Rocky Neck State Park
Just the Facts
Where: Rocky Neck State Park, Niantic, CT
When: June 22, 2013
A Short History
Completed in 1937, the Pavilion at Rocky Neck State Park was a WPA project constructed by the CCC from materials found within the park and from other state properties around the state. The pavilion was originally built and operated as a restaurant but as the park changed over time, the restaurant was closed resulting in the Pavilion sitting empty. Today, the Pavilion is only open to the public for events ranging from weddings to corporate retreats. Rocky Neck has long been beloved by beach combers, campers, picnickers and families as a picturesque location to relax.
Why a wedding at Rocky Neck?
Breathtaking, expansive views from the impressive 348′ wide structure, that’s why! We have always loved being outdoors, especially walks along the water whether it be LBI, Maine or the shores of Lake Ontario. Naturally as we searched for wedding locations we knew water had to play a part. After all, the venue is just as important as any other actor in your wedding celebration. Then when we learned we could hold our ceremony along the shores of Long Island sound and hold our reception at the Pavilion, Rocky Neck was an easy decision.
How did we find the location?
Known as the gem of the Connecticut State Park System, Rocky Neck State Park is home to a WPA era fieldstone structure called the pavilion at rocky neck. The pavilion and the nearby unique New England shoreline first caught our eye during a day trip to the eastern part of the state in April 2008. We both recall discussing that the pavilion might be a good spot for a wedding if such an event should occur in the future. Maybe it was a combination of the memory of stumbling on the location unexpectedly or the unseasonably warm weather that April day, but the pavilion was a top choice as we began to plan our wedding in early 2012.
