Cantigny Park, Wheaton Engagement Sessions
Stunning sunset from the Upper Display Garden
I LOVE working with couples at Cantigny. There is a wonderful variety of settings all within easy walking distance. There is the iconic mansion, whimsical chairs, tall grass fields, and the best flower gardens in the area. The grounds are a top destination for engagement & bridal photos, and there are also several location options for ceremony and reception to have your wedding.
The flowers on display are constantly changing throughout the season, and sometimes overnight!
Cantigny Park in Wheaton, Illinois, is the former estate of Colonel Robert R. McCormick. The 500 acre park is named after the small French village where he commanded an artillery battalion in the Battle of Cantigny, America's first victory in World War I. While many people call the park can-TIG-nee, the proper pronunciation is Can-TEE-nee. The word is French and the ‘g’ is silent. McCormick was also a lawyer, Chicago alderman, and the editor & publisher of the Chicago Tribune.
The 35 room mansion was built in 1897 and a renovation was just completed in 2023. There are lots of special events at the park, so it’s always a good idea to check the calendar before planning a visit or photo session. Weekday admission has just gone up to a whopping $6 per car, and expect to pay $16 on weekends.
Cantigny offers six unique gardens to explore. The Display Gardens, Idea Garden, Rose Garden, Hosta Garden, Logarium, and there’s even a Rock Garden. Outside the gardens are both large open lawns and fields of wild prairie grass. The paths are usually quiet and a great place to pause and connect.
There are two large reflection pools near the mansion, one near the back (left in this photo), and this one at the bottom of the tiered stairs. I LOVE to use the reflection pools for photos when possible. This panorama was stitched together using multiple frames to create the unique perspective.
Even the transitions between one area and the next are beautiful. The varied landscape creates amazing pockets of light all over the park.
Ok so this one doesn’t show the park but I HAD to include it here. This ring!
Cantigny is perfect location for engagement photos and proposals.
New for 2024 there is now a stage and seating area for live music, as well as a beer & appetizer stand.
Things to Know:
Check Website for Special Events https://cantigny.org/
$6 Weekday and $16 Weekend Parking Fee
$55 Photography Permit Fee (best to purchase this day of at the gate, there are no refunds)
Food and Drinks are available
Cashless as of Feb 2025
Closed Tuesdays
