Morikami Gardens

Delray Beach, Florida
Photographer Art Meripol says: “This is one of the top 10 Japanese gardens outside Japan. The Asian features create really striking settings—a black bamboo forest, a pretty teahouse on a lake.”
Where to shoot: the James and Hazel Gates Woodruff Memorial Bridge, a traditional wooden span that’s a lovely red arc mirrored by the lake
Rules and fees: Beyond admission, there are no fees and no photo restrictions. They encourage advance calls with questions about professional shoots.
Art’s best tip: “Shoot on a slightly overcast day—the light wraps around things, so skin looks prettier, softer. Skin flaws don’t show as much. And flowers look better too.”
4000 Morikami Park Road; morikami.org or 561/495-0233