If you want something that feels genuinely removed from the city, the Chinese Scholar's Garden at Snug Harbor is unlike anything else on this list. It hosts up to 250 guests and is one of only two Ming Dynasty-style gardens in the entire country. The hand-carved bridges, moon gates, and koi ponds aren't decorative touches — they're the real thing, made with materials sourced from China and assembled by a team from Suzhou.

This venue is for couples who want their ceremony to feel peaceful and intentional. Most elect to hold the ceremony in the garden before moving to the nearby Great Hall or tented pavilion for the reception. Tea ceremonies are welcome on-site.

Do note that the exclusive caterer is Relish Catering + Hospitality, whose menu leans western, though they do offer bao and dim sum station options and can adapt their menu to serve Chinese cuisine. The other big caveat: the garden is in Staten Island, so you'll need to factor in travel logistics for your guests. But if you're willing to plan around that, the experience feels completely transportive and nothing like a typical New York wedding.