As an Upstate NY wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing a lot of weddings in the Finger Lakes, but I can honestly say I’ve never seen a wedding venue quite like New Park Event Venue and Suites in Ithaca, NY. This one is a standout for sure and I can’t recommend it enough for couples looking for a non-traditional wedding venue to tie the knot.
One of the things I loved so much about this venue is that there is lodging for your guests right on-site. The property can sleep up to 22 guests. This not only makes it easy for everyone to stay together and celebrate, but it also allows you to fully relax and enjoy your wedding weekend without having to worry about transportation. I remember my own wedding day, where our wedding party all stayed together in a VRBO property, and I can't tell you how much better that was than staying at a hotel. We each had our own space, but we also didn't have to worry about being noisy and bothering hotel guests. This way, you can celebrate as late as you want.
The venue is set up as many different small buildings, each with its own unique design, but with a similar feel throughout. The first thing I noticed when I pulled in was the beautiful, quirky, art-nouveau architecture. All day I heard it compared to the architecture from Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit (in the best possible way). I love that you're able to get ready and stay in these beautiful suites before and after your wedding day. As I said, each is different, but they all feature some combination of stained glass windows, cobblestone detailing, unique woodwork, and walk-in showers.
Fall Wedding Venue in the Finger Lakes
Another thing that really stood out to me about this Finger Lakes wedding venue was the ceremony space which was absolutely perfect for a fall wedding. Saying their vows nestled between the trees, bright with fall foliage, it really couldn’t have gotten any better. I loved that Allison and Eric were able to have a wedding ceremony that felt like we were in the middle of the forest, while still keeping all their guests close to the reception space. And if it wasn't already perfect, I love how even though you feel like you're in the middle of the forest, New Park is actually really close to the city. It's only about a 10-minute drive from downtown Ithaca and only 5 minutes from Taughannock Falls.
After the ceremony, Allison, Eric, and I headed out to take photos of just the two of them together and we had so much fun. I loved the carved, art-nouveau style doors and all the gardens and pathways around the property. We crossed a bridge over a small stream and were right next to a beautiful forest (Alison loves being surrounded by trees, so this was the perfect spot for some more portraits). New Park has 18 acres of property and we could have easily explored for another hour or two.
This photo, taken right outside New Park's "Park Suite" was one of my favorites of Allison and Eric's wedding day. With such a unique venue, I knew how important it was that I show it off in the photographs because the stunning architecture was why they chose to get married at New Park in the first place!
Another thing I thought was really special about New Park was how the reception space was split up. They have a tent set up for formal dinners, and then after dinner is over, guests move back inside to the dance floor and bar. I would imagine that during warm nights in the summer with good weather, the tent might not even be needed (I absolutely love an open-air outdoor reception!).
This wedding was absolutely beautiful, and the venue left me wanting to come back again and again. If you’re looking for an artsy, non-traditional venue in the Finger Lakes (and a short drive for your Ithaca-based guests), you absolutely have to check out New Park Event Venue and Suites in Ithaca, NY.
Are you interested in having me photograph your New Park Event Venue and Suites wedding? Let’s chat!
A big thank you to all the vendors:
Venue: New Park Event Venue and Suites1500 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, NY 14850
Photographer: Kelsey Travis Photography
Dress: Victoria’s Bridal Shoppe
Florist: Evergreen Bride
Catering: Dean Lane Catering
Hair Stylist: Kelli Buchholz
Makeup Artist: Alissa Malvaso