Best Places to Get Married in Central Park

Posted on January 14, 2016 by Mary Hood | 0 Comments

Whether you’re a native New Yorker or simply a lover of the Big Apple, Central Park may be a dream venue for your wedding. Fortunately, there are many lovely spots to pick from, and each one varies a bit in style, so you’re likely to find something to suit the aesthetic of your ceremony (just be sure to complete this Central Park wedding permit!). Here are some top choices:

With its small wood shelter, Wagner Cove is the perfect “off-the-beaten-path” site for a bride with a rustic theme. Wagner Cove offers a little oasis of nature-infused bliss and a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city streets. Every Saturday in the spring, summer, and into the fall, David Ippolito (known as “That Guitar Man from Central Park”) plays his guitar on the hill beside Wagner Cove.  It's not unusual for brides and grooms to share their first dance while being sung to by New Yorkers—how romantic! Here’s a little glimpse.

The Conservatory Garden is Central Park’s only formal garden. The plot of land is rich with history and was once the site of a conservatory (1898 to 1934). After the conservatory was torn down, a garden took its place in 1937. The stunning Vanderbilt gate, which was wrought in Paris, serves as the main entrance to the garden. Depending on the time of year, the garden may boast a spread of vibrant flowers, including tulips and Korean chrysanthemums. The Conservatory Garden would be a lovely choice for a more formal wedding—or perhaps one with a vintage or botanical theme.

Sitting right by the lake, The Loeb Boathouse has a timeless feel—perfect for the classic or traditional couple. The Loeb Boathouse has a history that dates back to the 1860s when boating on the Central Park Lake became popular. Although the boathouse has undergone a few restorations since its initial conception, it still offers a glimpse of New York’s rich history.

The Bethesda Terrance and Fountain provide a beautiful view of the lake in Central Park and have served as a favorite gathering places for New Yorkers for decades. Bethesda Terrace has two levels united by two grand staircases. In the summer, water lilies, lotus, and papyrus are grown in removable pots. The Bethesda Fountain was built between 1859 and 1864 and features a large angel overlooking the water below. The waters of The Bethesda Fountain are said to be blessed by this angel.

The Shakespeare Garden began in 1913. It was patterned after Victorian rock gardens, which were in the shape of a heart, and was aptly titled “Garden of the Heart.” In 1916, however, the garden was renamed to The Shakespeare Garden and only flowers that were mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays were planted there, including columbine, primrose, wormwood, quince, lark’s heel, rue, eglantine, flax, and cowslip.

Finally, the newly renovated Tavern on the Green, an NYC icon in many films, is a modern tavern featuring a rustic and seasonal menu. Its classy bar and dining rooms would serve as elegant spots for a couple with modern and sophisticated tastes.

Central Park Love

Central Park Branch Ring Set

Barbara Michelle Jacobs Jewelry is handmade in New York City, and many pieces in the collection are created directly from Central Park foliage. This Central Park Branch Ring Set was cast from an actual branch found in Central Park! The realistic texture on the bands is a reminder of Mother Nature's subtle and beautiful touches. See more Central Park inspired jewelry here.

Additional Resources 

You don’t have to plan a Central Park wedding all by yourself! Check out A Central Park Wedding for planning packages and the Central Park weddings page for more tips.

Photos: Central Park Conservancy, "Central Park 23" by Summ - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Commons, The Loeb Boathouse, "Angel of the Waters Fountain and Bethesda Terrace, Central Park, NYC" by Ahodges7 - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Commons, Centralpark.org, Tavern on the Green, Barbara Michelle Jacobs Jewelry 

Posted in central park, marriage, new york city, wedding planning, weddings

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