Known for its historic mansions and ties to American history, the Hudson Valley is rich with culture and architecture from days past. When it comes to tying the knot, the region is home to gorgeous historic wedding venues with classic buildings, rolling hills, and plenty of photo opportunities. If impressive and imperial is your wedding vibe, check out these local destinations that have been staples of the area for years.
The Bird & Bottle Inn
1123 Old Albany Post Road, Garrison
View this post on Instagram
Since 1761, The Bird & Bottle Inn has been a place of gathering and celebration in Putnam County’s riverside town of Garrison. Over its 260 years of service, the inn has transformed from a tavern and stagecoach stop along the Old Albany Post Road to a farm and sawmill to the wedding venue and inn that it is today. The Bird & Bottle Inn provides idyllic indoor and outdoor spaces, along with world-class cuisine to make your day special and memorable. Outside ceremonies are accentuated by the surrounding Hudson Highlands, meticulously landscaped grounds, and a peaceful brook with an overlook bridge, while inside spaces feature quaint décor and five unique guest rooms. Celebrate, stay, and enjoy the views as you soak in the history of this Garrison gem.
View this post on Instagram
The Briarcliff Manor
25 Studio Hill Road, Briarcliff Manor
View this post on Instagram
Named after the town in which it stands, Briarcliff Manor is a stunning estate with a storied history that is sure to pique your interest. Inside the manor, old world charm blends flawlessly with contemporary elegance and a breathtaking view of the Palisades. The estate, which was built in 1902, was rumored to have welcomed some of the area’s most interesting characters when it was a speakeasy during Prohibition, and it now hosts grand and elegant weddings that don’t break the bank. With three different wedding packages to choose from, Briarcliff Manor offers options like buffet service, seated meal service, family-style service, cocktail hour, and specialty bar stations for your big day. Not only is the venue award-winning, but it has hosted over 700 weddings in its 50 years of service.
View this post on Instagram
Locust Grove Estate
2683 South Road, Poughkeepsie
View this post on Instagram
On a hill that overlooks the scenic Hudson River, Locust Grover Estate includes a historic Italianate mansion on 200 acres of landscaped grounds. The main estate, which was designed in 1850 for artist and inventor Samuel F. B. Morse, has since been renovated and expanded, all while maintaining its original beauty and its 15,000-piece collection of furniture, paintings, and decorative arts. What’s more, Locust Grove Estate is now a nonprofit museum and nature preserve, so all event rental fees directly support the venue’s educational programs. When it comes to weddings, the West Gallery is a unique setting that promises an unforgettable evening. Enjoy cocktails on the covered terrace and shaded courtyard before dining and dancing in a gallery that features hardwood floors, a cathedral ceiling, and three walls of windows and French doors.
View this post on Instagram
Mountainville Manor
199 Taylor Road, Mountainville
View this post on Instagram
In the quaint town of Cornwall, Mountainville Manor is an intimate venue that is newly restored and redecorated, with architecture dating back to 1850. The property’s 19th-century Victorian Estate features a wrap-around porch, grand ballroom that accommodates up to 150 guests, and backdrop of Schunnemunk Mountain and seasonal gardens. If you’d prefer an outdoor reception, celebrate under the tent on the three-acre landscaped lawn. When it comes to dining, James Beard Award-winning chef-in-residence Craig Shelton can work with couples to create personalized menus for their big day in the Valley. Each wedding package includes exclusive use of the manor, an open bar, award-winning cuisine, a wedding cake, coat check, an outdoor fire pit, and more.
View this post on Instagram
Onteora Mountain House
96 Piney Point Road, Boiceville
View this post on Instagram
For over 90 years, Onteora has served as a retreat from the world and a beautiful refuge among nature. For the past two decades, the estate has also operated as a distinct lodging and destination wedding venue in the Valley. Nestled at the base of the Catskills, the house was built in 1928 as mayonnaise millionaire Richard Hellmann’s summer estate. Along with its panoramic mountain views, the site is also surrounded by 200 acres of forests. With unforgettable photo opportunities, the historic wedding venue includes a 90-foot deck for ceremonies, a terrace, a 90-year-old Adirondack-style house for dining, and a 3,600-square-foot pavilion for dancing the night away.
View this post on Instagram
The Thayer Hotel
674 Thayer Road, West Point
View this post on Instagram
Since opening in 1926, The Historic Thayer Hotel at West Point has been a national treasure, inviting international leaders and celebrities alike to enjoy their stay. The hotel’s perspective from a hilltop that overlooks the Hudson River and the United States Military Academy is unbeatable, and its 200 years of military history and full array of modern comforts and amenities make it a marvel. The winner of multiple Best of Hudson Valley awards, the historic wedding venue is ideal for hosting intimate gatherings and ballroom affairs. Inside, soaring Gothic Revival architecture, a bridal suite, and flexible banquet rooms for rehearsal dinners and wedding receptions will impress guests. The Culinary Institute of America-trained culinary team will craft a custom menu for your big day, and 128 guest rooms and 23 suites can accommodate everyone at the end of the night.
View this post on Instagram
Related: The Wedding Foundry Crafts Dreamy, Intimate Weddings in the Hudson Valley
