Great Hollow Nature Preserve & Ecological Research Center

For couples in Connecticut dreaming of a wedding that truly embraces the beauty of the outdoors, far from the conventional banquet hall, the Great Hollow Nature Preserve & Ecological Research Center in New Fairfield offers an enchanting and distinctive option. While primarily renowned for its conservation and research efforts, Great Hollow also provides a breathtaking natural backdrop for special events, including weddings, offering a unique blend of rustic charm and scenic grandeur. Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and the soothing sounds of nature, creating a truly unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

Great Hollow Nature Preserve & Ecological Research Center is a remarkable 800-acre property dedicated to land and wildlife conservation, ecological research, environmental education, and outdoor recreation. Beyond its scientific and educational mission, the preserve historically offered its stunning grounds and facilities as a venue for outdoor weddings and other events. While it's important to note that, at the time of this writing, Great Hollow has temporarily suspended new event rentals (including weddings) to prioritize its core mission, their past offerings highlight the immense potential and beauty of this location. The preserve features miles of hiking trails with beautiful waterfalls, expansive manicured lawns perfect for outdoor gatherings, a patio with a stone fire ring, and a rustic barn that can accommodate smaller receptions. These elements combine to create an idyllic setting for couples seeking a unique, nature-inspired celebration. The opportunity to marry in such a pristine natural environment, with the added benefit of supporting a vital ecological mission, makes Great Hollow an exceptionally meaningful choice for local couples in Connecticut. Their commitment to conservation shines through, making any past or future event here truly special.

Great Hollow Nature Preserve & Ecological Research Center is situated at 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT 06812, USA. This location places it in the picturesque town of New Fairfield, within Fairfield County, Connecticut. It’s nestled in a beautiful, natural setting that feels wonderfully secluded, yet remains conveniently accessible for locals across the state and beyond.

For couples and guests traveling from various parts of Connecticut, Great Hollow is typically accessed via major state routes and highways. From central and southern Connecticut, routes like I-84 or Route 7 would lead towards New Fairfield. Once in town, CT-37 is a well-maintained state road that provides direct access to the preserve's entrance. The journey offers scenic drives through the Connecticut countryside, setting a beautiful tone for any event. Despite its natural setting, the preserve offers ample parking facilities for visitors. Reviews from regular visitors confirm "plenty of parking," which is a crucial detail for hosting events with multiple guests. While public transportation options directly to the preserve are limited due to its rural nature, driving is the most practical and recommended mode of transport. The ease of access, combined with generous parking, ensures that guests can arrive comfortably and enjoy the unique ambiance of this natural venue. Its proximity to charming towns in Fairfield County also means there are nearby accommodations and services for out-of-town guests, making it a convenient choice for planning a wedding or large event.

While Great Hollow Nature Preserve & Ecological Research Center has currently suspended event rentals, their past offerings, which they aim to resume in the future, illustrate a comprehensive approach to hosting special occasions in a natural setting. These services focus on providing a unique and customizable outdoor experience:

• Scenic Grounds and Event Spaces: Access to over 800 acres of stunning nature preserve, including large expanses of manicured lawn, perfect for outdoor ceremonies, cocktail hours, and reception tents. The property also features a patio with a stone fire ring and a commercial charcoal grill.

• Rustic Barn for Gatherings: A charming, rustic barn is available, offering a unique indoor space. This barn has a tabled seating capacity of up to 40 people or standing room for up to 75, making it suitable for smaller receptions, cocktail events, or as a charming backup in case of inclement weather (available from late spring to early fall only).

• Deck with Scenic Vista: An expansive deck provides a beautiful outdoor space with a scenic hillside vista, ideal for photo opportunities or a relaxed gathering spot.

• Indoor Meeting/Lecture Space: The facilities also include a lecture/presentation space with seating for up to 40 people, and a conference room with a stone fireplace and a large meeting table for up to 14, which could be utilized for smaller, more intimate gatherings or preparation areas.

• Coordination Services (via Partner): Historically, Great Hollow worked with Village Green Events in New Milford, CT, to coordinate rentals. This partnership indicates a structured approach to event planning, suggesting that when rentals resume, professional support will be available to help organize and execute events.

• Access to Hiking Trails and Nature Features: Guests have access to the preserve's more than 4 miles of hiking trails, featuring beautiful waterfalls (upper and lower parts), offering unique photo opportunities and activities for guests who wish to explore.

• On-site Lodging (for specific use): While primarily for seasonal staff and researchers, the Merritt House, a newly renovated 18th-century farmhouse, includes living areas with bedrooms, bathrooms, a living room, dining room, and catering kitchen, suggesting potential for bridal party preparations or very intimate accommodations if future event rental policies allow.

It is crucial for interested parties to contact Great Hollow directly or their designated event coordinator for the most current information regarding their rental status and specific service offerings, as changes can occur.

Great Hollow Nature Preserve & Ecological Research Center offers a multitude of features that make it a truly exceptional and memorable venue, particularly for those who appreciate natural beauty:

• Expansive Natural Beauty: With over 800 acres of scenic nature preserve, the venue provides a stunning and diverse natural backdrop. This includes majestic forests, open fields, and diverse habitats, ensuring picturesque views for ceremonies and photography.

• Beautiful Waterfalls: A significant highlight is the presence of an upper and lower waterfall. These natural cascades create incredibly beautiful and serene settings, ideal for romantic photos or even intimate ceremonies.

• Rustic Barn Charm: The historic rustic barn offers a charming and authentic indoor space. It provides a cozy atmosphere for smaller gatherings, adding a touch of classic New England appeal to any event.

• Manicured Lawns and Outdoor Spaces: Large expanses of well-maintained lawn provide versatile outdoor areas perfect for setting up tents, outdoor dining, cocktail hours, or lawn games, allowing for a flexible event layout.

• Stone Fire Ring and Deck: The patio with a stone fire ring creates a cozy ambiance for evening gatherings, while the expansive deck offers scenic hillside vistas, perfect for enjoying the views during your event.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: For guests who enjoy outdoor activities, the preserve features over four miles of beautiful hiking trails. This unique amenity allows attendees to explore the natural surroundings, offering a wonderful added experience.

• Peaceful and Secluded Ambiance: Despite its accessibility, the preserve offers a profound sense of tranquility and seclusion, creating an intimate atmosphere ideal for a special celebration away from the hustle and bustle.

• Eco-Conscious Setting: Being an ecological research center, the venue appeals to those who value nature and sustainability, adding an ethical dimension to their event choice.

As a non-profit ecological research center that historically offered event rentals, Great Hollow Nature Preserve & Ecological Research Center's "promotions" were likely tied to their mission and unique offerings rather than traditional commercial discounts.

It is important to reiterate that, as of current public information, Great Hollow is

not currently renting its facilities or grounds for any events

However, if they resume event rentals in the future, potential "offers" could include:

• Package Deals with Partner Coordinators: Historically working with Village Green Events, future offers might involve inclusive packages that bundle venue rental with coordination services, providing a streamlined planning process.

• Off-Season or Weekday Discounts: Like many venues, Great Hollow might offer reduced rates for events held during less popular times, such as weekdays or during certain off-peak seasons (e.g., winter, depending on facility availability).

• Contribution to Conservation: While not a financial discount, choosing Great Hollow for an event implicitly supports their mission of land and wildlife conservation, applied ecological research, and environmental education. For environmentally conscious couples, this "offer" of contributing to a greater good could be a significant draw.

• Customizable Packages: Given the flexible nature of their spaces (manicured lawns, barn, deck), future offerings might allow for highly customizable wedding packages tailored to a couple's specific vision and budget.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on their event rental status and any potential future offerings, prospective couples should directly contact Great Hollow Nature Preserve & Ecological Research Center or their previously designated event coordinator.

For general inquiries about Great Hollow Nature Preserve & Ecological Research Center, including their current operational status and any updates regarding future event rentals, here is the relevant contact information:

• Address: 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT 06812, USA

• Phone: (203) 546-7789 or +1 203-546-7789 (for mobile users or international calls). This is the main phone number for the preserve.

• Website: The official website,

  greathollow.org

  , is the most comprehensive resource for information about the preserve's mission, research, educational programs, and any announcements regarding event rentals. Their "Rent Great Hollow for your Event" page specifically addresses their current rental status.

• Event Coordinator Contact (Historical): Historically, Great Hollow worked with Kylie Costello at Village Green Events in New Milford, CT, for event coordination. Her contact details were provided as kylie@villagegreeneventsct.com or (860) 717-4077. While Great Hollow is not currently renting for events, this contact may be useful for understanding their past event coordination structure, or for future inquiries should event rentals resume. It's always best to verify current processes with Great Hollow directly.

• Email: General inquiries can often be sent via email, typically found on their website (e.g., info@greathollow.org).

For couples in Connecticut, the Great Hollow Nature Preserve & Ecological Research Center, even with its current pause on new event rentals, represents an aspirational and profoundly suitable wedding venue that aligns perfectly with a desire for a unique, nature-infused celebration. Its suitability for locals is rooted in its accessible yet secluded location, stunning natural beauty, and the profound connection it offers to the state's conservation efforts.

Firstly, the preserve's location in New Fairfield is ideal for locals. It's close enough for easy travel from various parts of Connecticut, making it convenient for guests without requiring extensive long-distance journeys. This accessibility, combined with ample parking, means that planning a wedding here reduces logistical stress, allowing couples to focus on their special day. The feeling of stepping into a vast, untouched natural landscape, yet knowing you're still within easy reach of home, is a significant draw.

Secondly, the inherent beauty of Great Hollow is unparalleled. For couples dreaming of an outdoor ceremony amidst lush forests, with the sound of a beautiful waterfall as their backdrop, or a reception in a charming rustic barn, this venue delivers. The reviews from visitors consistently highlight the "beautiful hiking trails" and "very beautiful" waterfalls, underscoring the picturesque setting that would elevate any wedding celebration. Beyond the aesthetics, choosing Great Hollow means celebrating in a place dedicated to vital ecological research and conservation. For environmentally conscious Connecticut residents, this adds a layer of meaning to their wedding, transforming it into a contribution to preserving the state's natural heritage. When event rentals resume, Great Hollow Nature Preserve will undoubtedly continue to be a top choice for local couples seeking a truly enchanting, naturally beautiful, and meaningful start to their married life, right here in our own backyard.

Great Hollow Nature Preserve & Ecological Research Center

225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT 06812, USA