Discover Upper Brookville
3 carefully curated photography spots with GPS coordinates, shooting tips, and local insights
Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park
Planting Fields Arboretum is a 409-acre estate of formal gardens, greenhouses, a Tudor Revival mansion and woodland paths — perfect for floral close-ups, architectural frames and sweeping landscape shots. Best at golden hour or overcast for even garden light. Weekday mornings are quiet; greenhouse and main house have seasonal hours (closed Tuesdays). On-site parking available; library passes sometimes grant free admission. Popular for weddings—expect posed groups near the Rose Arbor and Camellia
Visitor Center
Visitor Center at Planting Fields offers access to formal gardens, the Coe Hall estate, greenhouses and tree-lined allees — ideal for architectural details, seasonal blooms and wide landscape compositions. Visit spring for azaleas/peonies, fall for foliage; golden hour provides soft light on facades and reflecting ponds. Paths are mostly paved and parking is available on-site; expect modest entry fees and quieter weekdays. Accessible routes make it suitable for tripod setups and longer exposures
Hope Goddard Iselin Preserve
Compact preserve with two contrasting scenes: fragrant white-pine stands and an open meadow (former Youngs farm). Ideal for intimate nature and seasonal color studies. Small free parking (5–6 cars), no facilities; reach early on weekends. Best light: golden hour in meadow, soft overcast for forest detail. Ticks possible—dress accordingly. Combine with adjacent Planting Fields trails for longer shoots.