If you’re considering a Bethesda Fountain wedding ceremony or planning to take portraits in this breathtaking location, you may be wondering if it’s the perfect backdrop for your special day. This guide will answer common questions about hosting a wedding at Bethesda Fountain and help you determine whether it’s the ideal setting for your celebration of love.
Nestled in the heart of Central Park, the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain stands as one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks. Revered for its stunning architecture, it has been featured in countless films—Elf, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Enchanted, and more—making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike.
If you’re dreaming of a romantic wedding in New York City, here’s everything you need to know about how to get married in Central Park, from the best locations to the permit process.
Contents:
- Pro & Cons
- Permit Details
- Location and Transportation
- Rules and Features
- Timing of the Ceremony
- Weather Considerations
- Photos & Video Tour
- Conclusion
Pro & Cons of a Bethesda Fountain Wedding
The Bethesda Fountain and Terrace is a very popular location in the park. This guide addresses many of the questions and concerns you may have. Here is my quick list of top pro and cons.
Pros
- Location: Iconic mid park location, accessible via a 5 min walk from 5th Ave or Central Park West or by pedi cab or horse carriage.
- Aesthetics: Stunning architecture featuring the fountain, historic Minton tile ceiling in the arcade, grand stairways and view of The Lake.
- Rain Plan: The arcade provides a cooler location in summer or beautiful rain back-up location.
Cons
- Crowds: As a major tourist attraction in NYC, the terrace area is almost always busy. Even early on weekday mornings, it will be full of off leash dogs, their walkers, photo shoots or just tourists. The better the weather, the more people there as well.
- Noise: Less an issue early in the day, but there are often musicians and other performers in the area. You won’t have control over the type of music and it could drown out your vows.
- Privacy: As a ceremony site, it is unpredictable in terms of on lookers. If you are already nervous or don’t like being the center of attention, I don’t suggest the location for a ceremony. Consider Wagner Cove instead.
Wedding Ceremony Permit Details
Can we get married at the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain?
Yes, weddings are permitted at the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain in Central Park with or without a permit. However, gatherings of 20 or more people require a $25 permit. They can be applied for with the NYC Parks Department here. You will also need a valid NY State Marriage License and an officiant to marry legally. Learn more about that process here.
Should we get a permit if our wedding has less than 20 people?
A permit is recommend for ALL wedding ceremonies at the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain regardless of the size. Applying for a permit will let you know if there are any events, other weddings, photo or film shoots planned that could effect your day. While having a permit helps, it will not grant you exclusive access to the location.
How far in advance should we get the permit and what is the fee?
Book the permit as soon as you confirm your plans and they are available. Processing a permit request for a Bethesda Fountain wedding typically takes between 21 to 30 days, so be sure to plan well in advance. Additionally, permits are not issued for major holidays, as these days are reserved for public use on a first-come, first-served basis. Make sure to check your desired date to avoid any conflicts!
What are some of the specific locations couples marry at the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain?
You can be married in the arcade, on the terrace overlooking the fountain, around the fountain or at The Lake. (You can pretty much pick any open area that accommodates your group size.)
Location & Transport
How do we walk to the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain?
For the shortest walk to the area, enter the park at either 72nd Street and Central Park West or 5th Avenue. Walk roughly 5 mins towards the middle of the park. The route is not straight, but follow the roadway or use a GPS map for directions. The coordinates for the fountain are: 40.7740° N, 73.9710° W
Can you get to the Bethesda Terrace by car or vehicle?
Vehicles cannot access the Terrace roadway anymore, but horse-drawn carriages and pedi cabs can. While their routes are limited, they can pick up and drop off at the Terrace—ideal for a grand entrance or assisting elderly, disabled, or high-heeled guests. The main pick-up spot is at 59th Street and 5th Avenue, though some companies offer hotel pick-ups in Midtown. For a wedding, it’s best to reserve special transportation in advance.
Any suggestions for transporting guests to a reception after?
Yes! I’ve had couples hire busses, trolleys, pedicabs and limos to transport their guests. You will want to arrange pick-up/drop off points at easily found park exits like 59th & 5th Avenues, 72nd and Central Park West/5th Avenue or 59th and 6th Avenue.
Rules and Features
Can we decorate, have music or pop some Champagne for our Bethesda Fountain Wedding?
Decoration is not allowed and neither is amplified music. However, you can hire acoustic musicians to serenade you. I’ve had couples hire string players or the saxaphone player who is often on The Mall. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed in the park. If you want some celebratory bubbly, bring sparking juice.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
The terrace area has ramps on either side to access the arcade and fountain area. The restrooms are not accessible as they are located on a landing in a staircase. (open seasonally) The closest accessible restrooms are in the building with Le Pain Quotidien about 5 mins away.
Is there any seating at the Bethesda Fountain and Terrace?
There is seating on concrete benches around the fountain area. In the arcade under the terrace, there are some low concrete outcroppings some people use as seating. You can have a ceremony near the benches if any guests need the seating.
After the ceremony are there other photo locations nearby?
Given its central location, the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain is near many popular photo locations. The Bow Bridge, Cherry Hill, The Mall, and The Lake are all a 5 minute or less walk away.
Can we celebrate our Bethesda Terrace wedding nearby?
The closest dining option is the Loeb Boathouse which is viewable from the fountain area. Lunch or dinner reservations for up to 20 guests open 3 weeks in advance on Open Table. If you are having more guests or want a private space, inquire with the Boat House.
Also check out my full list of nearby options.
Timing the Ceremony
When is the best time for a Bethesda Fountain Wedding?
The best time for a wedding ceremony in this popular location would be in the morning on a weekday. There will likely be less people and distractions. However, for some the location is more important and we will make it work. Central Park is beautiful through out the year, but the fountain will be at its loveliest when flowing April-October.
Is there a time of avoid having a wedding at the Bethesda Terrace?
Weekends and afternoons will see the most traffic at the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain area which makes having a ceremony more challenging. (Though in the winter, you will probably be fine mid-day outside of the holidays.) Most events happen on weekends, but The Taste of Summer fundraising gala is held the first/second week in June on a Wednesday. (It is June 11, 2025) The area is partly inaccessible several days before and after for set-up and breakdown. Specifically the arcade area.
Weather
Is the Bethesda Terrace a good rainy day wedding ceremony location?
The terrace offers shelter from the rain and hot sun, which can be ideal for a small ceremony. However, during a downpour on busy days, the area may fill with people seeking shelter. (I was there one rainy day and it was PACKED!) Be careful scheduling ceremonies on days with events nearby or on Friday evenings where set-up for Saturday events on The Mall can be taking place. This area is best suited to weekdays morning ceremonies, rain or shine.
Does the Central Park Bethesda Fountain run year around?
No. During the winter the Angels of the Waters fountain does not run. Below freezing temperatures will determine the fountain’s seasonal operations. Generally, you can expect it to be flowing mid-April to mid-October. During the warm months, aquatic plants will fill the pool and the occasional rogue dog!
Bethesda Terrace Wedding Photos and Video Tour
Besides visiting yourself, the best way to see if a Bethesda Terrace wedding is for you is to see photos and video. See the video tour below.
Should you have a Bethesda Fountain wedding?
I honestly don’t believe to trip to NYC or a wedding in Central Park is complete without a visit to the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain. It is such an iconic location and is truly a beautiful background for wedding photos. I always imagine my couples returning years later with their children for photos in the same spots. (I am always available for family photos of past couples!)
However, I generally discourage wedding ceremonies at the site unless early in the morning on a week day or on rainy days. The potential for crowds and unexpected events is much higher in this area. If it is your top choice, I will help ensure it will be as successful as possible. Of course, if you want to consider other locations, please reach out!
