America's Garden Capital

America's Garden Capital

The Philadelphia region has more gardens in close proximity than anywhere else on the continent. There are over 30 public gardens, arboreta, and historic landscapes, all located within 30 miles (48 km) of the city.

Here are some of the top gardens to explore within Philadelphia or a short drive away from the city.

Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center

The Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center is a 17th century-style Japanese house and nationally-ranked garden in Philadelphia’s West Fairmount Park. The Center reflects the history of Japanese culture in Philadelphia, from the 1876 Centennial Exposition to present day.

Shofuso was built in Japan in 1953 using traditional techniques and materials. The building was then moved to Philadelphia, and has been continuously maintained since the 1876 Centennial Exposition. The traditional-style house features a hinoki roof, the only one of its kind outside of Japan. The building can be toured, along with the gardens, koi pond and island.

Bartram’s Garden

Bartram’s Garden, nestled along the banks of the Schuylkill River, is a historic oasis that spans 50 acres (20 hectares). Established in 1728, it is the oldest surviving botanic garden in North America. The garden showcases a rich tapestry of American flora, meticulously cultivated over centuries. This  includes the Franklinia tree, discovered by John Bartram himself. Visitors can explore the lush landscapes, tranquil river views, and Bartram’s historic home.

The Carr Garden at Bartram’s Garden

Morris Arboretum

Morris Arboretum is a 92-acre (37 hectares) garden that offers an ever-changing landscape of colorful gardens, champion trees, winding paths, and water features. The outdoor Garden Railway exhibit features a quarter-mile (.4 km) track with model trains, open during the summer and holidays.

At Treetop Canopy Walk, get a bird’s eye view of the forest from 50 feet (15 meters) above the ground. Or scamper down onto the Squirrel Scramble, a huge hammock-like net where you can hang above the ground, far below.

Seven Arches during fall at Morris Arboretum. Photo credit B. Schultz.

Longwood Gardens

From a humble Quaker farm to one of the great gardens of the world, Longwood Gardens’ has 1,100 acres (445 hectares) of gardens, meadows, and woodlands. In summer, Longwood shines as the home to the most significant fountain collection in North America. Three fountain gardens are performing daily throughout September. Thursday through Saturday evenings, colorful illuminated fountain performances set to music create an unforgettable spectacle amid the gardens’ summer beauty.

Photo courtesy of Longwood Gardens.

Chanticleer

Chanticleer is a 35-acre (14 hectares) contemporary, imaginative, and educational garden within a historic setting. Located 30 minutes west of Philadelphia, the garden is a study of textures and forms, with intermingled foliage and art. Plant varieties range from native to exotic, hardy to tropical, and from shade to sun.

In May and June, Chanticleer boasts nearly 50 acres (20 hectares) of plants in bloom . Drifts of Primula japonica and Camassia appear in early May followed by ornamental alliums (Allium ‘Purple Sensation’) and perennials such as Geranium and Phlox in the Pond Garden.  Framed views are made interesting with Digitalis purpurea and the Bulb Meadow is full of sweeps of Hyacinthoides hispanica, commonly called Spanish bluebells, which have naturalized in the lawn.

Andalusia Historic House, Gardens and Arboretum

Andalusia Historic House, Gardens and Arboretum is a 50-acre (20 hectares) riverside estate located just north of Philadelphia. This National Historic Landmark delights visitors with a Greek Revival mansion, formal gardens, and native woodlands. Recognized as an architectural and horticultural gem, this ancestral home of the Biddle family features pristine, fragrant formal gardens. Highlights include the Walled Rose Garden and the Green Walk garden, renovated by noted British landscape designer Lady Arabella Lennox-Boyd. Individual and group tours are available by reservation.

Rose Garden, May 2020. Photo courtesy of Andalusia Historic House, Gardens and Arboretum.

America’s Garden Capital Passport

There is no better time to get out and explore the beauty of the Philadelphia region. To help plan a garden adventure, download the America’s Garden Capital Passport. This is the ultimate guide to Philadelphia’s regional gardens, containing essential information and can’t-miss experiences at each location.

Discover more things to do and start planning your trip to Philadelphia today.