FAVORITE OUTDOOR VENUES FOR SUMMER CELEBRATIONS

By Great Performances

As spring blossoms across the city and the days get warmer, we start thinking about outdoor summer events. We’ve rounded up some of our most popular outdoor event venues that give you and your guests spectacular views and the opportunity to interact with nature — both flora and fauna!

From corporate events as companies onboard new team members, welcome summer associates, and host employee family picnics to nonprofit events including fundraising galas and charity functions we have the perfect outdoor venues for groups of all sizes.

We’ve also got venues that are perfect for social events including weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, and lifecycle celebrations.

Check out the list of our most popular outdoor event venues and schedule some time with a planner today to book your outdoor event!

Central Park Zoo

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Escape from the hustle and bustle of the city by staying inside the city! This 6.5-acre tranquil oasis in the heart of Manhattan includes more than 1,400 animals representing more than 130 species from around the world.

Sip cocktails while you watch sea lions folic then stroll through lush gardens before enjoying a meal under a twinkle-light festooned tent. This exotic environment set against a classic NYC backdrop is simply iconic.

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Prospect Park Zoo

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A hidden gem nestled in Prospect Park on Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn is the Prospect Park Zoo. With both indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s an ideal venue for smaller and larger groups of animal lovers.

In the Rotunda, you’ll meet the Hamadryas baboons and marvel at the 6,000-gallon fish tank. You’ll encounter more animals while wandering down the Discovery Trail before arriving at the Barn where animals are fed. The center piece, is the Sea Lion Pool, the perfect backdrop or background for a whimsical wedding ceremony.

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Caramoor

Sunken Garden at Caramoor in Katonah New York on July 18, 2021. 
(photo by Gabe Palacio)

Spectacular gardens, woodland trails, and an impressive great house as a centerpiece, Caramoor is home to metropolitan New York’s largest annual outdoor music festival. It’s the perfect venue for those who love music and nature!

With plenty of space for weddings, celebrations, and gatherings of all types, Carmoor has a wide range of facilities available. For nature enthusiasts who want to experience the best of summer outdoors, Caramoor is a must.

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Wave Hill

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This hidden gem in the Riverdale neighborhood of the Bronx boasts its own microclimate. Stroll along trails in the woods studded with a stunning variety of plants. You’ll always find something blooming at Wave Hill! The Pergola frames views of the Hudson River and the Palisades, providing a romantic backdrop for a wedding. We love the peace and tranquility of the Aquatic Garden, and the Marco Polo Stufano Conservatory is a dreamy location for photos.

For those preferring an indoor event, Armor Hall’s towering cathedral windows create a majestic atmosphere while the wood-paneled Mark Twain Room offers peace and tranquility.

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620 Loft & Gardens

rooftop wedding venues midtown nyc

Above the bustle of Fifth Avenue is an oasis. A combination city garden and downtown-style loft, 620 Loft & Garden is the perfect midtown location for a memorable event.

Saks Fifth Avenue and Saint Patrick’s Cathedral provide a dramatic backdrop for the landmark garden with flagstone pathways and meticulously manicured gardens.

Dine under the stars while enjoying the twinkling lights of the city from the Penthouse Rooftop Garden or enjoy the views from inside the Loft or combine the best of two worlds in our Tented Garden —  620 Loft & Garden is the perfect way to enjoy the city and celebrate your event.

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Ellis Island

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Ellis Island offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with the exclusive use of a National Monument. Explore the museum and take advantage of National Park Service Ranger Tours to round out your visit. You’ll also enjoy breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan Skyline and you dine under the stars and revel in the magic that is New York City.

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Wollman Rink

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Ice skating by winter, rollerskating by summer! DiscOasis has rolled into Wollman Rink this summer, making it a groovy spot for skaters of all experience levels!

Whether your looking for a small group outing perfect for team building or large scale event, Wollman Rink rocks!

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