You may not know it, but the state of New York is absolutely stacked when it comes to castle wedding venues. From the vineyard-draped Finger Lakes to the glittering St. Lawrence River, there are castles out here that can make all your royal wedding day dreams come true. Here’s our roundup of the castle wedding venues in New York state that you absolutely need to know about.

Photo by Mann & Wife Photography

Belhurst Castle – Geneva, NY

First up, can we please appreciate how dreamy it is to get married above Seneca Lake? Belhurst Castle in Geneva is straight out of a fantasy book. You can say your vows outside on the lawn with one of the Finger Lakes sparkling behind you (hello, photos!) or keep it inside in the grand ballroom if the weather has other plans.

Photos courtesy of I Love NY

The Meritage and Castle Ballrooms are stunning for receptions too, think elegant finishes, gorgeous architecture, and a vibe that feels straight-up magical no matter what season you choose. Summer, fall, winter, spring… honestly, Belhurst is the venue that makes every season look like a million bucks.

Photo by Stefen Turner Photography

Oheka Castle – Huntington, NY

This venue is a bit of an “if you know, you know” situation. Oheka Castle, a Long Island icon, was built in the 1920s and has hosted celebrities, dignitaries, and actual heads of state. It is widely considered one of the most iconic wedding venues in the entire country, and honestly? The title is well deserved.

Photo by Joshua Dwain Photography

The best part, though? They only host one wedding per day. That means the whole castle is yours and yours alone. Multiple event spaces are scattered throughout the estate, so you have options, but the real flex is just knowing that for one whole day, Oheka belongs to you!

Photo courtesy of I Love NY

Boldt Castle – Heart Island, NY

We need a moment to talk about the story behind this one because it is genuinely the most romantic thing ever. Boldt Castle on Heart Island in the St. Lawrence River was built in 1900 by a man named George Boldt as a love letter to his wife, Louise. A CASTLE. Built for love. If that origin story doesn’t make you a little emotional, are you even okay? The grounds are absolutely gorgeous with lush gardens, vibrant blooms, and these incredible historic stone structures all around you. Couples get to say their vows in the Dove-Cote courtyard with panoramic river views. It’s grand and intimate at the same time, which is such a rare and special combination. Truly one of New York’s most romantic spots, full stop.

Photo courtesy of I Love NY

Singer Castle – Dark Island, NY

Right, so picture this. You’re on the St. Lawrence River, and there is a stone castle rising dramatically out of the water like something straight out of a movie. That’s Singer Castle and it is everything. The mix of serious grandeur and surprising intimacy makes it an unreal backdrop for a wedding, and you can celebrate inside among all that stunning historic architecture or take the party outside along the river for a major al fresco moment. Singer Castle also has overnight accommodations, including their own Royal Suite, so you and your new spouse can spend your wedding night in a castle. As in, sleeping in a castle! Is that not the most iconic thing you have ever heard? For anyone dreaming of a true destination wedding experience, this is genuinely it.

So, Where Are You Booking?

No matter which of these you select for your special day, New York’s castle wedding venues are serving up something that no hotel ballroom could ever compete with. The history, the drama, the romance… It’s all there waiting for you. Belhurst, Oheka, Boldt, Singer: honestly, any of these would be the wedding venue story you’ll one day be telling your grandkids about.

Featured image by Joshua Dwain Photography