My Guide to the Top 10 Ithaca Wedding and Event Venues (2024)

Planning a wedding in Ithaca, NY, offers a plethora of beautiful and unique venues, each with its own charm and special features. As a musician who has lived in the area for 12 years and performed at numerous weddings, parties, and corporate events, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing each of these venues firsthand. While this may not be the most comprehensive guide, it reflects my personal favorites based on the atmosphere, facilities, and overall experience that each venues seems to deliver for the hosts and their guests.

The list is presented in alphabetical order, not by preference, to ensure fair representation of each venue. I’ve included links to each venue for your convenience. While I don’t have videos of all the places where I’ve performed, I do have recordings from many of them, which can give you a taste of the ambiance and musical experience each venue offers.

Here are my top 10 favorite wedding venues in Ithaca:

1. Buttermilk Falls Pavilion
2. Cayuga Shoreline
3. Downtown Marriott
4. Greek Peak / Hope Lake Lodge
5. Ithaca Yacht Club
6. La Tourelle
7. New Park
8. RaNic Golf Club
9. Statler Hotel
10. Treman Center

Each venue offers something unique, whether it’s breathtaking views, historical charm, versatile facilities, or exceptional service. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect spot for your special day.

Buttermilk Falls Pavilion

A Nature-Lover’s Wedding Haven

Buttermilk Falls Pavilion, located in Buttermilk Falls State Park in Ithaca, NY, is an exceptional venue for couples seeking a wedding surrounded by natural beauty. Known for its picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere, the pavilion offers a unique andmemorable setting for a wedding celebration.

Scenic Natural Beauty

The Buttermilk Falls Pavilion is nestled within Buttermilk Falls State Park, which is renowned for its stunning natural features. The park takes its name from the frothy cascade created by Buttermilk Creek as it flows down a steep valley towards Cayuga Lake. The venue offers breathtaking views of the park’s centerpiece, a 165-foot waterfall, which serves as a spectacular backdrop for wedding ceremonies and photographs. The lush greenery and tranquil setting provide a romantic and peaceful environment that enhances the overall wedding experience.

When I first moved to Ithaca, I had the pleasure of playing at Buttermilk Falls Pavilion on solo guitar and voice. It was a beautiful Saturday evening in June, perfect for an outdoor scenic wedding. The melodies of my guitar intertwined with the natural sounds of the park, creating a harmonious and serene atmosphere for the guests. The setting sun cast a golden glow over the waterfall, making the evening truly magical.

Versatile Outdoor Spaces

The pavilion is well-suited for outdoor wedding ceremonies and receptions. It can accommodate up to 73 guests, making it ideal for intimate gatherings. The surrounding picnic areas and playing fields provide additional space for larger celebrations, allowing couples to tailor the event to their specific needs. The natural setting also offers numerous opportunities forbeautiful wedding photos, with trails and scenic spots scattered throughout the park.

Comprehensive Amenities and Services

Buttermilk Falls Pavilion offers essential amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient wedding experience. The pavilion includes picnic tables, grills, and restrooms, providing a practical setup for an outdoor wedding. Additionally, the park’s management team is available to assist with reservations and event planning, ensuring that all details are taken care of. The pavilion is available for rent from May through October, making it an excellent choice for spring, summer, and fall weddings.

Activities and Attractions

Hosting a wedding at Buttermilk Falls Pavilion allows guests to enjoy the numerous activities and attractions available in the park. The state park features several hiking trails, including the popular Gorge Trail and Rim Trail, which offer stunning views of waterfalls, deep pools, and sculpted rock formations. Guests can also take advantage of the park’s swimming areas,picnic spots, and scenic viewpoints, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the wedding festivities.

Pavillion Rental Information

To rent the pavilion at Buttermilk Falls State Park in Ithaca, NY, you need to go through the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and HistoricPreservation. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Visit the New York State Parks website: Go to parks.ny.gov.
2. Navigate to Reservations: On the homepage, click on the “Make a Reservation” link. This will take you to the Reserve America website, which handles park reservations.
3. Search for Buttermilk Falls State Park: Use the search bar to find Buttermilk Falls State Park.
4. Select the Pavilion: Once you find the park, look for options to reserve a pavilion or shelter. Select the date and time you wish to reserve.
5. Complete the Reservation: Follow the prompts to complete your reservation, including entering your personal information and payment details.

If you prefer to speak to someone directly, you can contact the park office at Buttermilk Falls State Park. The phone number for the park office is (607) 273-5761.

You can also visit the park office in person. The address is: Buttermilk Falls State Park 112 E. Buttermilk Falls Road Ithaca, NY 14850

Unique Appeal

What sets Buttermilk Falls Pavilion apart is its unique blend of natural beauty and intimate setting. The sound of the waterfall, the fresh scent of the forest, and the sight of wildlife make this venue a haven for nature lovers. The pavilion’s rustic charm, combined with the convenience of modern amenities, offers couples the bestof both worlds. The ability to have anoutdoor wedding with such a stunning natural backdrop, while still enjoying the comforts of a well-equipped venue, makes Buttermilk Falls Pavilion a standout choice for weddings.

In summary, Buttermilk Falls Pavilion in Ithaca, NY, is an ideal wedding venue for couples who appreciate natural beauty and a serene outdoor setting. With its picturesque landscapes, versatile spaces, and comprehensive amenities, it provides a unique and memorable backdrop for wedding celebrations. Whether you are planning an intimate ceremony or a larger gathering, Buttermilk Falls Pavilion offers a charming and peaceful environment that will make your special day truly unforgettable.

Cayuga Shoreline

A Premier Wedding Venue on Cayuga Lake

Nestled on the western shore of Cayuga Lake in Interlaken, NY, Cayuga Shoreline is an exceptional venue that combines natural beauty, historical charm, and modern amenities to create an ideal setting for weddings. As a musician who has performed at numerous venues, I can attest to the unique appeal of Cayuga Shoreline for hosting unforgettable weddingcelebrations.

Scenic Lakeside Setting

One of the most compelling reasons to choose Cayuga Shoreline for your wedding is its breathtaking lakeside setting. With over 300 feet of frontage on Cayuga Lake, the venue offers stunning panoramic views that provide a perfect backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions. The serene environment enhances the romantic ambiance, making it an ideal location for couples looking to celebrate their love amidst nature’s beauty.

Versatile Event Spaces

Cayuga Shoreline features a newly renovated event center that seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor spaces. This flexibility allows for various wedding setups, accommodating different themes and guest counts. The facility includes luxury lodging options such as a farmhouse, apartments, and lakeside cottages, ensuring that your guests can stay comfortably onsite. This integration of event and lodging spaces makes planning and logistics much simpler for couples and their guests.

Historical Charm and Modern Amenities

The venue’s rich history adds a unique charm to the wedding experience. Originally known as the Busy Bee Market, the property dates back to the early 1800s and has housed various businesses over the years, including a ferry boat service and several restaurants. Artifacts from this storied past, such as the gear from the historic Busy Bee ferry boat, add an interesting and nostalgic touch to the venue. Despite its historical roots, Cayuga Shoreline boasts modern amenities that ensure a comfortable and memorable experience for all attendees.

A Musician’s Perspective

From my experience as a musician, performing at Cayuga Shoreline offers a unique opportunity to enhance the wedding atmosphere with live music. I recently had the pleasure of performing an all-bossa nova wedding at this venue, and the setting significantly complemented the smooth, rhythmic tunes of bossa nova. The bride and groom, both enthusiasts of the genre, selected classics like “Agua De Beber,” “Blue Bossa,” and “Girl from Ipanema.” These tunes, along with other favorites, created an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere that resonated with the guests. Here is a video montage I took of the event from my phone on my music stand.

Performing a wide array of bossa nova songs required adapting to the evening’s evolving atmosphere, ensuring that the music remained engaging and unobtrusive. Despite a technical mishap with the audio recorder during the first set, the remaining recordings captured the essence of the evening, preserving the special moments created by the music.

Enhancing the Wedding Experience

Music plays a crucial role in transforming wedding spaces and creating lasting memories. At Cayuga Shoreline, the combination of a beautiful venue and carefully curated music can elevate the celebration, adding an extra layer of charm and sophistication. The positive feedback from guests and the joy expressed by the bride and groom at the bossa nova wedding reinforced my belief in the power of music to enhance special events.

For couples looking to add a similar musical experience to their wedding, I offer various live music options, from bossa nova to other genres, to suit different tastes and preferences. My goal is to create a memorable and personalized musical experience that complements the unique setting of Cayuga Shoreline.

In conclusion, Cayuga Shoreline stands out as a premier wedding venue in the Ithaca area, combining scenic beauty, versatile event spaces, historical charm, and modern amenities. Whether you are planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, this venue offers everything needed to make your wedding day truly special. If you are interested in exploring live music options for your wedding at Cayuga Shoreline, feel free to contact me or visit my website to learn more about how we can create a magical musical experience for your special day.

Downtown Ithaca Marriott / Monks on the Commons

A Sophisticated Urban Venue

The Ithaca Marriott Downtown on the Commons is an exceptional choice for a wedding venue, combining modern elegance with convenient amenities in the heart of downtown Ithaca. Here are several reasons why this venue stands out as a top wedding destination:

Prime Downtown Location

Situated on the vibrant Ithaca Commons, the Marriott offers a central location that provides easy access to local attractions,restaurants, and entertainment. This urban setting is perfect for couples who want to incorporate the lively atmosphere of downtown Ithaca into their wedding celebrations. The convenience of being close to hotels, shops, and other amenities ensures that guests have everything they need within walking distance.

Versatile Event Spaces

The Marriott features 2,300 square feet of event space, including the elegant Gorges Ballroom, which boasts floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking downtown Ithaca. This sleek and modern venue can host up to 130 guests, making it suitable for both intimate ceremonies and larger receptions. Additional spaces like the Falls Boardroom and Salon B provide versatile options for different parts of the wedding day, from the ceremony to co*cktail hour and dinner.

Comprehensive Wedding Services

One of the highlights of hosting a wedding at the Ithaca Marriott Downtown on the Commons is the range of comprehensive services offered. The venue provides event planners, decorators, photographers, and catering services to ensure that every detail of yourwedding is meticulously planned and executed. Modern amenities such as microphones, stages, and custom lighting setups are available to enhance the wedding experience. Overnight accommodations are also available for guests, adding to the convenience of hosting your wedding here.

Culinary Excellence

The Marriott’s catering team offers a variety of menu options tailored to your preferences, ensuring that your guests enjoy a memorable dining experience. From co*cktail hour appetizers to multi-course dinners, the culinary offerings are designed to delight and satisfy. The venue’s commitment to quality and service ensures that the food complements the elegance and sophistication of your wedding celebration.

Monks on the Commons: A Unique and Intimate Setting

Monks on the Commons, located within the Ithaca Marriott, is another fantastic option for weddings. This modern tavern offers aunique blend of contemporary style and cozy charm, making it an ideal setting for intimate weddings and receptions. The locavore pub grub and creative co*cktails provide a relaxed yet upscale dining experience, perfect for couples looking for a more casual yet refined wedding atmosphere.

I have played at Monks fairly regularly over the years, performing in various configurations, including solo guitar, a Latin jazz trio, and a regular jazz trio. Whether indoors near the bar area of the restaurant or outdoors on the patio, the atmosphere has always been vibrant and welcoming. The flexibility of the venue to host different types of music and events makes it a great choice for wedding celebrations.

Here are some videos from performances at Monks: outdoor jazz trio, outdoor Latin jazz, Indoor Trio 1, Indoors Trio 2, Solo Indoors.

Why Choose the Ithaca Marriott Downtown on the Commons?

1. Prime Location: Central downtown setting with easy access to local attractions and amenities.
2. Versatile Spaces: Multiple event spaces to accommodate various wedding sizes and styles.
3. Comprehensive Services: Full range of wedding planning and execution services, ensuring a seamless experience.
4. Culinary Excellence: High-quality catering options tailored to your event.
5. Modern Amenities: State-of-the-art facilities and accommodations for guests.
6. Musical Flexibility: Proven ability to host a variety of musical acts, enhancing the overall ambiance.

In summary, the Ithaca Marriott Downtown on the Commons offers a sophisticated urban venue with versatile spaces, comprehensive services, and a prime location. Whether you choose the elegant Gorges Ballroom or the intimate Monks on the Commons, this venue provides everything you need for a memorable and seamless wedding celebration.

Greek Peak Resort / Hope Lake Lodge

A Versatile and Picturesque Wedding Venue

While not in Ithaca, Greek Peak Mountain Resort and Hope Lake Lodge in Cortland, NY, are close enough to be included in this guide. These venues offer a unique blend of natural beauty, versatile event spaces, and comprehensive amenities, making them exceptional choices for weddings.

Scenic and Accessible Location

Nestled in the beautiful Finger Lakes Region, Greek Peak is conveniently accessible from major cities like Syracuse, Ithaca, andBinghamton. Its location offers picturesque views of mountains, forests, and Hope Lake, providing a stunning backdrop for wedding ceremonies and photos. The natural surroundings add a touch of serenity and elegance to any event, making it a memorable setting foryour special day.

Diverse and Versatile Event Spaces

Greek Peak Mountain Resort and Hope Lake Lodge offer a variety of event spaces to accommodate weddings of all sizes and styles:

1. The Lookout: Built in 2021, this venue features 4,500 square feet of indoor space with a large outdoor covered patio, accommodating up to 310 guests. The Lookout boasts farmhouse elegance with wooden tables and chairs, wrought iron chandeliers, and a spacious dance floor. The venue also includes bridal suites with salon-style stations.
2. Acropolis Ballroom: Located at the base of the mountain, this formal setting can host up to 240 guests and includes an attached veranda with breathtaking views of the Greek Peak ski mountains. The ballroom also provides access to a 6,000 sq. ft. two-tier deck, perfect for co*cktail hours.
3. Meteora Center: This 4,000 sq. ft. venue can accommodate up to 200 guests and features dimmable chandeliers, composite flooring, and Chiavari chairs. It also includes an attached lighted patio with optional fire pits.
4. Mountaintop Ceremonies: For a truly unique experience, couples can arrive via chairlift to a mountaintop ceremony,available from May to October.
5. Adirondack Room: Ideal for smaller gatherings, this intimate space within Hope Lake Lodge accommodates up to 87 guests.

Comprehensive Amenities and Services

Greek Peak Mountain Resort and Hope Lake Lodge provide a full range of amenities and services to ensure a seamless wedding experience:

• Accommodation Options: The resort offers luxurious accommodations, including Hope Lake Lodge’s 41,000 sq. ft. indoor waterpark, a world-class spa, and various lodging options for guests.
• Catering Services: The on-site catering team provides customizable menus to suit any wedding style, from formal dinners to casual receptions.
• Event Planning: The resort’s experienced event planners assist with every detail, ensuring that your wedding day is stress-free and perfectly executed.
• Activities for Guests: Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and zip-lining, making it a destination where everyone can find something to enjoy.

My Personal Experience

Last October, I had the pleasure of performing at a beautiful wedding set against the scenic backdrop of Greek Peak / Hope Lake

Lodge. The entire day was filled with music, from the emotional ceremony to a lively reception, creating memories that both the bride and groom, and their guests, will cherish forever. Here is a video montage of the reception.

A Perfectly Timed Processional: The ceremony was a highlight in itself. I performed “Sleep on the Floor” by The Lumineers, timing the song so that the chorus coincided perfectly with the bride’s processional. As she walked down the aisle, the song’s chorus swelled, enhancing the emotional impact of the moment. It was beautiful to see everything come together so seamlessly, adding a magical touch to their special day.

co*cktail Hour Tunes: Following the ceremony, I moved to the tented facility where I entertained the guests during the co*cktail hour. Armed with my guitar and voice, I performed a range of popular requests including “Crash” by Dave Matthews, “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele, and “I Will Wait” by Mumford and Sons. The variety of songs catered to the diverse tastes of the guests, setting arelaxed yet upbeat tone for the evening.

The Reception: A Night of Dancing: As the evening progressed, The Way Band quartet—comprising the usual trio plus keyboards—took the stage. We played a mix of the bride and groom’s special requests and popular hits. From “Jessie’s Girl” by Rick Springfield to “Bennie and the Jets” by Elton John, and even the Buffalo Bills Shout Song, the dance floor was never empty. The crowd also enjoyed singing along to “Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton, “Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks, and “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson & Bruno Mars, dancing up a storm throughout the night.

A Touching Moment Post-Wedding: One of my favorite moments came a day or two after the wedding. I had posted a highlight reel on Instagram, and the bride contacted me, hoping to find any video of her father on the dance floor—a rare sight. Fortunately, I was able to locate and send her four minutes of footage showing her dad dancing with the family. Her response, saying she was in tears of joy watching it, was incredibly moving.

Gratitude for the Gift of Music: It’s moments like these that make me truly grateful for what I do. Being able to add to the joy of someone’s wedding day and then extend that joy with lasting memories is why I love playing at these events. Greek Peak / Hope Lake Lodge provided a beautiful setting for a wonderful celebration of love, music, and dancing that none of us will soon forget.

Playing at such events underscores the power of music to connect us, to elevate special occasions, and to create memories that not only last a lifetime but also reach deeply into our hearts. I look forward to many more weddings where music plays a central role incelebrating love and family.

In summary, Greek Peak Mountain Resort and Hope Lake Lodge offer a comprehensive and versatile setting for weddings, combining natural beauty with modern amenities. Whether you envision a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, this venue provides theperfect backdrop for a memorable wedding day.

Ithaca Yacht Club

A Lakeside Gem for Weddings

The Ithaca Yacht Club (IYC), nestled on the west shore of Cayuga Lake in Ithaca, NY, is a premier choice for a wedding venue. Established in 1907, the club boasts a rich history, stunning scenic views, versatile facilities, and a vibrant community atmosphere, making it an ideal location for couples looking to tie the knot. Here’s why the Ithaca Yacht Club stands out as a top wedding destination.

Scenic Location

The IYC is renowned for its picturesque setting on Cayuga Lake. The serene waters and beautifully maintained grounds provide a breathtaking backdrop for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Couples can exchange vows against the stunning natural scenery, offering numerous opportunities for memorable wedding photos. Whether it’s the lush greenery in spring and summer or the vibrant foliage in fall, the club’s location offers seasonal beauty that enhances the overall ambiance of any wedding.

Versatile Facilities

The club features a variety of spaces to accommodate different sizes and styles of weddings. The large clubhouse, with its elegant dining room, is perfect for indoor receptions and can be tailored to suit both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations. The grassy shoreline and outdoor spaces are ideal for ceremonies, co*cktail hours, and receptions, allowing couples to enjoy the natural beauty of the lakeside setting. The versatility of these spaces ensures that couples can have their dream wedding, regardless of the weather or their specific preferences.

Comprehensive Services

One of the standout features of the IYC is its comprehensive range of services designed to support wedding events. The club offers catering through its on-site restaurant and pub, providing a variety of menu options that can be customized to suit any event. The experienced staff at the IYC are also available to assist with event planning, ensuring that every detail is taken care of, from decorations to logistics. This level of support helps to alleviate the stress of wedding planning, allowing couples to focus on enjoying their special day.

Exclusive and Private

As a members-only club, the IYC offers a sense of exclusivity and privacy that is perfect for weddings. The private grounds ensure that the event is secluded from the public, allowing guests to celebrate in a personal and intimate setting. This exclusivity adds to the overall charm and appeal of the venue, making it a truly unique location for a wedding.

Amenities for Guests

In addition to the beautiful event spaces, the IYC provides a range of amenities that guests can enjoy. The club features a marina, swimming area, and offers kayaks and paddleboards for member use. These amenities can enhance the overall wedding experience, providing guests with additional recreational options during their stay. Whether it’s a leisurely paddle on the lake or a relaxing swim, these activities add an extra layer of enjoyment to the wedding festivities.

A Memorable Wedding with The Way Band

Last year, The Way Band had the pleasure of performing at a wedding held at the Ithaca Yacht Club, and it was an

unforgettableexperience. The event began with a solo performance during the co*cktail hour, where I played classic tunes that perfectly complemented the serene lakeside setting. The melodies mixed with the gentle breeze, creating a classy and relaxed atmosphere for the guests.

As the sun began to set, the rest of the band joined in, and the energy of the evening soared. For three hours, we played a variety of songs that had the dance floor packed. One of the standout moments was when the bride’s dad took the spotlight, grabbing the wireless mic and singing “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen with us. The crowd’s reaction was electric, reflecting the family’s love for Springsteen.

Towards the end of the night, the entire wedding party formed a big circle and sang “Piano Man” by Billy Joel along with the band. This moment, steeped in the bride and her friends’ college tradition, was a highlight of the evening. The sense of camaraderie and joy was palpable, and it was a privilege to be a part of such a special memory.

One aspect of our performance that received particular praise was our ability to manage the volume perfectly. One of the staff members complimented us, noting that many bands tend to play too loudly for the venue. Over the years, we’ve learned to read theroom and adjust our volume accordingly, ensuring that the music enhances the atmosphere without overwhelming the guests.

At the end of the night, the bride and groom expressed their gratitude, describing the evening as “perfect.” Their heartfelt appreciation and the positive feedback from the guests underscored the magical role that live music plays in creating memorable celebrations. It’s moments like these that remind us of the power of music to bring people together and create lasting memories. Here is a video montage of the event.

Why Choose Ithaca Yacht Club for Your Wedding?

1. 1. Scenic Location: The club’s prime lakeside position offers unparalleled views and a romantic setting.
   2. Versatile Facilities: With options for both intimate and large-scale weddings, the venue can be customized to fit your vision.
   3. Exceptional Catering: Catering by Luna ensures top-quality food and service for your special day.
   4. Exclusive and Private: The members-only nature of the club offers a secluded and intimate environment.
   5. Rich History and Community Atmosphere: The club’s longstanding tradition and welcoming community enhanceitscharm.

In conclusion, the Ithaca Yacht Club is an exceptional venue for weddings, offering a blend of scenic beauty, versatile facilities, comprehensive services, and exclusive privacy. The club’s rich history and vibrant community atmosphere add to its charm, making it a standout choice for couples looking to celebrate their special day in a unique and memorable setting.

La Tourelle

A Romantic and Scenic Wedding Venue in Ithaca

La Tourelle Hotel, Bistro & Spa, located in Ithaca, NY, is a renowned wedding venue that offers a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. Here are several reasons why La Tourelle stands out as an exceptional choice for weddings:

Scenic and Serene Location

Nestled on 70 acres of lawns, ponds, gardens, fields, and forests, La Tourelle provides a multitude of scenic spots for wedding ceremonies. The beautiful grounds, complete with ponds and gazebos, offer the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos, making it an idyllic setting for a romantic ceremony.

Versatile Event Spaces

La Tourelle features a multi-level banquet room that can accommodate up to 135 guests for a banquet-style reception or 150 guests for a co*cktail-style event. The room is designed with high ceilings, mirrored walls, and large windows that allow natural light to flood the space. It also includes a mahogany bar and a spacious dance floor, with French doors that open to a private terrace, perfect for toasting, coffee, and dessert.

Comprehensive Services

La Tourelle offers a range of services to ensure a seamless wedding experience. Their wedding concierge assists with planning and coordination, taking care of setup and cleanup to allow you to focus on enjoying your day. The on-site catering team, led by an executive chef, provides personalized menus featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the Finger Lakes region. Whether you prefer an elegant plated dinner or a buffet, La Tourelle can create a dining experience that suits your preferences.

Accommodations for Guests

The hotel offers 54 rooms and suites, providing comfortable accommodations for your wedding guests. They offer various room types, including spacious suites that are perfect for bridal parties and romantic rooms for newlyweds, complete with amenities like jacuzzi tubs and cozy gas fireplaces. Special discounts are available for wedding guests, ensuring a memorable and convenient stay.

My Personal Experience

A few years ago, I had the pleasure of performing solo instrumental guitar at a beautiful winter wedding at La Tourelle on Valentine’s Day. The first dance was “All of Me” by John Legend, and the intimate indoor setting provided a warm and romantic atmospheredespite the chilly weather outside.

In addition to the winter wedding, I hosted a summer party for the Ithaca Jazz and Blues Jam, which I used to run. This event was held outdoors on the back patio, where I played with a trio. Various Ithaca musicians joined in to jam with the band, creating a lively and enjoyable summer evening. These experiences allowed me to appreciate La Tourelle’s versatility as a venue for both indoor andoutdoor events, in different seasons.

Why La Tourelle is Great for Weddings

1. Scenic Location: The venue’s extensive grounds with ponds, gardens, and gazebos offer multiple picturesque spots for ceremonies and photos.
2. Versatile Event Spaces: The multi-level banquet room and outdoor terraces provide flexible options for both intimate and larger weddings.
3. Comprehensive Services: From wedding planning to catering, La Tourelle offers a full suite of services to ensure a stress-free wedding day.
4. Accommodations: With 54 rooms and suites, the hotel can comfortably host your wedding party and guests, offering special rates for wedding bookings.
5. Seasonal Versatility: The venue’s ability to host beautiful events both indoors in the winter and outdoors in the summermakes it a year-round choice for weddings.

La Tourelle‘s combination of stunning scenery, versatile event spaces, comprehensive services, and comfortable accommodationsmakes it an ideal venue for weddings in the Finger Lakes region. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, La Tourelle provides the perfect setting for a memorable and romantic wedding day.

New Park

A Unique and Inspirational Wedding Venue

New Park Event Venue & Suites, located just north of Ithaca and south of Taughannock Falls, offers an exceptionalsetting for weddings in the Finger Lakes region. Here’s why New Park stands out as an ideal choice for weddings:

Scenic and Serene Location

New Park is situated in a beautiful, natural setting, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for weddings. The venue features a forested ceremony spot on the bank of a babbling creek, creating a tranquil and romantic atmosphere. This proximity to nature adds a unique charm to the wedding experience, making it a memorable place to exchange vows.

Versatile Event Spaces

New Park offers a range of event spaces that cater to different aspects of a wedding celebration:

1. 1. Forested Ceremony Spot: This outdoor space can accommodate up to 215 guests and offers a beautiful natural setting for the ceremony.
   2. Pavilion/Lodge: Equipped with temperature control, this space serves as a backup for ceremonies in case of rain and is ideal for receptions with a dance floor and tented areas for dining and lounging.
   3. The Wish Room: Perfect for hosting rehearsal dinners, late-night parties, and brunches, this space allowsfor an extended celebration throughout the weekend.

Comprehensive Amenities and Services

New Park provides a variety of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable wedding experience:

• On-Site Accommodations: With seven suites, New Park can host up to 24 guests on-site, offering unique and beautifully designed accommodations with stained glass, artisanal woodwork, and stonework. This allows the wedding party to stay together and enjoy the venue’s amenities throughout the weekend.
• Beverage Services: Provided in-house by Cedarwood Bar Catering, New Park offers a range of beer, wine, and liquor options for your event.
• Venue Coordination: A dedicated venue coordinator is available to assist with all on-site vendors and ensure everything runs smoothly.

Unique Features

1. Pet-Friendly: All event spaces and accommodations at New Park are pet-friendly, making it an inclusive venue for couples who want to include their furry friends in their celebration.
2. Full Weekend Weddings: New Park specializes in weekend weddings, allowing couples to extend theircelebration over multiple days with rehearsal dinners, late-night parties, and brunches.
3. Personalized Experience: With customizable packages and the ability to individually invoice accommodations and services, New Park offers a flexible and personalized wedding experience.

My Personal Experience

I’ve had the pleasure of performing at New Park on multiple occasions of the Sweet Bough Collective Wedding Expos. Here is a video of my first performance at New Park in the main building. Nestled in nature, this expo was the perfect setting for acoustic vibes and personal connections. My performance aimed to blend seamlessly with the tranquil surroundings, providing a soundtrack that echoed the couples’ dreams and aspirations. Here’s a video of my performance in the “Wish Room” at New Park.

In a previous blog, I wrote about my site visit to New Park. Despite the snow during the Sweet Bough Collective Wedding Expo, I later had the chance to tour the venue in better weather. The unique architecture, natural beauty, and thoughtful amenities make New Park a standout choice for weddings.

Highlights from My Blog

• Architectural Marvels: New Park isn’t just a venue—it’s a canvas of creativity where each room tells a unique story. The Wish Room’s unique clock and wine-bottle-shaped wall add a touch of magic to the venue.
• Nuptials in Nature’s Embrace: For those seeking the allure of nature in their ceremony, New Park provides a charming wooded area near a serene stream. The tranquility of the woods sets the tone for a picturesque outdoor ceremony.
• Dance in Every Weather: New Park ensures your celebrations are weather-proof with its innovative dance floor area. Abundant outdoor seating covered by elegant tents allows you to dance the night away in comfort, whether under the stars or shieldedfrom the elements.
• Parking Made Easy: Convenience is key, and New Park offers ample parking spaces to accommodate your guests without hassle.
• Stay Where the Magic Happens: With the ability to accommodate up to 24 guests on-site, you can extend the celebration with a wedding party sleepover, creating cherished memories throughout the entire stay.

In summary, New Park Event Venue & Suites offers a unique and flexible setting for weddings, combining natural beauty, versatile event spaces, comprehensive services, and comfortable accommodations. Whether you envision a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, New Park provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable wedding day.