Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee to rent a space to hold an event?
Seasonal rental fees apply for all private event spaces. Click here to review our rental fees.
Are wedding ceremonies allowed at the Chicago Botanic Garden?
Ceremonies may be held on the grounds only if the client is also hosting the wedding reception at the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Is a wedding coordinator required at the Garden for the event?
Yes, all ceremonies (including weddings) on site at the Chicago Botanic Garden require the client to hire a planner, or day of planner, for all event execution and direction.
Are dressing rooms available to the bridal party?
Yes, dressing rooms are available for the bride and groom and are available on a complimentary basis as part of your facility rental. Please note the rooms do not have bathrooms attached to them.
In the case of inclement weather, what happens to an outdoor wedding?
An indoor or tented space is reserved as backup. The Garden's event coordinator will stay informed with the local weather information. A decision on whether to use the backup space will be made no later than noon the day of the event.
Does the Garden require the use of specific vendors for floral, photography, and entertainment?
Any florist, band, photographer or D.J. is welcome to service your event at the Garden. Their contact information is to be provided to the Garden event coordinator at least 30 days prior to the event; they will be required to follow all rules regarding load-in and load-out at the Garden.
Is there a parking fee for event guests?
Parking fees are complimentary for guests of a private event. For directions to the Garden, click here.
Is the photography permit included in the rental fee?
When hosting a wedding reception and ceremony at the Garden, a photography permit fee is included. Any area of the Garden may be used for photographs but cannot be reserved. Garden staff will not be available to accompany the bridal party for photographs.
May I take my wedding photos at the Garden if I am not hosting my wedding/reception on site?
Photography permits are required for those not hosting a private event at the Garden. For more information, please review our photography/videography rules.
Can I rent a driver and a golf cart to take my bridal party around while taking pictures?
Golf carts can only be rented by private venue rental wedding parties having their ceremony and reception on site with confirmed contracts. Yes, the Garden offers the services of a Garden-certified driver and a four-seat golf cart (accommodating the driver and three other people) for one hour for an additional fee. Only Garden employees may drive the golf cart. Availability is limited.
Do you have recommendations for nearby hotels?
Yes! We have great relationships with local hotels (they offer special Chicago Botanic Garden rates). Click here for a list of our partner hotels.
May I bring in my own caterer?
The Chicago Botanic Garden has an exclusive executive chef and event management team on site. No outside catering is permitted. Please visit our catering page for additional information and menus.
Does the Garden provide kosher catering options?
The Garden's exclusive on-site caterer can offer kosher-style menu options. If you should need the services of a CRC- certified kosher caterer, you will need to work through the Garden's on-site caterer, Culinary Landscapes, who will work with you and the Garden's contracted CRC kosher-certified caterer.