Top Sunrise Wedding Locations in NYC

• Brooklyn Bridge: The Brooklyn Bridge is practically made for sunrise ceremonies. The early morning light casts a pinkish glow over the city, and you’ll have the bridge mostly to yourselves – perfect for a quiet, intimate ceremony with unbeatable views of Manhattan.
• Central Park (Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge): Central Park at sunrise is all about peaceful beauty. Spots like Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge feel almost otherworldly with the soft morning light reflecting off the water. The park is tranquil at this time, giving you the serene vibe of a private garden in the heart of the city.
• DUMBO (Brooklyn Bridge Park): The cobblestone streets of DUMBO and the view of the Manhattan Bridge are at their most magical just after sunrise. The pastel colors of the early morning sky add a gentle glow to the skyline, making for dreamy, romantic photos.

Top Sunset Wedding Locations in NYC

• Top of the Rock: If you want sweeping views of the city drenched in golden light, Top of the Rock is unbeatable at sunset. Watch as the sun sinks behind the Empire State Building and the city lights start to twinkle below. It’s a showstopper that adds an epic, cinematic touch to your wedding.
• Central Park (Sheep Meadow and The Mall): Central Park at sunset feels warm, cozy, and romantic. The golden light filters through the trees, making Sheep Meadow and The Mall glow with vibrant colors. It’s perfect for capturing the romance of dusk with nature’s beauty and the city’s skyline in the background.
• Gantry Plaza State Park (Long Island City): For a view that’s nothing short of spectacular, head to Gantry Plaza at sunset. The park’s waterfront location offers a dramatic view of the Manhattan skyline, bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun. The silhouette of the city against the colorful sky is the kind of photo you’ll cherish forever.

How to Plan a Sunrise Wedding in NYC

Sunrise weddings are all about embracing the calm, fresh start of a new day. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning to get married as the sun rises:

Timing and Preparation

The key to a perfect sunrise wedding is timing. Sunrise times change throughout the year, so be sure to check the exact time for your wedding day. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before sunrise to make sure you’re ready when the light is just right. Remember, sunrise in summer can be as early as 5:30 AM, while in winter, it’s closer to 7:00 AM.

Dress for the Occasion

Sunrise weddings are usually cooler, especially in the early morning breeze. Consider layering your wedding attire with stylish jackets, shawls, or wraps to stay warm while still looking fabulous. The early light is soft and flattering, so warm tones like blush, ivory, and pastel colors will look especially beautiful.

Embrace the Peace and Quiet

One of the biggest perks of a sunrise wedding is the peaceful, almost private feel you get in some of NYC’s busiest spots. Take advantage of this by choosing iconic locations that are typically crowded later in the day. You’ll get those epic photos without having to navigate throngs of people – it’s just you, your partner, and the city waking up around you.

How to Plan a Sunset Wedding in NYC

Sunset weddings bring a completely different vibe – warm, romantic, and perfect for winding down the day in the glow of golden light.

Read our full guide to Eloping in NYC for all the info you need to plan an elopement from beginning to end.

Here’s how to make the most of a sunset ceremony in NYC:

Timing and Lighting

Just like with sunrise, sunset times vary depending on the season. In summer, you’ll need to plan for a late evening ceremony (around 8:30 PM), while in winter, sunset happens as early as 4:30 PM. Plan to start your ceremony about 30 minutes before sunset to catch the light at its most beautiful.

Coordinate Your Look

Sunset’s warm, golden hues pair beautifully with rich tones like burgundy, deep greens, and gold accents. Consider incorporating these colors into your wedding attire or decor for a look that complements the natural beauty of the setting sun.

Expect a Livelier Atmosphere

Sunset in NYC brings out the city’s vibrant energy. While you’ll still get stunning views and that romantic glow, you’ll also likely have more people around, especially in popular spots. Embrace the buzz of the city as part of the experience – the mix of excitement and romance is what makes sunset weddings in NYC so special.

Why Sunrise and Sunset Weddings are Perfect for Adventurous Couples

There’s something adventurous and almost poetic about tying the knot at the start or end of the day. Whether it’s the peaceful thrill of waking up before the world does or the cinematic drama of a day’s end, a sunrise or sunset wedding captures those fleeting, perfect moments that feel uniquely yours.

Sunrise weddings offer an early start to a full day of exploring the city as newlyweds, while sunset weddings naturally flow into an evening celebration of dinner, drinks, and nighttime adventures. Either way, you’re embracing the spirit of adventure, spontaneity, and the unmatched beauty of New York City.

Leave The Planning To Us

At Elopement Packages NYC, we specialize in creating unforgettable sunrise and sunset weddings that capture the spirit of adventure and timeless romance. Ready to plan your dream golden-hour wedding in the world’s most iconic city? Let’s make it happen.

Contact us today to start planning your perfect NYC elopement.