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Classic and Elegant Architecture for Beautiful Photography Backdrops
One of the standout features of Coxhall Gardens is its iconic twin bell towers, which add a grand and timeless feel to portraits. The elegant amphitheater, stately columns, and classic stonework throughout the park create a perfect setting for sophisticated and polished images. If you’re looking for a spot that offers a mix of natural beauty and refined architecture, this is it.
Beautiful Landscaping and Seasonal Colors Brighten up Your Portraits
No matter the time of year, Coxhall Gardens offers breathtaking scenery. In the spring and summer, the lush gardens, vibrant flowers, and greenery make for bright and colorful backdrops. In the fall, the trees turn rich shades of red, orange, and gold, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for family portraits or cozy engagement sessions. Even in the winter, the open landscapes and architectural elements provide a stunning backdrop for dramatic and timeless photos.
The Stunning Coxhall Mansion and Reflecting Pond Add a Touch of Elegance to Photos
The Coxhall Mansion and its picturesque reflecting pond add an extra layer of elegance to any session. Whether you’re capturing a romantic couples’ session, a dreamy maternity shoot, or polished senior portraits, this area provides a serene and sophisticated backdrop. The way the light reflects off the water at golden hour creates a soft, dreamy glow, perfect for capturing warm and flattering portraits.
Wide Open Spaces and Natural Beauty Provide Even More Perfect Spots for Pictures
Coxhall Gardens is full of open fields, winding pathways, and charming wooden bridges, making it an excellent location for candid and playful photos. Families with young children will love the opportunity to run, explore, and interact naturally during their session. The expansive green spaces also create a sense of peace and serenity, ideal for maternity sessions or quiet, intimate portraits.
A Versatile Location for Any Photoshoot
One of the best things about Coxhall Gardens is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for sophisticated elegance, soft natural light, or playful open spaces, this location has it all. Some of the best types of sessions to photograph here include:
- Senior portraits – Beautiful gardens, classic architecture, and open fields make for diverse and stylish backdrops.
- Family sessions – Plenty of space for kids to run and play, along with peaceful spots for cozy family moments.
- Maternity photography – The gardens and reflective pond create a soft, elegant atmosphere for expectant mothers.
- Engagement and couples’ sessions – Romantic bridges, walkways, and golden light make for dreamy, intimate portraits.
- Professional headshots and branding photography – The mix of structured architecture and open natural elements is perfect for polished yet approachable images.
Why Coxhall Gardens is a Photographer’s Dream
Located right in Carmel, Indiana, Coxhall Gardens stands as a testament to the enduring beauty and tranquility of nature. Spanning 125 acres, this remarkable park seamlessly blends elegant architecture, diverse gardens, and a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a cherished destination for locals and visitors alike.
The story of Coxhall Gardens begins long before its establishment as a public park. In 1838, John Williams, one of Hamilton County’s earliest settlers, was born. He eventually acquired the land that would become Coxhall Gardens and built a Victorian home there in 1865, using bricks made on-site. Over a century later, in 1961, the property was purchased by Jesse and Beulah Cox. Jesse, a successful entrepreneur with a deep appreciation for history and farming, envisioned preserving this natural oasis amidst the growing suburban landscape. True to their vision, the Coxes generously donated the land to the Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Department in 1999, ensuring its preservation for generations to come. Around Carmel
The park’s design is a masterpiece of landscape architecture, skillfully blending elements from the Italian Renaissance, English picturesque, and European garden design. This harmonious fusion creates a unique and captivating environment that seamlessly integrates historical elements with modern amenities. [more info]
At the heart of Coxhall Gardens lies the aptly named Centerpiece. This elegant area features manicured gardens, a majestic statue of Jesse and Beulah Cox, and soothing fountains.7 The tiered lawn seating provides a perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty, while the amphitheater setting, complete with a dramatic walkway and raised gazebo, can accommodate up to 500 guests for concerts and events.
For younger visitors, the Children’s Garden is a wonderland of discovery. Designed to foster imaginative play and learning, this unique space features a variety of themed gardens, including an ABC Garden where children can learn the alphabet amidst colorful flowers, a Bird/Rain Garden that provides a habitat for birds and teaches about ecological principles, and a Quilt Garden with intricate patterns inspired by traditional quilts.9 The Children’s Garden also boasts an Outdoor Classroom, a dedicated space for educational activities and programs that can accommodate up to 50 students.
Campbell Crossing, connected to the Centerpiece and surrounded by water on two sides, offers a tranquil escape. The gentle breeze and the sound of water create a sense of serenity, making it an ideal spot for quiet reflection or a romantic picnic.
For those seeking a touch of elegance, the Cripe Pavilion is a stunning open-air tent structure with marble stained flooring, lantern chandeliers, and perimeter string lighting.12 This versatile space can accommodate up to 350 guests for a sit-down event, making it perfect for weddings, receptions, and other special gatherings.13
History buffs will be captivated by the Coxhall Mansion, a beautifully preserved historic home inspired by the Governor’s Mansion in Williamsburg, Virginia.14 The mansion offers a variety of spaces, both indoor and outdoor, suitable for a range of events.
Beyond these highlights, Coxhall Gardens boasts a network of paved trails that wind through the park, offering scenic routes for walking, running, or biking.16 A vibrant tulip garden bursts with color in the spring, while the prairie and wetlands area provides a glimpse into the diverse plant and animal life that thrives in this unique ecosystem.
Coxhall Gardens is open to the public 365 days a year, from dawn to dusk, and admission is free.18 The park hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, including concerts in the Centerpiece, Coxhall Mansion tours, Children’s Garden tours, a Kite Festival, and a Posh Picnic.19
Whether you’re seeking a place to connect with nature, enjoy a picnic with your family, or host a special event, Coxhall Gardens has something to offer everyone. With its diverse features, welcoming atmosphere, and historical significance, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Carmel area.