Yew Dell Botanical Gardens

Frequently Asked Questions

Where and what is Yew Dell Botanical Gardens?
Yew Dell is a botanical garden that offers extensive gardens, garden education and research programs, and a varied slate of community events. It is located in Crestwood, Kentucky, 20 minutes northeast of Louisville, just off Interstate 71.

What property can I use for my wedding?
Yew Dell offers both indoor and outdoor venues for events. Events held outside of normal open hours offer exclusive use of the property. For events held during Yew Dell's normal open hours, use of the grounds is not exclusive however buildings and tented areas may be reserved for use only by event guests. Some popular wedding locations include the Gheens Barn and Peyton Samuel Head Trust Pavilion, the Lath House Lawn and the Holly Allee. The venues provide varied seating capacity, ranging from 50 to 400 guests, although accommodation may be possible for larger events.

Where do most of the weddings take place?
Outdoor weddings usually take place on the Lath House Lawn, although other outdoor spaces are available. The Gheens Barn is a popular indoor space and is adjacent to the covered but open-air Peyton Samuel Head Trust Pavilion. Yew Dell's castle is available for small weddings and other events.

What do I do if it rains?
Rental tents (rented from Yew Dell's approved rental company) may be placed in several outdoor areas if rain is forecast. Tented areas can accommodate up to 400 people per tent. Alternatives for outdoor weddings in the case of inclement weather include the Gheens Barn and Peyton Samuel Head Trust Pavilion. The Gheens Barn is climate controlled and protected from the elements. The Peyton Samuel Head Trust Pavilion features a roof but has open sides.

Where can I set up tents?
Tents may be set up in several locations at Yew Dell Botanical Gardens. There is a designated tent pad located at the base of the Gheens Barn that can accommodate a wedding up to approximately 400 guests. Tents may also be placed on the Lath House Lawn. Tents are not allowed on the Castle Terrace or area between the Castle and the Office. Other tent locations may be available for smaller events.

What are the restrictions on the property?
Yew Dell is a public botanical garden and horticulture research and education center. As such, there are restrictions on the property that you may not encounter at other venues. Any activity that has the potential to negatively impact the plant collections or related facilities is strictly restricted.
No collection of plant material for any purposes
No cutting of flowers of foliage for decorations
No decorations may be attached (nailed/stapled etc.) to any trees or structures

What caterers can I use?
Yew Dell offers a list of approved caterers who are familiar with the grounds and policies. Be aware that liquor laws in Oldham County require that the caterer purchase and distribute all alcohol at events.

How much does a wedding cost at Yew Dell Botanical Gardens?
Wedding rentals at Yew Dell include use of the grounds for an eight-hour window. This includes three hours for set up, four hours for the wedding/reception and one hour for clean up. Additional hours may be purchased to extend the event. Renters must coordinate with their caterers, entertainers and other vendors to ensure that all event activities are completed during the allotted time. For a full price list, visit the Rental Details page