Spring has sprung and many beautiful blooms are already starting to arrive. Connecticut might be a small state, but it is packed with garden venues for planners and attendees to enjoy this season. Here are a few options to consider for the next spring soiree or between-meeting stroll.
Elizabeth Park Conservancy and Pond House Cafe
Elizabeth Park Conservancy in West Harford opened to the public in 1897 and boasts more than 100 acres that include formal gardens, green space, recreational facilities, walking loops, and its banquet-ready Pond House Cafe. Late April to early May is prime tulip-viewing season at the park with the Robert A. Prill Tulip Garden burgeoning more than 11,000 of the colorful bulbs annually, which are planted each year in mid-October. elizabethparkct.org
Elizabeth Park’s Pond House Cafe specializes in corporate, nonprofit, and social events—its Garden Room can accommodate 25 to 165 attendees and offers spectacular views through floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook Elizabeth Park. Pond House Cafe boasts an expansive menu that focuses on using fresh, local ingredients, and also hosts private cooking classes for groups of 12 to 24, perfect for team building. pondhousecafe.com
Goodbody Garden at Fort Stamford
Fort Stamford, a Revolutionary War-era fort in the city of Stamford, is the home of Goodbody Garden, looked after by dedicated members of The Stamford Garden Club who meet every two weeks to assist in upkeep. At Goodbody, attendees will be surrounded by sweet floral fragrances, historic pottery in the sunken garden, and butterflies and caterpillars galore. To host an event at the garden, an application must be submitted to the City of Stamford. Planners can find the form on the garden’s website. goodbodygarden.wordpress.com
Greenwich Botanical Center
Over in the Cos Cob neighborhood of Greenwich, the Greenwich Botanical Center in Montgomery Pinetum Park offers several spaces for events that overlook the park’s gorgeous natural setting. Its gallery, the largest indoor space, has room for up to 125 guests standing. The terrace—the largest outdoor space—features scenic views, a tranquil ambience, and room for up to 125. Its Greenhouse Classroom, best suited for smaller events, is full of plant life and offers space for up to 50. The center also hosts several of its own events throughout the year for people to take advantage of while in the area. greenwichbotanicalcenter.org
