Oshawa, Oshawa Creek Valley
Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens
In June this creek valley fills with more than three hundred varieties of peonies, and the Memory Garden walkways lead to a pergola given by the Rotary Clubs.
Ideal if
"You want peonies in June, lilacs in late May, or a quiet fall valley, and you like that most Toronto couples never think to drive this far east."
Shooting here with me
Pre-wedding sessions from $351.25 → Wedding photography from $1,401.25 →
The Essentials
What to know before the shoot.
- 01
Walking
Low-Medium
Paved walkways, gentle slopes, one creek footbridge. No public washrooms. Closes 10 p.m. Apr to Oct, 6 p.m. Nov to Mar.
- 02
Permits
City of Oshawa requires a permit for a wedding or formal photos on special occasions in its parks
Apply to the Facility Booking Office. A permit grants approval, not exclusive rights, so other permitted groups may share the area. A firefighters memorial is planned in the Memory Garden in 2026.
- 03
Parking
Lot at the Children's Arena
155 Arena St. The City publishes no space count, fee or time limit for it, so check posted signs. On Peony Festival weekend that lot is Accessible Parking Permit only, nearby streets go local traffic only, and free off site lots run a shuttle.
- 04
Travel
55 to 75 min from downtown
- 05
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Photograph here
Want photos at Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens?
Tell me your date. I shoot here often and know the corners and the light worth chasing.
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Frequently Asked
Shooting at Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens.
Do I need a permit to photograph at Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens?
City of Oshawa requires a permit for a wedding or formal photos on special occasions in its parks. Apply to the Facility Booking Office. A permit grants approval, not exclusive rights, so other permitted groups may share the area. A firefighters memorial is planned in the Memory Garden in 2026.
Where do we park at Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens?
Lot at the Children's Arena, 155 Arena St. The City publishes no space count, fee or time limit for it, so check posted signs. On Peony Festival weekend that lot is Accessible Parking Permit only, nearby streets go local traffic only, and free off site lots run a shuttle.
How much walking is involved at Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens?
Walking is low-medium. Paved walkways, gentle slopes, one creek footbridge. No public washrooms. Closes 10 p.m. Apr to Oct, 6 p.m. Nov to Mar.
When is the best time of year for photos at Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens?
Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens is at its best in Spring, Summer, and Fall.
How far is Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens from downtown Toronto?
Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens is about 55 to 75 min from downtown Toronto.
Ready?
Let's shoot at Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens.
Let's talk about your vision and map the perfect session.