Where to Take Family Photos in Fairfield County: 4 Hidden Gems
Looking for the perfect spot in Fairfield County to capture your family portraits? From historic gardens to sprawling fields, these four parks offer beautiful backdrops that are versatile, family-friendly, and full of character. Whether you’re planning a spring session among the blooms, a golden hour summer shoot, or a cozy fall family photo, these hidden gems are some of our favorite local locations.
Fort Stamford Park in Stamford, CT
Fort Stamford is a five-acre historic site dating back to the American Revolution, when it served as a key fortification protecting the Stamford-Greenwich area. Today, remnants of the earthworks and commemorative markers remain, but the real star is the Goodbody Garden. Lovingly maintained year-round by the Stamford Garden Club, this garden feels intimate and timeless, making it an ideal backdrop for couples or families. The mix of stonework, lush greenery, and seasonal blooms is especially magical at golden hour.
It’s beautiful in every season, but spring, summer, and fall are the best times for colorful, vibrant photos. If you choose this spot, just be mindful of the delicate flowers so the gardens can continue to be enjoyed for years to come.
Pros:
Quiet and peaceful – not as crowded as larger parks, offering privacy.
Free to the public – no permit or entry fee required.
Convenient parking – small lot nearby.
Scenic year-round – lushest in spring, summer, and fall.
Historic charm – Revolutionary War history and stonework add uniqueness.
Garden maintained by Stamford Garden Club – always well-kept and vibrant.
Cons:
No bathrooms on-site – plan ahead, especially with kids.
Limited parking – small lot can fill quickly during garden events.
Not stroller/wheelchair friendly in all areas – uneven stonework and grassy sections.
Montgomery Pinetum Park in Greenwich, CT
Tucked away in Cos Cob, Montgomery Pinetum Park is a hidden retreat that blends natural beauty with thoughtful design. Home to the Greenwich Botanical Center, it offers towering pines, peaceful ponds, winding trails, and open lawns. Families love the mix of variety and convenience: benches, restrooms, and even rental facilities are available.
Whether strolling the 1.9-mile loop, exploring the gardens, or resting near the stone monoliths, the scenery creates versatile backdrops for family portraits.
Pros:
Wide variety – pines, stone monoliths, ponds, lawns, and trails.
Greenwich Botanical Center – adds seasonal gardens and unique features.
Family-friendly amenities – restrooms, benches, and event rentals.
Ample space – kids can run while photographers capture candid shots.
Accessible parking – easy to reach and unload.
Evergreen beauty – still photogenic in winter.
Cons:
Can get busy on weekends, especially during events.
Seasonal bugs – mosquitos and ticks in warmer months.
Larger park – requires some walking between locations, so comfortable shoes help.
Waveny Park in New Canaan, CT
Though more well-known, Waveny still feels like a gem depending on where you wander. With its stately mansion, sprawling fields, and elegant tree lines, the park offers endless variety. It’s vibrant in spring, lush in summer, glowing in autumn, and even magical in winter snow.
Personally, Waveny is special because it’s the closest park to my home and a place I’ve photographed hundreds of families. Yet no two sessions have ever felt the same. From the mansion and rose garden to the vast open fields and wooded trails, there’s always something new to discover.
Best season: Truly year-round, with spring blossoms, lush summer greenery, and glowing fall foliage.
Pros:
Endless variety – mansion, rose garden, fields, wooded paths, and tree lines.
Spacious & versatile – perfect for candid moments and timeless portraits.
Stunning in all seasons – blossoms, greens, and vibrant foliage.
Personal connection – I know it inside and out, making sessions seamless.
Central location – easy parking and access in New Canaan.
Never the same twice – changing light and seasons keep it fresh.
Cons:
Popular spot – joggers, dog walkers, and families crowd weekends.
Mansion area sometimes closed for weddings/events.
Large events – races and car shows occasionally bring big crowds.
Restrooms not close to every spot – may require walking.
Tick season – bring bug spray in grassy/wooded areas.
Large layout – comfortable shoes recommended.
Binney Park in Old Greenwich, CT
Located in the heart of Old Greenwich, Binney Park is both historic and family-friendly. The 33-acre park, donated by Edwin Binney (inventor of Crayola crayons!), features winding walking paths, stone bridges, and a classic gazebo perfect for photos. Families especially enjoy spotting turtles in the pond, which always delights kids.
With spacious fields, sports areas, and picnic spots, Binney feels welcoming and relaxed. It’s colorful in spring and summer, glowing in fall, and peaceful throughout the year.
Best season: Spring through fall for the most vibrant scenery.
Pros:
Picturesque stone bridges, gazebo, and walking paths.
Central Old Greenwich location – easy to reach.
Family-friendly atmosphere – picnic areas, fields, and sports courts.
Turtles in the pond – a fun touch for kids.
Seasonal variety – especially gorgeous in fall.
Historic charm tied to Edwin Binney.
Cons:
Can be busy during sports games or community events.
Limited parking during peak times.
Close to road traffic in certain areas.
Seasonal maintenance may restrict access.
Less private than other parks.
Conclusion
Fairfield County is full of stunning outdoor locations for family photos, but these four stand out for their charm, variety, and accessibility. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil gardens of Fort Stamford, the natural variety of Montgomery Pinetum, the stately elegance of Waveny, or the community feel of Binney Park, each provides unique backdrops to create timeless portraits.
When choosing your location, think about your children’s ages, how much walking you’d like to do, and the season that best fits your vision. No matter where you go, you’ll have the perfect setting to capture memories your family will treasure.
Addresses
Fort Stamford Park – 900 Westover Rd, Stamford, CT 06902
Montgomery Pinetum Park – 130 Bible St, Cos Cob, CT 06807
Waveny Park – 677 South Ave, New Canaan, CT 06840
Binney Park – Arch St & Sound Beach Ave, Greenwich, CT 06870
