I’d walked through the International Peace Gardens several times before deciding to start my photography business, it’s absolutely stunning! When I was brainstorming various locations where I wanted to have sessions, the International Peace Gardens was one of the first places that came to mind. Of course, it’s a gorgeous garden area, but the biggest thing that draws me to this location is how different each of the garden areas is, representing countries from the US to Brazil to Japan to Lebanon.
Information on the International Peace Gardens
The International Peace Gardens are located by the Jordan Park in Salt Lake off of 900 W. The first garden was planted in 1947 to represent the United States followed by Denmark in 1955. Over the years the gardens have expanded to represent 26 countries with Tonga being the most recently added in 2000. While some of the architecture has been damaged over the years, residents of Utah have begun restoring the gardens and architecture throughout.
Pros About This Location
- The themed gardens provide a huge variety of backgrounds. If you’re like me and look for locations that provide a wide variety within a short distance, this is the perfect spot. Because each garden is themed around the country’s native flora, this location will fit most any personality or session type!
- It’s huge! Even when it’s busy you can find a secluded space for your session.
- Conveniently located next to the Jordan River and Jordan River Trail, you’re able to get photos with the tree-lined trails and river all within a short walk.
- Perfect for more formal or laid back sessions. I’ve done both engagements and casual couples photos here and have been able to find the perfect backdrops for both types of sessions!
Things to Consider About This Location
- Once again Google Maps hits it out of the part with the navigation…(Can you sense my sarcasm? lol) If you navigate to the International Peace Gardens specifically it often takes you to a little roundabout, sort of parking lot thing. I’ve found the easiest way to get to the main entrance is by navigating to Jordan Park and parking next to the skate park.
- This is a pretty popular photography spot, even during the week. You may have to wait for other photos to finish before you can use an area. I’ve noticed the most populare locations are the German, Greek, and Japanese gardens.
Best Photo Locations
You can view a full map of the gardens HERE!
https://internationalpeacegardens.org/GardenMap.htm
Germany Garden
Norway/Switzerland
Denmark (Archway)
Japanese Garden
Russia/South Korea
Greece
I don’t have any examples of Greece in my portfolio yet, but there is an amazing replica of a portion of the Parthenon as well as garden lined walkways located within this garden.
INSIDER TIPS
- Each garden has a designated flag pole to represent the country’s flag. These flags are typically raised after Memorial Day
- The park closes at 10pm – well after sunset!
- The gardens are well planned out to have various flowers blooming throughout May-Oct which lines up well with the ideal times to have a session here!
I hope this was helpful for you! If you’d like for me to capture any of your memories, I’d love for you to contact me HERE!
