Top 10 luxury Wedding Venues in Upstate New York for Modern, Nature-Loving Couples

Upstate New York holds a kind of quiet magic—a place where forest-lined valleys meet rolling farmland, where the air feels a little slower, and where wedding days are less about pageantry and more about presence.

As someone who was born in Ithaca and now photographs couples all across the Hudson Valley, Catskills, and beyond, I know just how special this corner of the world is. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a full wedding weekend, these venues strike the perfect balance between refined and relaxed—with nature always close by.

Here are 10 of the most captivating venues in Upstate New York for couples (and beyond!) who care about aesthetics, experience, and intention. All ten of these spots are places I absolutely adore, and would get married in myself. Each one offers something special—whether it’s the architecture, the landscape, or the way the space simply feels when you’re in it.

This list blends well-loved favourites and exciting new discoveries, all curated with an eye toward artistry, ease, and connection.

1. Windrift Hall — Coxsackie, NY

A romantic, Georgian estate tucked into 14 acres of woodland and wildflower fields. Windrift Hall feels like a secret garden you get to share with your favourite people. The interiors are full of character (think: antique portraits, moody light, time-worn textures), and the grounds offer endless possibilities for portraits in nature.

Perfect for: couples who want historic charm and editorial depth.

2. Marks Good Apples Farm — Ghent, NY (Renovation in progress for 2025)

Set against open fields and sun-drenched hills, this beloved Hudson Valley farm is currently undergoing a stunning renovation. The new interiors are shaping up to be a harmonious blend of old barn soul and modern architectural detail—clean lines, intentional materials, and light that moves beautifully throughout the day.

I’ve had a behind-the-scenes look, and this is one to watch. The transformation will make it one of the most visually compelling venues in the region.

Perfect for: couples who want organic beauty with an elevated, modern finish.

3. John Joseph Inn — Groton, NY

Just outside Ithaca, this refined inn offers beautifully maintained gardens, classic architecture, and an effortlessly welcoming atmosphere. It feels personal without being too polished—ideal for couples who want a relaxed sense of luxury.

As someone who grew up nearby, I can tell you this spot perfectly captures what makes the Finger Lakes so special: warm hospitality, natural beauty, and the sense that you’re never far from water or wine.

Perfect for: timeless elegance, lush surroundings, and heartfelt gatherings.

4. The Maples Estate — Schoharie, NY

Understated, creative, and rich with possibility, The Maples Estate is one of those venues that allows your wedding to feel truly like you. With its mix of open meadows, shaded trees, and historic estate buildings, it offers versatility and character without ever feeling cookie-cutter.

Perfect for: couples who want space to roam and a design-forward canvas to make their own.

Photo courtesy of Andrew Franciosa

5. Handsome Hollow — Long Eddy, NY

A hidden gem in the Catskills, Handsome Hollow is deeply loved for good reason. Its restored 18th-century barn feels elevated yet grounded, and the surrounding 93 acres of forest and meadow provide an incredible setting for outdoor ceremonies.

The owners have poured heart into this place, and it shows. It’s both well-designed and soulfully maintained.

Perfect for: romantic rustic weddings with a modern editorial sensibility.

6. Gratitude & Grace — Ithaca, NY

Tucked just minutes from downtown Ithaca, Gratitude & Grace offers the perfect blend of pastoral charm and relaxed elegance. Set on 13 acres with a restored 1878 Victorian farmhouse, rustic barn, and sweeping lawns, the venue feels peaceful, personal, and rooted in the beauty of the Finger Lakes.

The flow of the property makes for an easygoing weekend celebration, and the surrounding countryside is an endless source of natural beauty for portraits. It’s a space that invites connection, reflection, and joy.

That said, this venue shines brightest in the summer months. The barn and ceremony spaces rely heavily on natural light, and in the fall—especially as days grow shorter—the indoor spaces can feel quite dark. If you’re planning an autumn wedding here, it’s worth considering an earlier ceremony time or additional lighting support to ensure your photos reflect the warmth and clarity you’re envisioning.

Perfect for: relaxed countryside weddings with authentic, local character.

7. Foxfire Mountain House — Mount Tremper, NY

A personal fave, Foxfire is bohemian, eclectic, and impossibly charming, The space feels more like a well-travelled friend’s home than a wedding venue. Think vintage textiles, Moroccan tiles, fire pits, and a glass greenhouse set in the woods. It’s romantic without trying too hard—and visually stunning from every angle.

What really sets Foxfire apart is the attention to detail. Every space—from the getting-ready rooms to the shared dinner tables—has been styled with intention and warmth. Getting ready here is a dream for any photographer: layered textures, beautiful window light, and thoughtful design that elevates even the quietest moments.

Even more special is Foxfire’s approach to weddings: they don’t do one-day events—they host full wedding retreats. That means you and your guests aren’t rushed in and out. You get to settle in, slow down, and truly enjoy a weekend together. It creates space for deeper connection, richer memories, and a more meaningful experience from start to finish.

Foxfire invites a slower pace, a creative atmosphere, and a real sense of grounded joy. It’s equally suited for intimate ceremonies in the woods or lively dinner parties under the stars. I’m going to be honest—this is my dream wedding venue, not just to shoot, but even for my own wedding. Absolutely in love.

Perfect for: couples who love relaxed elegance with creative flair—and value beauty in the in-between moments.

8. Little Cat Lodge — Hillsdale, NY

A boutique lodge nestled at the base of Catamount Mountain. This newly restored property blends alpine coziness with polished minimalism. Smaller in scale, it’s perfect for full buyout weekends where guests can slow down and soak it all in.

One particularly special touch: there’s a sauna with mountain views. It’s the perfect way to relax before a busy wedding day—or to unwind the morning after. The balance of quiet luxury and rugged surroundings makes Little Cat feel like a hidden retreat.

Perfect for: stylish, intimate weddings with a design-forward aesthetic.

9. Cedar Lakes Estate — Port Jervis, NY

This venue has become iconic for full wedding weekends—luxury meets nostalgia with a private lake, sweeping views, and high-end cabins. It’s both expansive and deeply personal.

From a photography standpoint, it’s an absolute dream. The property offers a wealth of options for portraits and ceremony locations—waterfront, mountaintop, wooded paths, charming interiors, and wide-open fields. Whether you're planning something intimate or envisioning a 200-guest celebration, there's a space that will feel like it was designed just for you.

Couples love the immersive experience here: welcome dinners, bonfires, yoga, and lakeside vows. It’s a full experience, not just a day—crafted to bring people together in a way that feels rich and grounded.

Perfect for: destination-style weddings with refined taste and endless visual potential.

10. Gather Greene — Coxsackie, NY

Architecturally striking and bathed in light, Gather Greene is known for its modern cabins, minimalist ceremony platform, and views that stretch across the mountains. It’s luxury in its most intentional form: clean, quiet, and powerful.

What makes this venue truly exceptional is the way it blends modern minimalist design with a breathtaking natural setting. The architecture feels sculptural yet inviting, with large windows that frame the surrounding forest and let nature take centre stage. Every detail is thoughtfully considered, and the result is a space that feels elevated without being overwhelming.

Guests can stay in cabins scattered across the property, each offering a peaceful, private retreat. It creates a genuine feeling of community—like a beautifully designed version of childhood camp, where everyone is close by, yet surrounded by nature.

Another standout feature: the rain plan here isn’t a compromise. The interior event space is just as stunning as the outdoor platform, filled with light and perfectly aligned with the overall design. You won’t need a backup plan—you’ll simply have two equally beautiful options.

Perfect for: couples who love design, nature, and a sense of togetherness.

Photo courtesy of Mary Dougherty Photography

Bonus: The Break Estate — Hudson Valley, NY (Coming Soon)

Though not yet open to the public, The Break Estate is already set to become a standout. I had the privilege of meeting the owner and venue coordinator—a creative force formerly based in NYC—and her vision for this property is extraordinary.

Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley, The Break is being thoughtfully renovated into a high-end venue space that honours both its natural setting and modern design principles. Think refined architecture, lush outdoor areas, and warm, personal hospitality.

This is one to watch for 2025 and beyond—and it’s going to be unforgettable.

Summing Up

Whether you’re early in the planning process or just starting to explore venues, I hope this list gave you a glimpse into what’s possible in this beautiful region.

And if you’re not only looking for a photographer—but also someone who knows and loves Upstate New York—I’d be honoured to connect. I was born in Ithaca and have spent years photographing weddings across the Hudson Valley and the Catskills. I’m always happy to share insight on locations, even if you haven’t picked your venue yet. Sometimes chatting with a photographer before locking in your venue can help shape the day in ways you hadn’t yet imagined.

Feel free to reach out—no pressure, just a warm conversation to help you start dreaming.