Business Details
26 Years
experience
Premier Event Venue in Colorado Springs
Hillside Gardens has evolved from a 1900s dairy farm to a neighborhood nursery in 2000, eventually transforming into the enchanting event venue it is today. Since 2021, under the ownership of Colorado Springs natives Donavan and Ashlee Kennedy, we have combined decades of hospitality expertise with a passion for community to create a unique space for celebrations, gardening, and cultural experiences. Our four-acre property features scenic mountain views, meticulously curated gardens, and versatile event spaces including the Pavilion, Boneyard, and Vintage Truck Bar.The revitalized Garden Center offers regionally appropriate plants and expert advice, while Hillside Coffee and Maggie's Gift + Wine Shop provide year-round amenities. With over 20 years of combined industry experience, our team delivers exceptional service for weddings, concerts, and private events, complemented by specialized offerings like the Hillside Wine Club curated by Advanced Sommelier Michael 'Bucky' Buckelew.
Services
Weddings
Concerts
Garden Center
Coffee Shop
Wine Club
Private Events
Plant Nursery
Event Rentals
Gift Shop
Wine Tastings
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of combined hospitality expertise from Colorado-native owners
- Our property features multiple unique event spaces with mountain vistas
- We provide year-round amenities including a curated garden center and coffee shop
- Our wine club is curated by an Advanced Sommelier with global experience
- We combine event planning with horticultural expertise for distinctive celebrations
Services
Weddings
Hillside Gardens offers comprehensive wedding services with multiple venue options including the Pavilion, Boneyard, and Ceremony Site. Our packages include setup and tear-down for 150 guests, parking facilities, and bar service. The venue accommodates both intimate ceremonies and large celebrations with panoramic mountain views and specialized amenities like the Wedding Cottage dressing space.
Concerts
Our outdoor concert venues feature the Boneyard stage and Trailer Bar for year-round musical entertainment. The property hosts regular Wednesday Concerts and special music events with full bar service and seating options. The natural acoustics of our gardens create an exceptional environment for live performances across multiple genres.
Garden Center
The revitalized Garden Center provides seasonal plants, Colorado-native species, and drought-tolerant varieties selected for high-elevation growing. We offer expert horticultural advice, gardening essentials, and unique gifts in a welcoming environment. Our plant inventory includes annuals, perennials, and indoor greenery carefully chosen to thrive in the Colorado climate.
Coffee Shop
Hillside Coffee serves locally roasted espresso, specialty drinks, and seasonal cocktails daily during operating hours. The cozy garden-side caf offers lattes, chai, matcha, and signature espresso martinis. Our baristas create artistic foam designs while providing a relaxing atmosphere with scenic mountain vistas and lush garden surroundings.
Wine Club
Curated by Advanced Sommelier Michael 'Bucky' Buckelew, our Wine Club features monthly selections from small producers and family-owned wineries. Members receive tasting notes, regional insights, and exclusive access to themed wine tastings. The program combines educational elements with social experiences in our unique garden setting.
People
Donavan Kennedy
Owner
Colorado Springs native with 20+ years in hospitality, former Yobel Market co-founder, and WSET Level 3 Sommelier. Specializes in connecting community through events and wine education at Wednesday Concerts.
Ashlee Kennedy
Owner
Colorado native with global non-profit experience and WSET Level 2 Spirits certification. Brings cultural expertise to create welcoming atmospheres, focusing on food-wine synergy and community engagement at Hillside Gardens.
Donna Ammann
Garden Manager
Former restaurant industry professional turned horticulturist with six years of high-desert gardening expertise. Manages plant inventory and educates customers on Colorado-appropriate gardening techniques while maintaining pollinator-friendly landscapes.
Questions
How do I book a private tour for my event?
Fill out our online form for the quickest response regarding private tours and event bookings at Hillside Gardens.
What wedding packages do you offer?
We offer multiple wedding packages ranging from $3,800 to $7,000 including ceremony sites, reception spaces, and bar service.
When is the Garden Center open?
Our Garden Center operates seasonally from spring through mid-October, daily from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Can I join the Wine Club?
Yes! Our Wine Club offers monthly curated selections with tasting events led by Advanced Sommelier Michael 'Bucky' Buckelew.
Are pets allowed on the property?
For safety and comfort, we maintain a no-pets policy at Hillside Gardens.
