Oh my gosh you guys, I was bit by the travel bug this past week when I traveled to New York City to attend a Destination Elopement and Wedding Photography Retreat.

I got to explore New York while scoping out some of the most stunning spots to Elope in the city and I am here to share each of them and my experience shooting there with you!

1. Central Park Bethesda Fountain

Location: Central Park Bethesda Fountain Hosts: Into the Style PNB Models: Brendi and Carlo @bobeystyledshoots

If you have never been to Central Park before it is STUNNING. I was amazed how much I didn’t even feel like I was in one of the biggest city’s in the United States. Our Elopement session was planned for sunrise for optimal lighting as well as to beat the crowds around the Bethesda fountain and it got busy QUICK.

The lighting was incredible, as were the landscapes. When you enter into the part of the park where the Bethesda Fountain is there are so many different luxurious options to take photos at. One being the fountain that offers incredible sunrise views where the sun peeks through the trees into the park right over the fountain. Then there are two huge sets of stairs for walking or sitting photos. This was definitely a popular spot amongst the photographers that were there. Right past the fountain there is a huge lake (literally still couldn’t believe I was in NYC) that houses so many little paths and trees, absolutely beautiful in the fall. Sitting at the back of the lake is the Loeb Boathouse. If you’re looking to add an aquatic element to your elopement or engagement session you can grab a boat around 10 am (first come first serve) and if you’re risky you can even get in a boat and follow the couple around. The views are just breath taking all around and you can even get some great views of the NYC skyline. As you walk (or row) around the lake you will be able to see Bow Bridge. The bridge offers areas for photos on and off of it. There is a little path directly in eye shot across from the bridge with a little dock that offers a perfect wide shot of all of its beauty. One last picture perfect spot that I love in Central Park housed right between the two grand stair cases near the Bethesda Fountain is Bethesda Terrace. Right off the bat the vibe was everything an Elopement needed with the sweetest man playing violin under the terrace. This set the perfect tone for some slow dancing and just allowing the couple to be themselves while we captured every moment of it. The tile work inside of the Terrace is breathtaking as well as the architecture of the building. Heads up though, you will definitely want your flash. As a traveling wedding and elopement photographer based on Pennsylvania, Central Park is only a short 3 hour car drive or a train ride away and a spot that I would recommend to anyone who wants a NYC destination elopement or NYC bridal photos. 10/10.

2. Top of the Rock NYC

Location: Top of the Rock Hosts: Into the Style PNB Models: @angievictoriax

The Top of the Rock is one of New York City’s most iconic spots for a breathtaking sunrise, sunset or mid day elopement. Perched atop 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City, this observatory offers an unparalleled, absolutely incredible panoramic view of the city’s skyline and some of its most recognizable landmarks, including the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Brooklyn Bridge in the distance. I want you to close your eyes and imagine standing on the sleek, glass-enclosed observation deck as the city is wide awake below you, in the moment with your significant other, with an awe-inspiring backdrop for one of the most memorable days of your life.

As a Pennsylvania Based Destination Wedding and Elopement Photographer, I believe the setting is ideal for an elopement that feels both intimate and grand. The combination of breathtaking views and the atmosphere of the city that never sleeps creates a vibe that is perfect for couples who want an unforgettable and intimate experience. (As long as you are okay with some spectators, lets be honest.) At sunset, the warm glow of the golden hour lights up the skyline, casting a magical hue over the city that will make your photos glow. If you’re eloping in the evening, the lights from the city below twinkle like stars, giving your photos a timeless, enchanted quality.

The space itself is modern and clean, with thoughtful design elements that complement the city views rather than compete with them (it is busy busy down there!). Depending on the season, you might catch a crisp fall breeze or a cool summer night, adding a touch of adventure and spontaneity to your ceremony. For those who want a touch of greenery, the outdoor terrace with its carefully curated garden plants provides a lovely, natural contrast to the cityscape.

As a travel elopement photographer, I’d capture the way you look at each other with pure joy, the soft whispers of love that only you two can hear, and the little moments that make your day uniquely yours — all framed by the breathtaking city as your backdrop with fun prompting and movement in between.

With its dramatic and romantic atmosphere, the Top of the Rock truly offers a one-of-a-kind experience, combining intimacy with the grandeur of what is New York City.

3. Brooklyn Bridge Elopement

Lastly, and another of my favorites, the Brooklyn Bridge. The Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic and breathtaking location for a destination elopement in New York City, offering a unique blend of historic charm, breath taking architectural beauty, and sweeping city views. Our elopement session was planned for sunrise, and let me tell you, that glow did not disappoint. Early mornings or sunset times provide a softer light that adds warmth to your photos and avoids the hustle and bustle of peak hours. The golden hour, in particular, gives a magical glow that can make you feel as if time has stopped just for you two. As a New York City wedding and elopement photographer, I can tell you that this setting is perfect for the couples who want a dramatic but unforgettable backdrop for their special day.

The bridge itself is a place where the past and present come together (just like a marriage), offering an extraordinary contrast to the modern skyline of Lower Manhattan in the distance. The bridge has a timeless quality that makes every photo feel both classic and cinematic, no matter what time of day you choose to elope.

For wedding photography opportunities and bridal portraits, the Brooklyn Bridge offers a variety of unique angles and perspectives. From the wooden planks and steel cables that create a textured, romantic frame to the sweeping views of the river and city skyline beyond, there are countless opportunities for stunning, one-of-a-kind images.

One of the most compelling aspects of the Brooklyn Bridge is the movement — whether it’s the way the light shifts across the river or the hustle and bustle of people crossing the bridge in the background (don’t worry, photoshop takes care of that if people in your wedding photos isn’t exactly your thing). It adds an element of excitement and energy to your elopement photos. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the view from either end of the bridge, especially at sunset, will show the city aglow, making for a truly romantic and iconic portrait.

The bridge connects Manhattan to Brooklyn, symbolizing new beginnings, growth, and the journey of life, making it an incredible spot for a couple about to start their own journey together. Whether you choose to exchange vows right on the bridge or have your first dance on the nearby waterfront with the bridge in view, you’re guaranteed an elopement that feels big, bold, and unforgettable.