Live in Philly and want to get away from the hustle with some amazing green garden getaways? Who knew there were so many gardens nearby to explore. Here is our top 10 list of some amazing gardens in the Philadelphia area.
“Chanticleer Gardens, PA” by bernc29 is licensed with CC BY-ND 2.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.0/
- Chanticleer Gardens
Just 30 minutes away from Philly, Chanticleer Gardens is a 48-acre garden estate in Wayne, Pennsylvania. From the moment you walk in, you will feel instantly transported as if you were in an estate in Paris, France. Immaculate gardens, walkways, fountains, ponds, and greenery, make this a must visit destination.
- Bartram’s Garden
A historic arboretum and garden in Philly, very close to Center City; Bartram’s Garden was founded by botanist John Bartram in 1728. This botanical garden is the oldest surviving garden in America. The grounds are free and open to the public (though restrictions can apply during COVID). Enjoy the welcome center, historic houses, gardens, boardwalk, and more.
“Fountains at the Italian Water Garden — Longwood Gardens Kennett Square (PA) June 2012” by Ron Cogswell is licensed with CC BY 2.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/
- Longwood Gardens
Longwood Gardens found in Kennett Square, PA is a 1,077-acre property consisting of woodlands, meadows and exquisite gardens. This breathtaking, popular destination features an array of beautiful colors and flowers all year round. Every season features an array of color pallets along with seasonal events and displays. They have a famous open air theatre fountain light show that is one of the best in the entire east coast.
“winterthur gardens” by pixelnaiad is licensed with CC BY 2.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/
- Winterthur Garden in Delaware
Part of the Winterthur Museum in Delaware, the Winterthur Garden is set over 1,000 acres and encompass streams, forests, meadows and hills. Henry Francis du Point built a 60 acre gardens in his lifetime, selecting plants from around the world to develop this spectacular natural setting.
- Jenkins Gardens
Situated in Devon, PA, Jenkins Gardens offers plenty for all age groups from beautiful blooms to architectural beauty to workshops and yoga sessions, there is a lot to enjoy during your visit here.
- Shofuso Japanese Gardens
Shofuso Japanese Gardens is a traditional 17-century Japanese-style garden found in West Fairmount Park in Philly. It was originally built in Japan in 1953 and shipped to New York before finding its home in Philadelphia in 1958. Parking is usually easy to find directly outside the gardens.
- Rose Garden in Washington Square
Washington Square is a 6.4-acre park in Philly’s Center City, which is now part of the Independence National Historical Park. It contains a beautiful Rose Garden and Magnolia Garden.
- Glen Foerd Garden
A historic estate and mansion located in the Torresdale neighborhood of Northeast Philadelphia, Glen Foerd Garden overlooks the Delaware River and provides 18 acres of flowering shrubs and rare trees including a formal vineyard, rose garden and riverfront oaks over 300 years old. There is a public park that is free for visitors.
- Andalusia Gardens
Andalusia Historic House is a beautiful historic estate and mansion on the Delaware River, not far from Glen Foerd Garden in Northeast Philadelphia. Boasting an array of plant varieties set over picturesque landscape, experience a sense of calm as you wander through this lush green space.
- 18th Century Gardens in Old City
A small but beautiful garden located in Center City in the Independence National Historical Park, 18th Century Gardens in Philly’s perfect spot to take in the beauty of nature with plants that date back to the 1700s. There is no ticketing required to enter the gardens. The 18th Century Garden connects to the rest of Independence National Park which is convenient to visit after you are done walking through the 18th Century Garden.
Despite the bustle that is reflective of a big city, Philly boasts some beautiful gardens that are just a short distance away from your doorstep.
*It’s a good idea to check the website and call ahead to inquire about pricing and if reservations are required before leaving.
