Pennsylvania is a state known for its lush greenery and beauty, so it's no wonder that Philadelphia, a city surrounded by beautiful gardens, arboretums, and historic landscapes, is considered America's Garden Capital. With more than 30 gardens within a 30-mile radius of the city, it's truly a green paradise.
Some of these gardens are open year-round, but others open their doors during the spring. You'll find everything from botanical gardens and arboretums to historic gardens with mansions and dreamy designs, as well as a variety of colors and fragrances that will captivate you. Regardless of the type of garden, they all have in common a beauty and tranquility that you'll hardly find anywhere else. They invite you to reconnect with nature and find peace in its essence.
With Passport included
What could be more fun than getting a Passport and going on a tour of the gardens of your choice? The America's Garden Capital includes a passport that you can get for free at any of the gardens you visit. If you can't find it because they don't have it or it's sold out, you can download the PDF version from the website https://americasgardencapital.org/passport/
This passport provides essential information on the more than 30 gardens, organized by geographic region. It includes a brief description of the gardens, the type of garden, the activities available, and whether they are free or paid.
Don't forget to bring it with you every time you visit one of the gardens to get a stamp certifying your visit. If they can't stamp it, they offer other options. It's really fun!
Here is a list of participating gardens:
- Ambler Arboretum of Temple University
- Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum
- Appleford Estate
- The Arboretum of West Laurel Hill & Laurel Hill Cemeteries
- Awbury Arboretum
- Barnes Arboretum at St. Joseph's University
- The Barton Arboretum & Nature Preserve of Medford Leas
- Bartram's Garden
- Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve
- Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art
- Camden Children's Garden
- Chanticleer
- Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion & Gardens
- The Gardens at Mill Fleurs
- Grounds for Sculpture
- Hagley Museum & Library
- Haverford College Arboretum
- Henry Botanic Garden
- Henry Schmieder Arboretum
- The Highlands Mansion & Garden
- Hortulus Farm Garden
- James G. Kaskey Memorial Park
- Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens
- Longwood Gardens
- Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania
- Mt. Cuba Center
- Nemours Estate
- PHS Meadowbrook Farm
- The Philadelphia Zoo
- Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College
- Shofuso
- Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden
- Tyler Arboretum
- Tyler Formal Gardens at Bucks County
- Welkinweir
- Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
- The Woodlands
- Wyck Historic House, Garden, Farm
You can find more detailed information on the page of America's Garden Capital.
Recommendations:
- Be sure to confirm the opening hours and days of the garden you plan to visit, as not all gardens are open every day or during all seasons.
- Some gardens are free to enter, while others require an entrance fee.
- Wear comfortable clothing, as you may be walking for a long or short period of time.
- You can bring snacks and water with you to keep your energy up.
- And most importantly, respect the garden and avoid touching the plants. You can find inspiration for planning your own home garden through them.
Whether you're a visitor or a resident, don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to explore and appreciate the diversity of gardens that make Philadelphia the Garden Capital of America. Get your Passport today and embark on an unforgettable garden adventure!
