Construction of the gardens began in 2000 and continued for two more years. After four years of work, the gardens officially opened to the public in July 2002. Villa Terrace is a popular site for weddings in Milwaukee. For brides in Milwaukee's changing climate, the views offer something that would otherwise only be attainable by travelling to Europe. Its Italian Villa structure, picturesque garden, unique stairways and breath-taking views of Lake Michigan provide Wisconsin brides with scenery they would otherwise not be able to use. The Villa Terrace, along with the Charles Allis Art Museum, is part of the Milwaukee County War Memorial Corporation.