The Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, IL is a beautiful wedding venue that offers stunning photography in every season.
Unlike many other outdoor wedding venues, this location is perfect for wedding and engagement photography with plenty of shade during the summer and beautiful florals, bridges, and paths.
This guide will help you plan your wedding with confidence, covering the best photo spots, timing, and permit details.
Best Photo Spots at the Chicago Botanic Garden
There are so many gorgeous spots at the Chicago Botanic Garden, but here are a few of my favorites for photography.
Heritage Garden: This area is often busy with visitors but it’s perfect for couple portraits surrounded by stunning florals.
English Walled Garden: My personal favorite spot for first looks and portraits because it’s shaded and intimate even on busy weekends and has soft lighting and stone pathways.
Alley of Trees: This pathway is between the English and Rose Gardens and has tall trees creating a beautiful pathway. I love using it for couple photos, especially in the late afternoon when the light filters through the leaves and creates beautiful, golden tones.
Rose Garden: Located near the entrance of the gardens, this spot is perfect for photos during golden hour, when the light glows across the roses and creates a soft, romantic atmosphere.
Japanese Garden: A space filled with Japanese trees and historic architecture for stunning compositions.
Esplanade: An open modern space perfect for wide group shots.
Arch Bridge: One of the most iconic backdrops in the entire garden: elegant, timeless, and perfect at any time of day. Whether it’s a first look, a quiet moment, or a romantic portrait, the Arch Bridge never disappoints.
Here are some hidden spots I also recommend that are not as popular: Circle Garden, Secret Garden, Bonsai Collection.
Photography Permits
At the Chicago Botanic Garden a photo permit is required for all professional photography sessions and can be obtained directly from the official site.
Permit Details:
Cost $250
Includes 2 free car parking passes
Group Size Up to 20 people
You can contact the Chicago Botanic Garden at 847-835-6801 or send an email to customersupport@chicagobotanic.org for more information.
Golden Hour Timing in Chicago
The best time for photography is right before sunset. I recommend arriving at the Chicago Botanic Gardens 2-3 hours before sunset to allow enough time to begin your session or finish preparations before sunset.
To find the best time, just search “What time is sunset on date” and then subtract 2-3 hours for your arrival.
How to stay cool in Hot Weather
One of my most memorable shoots happened here on an extremely hot summer day, it was 91°F. The temperature was so hot, but the photos still turned out beautiful because the garden provides many shaded spots.
On your wedding day, remember to bring water, take short breaks, and rest between photo sessions to feel and look your best.
Location:
1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL
Planning Your Chicago Botanic Garden Wedding?
I’m a Chicago wedding and engagement photographer who specializes in documenting cinematic and authentic weddings including The Chicago Botanic Garden.
If you're planning your wedding, please contact me as soon as you can so I can help you plan your awesome day!
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FAQ
Do I need a permit for wedding or engagement photography at the Chicago Botanic Garden?
Yes. The Chicago Botanic Garden requires a photography permit for all professional sessions, including weddings and engagements. The permit costs $250 and includes two parking passes for your group. The maximum group size is 20 people, and if you bring additional cars, there’s an extra parking fee. You can buy your permit online through the official site before your session — it’ll save you time and stress on the day of your shoot.
When is the best time of day for wedding photos?
The best time for photography here is during golden hour — about two to three hours before sunset. That’s when the light is soft, warm, and flattering. However, the garden offers plenty of shaded areas, so you can take great photos even in the middle of the day.
Can I take engagement photos at the Chicago Botanic Garden?
Absolutely. Engagement sessions are just as stunning here as wedding portraits. The English Walled Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Arch Bridge are some of my favorite spots for romantic pre-wedding photos.
What happens if it rains on the day of our session?
Don’t worry — the Botanic Garden has indoor and covered areas like the Regenstein Center and parts of the Esplanade that work beautifully for portraits if the weather changes.
How long should we plan for photos at the garden?
I recommend planning at least one and a half to two hours for your photography session. That gives enough time to explore a few different areas like the English Walled Garden, Rose Garden, and Japanese Garden without feeling rushed.
Can we bring our wedding party or family for group photos?
Yes, group photos are welcome, but the permit allows a maximum of 20 people. For larger family or bridal party portraits, I usually go to the open space near the English Walled Garden. It has a wide area with the water behind it — perfect for beautiful group shots.
Is there a best season for wedding photos at the Chicago Botanic Garden?
Each season has its own charm. Spring brings soft blossoms and fresh greens, summer is vibrant and full of color, fall offers warm tones and golden reflections on the water, and winter has a clean, elegant mood that’s great for timeless, romantic images.
