Avon Gardens
In 1987 Karen Robbins bought her grandparent’s farm with plans of transforming it into a garden oasis. Located in Avon Indiana, the Avon Gardens cover more than 5 acres filled with wondrous plant life. For over 30 years the gardens have been a source of inspiration and enjoyment to visitors all over the country. Sadly Karen passed in 2023 after a three-year battle with Multiple Myeloma. The garden is her legacy and the new staff was handpicked by her to continue growing the garden. The staff is always eager to give a garden tour or share their knowledge to help improve your garden at home. There are hundreds of species in the landscape to admire. If you find one you love you can buy it in the flower shop to take home for your garden.
Wellfield Botanical Garden
Wellfield Botanic Garden is located in Elkhart Indiana. This garden is open year-round to celebrate plant life in all four seasons. The grounds are also filled with water features, sculptures, and structures to enjoy. The seasons of Wellfield are Winter Wonderland, Spring Splendor, Sensational Summer, and Fabulous Fall. Each season comes with its own unique plant life and activities. Wellfield is known for its beautiful lights display put on during the holidays. You can purchase tickets for the light show on their website.During Spring and Summer Wellfield hosts a collection of events including a summer concert series, exercise classes, and evenings in the garden. In 2025 they will open their brand new event and visitors center as part of their mission to ‘Grow Community’.
Potawatomi Conservatory
Most visitors to Potawatomi Park are there to visit the zoo, but the conservatory is an underrated gem you should be stopping to see. The Conservatory was built in the 1960s by Lord & Burnham, one of the 20th century’s pre-eminent designers of greenhouses, and is maintained to ensure it can be enjoyed for generations to come. Stepping inside you will feel like you’ve entered a tropical oasis. Wandering through the winding paths you will see many tropical fauna climbing to the ceiling. The neatest part of the conservatory is the Arizona Dessert Dome. This sunken area is filled with cacti, agave, and other arid plant species you won’t normally find in Indiana.
Wedding and Events
All three of these incredible gardens serve as wedding and event venues. They each offer unique landscapes and spaces to make your event stand out. They also support local photographers using the spaces for photoshoots. Check out their websites to learn more about events and photography sessions.
