Short answer: yes. Slightly longer answer? Central Park is one of the most iconic, flexible, and surprisingly accessible places to get married in New York City — especially if you're keeping things small and stress-free.

If you're dreaming of saying "I do" surrounded by trees, skyline views, and maybe a street musician playing nearby… this guide is for you.

🍃 Why Couples Choose Central Park

There’s a reason Central Park is one of the most popular elopement spots in the world:

It’s public and beautiful in all four seasons
There are dozens of distinct ceremony spots, from gardens to bridges to secret corners
You don’t need a big budget (or a big crowd) to pull it off
It’s deeply New York — and yet, it never feels too chaotic

Cakewalk couples love it because it has range. Whether you're drawn to something wild and overgrown or formal and classic, Central Park can do both.

💍 Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, if your group is more than 20 people or if you're using chairs, decor, or sound equipment. But if you're planning a short ceremony with fewer than 20 guests and no big setup? You likely won’t need a permit.

We’ll help you figure it out — and if permitting is required, we’ll make it easy.

📍 Best Ceremony Spots in Central Park (2025 Picks)

1. Cop Cot

A rustic wooden gazebo tucked on a hill near 6th Ave. It’s charming, central, and provides shelter if the weather’s iffy.

Best for: Small groups, rainy day backup, a cozy vibe

2. Ladies Pavilion

One of the most popular spots for a reason — right by the water, with ornate ironwork and skyline views.

Best for: Romantic ceremonies with under 15 guests
Good to know: Gets booked fast, especially in fall

3. The Ramble Overlooks

Natural, quiet, and full of that “you’d never know this was NYC” magic. These pockets feel private and a little wild.

Best for: Couples who want to feel off the grid
Pro tip: Choose this in early morning or golden hour

4. Shakespeare Garden

Seasonal blooms, winding paths, and tucked-away benches. It’s lovely in spring and summer — and peaceful all year.

Best for: Book lovers and nature people
Note: Small groups only — very intimate vibe

5. Gapstow Bridge

That curved bridge you’ve seen in every movie set in NYC. It’s iconic, especially when it’s covered in snow or fall leaves.

Best for: Picture-perfect ceremonies and wow-factor photos
Pro tip: Weekdays are way less crowded

📸 Photo Perks

Central Park gives you ceremony and photo shoot all in one. You’ve got open fields, historic architecture, wooded trails, and skyline reflections — all within walking distance.

Some of our favorite photo pairings:

Cop Cot ceremony → photos at the Mall + Bow Bridge
Ladies Pavilion ceremony → portraits at Cherry Hill + Bethesda Terrace
Ramble ceremony → forest trails + Belvedere Castle

🧡 So… Can You Really Get Married Here?

Yes. And it might be easier than you think. With a little guidance and a lot of heart, Central Park can feel like your own personal fairytale — or like a totally chill, beautiful place to just be together.

We’ll help you scout, plan, and make it official — whether you’re inviting 2 people or 20.

Ready to get married in Central Park in 2025? → Let’s plan it.

Can You Get Married in Central Park? (2025 Elopement Guide)