RVNA Event Liability Insurance is the top choice for venues nationwide and comes highly recommended by event professionals. It provides essential protection for both the venue and the event holder in case an attendee is injured during the event.
NEW YORK EVENT INSURANCE
The Empire State
New York
TOP TEN CITIES FOR EVENTS
From vibrant New York City to the tranquil Adirondacks, the Empire State offers endless possibilities for unforgettable events. Whether you’re planning a corporate retreat in the Hudson Valley, a waterfront wedding in the Finger Lakes, or a cultural festival in Syracuse, New York’s diverse landscapes and iconic venues provide the perfect setting. Discover ten of the state’s most popular event destinations, each offering something uniquely inspiring for your next gathering.
NEW YORK CITY
The Event Capital of the World: New York City offers an unmatched energy and diversity, making it the ultimate destination for events of every kind. From glitzy Manhattan galas to trend-setting gatherings in Brooklyn, the city has no shortage of unique spaces, iconic landmarks, and creative venues to host your special occasion. NYC’s rich cultural tapestry and endless possibilities ensure that any event held here will be unforgettable.
- Brooklyn’s Event Scene: Brooklyn has become one of the hottest areas for events, thanks to its trendy vibe and abundance of unique venues. Places like The Greenpoint Loft and The Dumbo Loft offer chic, industrial-style settings perfect for weddings, corporate launches, and private parties. Outdoor spaces such as Brooklyn Bridge Park provide breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, making it a top choice for festivals, races, or intimate ceremonies. Cultural hubs like the Brooklyn Museum and Kings Theatre add elegance and creativity to galas, art shows, and concerts.
- Top Venues Across the City: Manhattan continues to be a premier destination for high-profile events, with legendary spaces like The Plaza Hotel, The Rainbow Room, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art offering grandeur and sophistication. For a more intimate gathering, consider The Glasshouses or a rooftop venue like The Skylark. Queens offers diverse options such as The Museum of the Moving Image or the outdoor expanses of Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The Bronx provides iconic venues like Yankee Stadium for large-scale events and the New York Botanical Garden for picturesque celebrations. Staten Island also boasts hidden gems like the Staten Island Greenbelt for outdoor events and Historic Richmond Town for unique gatherings with a vintage touch.
- Popular Event Types: New York City is home to everything from grand corporate conferences and product launches to intimate weddings, milestone celebrations, and public events like marathons and parades. Public festivals and community events flourish here, including concerts in Central Park and the West Indian American Day Carnival in Brooklyn. Private events—be it rooftop cocktail parties in Manhattan or micro-weddings in Williamsburg—thrive thanks to the city’s endless venue options and world-class event planning resources.
Whether it’s a high-profile gala in Manhattan, a creative pop-up in Brooklyn, or a cultural celebration in Queens, New York City’s energy and versatility make it a world-class event destination that’s impossible to replicate.
HUDSON VALLEY
Rustic Elegance and Natural Beauty
Beginning just north of New York City, the Hudson Valley is a breathtaking region of rolling hills, lush vineyards, and charming towns nestled along the majestic Hudson River. It offers an ideal combination of natural beauty and historic sophistication, making it a top choice for weddings, retreats, community festivals, and corporate gatherings. The region stands out for its rich history, artistic spirit, and connection to New York City, providing a refreshing escape for event hosts and their guests.
While the Hudson Valley shares its borders with Westchester County to the south and the Catskills to the north, its distinctive character—marked by its vineyards, estates, and riverfront views—sets it apart as a region where nature meets culture.
- Top Venues and Attractions:
The Hudson Valley boasts a variety of venues that cater to every style of event. The Lyndhurst Mansion in Tarrytown, with its Gothic Revival architecture and stunning Hudson River views, is a favorite for elegant weddings, upscale galas, and historical gatherings. Further north in Beacon, The Roundhouse combines industrial-chic indoor spaces with a gorgeous outdoor terrace overlooking a waterfall, making it an excellent choice for modern weddings and corporate events.- The Garrison in Putnam County offers panoramic Hudson River views and versatile indoor and outdoor spaces, making it a prime location for weddings, retreats, and milestone celebrations. For couples seeking rustic charm, Red Maple Vineyard in West Park offers a barn aesthetic with sweeping river views, while Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa in Milton provides cozy luxury, complete with Hudson River backdrops and on-site accommodations.
- Iconic venues such as the Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz blend historic grandeur with natural beauty, featuring stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and versatile event spaces for weddings and corporate retreats. For smaller, boutique gatherings, Audrey’s Farmhouse in Wallkill provides a charming, intimate atmosphere surrounded by lush gardens.
- The region also excels at hosting large-scale public events. The Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck draws thousands of visitors each year for fairs, craft shows, and cultural festivals, while art enthusiasts flock to Storm King Art Center, a sprawling outdoor sculpture park ideal for cultural gatherings and creative events against the stunning backdrop of the Hudson Highlands.
- Event Types:
The Hudson Valley’s serene and picturesque environment is perfect for rustic-chic weddings, wine-and-food festivals, corporate team-building retreats, and cultural celebrations. Seasonal events such as apple festivals in the fall, tulip festivals in the spring, and holiday markets make the region a year-round draw.- Companies looking to blend professional development with relaxation often choose boutique inns, historic estates, or larger venues like Mohonk Mountain House or The Garrison for corporate retreats and workshops. Meanwhile, couples flock to venues like Audrey’s Farmhouse, Red Maple Vineyard, or Lyndhurst Mansion for weddings that combine personalized charm with breathtaking scenery. Large-scale celebrations, such as festivals and fairs, thrive in venues like the Dutchess County Fairgrounds, while art events flourish at Storm King Art Center.
Whether you’re hosting an intimate wedding, a corporate gathering, or a large community festival, the Hudson Valley’s balance of sophistication and tranquility ensures a memorable and inspiring event.
Long Island
Coastal Sophistication and Vineyard Views: Stretching from Nassau County to Montauk, Long Island is a hotspot for events that blend the beauty of waterfront landscapes with upscale venues. Its reputation for luxury and its variety of charming destinations make it a favorite for weddings, family reunions, private celebrations, and corporate retreats. From the posh Hamptons to the North Fork’s vineyards and the historic mansions of the Gold Coast, Long Island provides a stunning setting for any occasion.
- Top Venues and Attractions:
Long Island is home to some of the most exclusive and versatile venues in New York State. The iconic Oheka Castle in Huntington is a French-inspired chateau featuring opulent ballrooms, manicured gardens, and a luxurious ambiance, making it perfect for weddings, galas, and high-end corporate retreats. Similarly, The Mansion at Glen Cove, a historic Gold Coast estate, provides a timeless setting for weddings, corporate gatherings, and other elegant events, with both grand indoor spaces and expansive outdoor grounds.- For nature lovers, Old Westbury Gardens is a standout venue, offering a historic mansion and lush gardens that are ideal for cultural events, outdoor ceremonies, and romantic celebrations. The Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury combines versatility with sophistication, offering elegant ballrooms and landscaped outdoor gardens suitable for both weddings and corporate functions.
- The North Fork’s The Vineyards at Aquebogue adds a touch of rustic romance to the mix, with its picturesque vineyard setting perfect for intimate weddings and private gatherings. Nearby, East Wind Long Island provides an elegant, all-inclusive venue featuring grand indoor spaces, scenic gardens, and charming touches that make it a favorite for weddings and events of all sizes.
- Out east, Montauk and the Hamptons continue to attract high-profile events, with venues like Gurney’s Montauk Resort offering beachfront luxury and unforgettable ocean views.
- Event Types:
Long Island’s diverse venues make it perfect for hosting everything from vineyard weddings and elegant galas to corporate retreats and family celebrations. The Gold Coast mansions, like Oheka Castle and The Mansion at Glen Cove, are ideal for upscale events, while venues like Crest Hollow Country Club and East Wind Long Island balance elegance with versatility. Public events, including seasonal festivals and art shows, thrive in outdoor spaces like Old Westbury Gardens, while the North Fork’s vineyards are a top choice for wine-focused celebrations and destination weddings.- Corporate clients often choose Long Island’s resorts, country clubs, and mansions for team-building retreats or conferences, while the Hamptons provide a chic, laid-back setting for luxury events and private parties.
Whether it’s a gala in a castle, a vineyard wedding, a beachfront retreat, or a garden party at a historic estate, Long Island offers a unique combination of elegance, charm, and natural beauty that makes every event unforgettable.
Buffalo and Western New York
A Revival in the Making: Buffalo and the surrounding Western New York region blend historic charm, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, making them a dynamic destination for events of all kinds. From the revitalized urban spaces of Buffalo to the majestic wonder of Niagara Falls, the area offers an impressive range of venues for weddings, corporate events, and cultural gatherings.
- Event Types:
Western New York is perfect for hosting a wide range of events, from elegant weddings and corporate gatherings to public festivals and cultural celebrations. In Buffalo, venues like Statler City, The Mansion on Delaware Avenue, and Pearl Street Grill & Brewery offer options for everything from sophisticated galas to casual reunions. Outdoor spaces such as Delaware Park and Niagara Falls State Park cater to ceremonies, festivals, and open-air celebrations, while more intimate gatherings thrive at venues like The Terrace at Delaware Park and The Giacomo Hotel. - Top Venues and Attractions:
Buffalo itself boasts a variety of venues that showcase its rich history and contemporary revival. Statler City, a grand historic building in downtown Buffalo, features opulent ballrooms and an outdoor terrace, making it ideal for elegant weddings, galas, and corporate celebrations. The Mansion on Delaware Avenue, a boutique hotel, provides intimate, refined spaces for upscale gatherings. For a more casual yet lively atmosphere, the Pearl Street Grill & Brewery offers multi-level event spaces, including a rooftop deck with sweeping city views.- Art and culture play a significant role in Buffalo’s event offerings. The Albright-Knox Art Gallery, known for its impressive contemporary art collection, offers both indoor galleries and outdoor spaces perfect for cultural events, fundraisers, or private celebrations. Outdoor enthusiasts can embrace the beauty of Buffalo’s Delaware Park, part of the Olmsted Parks system, which features scenic areas for weddings, festivals, and outdoor gatherings. Within the park, The Terrace at Delaware Park is a picturesque restaurant venue with views of Hoyt Lake, perfect for intimate ceremonies and receptions.
- Niagara Falls offers a stunning backdrop and an array of venues that capture the region’s natural beauty and unique history. Niagara Falls State Park, with its awe-inspiring views of the falls, provides outdoor spaces ideal for weddings, elopements, and photography sessions. The Top of the Falls Restaurant offers breathtaking vistas along with intimate dining spaces for small gatherings. For those seeking a boutique experience, The Giacomo Hotel combines historic charm with modern amenities, including a rooftop event space with views of the falls.
- For larger celebrations, the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino provides versatile event spaces for weddings, conferences, and corporate retreats, all paired with world-class entertainment. History buffs might consider Old Fort Niagara, a 300-year-old fortress with both indoor and outdoor spaces that are perfect for cultural events, reenactments, or unique weddings. Meanwhile, the Rapids Theatre, a restored historic venue near the falls, offers dramatic interiors and state-of-the-art facilities for concerts, weddings, and large social events.
Public festivals and community events are a cornerstone of the region, with celebrations like Taste of Buffalo and seasonal events drawing crowds year-round. Whether you’re enjoying the natural majesty of Niagara Falls or the vibrant culture of Buffalo, Western New York guarantees a memorable experience for every occasion.
Rochester and The Finger Lakes
A Region of Lakes and Legacy: The Finger Lakes region and the city of Rochester offer a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and diverse venues, making them a top choice for events of all types. Whether you’re planning a romantic lakeside wedding, a corporate retreat, or a lively festival, this region combines stunning landscapes with historic charm to create unforgettable settings for your special occasion.
- Top Venues and Attractions:
In Rochester, the George Eastman Museum remains a standout venue. This historic mansion, with its elegant architecture and lush gardens, offers a stunning backdrop for weddings, galas, and private celebrations. Nearby, Highland Park serves as a vibrant hub for public gatherings, hosting events such as music festivals and the renowned Lilac Festival. For private events, its botanical gardens and proximity to nearby event facilities make it an equally attractive option.- For a modern and sophisticated setting, the Wintergarden by Monroe’s is a breathtaking glass atrium venue that’s perfect for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. The Arbor at the Port, located on the waterfront, offers scenic views and a versatile space that’s ideal for receptions, parties, and other celebrations. For those seeking a boutique experience, The Strathallan hotel offers luxurious amenities, modern event spaces, and a rooftop venue with panoramic views of the city.
- A truly unique option is Artisan Works, an art-themed venue featuring vibrant indoor galleries and outdoor spaces, making it ideal for creative and unconventional celebrations. For larger entertainment events, the Constellation Brands–Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center (CMAC) in Canandaigua is a premier destination, hosting outdoor concerts with world-class performers in a scenic, open-air setting.
- Moving into the Finger Lakes, a variety of lakeside and vineyard venues cater to both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Belhurst Castle in Geneva exudes historic elegance with its indoor spaces and scenic outdoor areas overlooking Seneca Lake, perfect for weddings and upscale events. Geneva on the Lake, a European-style resort, adds sophistication with its manicured gardens and tranquil lakefront views. For modern sophistication, The Lake House on Canandaigua offers chic indoor and outdoor spaces along with luxurious accommodations, making it an ideal destination for weddings, retreats, and social gatherings.
- Wine lovers will be drawn to venues like Ventosa Vineyards, a Tuscan-inspired winery with breathtaking lake views, and Wagner Vineyards, which combines indoor tasting rooms with picturesque outdoor spaces for events. The Inns of Aurora, located on the shores of Cayuga Lake, provide boutique charm and a curated collection of venues that are perfect for intimate weddings, corporate retreats, and team-building sessions.
- Event Types:
The Rochester and Finger Lakes region is renowned for its versatility, hosting everything from waterfront weddings to large-scale public events. Wine-and-cheese festivals are a year-round staple, celebrating the region’s rich viticulture. Outdoor concerts at venues like CMAC draw music lovers to the area, while the region’s stunning natural scenery makes it a popular destination for waterfront weddings and private celebrations.- Corporate retreats and team-building events flourish in this peaceful yet inspiring environment, with boutique inns, resorts, and wineries offering tranquil settings that foster creativity and connection. Seasonal celebrations such as harvest festivals, winter wine tours, and springtime tulip events ensure there’s something special happening year-round.
Whether you’re hosting an elegant celebration at the George Eastman Museum, an art-inspired gathering at Artisan Works, or a waterfront wedding overlooking one of the Finger Lakes, this region blends natural beauty with cultural richness to create truly unforgettable events.
Albany and the Capital Region
History Meets Modernity: As New York’s state capital, Albany is a hub of historical charm, political significance, and contemporary amenities, making it an excellent destination for events of all types. From elegant historic venues to professional conference spaces, the Capital Region provides a unique blend of sophistication and functionality, ideal for weddings, business events, political gatherings, and cultural celebrations.
- Top Venues and Attractions:
The Empire State Plaza serves as the heart of Albany’s cultural and political activity, offering expansive indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for public events, conferences, and fairs. Adjacent to the plaza, the New York State Museumprovides an elegant backdrop for galas and fundraisers, with exhibits that lend a cultural and educational flair to any event.- Albany’s historic charm shines at The State Room, a downtown venue featuring luxurious ballrooms perfect for weddings, corporate gatherings, and upscale celebrations. For a more intimate or artistic setting, the Albany Institute of History & Art offers event spaces surrounded by its impressive collection of exhibits and outdoor gardens.
- Outdoor enthusiasts can host ceremonies or celebrations at Washington Park, a picturesque park with iconic scenery that’s perfect for summer concerts, festivals, and smaller gatherings. Just outside Albany, the Glen Sanders Mansion in Scotia blends riverside elegance with timeless architecture, making it a top choice for weddings and private celebrations. Meanwhile, the Albany Country Club in Voorheesville offers stunning golf course views alongside indoor dining rooms and outdoor event spaces ideal for both formal and relaxed gatherings.
- Event Types:
Albany is a premier destination for large-scale conferences and trade shows, with venues like the Empire State Plaza Convention Center providing state-of-the-art facilities. For weddings and private celebrations, venues such as The State Room, Glen Sanders Mansion, and Albany Country Club offer elegant and historic settings, while outdoor spaces like Washington Park cater to festivals, concerts, and open-air ceremonies.
Albany’s vibrant cultural scene and rich political history also make it a popular choice for galas, fundraisers, and formal dinners tied to the state’s government and civic events. The city’s accessibility and wealth of professional venues ensure that every event is executed with sophistication and style.
Saratoga Springs
Upscale Elegance and Cultural Heritage: Saratoga Springs is one of New York State’s most iconic destinations, known for its historic charm, mineral springs, and vibrant arts and culture scene. Just a short drive north of Albany, this picturesque city is a hotspot for weddings, corporate retreats, and public events, offering a perfect blend of sophistication and natural beauty.
- Top Venues and Attractions:
Saratoga Springs is home to some of the most exquisite venues in the state. The Saratoga National Golf Club offers both elegant indoor spaces in its clubhouse and sprawling outdoor areas overlooking the golf course, ideal for weddings, galas, and corporate events. Within the scenic Saratoga Spa State Park, the Hall of Springs provides grand ballrooms with stunning architectural details and lush garden spaces for upscale gatherings.- For outdoor events and performances, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) is a world-class amphitheater that hosts concerts, cultural festivals, and large public events. Boutique charm can be found at The Adelphi Hotel, which features a stylish garden courtyard and rooftop spaces for intimate celebrations or high-end social gatherings.
- Saratoga’s history shines at Canfield Casino, a Victorian-era venue located within Congress Park. Known for its elegance and old-world charm, it’s perfect for weddings, fundraisers, and private parties. The Lodge at Saratoga Casino Hotel rounds out the offerings with versatile indoor and outdoor spaces that combine modern amenities with scenic surroundings.
- Event Types:
Saratoga Springs’ venues cater to a wide range of events, from elegant weddings to large-scale concerts. The city is particularly renowned for its connection to horse racing, with events surrounding the Saratoga Race Coursedrawing crowds every summer. Corporate retreats and team-building sessions thrive in venues like Saratoga National Golf Club, which offers a balance of professionalism and leisure.- Cultural festivals, performances, and fundraisers take center stage at SPAC, while boutique hotels like The Adelphi Hotel provide sophisticated settings for intimate weddings and social events. The Hall of Springs and Canfield Casino are top choices for upscale galas, blending historic charm with stunning surroundings. Seasonal celebrations like wine and food festivals, holiday galas, and wellness retreats inspired by Saratoga’s mineral springs ensure year-round appeal for event planners.
Whether you’re hosting an outdoor concert in the park, a gala in a grand ballroom, or an intimate garden wedding, Saratoga Springs offers an unmatched combination of elegance, culture, and scenic beauty.
Syracuse and Central New York
A Hub for College Town Energy and Scenic Beauty
Syracuse and Central New York offer a mix of lively urban energy, scenic landscapes, and historic charm, making this region ideal for hosting both intimate and large-scale events. The region’s thriving cultural scene and central location within New York State make it a convenient choice for weddings, corporate retreats, and community festivals.
- Top Venues and Attractions:
- Onondaga Lake Park: With stunning waterfront views, this park is perfect for outdoor ceremonies, festivals, and races. Its expansive grounds provide flexibility for events of all sizes.
- Marriott Syracuse Downtown: This historic hotel combines modern luxury with classic elegance, making it a top choice for upscale weddings, conferences, and galas.
- Rosamond Gifford Zoo: For a more unique event, the zoo offers both indoor and outdoor spaces that are ideal for family-friendly gatherings, corporate parties, or creative weddings.
- Event Types:
Syracuse thrives as a hub for a variety of events. College town energy makes it a hotspot for academic conferences, alumni gatherings, and student celebrations, while the city’s diverse venues host everything from weddings to corporate retreats. Community events such as fairs, outdoor concerts, and food festivals are frequent, thanks to the area’s vibrant culture and scenic outdoor spaces.
Whether you’re looking for a picturesque park setting, an elegant downtown venue, or a unique event at the zoo, Syracuse and Central New York provide something for every occasion.
THE CATSKILLS
Rustic and Romantic
Nestled in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains, this region is synonymous with serene natural beauty, making it a sought-after destination for outdoor events, retreats, and rustic-chic celebrations. With its lush forests, mountain views, and peaceful atmosphere, the Catskills offer an idyllic escape for weddings, music festivals, and nature-focused gatherings.
- Top Venues and Attractions:
- Full Moon Resort (Big Indian): Known for its all-inclusive wedding and event packages, this venue combines a scenic mountain setting with rustic charm, perfect for weddings and retreats.
- The Roxbury Barn & Estate: A favorite for intimate gatherings, this venue offers a dreamy forest backdrop for weddings and other private celebrations.
- The Emerson Resort & Spa (Mount Tremper): Blending luxury with rustic beauty, this resort is ideal for corporate retreats, wellness events, and weddings.
- Event Types:
The Catskills are perfect for those seeking tranquil and inspiring environments. Retreats—whether focused on wellness, art, or corporate team-building—thrive in this region. Rustic weddings, music festivals, and eco-friendly events are also a natural fit, with the Catskills providing the perfect blend of nature and elegance.
With its breathtaking scenery and relaxed charm, the Catskills remain a favorite for hosting memorable, nature-focused celebrations.
THE ADIRONDACKS AND LAKE GEORGE
Mountain Majesty
The Adirondacks and Lake George region offer a stunning blend of mountain vistas and serene lakes, making it a top destination for events that embrace nature. From luxurious lakeside resorts to historic venues, this region combines tranquility with upscale amenities, perfect for weddings, festivals, and corporate retreats.
- Top Venues and Attractions:
- The Sagamore Resort (Lake George): A lakeside resort with grand ballrooms, outdoor spaces, and unmatched views, ideal for weddings and upscale gatherings.
- The Inn at Erlowest: A historic stone castle with waterfront grounds that provide an intimate setting for weddings and private events.
- Fort William Henry Hotel: This historic hotel offers scenic lake views and versatile spaces for weddings, galas, and community celebrations.
- Lake George Club: A private waterfront venue offering elegant spaces for weddings and exclusive gatherings.
- The Boathouse Restaurant: Known for its intimate lakefront setting, this venue is perfect for small gatherings and social events.
- Dunham’s Bay Resort: A family-friendly resort with indoor and outdoor event spaces, ideal for weddings and casual celebrations.
- Event Types:
Destination weddings are incredibly popular in this region, with Lake George offering a variety of waterfront and mountain-view venues. Outdoor festivals and community events thrive here, while corporate retreats benefit from the area’s serene and inspiring environment.
Whether you’re planning a grand wedding at a lakeside resort or a casual retreat in the mountains, the Adirondacks and Lake George provide a magical setting for any event.
WESTCHESTER COUNTY
Refined and Convenient
Just a short drive from New York City, Westchester County is known for its elegant estates, luxurious hotels, and picturesque outdoor spaces. Its proximity to NYC, combined with its suburban charm, makes it a top choice for private celebrations, corporate events, and fundraisers.
- Top Venues and Attractions:
- Tarrytown House Estate: A historic mansion offering beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, ideal for weddings and upscale gatherings.
- The Ritz-Carlton New York, Westchester: A luxurious hotel venue perfect for galas, conferences, and other high-profile events.
- Lasdon Park and Arboretum: A stunning location for outdoor weddings, garden parties, and community festivals.
- Blue Hill at Stone Barns: A farm-to-table venue offering a unique setting for intimate weddings and private dinners.
- Event Types:
Westchester County is well-suited for high-end weddings, corporate events, and fundraisers, as well as outdoor celebrations in its many parks and estates. Its ease of access from NYC makes it especially popular for weekend events.
With its mix of sophistication and accessibility, Westchester County offers the perfect balance for hosting elegant and memorable events.