America's Garden Capital: The Top Gardens to Visit in the Greater Philadelphia Area
The Greater Philadelphia area is home to the nation's oldest and most beautiful botanical gardens and arboretums. In fact, this region has earned the name ‘America’s Garden Capital’ for having more gardens in close proximity than anywhere else in North America. There are over 30 public gardens and arboretums within a 30 mile radius. Visit in the Spring, Summer, and Fall to witness the ever changing colors and experience the benefits of spending time in nature.
Strolling through a garden is a tranquil activity and provides respite from your ordinary day. I’ve rounded up the top gardens to visit in the Greater Philadelphia area.
The Best Gardens to Visit
Longwood Gardens: Kennett Square, PA
The mecca. The adult Disney World of gardens. Longwood Gardens has an insane variety of flowers, with multiple indoor and outdoor gardens to explore. Plan to spend a few hours here. A 4-acre Gatsby-style conservancy, spectacular fountain displays, chic dining venues and beer gardens are also located within the 1083 acres. Longwood continues the mission set forth by Pierre S. du Pont to inspire people through excellence in garden design, horticulture, education and the performing arts.
Morris Arboretum: Chestnut Hill, PA
A 92-acre historic garden and educational center run by the University of Pennsylvania. Their collection includes over 13,000 labeled plants from over 30 countries. Some areas are more polished, like the gorgeous rose garden created in the late 1800s. And some are more natural, like the streams winding past some of Pennsylvania’s tallest trees. Don’t miss the 50 foot high canopy walk for a birds eye view .. fun for kids & adults alike. Fun fact: I got engaged here.
Chanticleer Garden: Wayne, PA
A 35-acre pleasure garden showcasing the beauty of art and horticulture. Though the garden path is only about a mile long, it’s a whimsical journey. Really though, Chanticleer has been called the most romantic, imaginative, and exciting public garden in America. One of my favorite parts is the Ruin Garden. Partial stone walls, reflecting pools, and trees have overtaken the structure that once stood there. Chanticleer is a perfect spot to set up a picnic.
Tyler Arboretum: Media, PA
Right next to Ridley Creek State Park is the expansive Tyler Arboretum. At 650 acres, this place is massive so it will never feel crowded. Keep an eye out for well-placed hammocks in the gardens and meadows that are perfect for relaxing in. 17 miles of hiking trails are also available for you to explore. The history of the arboretum is neat too. Quaker Thomas Minshall bought the land from William Penn in the late 1600s.
Shofuso Japanese House: West Fairmount Park, PA
A 17th century-style Japanese House and Garden on an acre of land in West Fairmount Park. The unique architecture of the main structure and adjoining tea house transports you to Japan. This feeling is enhanced by the ornamental plants and trees, like the 90+ year old weeping cherry that blooms in the Spring, and the picturesque pond with a world class collection of koi.
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens: Devon, PA
This 48-acre garden is a living memorial of a husband's love for his wife. It’s a sanctuary for peace and reflection. A mile of walking trails lead you through woodlands with towering trees and wildflowers. The rhododendron and azalea collection is incredible, with an array of pinks, purples, and oranges showing off in May. The serene pond has stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Stoneleigh Garden: Villanova, PA
Stoneleigh is a natural garden with beautiful pathways and vistas. A well-preserved Tudor Revival style mansion sits on the 42-acre grounds of this traditional Main Line property. The Haas family generously transformed their estate into a non-profit public garden, a peaceful place for the community to enjoy. It’s a great place to walk around and feel the history of the Main Line.
Bartram’s Garden: Philadelphia, PA
Quaker farmer and botanist John Bartram’s 18th century homestead on the Schuylkill River is known as “America’s oldest living botanical garden”. Bartram was determined to collect as many different North American plants as he could, trading seeds with fellow farmers Thomas Jefferson and George Washington. Eventually he was named Royal Botanist to King George III. Discover his collection of wildflowers, medicinal plants, and trees at this 50 acre escape amidst the urban jungle.
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library: Wilmington, DE
Winterthur was once the home of Henry Francis du Pont, a renowned antiques collector and horticulturist. This Brandywine Valley estate, museum, and library features the most significant collection of American decorative arts in the world. The formal & informal gardens are surrounded by nearly 1,000 acres of wild meadows, farmland, and waterways. An adorable highlight for children is the Enchanted Woods, a fairy tale garden with a cottage, birds nest, and tea room.
America’s Garden Capital Passport
Get involved and pick up the America’s Garden Capital passport. It features a custom map, garden must-do’s, fun facts & descriptions, an area to collect garden “travel” stamps, and blank pages for personal sketches and thoughts. I love this little passport … it must be the traveler in me :)
Tips:
Check each garden’s website to confirm their hours of operation prior to your visit. Some of the gardens are open year round whereas others are seasonal.
Pack a refillable water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a picnic blanket.
Leave your headphones at home. Listen to the sounds of nature.