Eden Gardens State Park
Just a few short miles east of Destin and you can be transported to another place and time. Eden Gardens State Park is 163 acres located along the waterfront overlooking Tucker Bayou and Choctawhatchee Bay.
Eden Gardens State Park is the perfect setting for your special wedding day.
If you’re looking for a lovely setting to have your wedding, ask about their pavilion and grounds rental packages.
While there are a number of guidelines for booking a wedding here at Eden, here are a few of the most important details for those thinking about booking a wedding.
Contact our wedding coordinator at 850-267-8320, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., for more information.
Because Eden Gardens is such a special location, they begin taking reservations 11 months in advance of your wedding date.
Every day of the week is available to book your wedding date, barring certain special event dates and holidays.
Park Hours:
The park opens daily at 8:00 am and closes at sunset. An entry fee is required.
It takes about 45 minutes to walk the garden portion of the park at a leisurely pace.
Annual event:
The Camellia Festival is held every February. In addition to seeing the flowers, the park’s friends group provides educational displays and presentations.
Fun activities to enjoy include:
Stroll Down the Trails
In order to see the perfectly preserved forestlands in all their glory, you simply must take a stroll down the nature trails. Since there are no steep elevation changes, this is an easy walk for most. Before heading out, pick up a pamphlet from the gift shop. Then, follow along as it tells you about the numbered trees and other items along the way. You will see the many gardens housing camellias and roses plus get a glimpse at the Tucker Bayou. Don’t forget to stop by the butterfly garden to see all the different species that visit this space.
Go Fishing Off the Docks
Just past the garden full of camellias are the fishing docks where you can see what’s biting in the Tucker Bayou. Each time you cast out your line, you have a chance to reel in everything from channel catfish to speckled trout. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive black drum, which can reach 60 inches long and 100 pounds. As you look around, you might find the space somewhat familiar, and for good reason. The docks were used in the filming of ‘The Truman Show’ during the ferry scene.
Tour the Wesley House
From Thursday through Monday each week, you can take a guided tour of the Wesley House to travel back 100 years. This historic site is seemingly frozen in time, filled with all the family’s furniture, heirlooms, and much more. They even decorate the home for the holidays using all the decorations the family left behind. Tours are held at the top of the hour from 10 am to 3 pm but don’t be late or the group could move on without you.
Insider Tip:
The best time to visit Eden Gardens Start Park is in spring when the camellias and azaleas are in full bloom.