Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has long been a haven for garden enthusiasts with its rich horticultural history. From historic estates to modern botanical collections, the city offers green spaces that transform with each passing season.
I’ve spent countless afternoons wandering these peaceful retreats, discovering that each garden tells a unique story about Philadelphia’s relationship with nature and design. Here are 8 gardens you absolutely must visit this season in Philadelphia.
1. Longwood Gardens: A Botanical Wonderland
Just outside Philadelphia proper, these gardens span over 1,000 acres of meadows, woodlands, and elaborate fountain displays. The conservatory houses exotic plants that thrive year-round, offering a tropical escape even in winter months.
Spring brings thousands of tulips and summer showcases the spectacular illuminated fountain performances. The garden’s seasonal festivals celebrate everything from chrysanthemums to Christmas lights, making any time perfect for a visit.
2. Bartram’s Garden: America’s Oldest Botanical Collection
Founded in 1728, this historic 45-acre sanctuary along the Schuylkill River preserves America’s gardening heritage. John Bartram’s original stone house stands surrounded by plants he collected during expeditions across colonial America.
Walking the paths feels like stepping back in time. The meadow buzzes with native pollinators while the riverside trail offers peaceful views of Philadelphia’s skyline across the water. Community programs bring this living museum to life throughout the growing season.
3. Morris Arboretum: Tree Lovers’ Paradise
Tucked away in Philadelphia’s Chestnut Hill neighborhood, this 92-acre Victorian garden features one of the region’s finest collections of mature trees. The canopy walkway lets visitors experience the forest from above, offering a bird’s-eye view of the landscape.
Children adore the garden railway that runs through miniature Philadelphia landmarks. Seasonal highlights include magnolias and cherries in spring, roses in summer, and spectacular fall color from the Japanese maples and native oaks.
4. Chanticleer: A Pleasure Garden
Often called America’s most creative contemporary garden, Chanticleer transforms a former Main Line estate into artistic garden rooms. Each area has its own personality, from the meditative Asian Woods to the playful Ruin Garden built from the former estate house.
Garden staff are both horticulturists and artists, crafting handmade furniture and structures that complement the plantings. Located just outside Philadelphia, the garden changes dramatically with the seasons, offering fresh discoveries with each visit.
5. Shofuso Japanese House And Garden
This tranquil oasis in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park recreates a traditional 17th-century Japanese household and garden. The koi-filled pond reflects the carefully pruned pines and authentic house, creating a scene worthy of a meditation retreat.
Cherry blossoms transform the garden in spring, while fall brings fiery Japanese maple colors. Summer evenings sometimes feature traditional tea ceremonies and cultural events that connect Philadelphia residents with Japanese traditions through this living cultural exchange.
6. The Scott Arboretum At Swarthmore College
The entire Swarthmore College campus doubles as a public garden, showcasing plants that thrive in southeastern Pennsylvania’s climate. Unlike formal display gardens, Scott Arboretum demonstrates how beautiful plants can enhance everyday spaces.
The outdoor amphitheater nestles among towering trees while courtyards showcase seasonal container displays. Just a short drive from Philadelphia, the collection includes exceptional conifers, a fragrance garden, and extensive woodland plantings that provide inspiration for home gardeners.
7. Wyck Historic House And Garden
Home to America’s oldest rose garden still growing in its original plan, Wyck preserves varieties that have perfumed Philadelphia’s air since the 1820s. The colonial-era home sits surrounded by heritage plants maintained using traditional gardening methods.
May brings the famous Rose Festival when ancient varieties bloom in profusion. The kitchen garden supplies a neighborhood farmers market, connecting Philadelphia’s gardening past with present community needs. Heirloom varieties here tell stories of American gardening evolution.
8. Awbury Arboretum: Hidden Neighborhood Treasure
This former Quaker estate in Philadelphia’s Germantown neighborhood spreads across 55 acres of free public parkland. Agricultural gardens demonstrate urban farming techniques while the meadow restoration project supports native pollinators and birds.
Seasonal events include maple sugaring demonstrations and harvest festivals. The arboretum serves as both recreational space and outdoor classroom for Philadelphia schools, teaching ecological principles through hands-on activities. Community garden plots allow neighbors to grow their own food within this historic landscape.