Women’s Open-air Pavilions

Hidden within Central Park’s tranquil Ramble, the Women’s Open-air Pavilions whispers tales of bygone eras. The elegant cast-iron structure, reminiscent of a Victorian gingerbread house, stands gracefully at the edge of the Lake, offering respite and breathtaking views. The Women’s Open-air Pavilions, also known as the Ladies Pavilion, wasn’t always nestled in this serene spot. Originally designed in 1871 by architect Jacob Wrey Mould as a shelter for horsecar passengers near Columbus Circle, it journeyed across the park. In 1913, it found its permanent home at Hernshead, a rocky outcrop overlooking the water, making way for the Maine Monument. The pavilion’s delicate ironwork, however, has faced its share of challenges. Vandals nearly destroyed it in the 1970s. Thanks to a collaborative effort, a restoration project brought it back to its former glory. This marked one of the first public-private partnerships in Central Park. Before the Women’s Open-air Pavilions graced this spot, a different structure stood here. The Ladies Cottage served as a changing area for female ice skaters enjoying the nearby Ladies’ Skating Pond. The cottage vanished over time, its fate a mystery. Today, the Women’s Open-air Pavilions welcomes visitors of all genders. It has become a beloved location for weddings, its romantic setting providing a picture-perfect backdrop for countless ceremonies.