Wagner Cove Wedding Guide

What is a Wagner Cove Wedding like?

Nestled on a quiet inlet of The Lake near 72nd Street and west of Cherry Hill, Wagner Cove is a secluded and intimate ceremony site ideal for small weddings. Named for a former New York City Mayor Robert F. Wagner, the restored rustic gazebo-like shelter features two benches and a working boat launch. A Wagner Cove wedding can accommodate an officiant and a few guests comfortably, with a maximum of about 20 people in the surrounding area.

The staircase leading down to the structure offers a dramatic entrance for the couple or bride, while abundant summer foliage creates a peaceful, natural setting filled with birds, turtles, ducks—and the occasional raccoon. Wagner Cove can be permitted for an intimate wedding, unlike the other 4 restored boat landings around The Lake. (Bow Bridge Landing, Hernshead Landing, Chambers Landing, and Western Shore Landing) You can marry at those, but it is first come first served. With low foot traffic and gorgeous views, it’s a charming choice for an intimate wedding any time of year.

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 Wagner Cove Wedding

Pros

• Location: Iconic mid park location, accessible via a 4 min walk from Central Park West or by pedi cab or horse carriage. Technically, you could row over from the Boathouse.
• Aesthetics: Rustic architecture and foliage which varies by season
• Rain Plan: The shelter provides cover from rain or snow for about 4 people. Guests outside the structure would need umbrellas.
• Privacy: Especially in the warmer months, foliage provides privacy and cooling. Park goers do wander in during ceremonies, but it will be much more private than the Ladies Pavilion. Usually they will turn around when they realize a ceremony is happening.

Cons

• Access: If you or any guests have difficultly with stairs or are in a wheelchair, this location is not very accessible. The most direct access is a stone staircase that leads down to the water. There is a path that follows the lake edge made of wood chips. It may be muddy or overgrown and has tree roots.
• Size: The structure can only hold a few people so all guests must be on the path or stand in the area by the tree roots. (Which they keep trying to block off with metal fencing, to little success.)
• Permit: This is a popular location for weddings. I highly suggest getting a permit. (If you miss the cut off, we can still try and may luck out that no one is there.)

Wedding Ceremony Permit Details

Can we get married at Wagner Cove?

Yes, weddings are permitted at Wagner Cove 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 Wagner Cove 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 Wagner Cove 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!

Location & Transport

For a custom Google map of my favorite locations for small weddings and elopements in NYC, click here.

How do we get to Wagner Cove?

For the shortest walk to the area, enter the park at 72nd Street and Central Park West. Walk roughly 4 mins towards the middle of the park through Strawberry Fields. The route is not straight, I suggest using a GPS map for directions OR meeting your officiant or photographer at Central Park West and 72nd.

Can you get to Wagner Cove 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 Cherry Hill—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.

Rules and Features

Can we decorate, have music or pop some Champagne for our Wagner Cove 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 saxephone 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?

Wagner Cove is not wheelchair accessible. There is a path that connects to the ramp leading down from Cherry Hill to The Lake. However, it is not paved and more of a trail with tree roots and wood chips. If you like a rustic structure for your ceremony but need it accessible or with seating, I’d recommend the Dene Shelter/Treehouse for Dreaming. It can be accessed on one side (north) via a paved path with minimal incline. It also has much more seating than Wagner Cove.

Is there any seating at Wagner Cove?

There is seating on either side for a max 4 people. It would be rather tight with 4 guests and an officiant and the couple at the same time though.

After the ceremony are there other photo locations nearby?

Given its central location, Wagner Cove is near many popular photo locations. The Bow Bridge, Cherry Hill, The Mall, Bethesda Terrace and Fountain and The Lake are all a 5 minute or less walk away.

Can we celebrate our Wagner Cove wedding nearby?

The closest dining option is Tavern on the Green which is about a 5 min walk away. (You could also pedi cab there) Open for lunch and dinner, the tavern bar can be a stop for a champagne toast to end your elopement or a multi course private dinner. Reservations for regular dining can be made on their website up to two months in advance. Inquire about private dining options.

Also check out my full list of nearby options.

Timing the Ceremony

Weather

Is Wagner Cove a good rainy day wedding ceremony location?

The structure offers some shelter from the rain and hot sun, which can be ideal for a small ceremony. It may be enough for a light rain for a few people. The closest location with more cover would be the Bethesda Arcade or the Western Boat Landing which is also rustic and a bit larger.

Is Wagner Cover accessible year around?

Yes. However in the winter months the stairs will be icy and could be slippery. The path may be less slippery but can be muddy.

Wagner Cove Wedding Photos and Video Tour

Should you have a Wagner Cove wedding?

If you are looking for a rustic, nature inspired location in mid Central Park, then a Wagner Cove wedding may be for you. Featuring privacy in a seasonally secluded inlet, the location is popular for good reason. The only negative I can think of is the difficultly accessing the spot for the disabled. Even wearing a long and full wedding dress can be a challenge to navigate the uneven stone staircase, though there are handrails. Be sure to check out my video to help you decide if the spot works for you.

Getting Married in Central Park? Book a consult!