Every time I’m back at the Denver Botanic Gardens, I notice something new! I’ve been able to photograph at the gardens four times and every time I notice new photo opportunities. Dozens of paths lead through different sections of the gardens, greenhouses, conservatories, and water features throughout. You could easily spend hours walking around and still not see everything. If you’re looking at wedding venues in Denver, this is one that’s worth seeing in person.

Ceremony & Reception Locations at Denver Botanic Gardens

One of the really nice things about a Denver Botanic Gardens wedding is how many different spots you can choose from, but the one we saw a lot of couples gravitate toward is the Woodland Mosaic Solarium.

The Solarium itself is part indoor, part outdoor — it’s a glass space tucked into a garden that feels private and easy to work with for smaller weddings. It fits around 40–50 people for a ceremony and you can even do a seated dinner or reception right there if that’s the vibe you want.

Here’s how most couples use it:

• Ceremony inside the solarium with guests seated close — it makes the whole thing feel intentional and connected.
• Cocktail hour around the patio right outside while vendors flip the space.
• Dinner inside if you want a small, cozy reception without a separate tent.

It’s a more private corner of the Gardens, which means you’re less likely to have random guests wandering through during your ceremony, something that matters a lot to people planning smaller weddings.

Because it’s inside a glass structure with garden all around, the lighting can shift throughout the day — bright and airy earlier on, softer later. That’s something to think about when you’re picking your ceremony time.

Another practical thing: you’ll still be able to walk around the rest of the Denver Botanic Gardens for photos after your ceremony, which almost every couple I photograph loves doing. 

Tips for Planning a Wedding at Denver Botanic Gardens

A few things I always tell couples planning a Denver Botanic Gardens wedding:

• Build in extra time for photos so you’re not rushed
• Expect some foot traffic — especially on weekends
• Allow guests and yourself an extra 10-15 minutes for parking. The lot is across the street from the grounds. The lot is big, but I have seen it get filled up
• Choose vendors familiar with the venue rules
• A lot of the ceremony sites at the Denver Botanic Gardens are exposed to the elements and don’t have a true weather backup plan. If rain or cold temperatures are a concern, choosing a fully indoor space or one of the indoor/outdoor options will give you more peace of mind.
• Summer weddings at the Denver Botanic Gardens can get warm, especially in areas with a lot of concrete and direct sun. Open ceremony sites like the Romantic Garden can feel hot for guests during peak summer.
• Simple things like providing handheld fans or parasols can make a big difference. 
• Restroom access is something couples don’t always think about early on. The main restrooms are located in Marnie’s Pavilion and the Visitor’s Center.
• Overall, the Denver Botanic Gardens is very accessible. Most areas are connected by wide concrete paths, and ramps are available where elevation changes. 

What You Should Know Before Planning a Denver Botanic Gardens Wedding

The Gardens do offer a getting-ready space on site, but it’s fairly basic, no windows and very minimal. If getting ready photos matter to you, I usually recommend finding a nearby Airbnb or hotel with natural light and a space you actually enjoy being in. Most of couples opt in for getting ready off property.

It’s also good to know that multiple weddings can take place on the same day. With several ceremony sites available, you won’t be the only couple there.

The Gardens remain open to the public until 7 p.m., which means there will be visitors walking around during part of your wedding day. If privacy is important, the Woodland Mosaic Solarium is one of the best options, my favorite actually. It’s more secluded, and the nearby walkway is blocked off during ceremonies.

There are sound restrictions for all events, with stricter rules for outdoor locations. If live music or dancing is important to you, it’s worth reviewing those guidelines early.

For couples hoping for peak greenery and blooms, Spring through mid-fall is the prime season. If your wedding falls out of this range, the chances of snow will be high.

One of the biggest perks of a Denver Botanic Gardens wedding is photo access. You’re allowed to use the entire grounds, which makes portraits feel super unique and fun, especially when everything is in bloom.

If you want to find out more about reserving a space at the Denver Botanic Gardens for your wedding, fill out this form!