New York is a city where everything you need is at your fingertips. When you can have anything you want, then the focus moves towards finding the very best. Why take photos at any old place when you could go to one of the best places for engagement photography? And because we know New Yorkers are swamped, we've curated a list of the most spectacular spots for beautiful photos in and around NYC. You'll find New York staples like Central Park and Coney Island that bring out the classic charm of the city. Public parks like the Brooklyn Bridge Park and The High Line bring their own unique spice of the city. Undiscovered gems like the Untermyer Garden and Hamilton Park can also yield unique and unforgettable photos.
10. HAMILTON PARK
Hamilton Park in Staten Island is one of the best destinations in the five boroughs for knockout photography. The neighborhood is rich in history. Many of the homes date back to the 18th or 19th century. It's known for its stately red brick exteriors, accentuated with dark ironwork detailing. For couples looking for that extra vintage flair, you'll swoon over the weathered Coke logo on the side of a brick building. It's the perfect place to stop for a kiss and a photo.
Caumsett State Park is located on a scenic peninsula of Long Island that reaches into the Long Island Sound. This natural retreat is a lovely place to take in the air-- and score some phenomenal photos at the same time! At Caumsett State Park, you'll find miles of trails just waiting for you to explore them. There are wooded areas, expansive shoreline, and meadows. The park can be a real draw for Gatsby lovers because of its 1920's charm. It's like a step into another era with its expansive grounds and historic buildings.
The High Line was such an innovative approach to public space that since it's opened, there have been attempts to emulate it in cities across the country. The original elevated park is still number one when it comes to bringing lush greens and natural beauty to a public walkway. The High Line, which takes you through the heart of the Meatpacking District, has different nooks that make for fantastic photo ops. For the best pictures, plan to go at a less popular time, when it's not at crowded. Then, after you're done, you can stop for a bite to eat at one of the nearby restaurants.
Grand Central Terminal is one of the most iconic locations in New York. The setting of so many comings and goings, this gorgeous station, built by the Vanderbilt family is one of the most exquisite buildings and Manhattan. Despite how crowded the station is (and it’s almost always crowded), Grand Central can make it feel like you and your sweetheart are the only people in the world. Maybe that's the reason it's the setting for so many heartfelt movie moments. You can make your own movie moment as you and your fiancé capture your love beneath the painted ceiling, as you sit on the stone steps, or stealing that romantic kiss in front of the clock in the middle of the terminal. Afterwards, treat yourself to something tasty at the Oster Bar. You earned it.
One of the great things about New York is that there are so many architectural wonders. The Brooklyn Bridge is always near the top of the list when it comes to New York City marvels, and it's a favorite spot for photos because it makes such a lovely backdrop. On the Brooklyn side of the bridge is a lovely park, filled with perfectly crafted landscaping. There are also many tree-lined paths and quaint pedestrian bridges. It also provides a stunning view of the bridge with the Manhattan skyline in the background.
05. CENTRAL PARK
Is there a more famous park in the world than Central Park? We don't think so. This expansive park, which takes up much of upper Manhattan, is a wonderful place to spend the day, and it makes for an unforgettable setting for photos. There is so much variety in Central Park that you can really pick the kind of atmosphere you want for your photos. The Great Lawn can be phenomenal for photos with athletic flair or something fairytale-inspired, depending on whether you're facing North or South. Sheep Meadow is one of the most iconic New York locations with its wide green field with a view punctuated by the city skyline. If you want something more secluded and private, you can meander along the wooded paths.
04. CONEY ISLAND
Coney Island is the place of summertime dreams. It's a place filled with sunshine, bliss, and New York history. So many New York mainstays call Coney Island home. You'll find Nathan's hot dogs and the iconic Wonder Wheel. It's a fun-filled place that makes a great setting for playful photos. It allows you and your fianceé to take in the sights while scoring unforgettable snapshots. The colorful backdrops you'll find at Coney Island are sure to make a splash.
Battleview Orchards is a wonderful reprieve from the constant hussle and bussle of the city. Located a short distance away, in Freehold, NJ, Battleview Orchards is a splendid place to spend the day apple picking or just taking in the delightful scenery. The rows of apple trees are surrounded by soft, green grass. You can stroll up and down the lanes selecting some sweet treats. In the fall, Battleview also grows pumpkins, and the surroundings look just as brilliant when the leaves are changing.
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one of the most beautiful places in New York City. It's a highly sought-after wedding venue because of its brilliant and unparalleled gardens. It can also make a sensational location for photos. You'll want to visit the Shakespeare Garden, which was designed in the style of an English cottage. Here, you'll find over 80 plants that Shakespeare mentioned by name in his various works. It's a transcendent place, filled with beauty and romanticism.
01. UNTERMYER PARK AND GARDENS
Untermyer Park is a natural wonderland just north of the city in Yonkers. The park, which began as a private residence, was built by Samuel Untermyer at the turn of the 20th century. Untermyer Park is home to a variety of enchanting gardens. The Sundial features a sundial made entirely out of flowers. The Rock Garden is a wonderful place to go for some remarkable photos. If you're looking for something that feels more untamed, you'll love The Color Gardens and The Gatehouse.
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