, "Okay... this place is ridiculous." 😂

Maybe it's a historic inn overlooking Cayuga Lake. Maybe it's an ivy-covered garden that feels like it belongs somewhere in Tuscany, Italy. Maybe it's an industrial building filled with stunning light and all the industrial vibes. Whatever the setting, Upstate New York has this incredible ability to surprise me with its beauty. And while every couple chooses a venue for different reasons, I've noticed that the places guests talk about for years afterward usually have one thing in common: they create an unforgettable experience.

The best venues I’ve worked at aren't just pretty on the outside. They allow the couple to slow down, guests to linger a little longer during cocktail hour, and every person present (vendors included 💃🙋🏼‍♀️) to remember and savor the wedding weekend a little more deeply! Great venues are the ones where every corner, every pocket is not merely beautiful, but relaxing.

Over the years, I've photographed weddings at hundreds of venues throughout the region, but these ten have consistently stood out to me. Some are elegant and luxurious. Some are quirky and unexpected. Some feel like stepping into a storybook and all of them are unforgettable!

(P.S if you’re looking for an Upstate NY Wedding Photographer for your wedding.. say less. 🤝 I'd love to connect!)

1. The Inn at Taughannock Falls | Ithaca, New York

If you've spent any amount of time around my work, you probably saw this venue coming. 😂

The Inn at Taughannock Falls has been one of my favorite Upstate New York wedding venues for years, and every time I photograph a wedding here, I'm reminded of why. (You can read my complete guide to planning a wedding at the Inn at Taughannock Falls here.)

Nestled along Cayuga Lake, the property somehow manages to feel both grand and welcoming at the same time. One moment you're overlooking the water, the next you're surrounded by lush greenery, and just next door sits one of the most stunning waterfalls in New York State.

One of my favorite things about this venue is how naturally it turns a wedding day into an entire wedding weekend! Guests can spend time exploring the Finger Lakes Wine Trail, hiking Taughannock Falls, enjoying the lake, or simply relaxing with family and friends before the celebration begins.

From a photography perspective, it's a dream! The getting-ready spaces are breathtaking, the ceremony views are next level, and there are photo ops literally everywhere you look. If you're dreaming of a wedding that feels quintessentially Finger Lakes, this venue deserves a spot at the very top of your list! 

2. The Inns of Aurora | Aurora, New York

The first time I photographed a wedding at the Inns of Aurora, I remember feeling like I had somehow wandered into the pages of a storybook. Everywhere I turned there was another charming detail. Historic homes. Manicured gardens. Views of Cayuga Lake. Ivy-covered stone ruins that somehow make you feel like you've been transported to the Scottish countryside.

It's the kind of place that is almost TOO pretty to be real. Ayla and Cam chose the Inns of Aurora for their wedding celebration, and it couldn't have been a more perfect fit. There is an intentionality to the entire property that's difficult to appreciate until you're actually there. Nothing feels overly commercial. Instead, the experience feels more like a luxurious retreat where a wedding happens to be taking place, too.

One of my favorite things about this venue is that it encourages guests to slow down and enjoy the entire weekend. Between the world-class spa, farm-to-table dining, lakeside views, and gorgeous restored historic properties, it truly feels like escaping to a destination vacation with all your favorite people.

The Inns of Aurora also has so many great portrait spots, too! The lakefront scenery, say less. The historic architecture, literal no brainer. Beautifully maintained grounds, 1,000%! Iconic stone ruins, I’m already dead. There is inspiration around every corner. If American Girl Doll and Downton Abbey had a baby, it would probably look a lot like the Inns of Aurora. 😂 Timeless, romantic, and effortlessly elegant, it's easily one of my favorite Upstate New York wedding venues!

3. The Sterling at Arrowhead Golf Club | Akron, New York

I associate photographed a wedding at The Sterling at Arrowhead Golf Club, and I remember immediately thinking, "Okay... this place is COOL."

One of my favorite things about The Sterling is the contrast between the architecture and the landscape. The venue itself feels sleek and modern, with clean lines, soaring floor-to-ceiling windows, black accents, and an airy reception space filled with natural light. Step outside, though, and you're surrounded by rolling green fairways, mature trees, and peaceful water views. It somehow manages to feel modern and natural all at once.

As an Upstate NY wedding photographer, that combination is such a dream because you get the best of both worlds. Couples can take portraits surrounded by lush greenery, then walk just a few steps back to a space that feels contemporary.

The ceremony takes place on its own little island surrounded by water, which makes for the most incredible perspective from above. If you're planning to have drone coverage on your wedding day, this venue absolutely delivers. The golf cart access is another unexpected perk—it makes getting around the property quick and easy while opening up even more portrait locations throughout the course.

If you're drawn to clean, modern design but still want your wedding to feel connected to nature, The Sterling at Arrowhead Golf Club strikes that balance beautifully.

4. Sherwood Inn | Skaneateles, New York

There is something about Skaneateles Lake that feels a little extra special. Maybe it's the crystal-clear water. Maybe it's the charming downtown. Maybe it's the fact that every time I photograph there, I leave wanting to immediately plan a weekend getaway. 😂

Whatever it is, Skaneateles has a way of making people fall in love with it! Jordan and Casey chose the Sherwood Inn for their wedding day, and it perfectly captured everything that makes this area so beloved. Nestled right along the edge of Skaneateles Lake, the historic colonial inn feels sooo timeless. The moment you step onto the property, you're greeted with sweeping lake views, Victorian architecture, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you immedately feel at ease.

One of my favorite things about the Sherwood Inn is how seamlessly the lake becomes part of the wedding experience. The sprawling lawn creates the perfect setting for both ceremonies and cocktail hour, while Skaneateles Lake provides a breathtaking backdrop from start to finish.

And speaking of the lake... it's not called the "crown jewel" of the Finger Lakes for nothing. 👀 Between the pristine water, luxury lakefront homes, and incredibly scenic views, it's easy to understand why so many people consider it one of the most beautiful lakes in New York State! For couples dreaming of a lakeside wedding that is elevated, upscale, and uniquely Finger Lakes, the Sherwood Inn is hard to beat.

5. George Eastman Museum | Rochester, New York

Some Upstate New York wedding venues make you feel like you've been transported somewhere entirely different. The George Eastman Museum is one of those places!

The first time I photographed on the grounds, I couldn't stop thinking about how much it felt like an English countryside estate. Between the formal gardens, manicured lawn, historic mansion, and stunning columnade, every pocket of the property feels sophisticated. In my opinion, the West Garden is especially stunning. It has this elevated garden-party feel that somehow manages to feel grand and intimate at the same time.

For couples who love old-world architecture, European-inspired landscapes, and classic elegance, the George Eastman Museum offers a backdrop unlike anywhere else in Upstate New York. (And if you ask me, it's one of Rochester's most underrated wedding venues! 🫡)

6. Colloca Estate Winery | Fair Haven, New York

Some weddings are beautiful. Some weddings are a PARTY. Cristi and Trevor's wedding at Colloca Estate Winery was both. 💃 I photographed their celebration when I was only five weeks postpartum (which honestly is slightly ridiculous looking back 😂), and it's a wedding I'll never forget. With more than 200 guests, incredible energy, and live music from Silver Arrow Band, the entire day felt like one giant celebration from start to finish and Colloca Estate Winery was the PERFECT venue for it all! 

Located along the shores of Lake Ontario, Colloca Estate Winery offers something that feels distinct from many Finger Lakes venues. It combines waterfront views, winery charm, and enough space to comfortably host larger guest counts without losing any of the intimacy.

The multi-level layout creates so many opportunities for guests to explore throughout the evening, and when paired with a lively crowd, the energy is absolutely unmatched.

7. The Sinclair of Skaneateles | Skaneateles, New York

Although I photographed this wedding as a second shooter, The Sinclair immediately earned a place within this list. John and Bri's wedding perfectly showcased everything that makes this venue special.

From the outside, the property offers a lawn space for ceremonies and cocktail hour. Inside, the venue transforms into a sleek industrial-inspired reception space filled with oversized windows, black iron details, and stunning natural light. It felt truly Tuscany-inspired. For couples who love contemporary design but still want the beauty of an outdoor ceremony, The Sinclair strikes a balance that can be surprisingly difficult to find elsewhere.

8. Cracker Factory | Geneva, New York

Okay, I may be slightly biased because this is where my sister, Beth, married my brother-in-law, David. But even if I wasn't, Cracker Factory would still make this list! Located near Seneca Lake, this unique venue embraces its industrial roots in the best possible way. Think—exposed brick, soaring ceilings, oversized windows, and copious character.

The space is authentic, creative, and full of personality. The ceremony-to-reception flip happens seamlessly, transforming the venue from one part of the day to the next while still maintaining the same warm, inviting atmosphere. It's perfect for couples who want something a little out-of-the-norm from the traditional ballroom experience! 

9. The Fontainebleau Inn | Alpine, New York

Some Upstate New York wedding venues immediately make you exhale. The Fontainebleau Inn is one of those places! Tucked away along Cayuta Lake, this venue is peaceful, quiet, and wonderfully removed from the busyness of everyday life.

When I second shot Becky and James' wedding there, what stood out most wasn't just the lake views or the gorgeous grounds—it was the feeling of the place itself. Guests played lawn games. Couples wandered the dock. Flowers bloomed throughout the property. Everything felt sooo relaxed and welcoming.

And just next door sits one of the sweetest little hidden gems in the Finger Lakes—a chapel tucked away in the woods. The entire setting is intimate, and incredibly special.

10. The Highline ROC | Rochester, New York

Unlike the other Upstate New York wedding venues on this list, I haven't had the chance to photograph a wedding at The Highline ROC quite yet (though I'm hoping to change that soon! 😜)

I actually had a wedding booked here once, but ended up passing it along to another photographer when I found out I was pregnant with my second baby and realized the wedding date was a little too close to my due date. Even though I haven't photographed a wedding here yet, I've toured the space and spent time getting to know the owners, and I was immediately impressed with it.

Owned and managed by two sisters, The Highline ROC is fresh, modern, and intentionally designed. The space serves as a blank canvas for couples planning a luxury wedding, allowing them to fully customize the atmosphere and aesthetic of their celebration.

The owners were incredibly kind when I first met them, taking the time to show me around and share their vision for the venue. That experience stuck with me. Sometimes the people behind a venue are just as important as the venue itself. And from everything I've seen, The Highline ROC is absolutely one to keep in mind! 

Which Upstate New York Wedding Venue Is Right for You?

One of the things I love most about Upstate New York is that no two wedding venues feel exactly the same. You can exchange vows overlooking Cayuga Lake, celebrate in a historic inn, dance beneath string lights in a hidden garden, host an industrial-chic reception in a renovated warehouse, or spend an entire wedding weekend relaxing with your favorite people in the Finger Lakes.

The best venue ultimately comes down to the experience you want to create. No matter which direction you choose, one thing is certain: Upstate New York is filled with incredible places to celebrate your love story. 🥹

And I feel pretty darn lucky that I get to photograph them here in my backyard! ✨