Frequently Asked Questions

From April through October, our flowers bloom across different time periods. Early spring brings delicate tulips and daffodils. Mid-spring showcases peonies and irises, while summer reveals sunflowers and hydrangeas, and late summer to early autumn features chrysanthemums and asters.

Ladew Gardens is a largely outdoor experience, and most of our events are rain or shine. We will make every effort to hold outdoor events as scheduled. Cancellation of an event or performance is dependent on weather conditions, and the decision to cancel an event will be made as close to the date and time as possible.  If a Ladew event is rescheduled due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, we will alert you via email and social media as soon as possible.

Yes; the magic and exploration of Ladew is suited for all ages. For the safety of children and the enjoyment of other guests, children under the age of 18 must be supervised at all times.

You can explore our downloadable map before you arrive, or receive a hard copy at the Admissions gatehouse.

Yes, the Ladew Gift Shop offers items and decorations to brighten and beautify any home, books on gardening, accessories to grow and decorate gardens, and other gifts for any occasion.

Ladew members always receive 10% off their purchases in the Ladew Gift Shop, and all proceeds directly support our work here at Ladew.

Yes, Ladew has picnic tables near the parking lot that are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Picnicking is also permitted on the lawn or benches throughout the gardens, except for the Hunt Scene and The Great Bowl. 

Tables, chairs, glassware, fresh flowers, balloons, alcohol, and open flame/cooking are not permitted in the Gardens. Guests must clean up their trash and restore the space to how they found it.

Yes, at Ladew's cafe located on the premises as soon as you enter the property.

The Ladew Café is served up by chefs Wendy & Joe Borkoski. All menu items are made from scratch, and include a variety of offerings from sandwiches, to salads, to quiches, to irresistible baked goods. There’s something for everyone on the café menu!

No, pets are not permitted at Ladew unless they are registered ADA-compliant service animals. Comfort animals such as emotional support and therapy dogs do not qualify and are not allowed on the property or in the Gardens.

No, sports equipment of any kind is not permitted. This includes rollerblades, skateboards, nets, scooters, balls, racquets, bats, frisbees, etc. Bicycles must be locked up at the front entrance.

No, guests are not allowed to enter the pool in The Great Bowl, or enter any other water feature.

Yes, outdoor painters are welcome at Ladew with some regulations:

• Artists may not occupy a bench in the Gardens to paint; may bring a chair or stand. 

• Artists may not set up on hard surfaces, within flower beds, or block pathways. 

• Artists are required to dispose of liquids properly, not dumped in the gardens.

• Artists must have the ability to set up/tear down their equipment without assistance from Ladew staff.

Guests are welcome and encouraged to take photos of their visit for personal use. We love to see your photos, so be sure to tag us on social media at @LadewGardens on Instagram, and @Ladew Topiary Gardens on Facebook. The use of drones is strictly prohibited. Commercial and family photography requires permission and schedule coordination with Ladew; those who do not schedule in advance will be asked to leave and schedule with the front office at a later date.

Commercial photography:

• Commercial photoshoots must be scheduled in advance by contacting Barbara Barnoff at bbarnoff@ladewgardens.com and are subject to approval and fees.

• The use of props including confetti, balloons, and outside flowers is not permitted.

• Outfit changes, bathing suits, lingerie, or nude photography is not allowed.

• Commercial photography includes portfolio photography for aspiring photographers, models, students, and class projects.

Family and portrait photography:

• Family and portrait photoshoots captured by professional photographers must be scheduled and pre-paid a minimum of 48 hours in advance (refundable if the session is canceled).

• Cost: $250; includes admissions for the photographer. All others must pay regular Garden Admissions fees (members may use their memberships but not guest passes). Photoshoots must end no later ½ hour before closing.

• To plan your photoshoot, contact Erin Lyons at elyons@ladewgardens.com.

• Photography is only authorized during Ladew’s normal business hours.

• The use of props including confetti, balloons, and outside flowers is not permitted.

• Outfit changes, bathing suits, lingerie, or nude photography are not allowed.

Those participating in approved photoshoots at Ladew must be courteous to the Gardens and the other guests. We ask that guests do not touch/stand in or on the topiary or flower beds or water features, block pathways or interfere with the enjoyment of other guests. Thank you in advance for your cooperation!

Yes, smoking legal and illegal substances as well as vaping are prohibited at Ladew.

Yes! For school children tours, preschool through high school, please click here.