Visit Beautiful McCrillis Gardens
McCrillis Gardens is a naturalistic garden, offering shady woodland walks and splashes of color, especially in spring. Tucked into a residential neighborhood in Bethesda, the five-acre property was donated to the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission in 1978 by its owners, William and Virginia McCrillis, and is managed by Brookside Gardens.
The Gardens feature paths that wind through the remarkable collection of ornamental trees and shrubs, along with bulbs, groundcovers and shade-loving perennials that add year-round color and texture. A pavilion and benches provide restful vantage points. McCrillis Gardens is reminiscent of a secret garden, hidden in the heart of Bethesda!
Parking
There is no on-site parking at McCrillis House and Gardens. Parking is available across the street on Renshaw Drive daily sunrise-sunset. Please be respectful of the residential neighbors surrounding McCrillis Gardens.
Photography at McCrillis Gardens
A Photography Permit is required when taking life-event photography. Examples include photography for engagements, weddings, prom, graduation and formal family portraits. To determine if you need a photo permit, ask yourself these questions:
- Is the primary purpose of your visit to capture photos or video of your family or group?
- Are you wearing formal attire/costume/wedding attire or coordinating casual wear?
- Will a photographer (professional, hobbyist, or family/friend) be accompanying you to take the photos/video?
If the answer is “YES” to any of the these questions, you must have a paid photo permit. To purchase your permit, click here.
What does a photo permit include?
Your One-Hour Photography Session permit gets you non-exclusive access to all outdoor garden areas. A general photo permit does not includes photo sessions or use of the McCrillis House. Bathrooms are not available.
How far in advance does a photo permit need to be purchased?
Permits can be purchased online 24 hours to 45 days in advance. We recommend purchasing your permit as soon as possible because session slots can sell out fast.
What if it rains, or I need to reschedule?
We understand scheduling an outdoor photo session can be tricky. If you need to reschedule a photo session for any reason, email BrooksidePhotos@MontgomeryParks.org before the start of your session and we will help you move your session to a different date. You may email any time before your session begins, even on the day of your session. Email confirmation is needed to reschedule.
Can I bring props or furniture for my photo session?
You are welcome to bring as many costume pieces and hand-held props as you like for your photo shoot. However, free-standing materials, such as tables, chairs, clothing racks, or free-standing arches, are not permitted. In addition, any changes to garden grounds (such as signage, instillations or other furniture) is strictly prohibited.
Photography/Filmography Terms of Use
Please read carefully, as receipt of your payment constitutes understanding of and responsibility to comply with the Terms of Use listed below. For questions or requests, please email BrooksidePhotos@MontgomeryParks.org.
- Photo Sessions are reserved for one hour intervals, on the hour only. You may book multiple One-Hour Sessions. Maximum of 3-hours.
- The Photo Session must not interfere with others’ enjoyment of the gardens. Free-standing materials, such as tables, chairs, clothing racks, or free-standing arches, are not permitted.
- Do not disturb any plants, stand on rocks or displays, block paths, or climb fountain walls. Any changes to garden grounds (such as signage, instillations or other furniture) is strictly prohibited.
- For the safety of all visitors, please be mindful of tripods or flash stands that may pose a hazard.
- Photo Sessions are reserved as available and may not be permitted during scheduled events or periods of heavy public visitation.
- Certain areas of the gardens may be closed for programming, construction, or private events. These areas would not be available during your photo shoot. Areas and times are subject to change.
- Photo Sessions can be rescheduled or transferred. No refunds are available.
- No balloons, cannons of any kind (smoke, confetti, streamers, etc.), or smoke machines are permitted.
- Please contact us if you plan on bringing any props or other items beyond basic photo equipment for your photo shoot.
Non-commercial, Hobby Photography Guidelines
Are you taking photos of just the Gardens? Individual photographers are welcome to photograph the plants and gardens of McCrillis. No permits are needed, though we ask that you follow the hobby photography guidelines:
- Do not disturb any gardens, stand on rocks or displays, block paths, or climb garden or fountain walls.
- The photo session must not interfere with other visitors’ enjoyment of the gardens.