Check Out the View
Seventeen venues that overlook sprawling cityscapes, breathtaking river sunsets, rolling hills—even a world-famous planetarium.
 |
Penthouse at the Hotel on Rivington.
(Photo: Courtesy of Hotel on Rivington) |
Downtown Vistas
The Glasshouses
These loft spaces located in the Chelsea Arts Tower practically redefine airy with their wraparound glass windows on three sides. “The Glasshouses has amazing views of lower Manhattan, the Hudson River, and the Upper West Side,” says Joshua Brooks of the wedding planning company Fête NY. “At night, you feel like you’re floating above Manhattan.” The exquisite venue—actually a pair of similarly designed spaces—located on two separate floors has eleven- and fourteen-foot ceilings and a wide-open layout perfect for long, banquet-style tables or elaborately staged, multi-environment receptions. The 21st floor holds up to 110 guests for a seated dinner; the 14th floor up to 150—both can accommodate up to 200 for cocktails. Guests driving into town will appreciate the parking garage across the street. Prices upon request. 545 W. 25th St., at the Chelsea Arts Tower, nr. Tenth Ave.; 212-242-7800; theglasshouses.com.
Bridgewaters
The cobblestone streets and seafaring charm of the South Street Seaport serve as the backdrop to Bridgewaters, where you can go nautical in New York, even in the dead of winter. The views from the floor-to-ceiling windows and wraparound terrace include the stately old-fashioned boats docked in New York Harbor, the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges, and the Wall Street skyline. Inside, dance under sweeping, vaulted ceilings, and dine on creative cuisine consistently praised by brides and planners. Holds 400 for seated dinner; 550 for cocktails. Prices upon request. 11 Fulton St., nr. Front St.; 212-608-7400; bridgewatersnyc.com.
Penthouse at the Hotel on Rivington
If you love the Lower East Side and want a venue that reflects true downtown style, there’s really only one place to do it: The Hotel on Rivington. From the property’s swanky penthouse, you see the best panoramas of the neighborhood in all its gritty glory. The sleek, modern décor and glass walls frame views of Williamsburg and the Brooklyn and Verrazano bridges. Wooden ceilings temper the bare, slightly futuristic aesthetic, and the multilevel space (with a dramatic floating staircase) is perfect for splitting the party between cocktails and dinner. Hosts 250 guests for cocktails; 125 for a buffet dinner; catering by the in-house brasserie CO-OP Food & Drink. Prices upon request. 107 Rivington St., nr. Ludlow St.; 212-475-2600; hotelonrivington.com.