New York City is a majestic place that offers a spirit-infused blend of urban flair and natural beauty. When you combine the city’s iconic skyline with the breathtaking views of its rivers and harbors, it’s the perfect setting for events and celebrations of all kinds. With an array of venues overlooking the Hudson River, East River, and New York Harbor, there’s no doubt you’ll find a picturesque spot to really wow your guests. From elegant piers to chic rooftop spaces, and everything in between, hosting your event at a waterfront location in NYC will create an unforgettable experience with a stunning backdrop to capture the essence of the city. We explore some of our favorite venues scattered along the shores of Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and beyond that will elevate your event and provide your guests with a truly captivating atmosphere for everyone to enjoy!
1. Pier Sixty, Manhattan
Pier Sixty is Manhattan’s largest waterfront venue, located at Chelsea Piers, and is one of the most flexible and expansive event spaces in the city. It is a luxurious event destination that is able to host any type of event from weddings, mitzvahs, fundraising galas, corporate meetings, product launches, and more! Their experienced team is there to craft an event tailor made to your expectations. Take in a captivating sunset overlooking the Hudson River at this picture-perfect outdoor space.
2. Russo’s on the Bay, Queens
Russo’s on the Bay is an elegant and glamorous venue with gorgeous views of Jamaica Bay and the waterway in Howard Beach, Queens. They offer party-enhancing surprises and dazzling ballrooms to elevate any event. They are known to be a sought-after wedding venue, but they also host conferences, trade shows, team-building and social events. Their dedicated coordinators will work with you on every detail to ensure the event reflects your vision.
3. Marina Del Rey, The Bronx
Marina Del Rey, located in the Bronx, is a multi-venue property with stunning views of the Long Island Sound and the Manhattan skyline. Their expansive patio is spacious and beautifully decorated making it the perfect setting for any outdoor event. Their open-air walkway out to the Long Island Sound provides a space where guests can relax while taking in the sights of the Whitestone and Throgs Neck Bridges. This chic and modern venue is one you’ll want to check out.
4. Sunset Terrace, Manhattan
Sunset Terrace, located at Chelsea Piers in Manhattan, boasts a fantastic waterfront view of the Hudson River and the State of Liberty. Your guests can watch luxurious yachts and sailboats pass by while the event is in progress. This riverside event venue can accommodate various types of events from wedding to corporate events. It offers floor-to-ceiling windows and has the look and feel of a downtown loft, creating the perfect space to watch a sunset over the river.
5. Sound River Studios, Queens
Sound River Studios, located in Long Island City in Queens, is a spacious indoor/outdoor space with amazing waterfront and skyline views across the East River. The large gallery-style space is a blank canvas that encourages creativity and flexibility for event planners. The main hall opens up to a dockside terrace space creating an area for guests to go in and out as they please.
6. Smooth Sailing Celebrations, New Jersey
Maximize your waterfront venue to the fullest by hosting your event on a private luxury yacht from Smooth Sailing Celebrations. Give your guests a fun, festive, and glamorous atmosphere cruising the East and Hudson Rivers. Bring with wow factor as your guests experience the skyscrapers of Manhattan, the Intrepid, Ellis Island, along with Lady Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, Governors Island, and more! The team at Smooth Sailing Celebrations will ensure every detail is taken care of with their one-stop-shop promise. Any event you can host on land, you can also host on a yacht!
7. Brooklyn Grange, Brooklyn
Brooklyn Grange is one of the more unique rooftop spaces in all of New York City. It’s an urban rooftop farm, growing vegetables for local restaurants and markets. It might not be the first place you think of when hosting an event, but their two locations are open for private events, parties, and corporate retreats. With its beautiful breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River coupled with bountiful plants and flowers, your guests will be in awe of the space.
One of the biggest perks to being an event planner in New York City is taking advantage of the stunning setting this city brings to every event. Certain aspects of the city can be a challenge but its beauty is unmatched so let it be the backdrop to your next event. Capture the essence of NYC in your venue choice and give your guests a memorable place to enjoy the party or event you're hosting. There’s something really memorable about taking in the twinkling city lights across the serene waters while enjoying an unforgettable event in the company of friends, family, and colleagues.
Check Out All That New York City Has to Offer at the Event Planner Expo!
New York City is an event planner’s playground with its endless opportunities for growth and collaborations with partners. Check out this year’s Event Planner Expo happening right here in NYC on October 15th to 17th, 2024! This three-day networking event and trade show is the perfect place to grow your business and gain valuable knowledge on how to revolutionize your approach to event planning. Secure your tickets today!
