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Looking for a romantic and picturesque wedding setting? In this post, I’ll share the most breathtaking wedding venues I discovered in the Finger Lakes—where vineyard views, serene lakeshores, and rolling hills come together to create the ultimate setting for romantic “I dos” in upstate New York’s wine country. The Finger Lakes region offers stunning venues surrounded by vineyards, lakes, and charming small towns, making it the perfect backdrop for your big day.

😍 If you are in a hurry, I recommend:

  • Say "I do" at wineries with breathtaking vineyard views.
  • Celebrate at lakeside venues offering tranquil water vistas.
  • Host an elegant reception in rustic barns or modern event spaces.
  • Enjoy a charming ceremony in lush gardens or scenic parks.
  • Make unforgettable memories at unique venues with wine tastings and scenic tours.

Unique Wedding Venues:

1. Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa


"Host charming, lakeside weddings with historic elegance and serene views."

Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

© Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

Location:

Aurora, NY

Recommended For:

Couples dreaming of a lakeside wedding with storybook charm, combining historic elegance with natural beauty and serene waterfront views.

What we Love about The Inns of Aurora:

The enchanting village-like setting, stately restored mansions turned into boutique inns, sprawling lawns leading to Cayuga Lake, and the romantic sunset ceremonies by the water.
  • Celebrate under the ceremony tent or on the expansive Aurora Lawn with panoramic lake views, ideal for gatherings of up to 200 guests.
  • Indulge in the refined hospitality and curated experiences offered across the historic estates, from spa services to lakefront strolls.
  • Enjoy a destination-style wedding weekend in a charming village setting with bespoke service and luxurious accommodations for guests.

Cost:

Pricing varies based on event size, season, and services selected. Contact The Inns of Aurora directly for tailored wedding packages and quotes.

Best time to get married:

Late spring through early fall offers the most picturesque outdoor settings and golden lakefront sunsets.

Local tips:

Host a welcome dinner or farewell brunch at one of the estate’s elegant dining venues and plan a lakeside photoshoot at sunset for unforgettable wedding portraits.

Address:

The Inns of Aurora, 391 Main St, Aurora, NY 13026
Phone: 315-364-8888

2. Norton Chapel


💕 "Celebrate intimate, traditional weddings in a picturesque chapel setting."

Norton Chapel

© ruslan1117/stock.adobe.com

Location:

Keuka Park, NY

Recommended For:

Couples seeking a serene lakeside ceremony setting with classic chapel charm and exclusive day-of access on a college campus.

What we Love about Norton Chapel:

The elegant lakeside location, panoramic views of Keuka Lake, dedicated bride and groom suites, and the one-wedding-per-day policy that ensures relaxed, flexible timing.
  • Celebrate your vows in a traditional chapel setting with soaring ceilings, large windows, and lake vistas, all on the historic grounds of Keuka College.
  • Indulge in the convenience of on-site parking, private dressing rooms, and modern sound equipment to ensure a flawless ceremony experience.
  • Enjoy the exclusivity of having the chapel reserved solely for your celebration day, plus the option to host a reception nearby on the same campus.

Cost:

Pricing details vary depending on date and services. Contact Keuka College for customized wedding packages and availability.

Best time to get married:

Late spring through early fall offers vibrant foliage, comfortable weather, and clear views of Keuka Lake.

Local tips:

Plan for golden hour wedding portraits along the lake, and take advantage of the all-in-one convenience of campus ceremony and reception options.

Address:

Norton Chapel, 141 Central Ave, Keuka Park, NY 14478
Phone: 315-279-5000

3. Club 86


😊 "Plan elegant, vintage-inspired weddings in a historic supper club venue."

Club 86

© Club 86

Location:

Geneva, NY

Recommended For:

Couples looking for a glamorous and historic wedding venue with vintage flair, spacious interiors, and a legacy of entertainment and elegance.

What we Love about Club 86:

The nostalgic ambiance of a 1940s supper club, the elegant ballroom with tiered seating and dance floor, and the option to scale from intimate gatherings to grand receptions with up to 400 guests.
  • Celebrate in the Terrace Room’s spacious ballroom, complete with stage, expansive dance floor, and booth-style seating that channels timeless sophistication.
  • Indulge in the legacy of a venue that has welcomed legends like Tony Bennett and Dizzy Gillespie, giving your wedding an iconic, jazz-age backdrop.
  • Enjoy versatile event spaces like the intimate Cabaret Lounge for smaller receptions or pre-wedding events, all managed with experienced, professional service.

Cost:

Pricing is based on space rental, guest count, and package selections. Contact Club 86 directly for detailed quotes and availability.

Best time to get married:

Spring through fall is ideal for taking advantage of Geneva’s Finger Lakes scenery, though the venue’s elegant interior ensures year-round event success.

Local tips:

Plan for vintage-inspired wedding décor to complement the club’s storied history, and consider adding live jazz or swing music for an unforgettable evening vibe.

Address:

Club 86, 86 Avenue E, Geneva, NY 14456
Phone: 315-789-4955

Ideas For a Luxury Wedding:

4. The North Farm


"Enjoy rustic, countryside weddings with scenic views and natural beauty."

The North Farm

© pyrozenko13/stock.adobe.com

Location:

Geneva, NY

Recommended For:

Couples looking for a rustic-chic wedding venue with flexible, sustainable spaces and scenic lake views in the heart of the Finger Lakes.

What we Love about The North Farm:

The combination of historic 19th-century dairy barns, sweeping views of Seneca Lake, lush landscaped grounds, and a strong commitment to customization and sustainability.
  • Celebrate in one of six unique event spaces, from the charming Reception Barn to the open-air courtyard, with room to tailor your celebration to any style or guest count.
  • Indulge in the serene setting, ideal for stunning photos across gardens, historic buildings, and the lakeside backdrop that defines Finger Lakes romance.
  • Enjoy the freedom to design your ideal wedding experience—from intimate outdoor ceremonies to lively barn receptions—all in a venue that values flexibility and eco-conscious hosting.

Cost:

Rates vary depending on selected spaces, guest count, and custom event needs. Contact The North Farm directly for tailored package details and availability.

Best time to get married:

Late spring through early fall is ideal to fully enjoy the venue’s outdoor charm and lake views, with autumn offering warm tones and crisp air.

Local tips:

Maximize your photo ops with golden hour portraits overlooking Seneca Lake, and consider using multiple barns to create a flow from ceremony to dinner to dancing.

Address:

The North Farm, 4988 W Lake Rd, Geneva, NY 14456
Phone: 315-521-4672

5. Belhurst Castle and Winery


My top 5 😎 : "Exchange vows in a fairytale castle with vineyard charm and lake views."

Belhurst Castle and Winery

© Belhurst Castle and Winery

Location:

Geneva, NY

Recommended For:

Couples seeking a romantic, fairytale-like setting with historic grandeur, lakeside elegance, and full guest accommodations all in one unforgettable Finger Lakes destination.

What we Love about Belhurst Castle and Winery:

The castle’s timeless charm, the sweeping lawns leading to Seneca Lake, the winery and dining options onsite, and the opportunity to celebrate in a venue steeped in history and elegance.
  • Celebrate with a ceremony on the expansive green lawns overlooking Seneca Lake, followed by an elegant reception inside the warm, stone-walled halls of the historic castle.
  • Indulge in the convenience of having a winery, two acclaimed restaurants, and three on-site hotels—perfect for multi-day wedding festivities and seamless guest experiences.
  • Enjoy breathtaking photo opportunities among tree-lined paths, lakeside docks, and castle balconies that capture the magic of your special day.

Cost:

Packages vary based on guest count, menu selections, and accommodations. Contact Belhurst Castle for personalized wedding pricing and planning assistance.

Best time to get married:

Spring through fall offers the best weather for outdoor ceremonies and lakefront views, while the castle's cozy interiors provide winter wedding charm.

Local tips:

Host your cocktail hour at the outdoor bar with lake views, and treat guests to wine tastings from the on-site winery for a signature Finger Lakes experience.

Address:

Belhurst Castle and Winery, 4069 West Lake Rd, Geneva, New York 14456
Phone: 315-781-0201

6. Chantelle Marie Lakehouse & Celebration Venue


"Host romantic, lakeside weddings with cozy ambiance and stunning views."

Chantelle Marie Lakehouse & Celebration Venue

© Chantelle Marie Lakehouse & Celebration Venue

Location:

Auburn, NY

Recommended For:

Couples desiring a serene vineyard and lakefront setting with flexible indoor-outdoor event spaces that cater to both intimate and large celebrations.

What we Love about Chantelle Marie Lakehouse & Celebration Venue:

The idyllic location overlooking Owasco Lake, the vineyard and orchard setting, the vintage barn charm, and the versatile mix of elegant and rustic spaces for every wedding moment.
  • Celebrate with a lakeside ceremony followed by a reception in the large event space or antique barn, all surrounded by natural beauty and vineyard views.
  • Indulge in the tranquil ambiance of the covered patio and lawn, ideal for cocktail hours, scenic photos, and sunset toasts with friends and family.
  • Enjoy convenient amenities like a commercial-grade kitchen, ice machine, restrooms, and included tables and chairs—all designed to support a smooth, well-equipped event.

Cost:

Rates depend on space usage, guest count, and selected services. Contact Chantelle Marie Lakehouse directly for detailed wedding packages and pricing.

Best time to get married:

Late spring through early fall provides ideal weather and vibrant scenery for outdoor ceremonies and lakeside receptions.

Local tips:

Capture vineyard and orchard wedding portraits at golden hour, and use the covered patio as a charming transition space for cocktail hour or late-night dancing.

Address:

Chantelle Marie Lakehouse & Celebration Venue, 5127 West Lake Rd, Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: 315-730-1505

Ideas For an Intimate Wedding:

7. Crispin Hill


💕 "Celebrate rustic-chic weddings with breathtaking hilltop vineyard views."

Crispin Hill

© Crispin Hill

Location:

Penn Yan, NY

Recommended For:

Couples wanting a private, rustic-chic wedding venue with historic charm, scenic lake views, and on-site accommodations in New York’s Finger Lakes region.

What we Love about Crispin Hill:

The 100-year-old farmhouse overlooking Keuka Lake, the beautifully restored barn with rustic elegance, and the personalized service led by a hospitality and fine dining expert.
  • Celebrate with a lake-view ceremony, followed by a reception in the Crispin Barn or adjacent tent, offering flexibility and space for up to 175 guests.
  • Indulge in chef-curated menus crafted by the venue’s owner, paired with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and top-tier service throughout your celebration.
  • Enjoy a weekend-long wedding experience with lodging for up to 14 in the farmhouse, ideal for close family and the wedding party to relax and connect before and after the big day.

Cost:

Pricing varies based on the season, guest count, and services selected. Contact Crispin Hill for detailed wedding packages and availability.

Best time to get married:

Late spring through fall is perfect for enjoying the outdoor views and vibrant Finger Lakes foliage, with warm summer evenings ideal for tented celebrations.

Local tips:

Take advantage of the farmhouse for a full wedding weekend experience, and schedule time for sunset portraits overlooking Keuka Lake from the barn or lawn.

Address:

Crispin Hill, 2732 Wager Hill Rd, Penn Yan, NY 14527
Phone: 315-577-2797

8. Geneva On The Lake


💕 "Plan sophisticated, waterfront weddings with timeless elegance and resort charm."

Geneva On The Lake

© Geneva On The Lake

Location:

Geneva, NY

Recommended For:

Couples desiring a refined and romantic wedding venue with European-style gardens, historic villa charm, and options for both intimate and outdoor celebrations.

What we Love about Geneva On The Lake:

The seventeenth-century Italianate villa ambiance, manicured formal gardens perfect for ceremonies, and the seasonal pavilion for larger summer weddings overlooking Seneca Lake.
  • Celebrate your vows amidst lush, European-inspired gardens or beneath the summer pavilion with panoramic lawn and lake views, offering a timeless atmosphere for ceremonies and receptions.
  • Indulge in the opulent interiors for a seated reception of up to 45 guests, featuring gilded décor, antique furnishings, and Old World elegance throughout the villa.
  • Enjoy the feeling of stepping back in time, surrounded by classical architecture, refined service, and peaceful grounds perfect for romantic photos and leisurely guest experiences.

Cost:

Pricing depends on guest count, season, and space selection. Contact Geneva On The Lake directly for customized wedding packages and seasonal availability.

Best time to get married:

Spring through early fall provides the best experience for outdoor ceremonies and pavilion receptions with blooming gardens and lake breezes.

Local tips:

Host an elegant garden cocktail hour followed by an alfresco dinner under the pavilion, and consider reserving suites within the villa for an immersive wedding weekend experience.

Address:

Geneva On The Lake, 1001 Lochland Rd, Geneva, NY 14456
Phone: 315-789-7190

📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:

  • Why is the Finger Lakes region a great wedding destination?
    • The Finger Lakes region of New York offers a gorgeous backdrop for wedding celebrations.
  • What types of wedding venues are available in the Finger Lakes?
    • Couples have their pick of whimsical outdoor spaces, stunning wineries, charming rustic barns, and much more with the wide array of wedding venues.
  • Why do couples choose the Finger Lakes over New York City?
    • Many people leave bustling New York City behind when searching for the perfect venue for their wedding ceremony and reception, drawn by the region’s beauty and charm.
  • What makes the Finger Lakes region ideal for a wedding?
    • The Finger Lakes features narrow, long picturesque lakes, breathtaking vistas, and quaint towns that make it the ideal location for a memorable and beautiful event.

Best Time to Plan a Wedding in the Finger Lakes, New York

  • May to October – Best time for weddings with vineyard views, lake breezes, and vibrant seasonal landscapes.
  • June to September – Peak season with warm weather, lush greenery, and ideal conditions for outdoor and winery venues.
  • May & October – Shoulder months offering spring blossoms or brilliant fall foliage with fewer crowds.
  • July & August – Warm and sunny; perfect for lakefront weddings, though book early for popular venues.
  • November to April – Off-season with cold temps and snow; ideal for cozy indoor weddings with rustic or wine country charm.

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