Finger Lakes Wedding Venues
Finger Lakes Wedding Venues by Hayley Anne Photography – Ithaca Wedding Venues NY
The Finger Lakes, NY, it’s a sought after destination in all four seasons. Made up of 11 lakes in the center of New York, it’s an ideal getaway location. People visit from all over the eastern seaboard and beyond. And that’s not surprising. We’ve got endless waterfalls, wine trails, breweries, museums, markets, farms, lakes, forests, and of course gorgeous gorges. What’s not to love? It’s for that reason that it’s quite popular as a wedding destination too.
I’ve created a list of my favorite venues in the hopes of making someone’s life a little easier when planning. None of these are sponsored, but I have photographed at each of these. This list will continue to be updated as my wedding photography journey takes me farther around the Finger Lakes region. If you’re a venue and want to be added to the list, reach out! There’s also a handy map at the end of the post to mark all the venues.
Finger Lakes Wedding Venues NY
Hartlot Happening – Elbridge, NY
Hartlot Happening is a truly awesome option, effortlessly blending old industrial and updated natural pieces. Set along a quiet country road just five minutes from the Village of Skaneateles. Hartlot Happening is a singular Finger Lakes wedding and event venue with a refined, modern-rustic point of view. Thoughtfully crafted indoor and outdoor spaces unfold across the historic industrial property, reimagined for weddings, retreats, and intimate gatherings. The warmth and charm of timeworn concrete buildings, together with contemporary steel-and-glass architecture create a quietly sophisticated Central New York setting.
Seneca Ridge – Geneva, NY
Seneca Ridge is a one-of-a-kind wedding venue in the heart of the Finger Lakes, where rustic charm meets effortless elegance. Our iconic sailcloth tent sets the stage for unforgettable outdoor celebrations — airy, romantic, and open to the natural beauty that surrounds us. With a thoughtfully restored barn, panoramic views, and spaces designed to flow seamlessly from ceremony to last dance, Seneca Ridge offers a setting that feels both elevated and deeply personal.
John Joseph Inn – Groton, NY
The John Joseph Inn is an amazing spot, where timeless elegance meets modern luxury, creating the perfect backdrop for your unforgettable celebration. Nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes region minutes from downtown Ithaca, our historic estate is a unique blend of charm and sophistication. Formerly The Rose Inn, owner and Executive Chef John Hamilton realized his dreams of operating an exceptional full service inn in 2006 and embarked on restoring and revitalizing the inn to its current glory. From the moment you step onto our property to the time you depart, we strive to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that allows you to savor every moment.
Dutch Harvest Farm – Lansing, NY
This is an awesome Finger Lakes wedding venue, it sits on 50 acres and the vibe is very modern farm luxury. There’s ample updated space for all your guests, a covered outdoor ceremony area, a sprawling patio off the back barn doors, and amazing views. Inside the 7000sqft barn you’ll find space for 280+ guests, a bar, bathrooms, a getting ready room, and a ton of space for any variety of table and chairs orientation. Looking up, you’ll see wooden beam rafters and the most awesome farm style rustic chandeliers. Upstairs there’s a small loft with modern luxe seating for more intimate conversation as well. It’s such a cool Ithaca wedding venue. Being here just makes you feel good, can’t wait to go back! Check out my most recent wedding at Dutch Harvest Farm here: https://hayleyannephotography.com/dutch-harvest-farm-wedding-lansing-ny/ – https://www.dutchharvestfarm.com
Ithaca Farmer’s Market – Ithaca, NY
This iconic Ithaca Farmer’s Market, a Finger Lakes wedding venue sits on the south banks of Cayuga Lake in Ithaca, NY. On Saturdays and Sundays hundreds of vendors come from farms and local small businesses all around to sell their wares. After the market packs up at 3pm on Saturday, the location often turns into a wedding venue in the spring. summer, and fall. The open air pavilion looks out onto the lake, which is also the perfect spot for the ceremony. Tables and chairs are set up under the café lights, and people can meander around the grounds and check out the docks for sunset. I love this place and can’t wait to do more weddings here, it’s really and awesome Ithaca wedding venue!
Cornell Botanic Gardens and Stewart Park – Ithaca, NY
The Cornell Botanic Gardens are a thing of beauty. Sprawling over the grounds near Bebe Lake, the gardens cover 25 acres of land and include all kinds of trees, flowers, and herbs. Even on a hot day you’re sure to find some shade downwind of the fragrant herb garden. At Stewart Park, at the south end of Cayuga Lake in Ithaca, you’ll find a clubhouse for rent that’s able to easily fit 100+ people. Inside there’s ample room for seated guests, as well as a space to set up catered food, and bathrooms right there for convenience. With beautiful arched windows surrounding, your guests can have a great view of the lake. Both of these locations are great and I can’t wait to do more weddings at these Ithaca wedding venues! https://cornellbotanicgardens.org & https://www.cityofithaca.org/516/Stewart-Park
Finger Lakes Wedding Venues
New Park Event Venue & Suites – Ithaca, NY
Just south of Taughannock Falls, New Park Event Venue is tucked away on the hillside. It’s right along Cayuga Lake in Ithaca, NY. With sprawling acreage, ample forests, and custom architecture throughout, the whole property is quite magical. With no roadside sign, the entrance to the property isn’t obvious unless you’re specifically looking for it. Behind the fence sits the massive grounds.
There are multiple getting ready areas each in separate buildings. The ceremony spot sits nestled away in the forest, right alongside a babbling brook. Diffused light makes the whole scene very dreamy. The reception area includes space for everything you’d need, a large dance floor, a bar, a lounge area, and tent. For up to 215 guests, New Park Event Venue is one of a kind for the area and is an absolute favorite.
Taughannock Falls State Park – Trumansburg, NY
Taughannock Falls State Park’s namesake waterfall is one of the outstanding natural attractions of the Northeast. The falls plunge 215 feet past rocky cliffs that tower nearly 400 feet above the gorge. Gorge and rim trails offer spectacular views from above the falls and from below at the end of the gorge trail. Wedding ceremonies can take place either at the base of the falls or up on the overlook. There are time restrictions for each location with permits required, so be sure to check in with the park.
Keep in mind this is a public location, so it’s highly likely there will be regular visitors looking on as well. The walk from the parking lot to the base of the falls takes about 20-30 minutes depending on how fast you walk, and is accessible. The gorge trail winds through trees, follows the river and ends at the bottom of Taughannock Falls. An iconic favorite of all, Taughannock Falls is a place I’m always excited to return. It makes for an adventurous Ithaca wedding venue. https://parks.ny.gov/parks/taughannockfalls
Finger Lakes Wedding Venues
Fontainebleau Inn – Alpine, NY
The Inn is rustic and romantic, combining modern tastes with the spirit of a farmhouse, and has space for 150 guests. The exposed wooden beams, oversized fireplaces, and classically furnished banquet room create a charming venue for weddings. With many choices for getting ready areas, you’ll be sure to have ample space to spread out. Ceremonies can take place outside on the stone patio or on the sprawling lawn overlooking Cayuta Lake. For a more traditional ceremony, the adjacent Lawrence Memorial Chapel is just a short walk away through the woods.
Dinner takes place inside the vintage old world lodge feel banquet room. There’s also a bar and bathrooms nearby for convenience. Dancing happens outside on the patio under a tent, meaning the entire property can be utilized no matter what the weather decides to do. Fontainebleau Inn exudes tons of old world charm, vintage touches abound and there’s amazing views looking out to the east. I loved photographing here and can’t wait to do so again! https://fontainebleauinn.com
Lawrence Memorial Chapel – Alpine, NY
“The Chapel is located on State Route 228, about 3.5 miles northeast of Odessa. The Chapel is available for use from May 1 through Oct. 15. Occupancy 120 people. A small parking area allows for level access to the Chapel’s door. Event attendees may also park along the roadway. The Chapel has electricity, but very minimal heating and no air conditioning. Many events continue the celebrations at the Fontainebleau Inn, a short walk or drive from the Chapel. Built of local stone and slate, with suggestions of Gothic architecture, the Chapel and the surrounding majestic trees are hemmed in by a low wall. Wooden pews line the interior, and leaded glass windows with small flowerette designs adorn the walls. A marble plaque, consisting of three tablets, hangs at the front of the space, telling some of the Chapel’s history.” – https://schuylerhistory.org
Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel – Watkins Glen, NY
The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is right on the south end of Seneca Lake. It’s just a stone’s throw from both Watkins Glen State Park and the Seneca Lake Harbor Pier. There are plenty of things to do in the immediate area. The hotel rooms offer getting ready areas. The ceremonies take place on the back patio, overlooking the water. Cocktail hour happens right inside the patio in an intimate lounge area, and the reception is inside a grand ballroom. With plenty of spots for great photos and super nice staff, the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is great.
Finger Lakes Wedding Venues
Geneva on the Lake – Geneva, NY
Geneva on the Lake is located on the north side of Seneca Lake in Geneva, NY. “The 10-acre Geneva On The Lake boutique resort hotel is located in the heart of the wine region. Boasting farm to table dining, accentuated by extraordinary hospitality, beautifully landscaped grounds and stunning architecture. The historic Italianate villa is a landmark on the National Register of Historic Places. Geneva On The Lake is a bike ride away from Geneva’s charming historic district and famous museums. Also nearby are award-winning wineries, and the waterfront walking path at Seneca Lake State Park.”
Belhurst Castle – Geneva, NY
Belhurst Castle sits on the north end of Seneca Lake in Geneva, NY. “On the shores of Seneca Lake in the heart of the Finger Lakes region sits beautiful and historic, Belhurst Castle. Picture your wedding ceremony on flourishing green lawns with Seneca Lake glistening right in front of your eyes. Enjoy your cocktail hour at our outdoor bars after strolling sweeping lawns, tree-shaded vistas and our waterside dock. Imagine a reception set in a cozy, romantic atmosphere surrounded by your family and friends under the warm embrace of a century-old castle.”
Finger Lakes Wedding Venues
Traditions at the Glen – Johnson City, NY
“Traditions at the Glen is the Southern Tier’s premier wedding destination. We are a one-stop shop for your once in a lifetime event. And ensuring everything is planned and personalized to your needs and expectations. Our 41 well appointed guest rooms can accommodate your closest family and friends. The on-site catering and indoor and outdoor facilities can accommodate up to 300 guests. The resort amenities certainly enhance the experience, offering spa services including the Salt Sanctuary or last-minute hair and makeup touch-ups. Groomsmen can also schedule a pre-wedding golf outing.” https://traditionshotelandspa.com/weddings.php
Finger Lakes Elopement Photography
There are of course many ways to have a wedding. Eloping is always a great option for those who don’t want the big party. It’s those who want to have their ceremony be more intimate, or for those who want a bit more adventure. Elopements are always a favorite because we spend extended time out in the wild taking tons of gorgeous photos. We also likely wander farther away from the regular wedding spots. There’s tons of options – wineries, forests, waterfalls, fields, and more, these make for awesome Ithaca wedding venues. I’m always excited for elopements. If you’re eloping reach out now to make some epic adventure plans in the beautiful Finger Lakes.
Finger Lakes Wedding Venues NY
Ithaca Wedding Venues
This list will continue to be updated as more venues are photographed. If you are a venue and want to be added to the list, just reach out! Bookmark this page as an easy reference for later.
If you’re looking for your wedding or elopement photographer and have made it this far then…