I have come to love places that combine museums, nature, sculptures and more and have actively sought to find such spots and today I’m happy to add another one to the list and that’s Morris Arboretum And Gardens, a serene paradise nestled in Philadelphia’s Chestnut Hill neighborhood. It was originally as a summer home in the late 19th century for a wealthy family but today it’s a thriving public garden I highly recommend you check out.
Info:
- Name: Morris Arboretum And Gardens
- Location: Chestnut Hill Pennsylvania
- Cost to enter: $10-$20
- Things to do: Hiking, museums, bird watching, minature trains, gardens and more
- Distance from NYC: 1-2 hours
- Ideal time to go for: 1 day
- Reviews: 5 out of 5
Background:
This is basically a gigantic garden space that contains a ton of fun things to do which I’ll talk about later but it’s an excellent place to visit for families and couples and here’s why:
Imagine a place that not only nurtures a vast variety of plant species, sculptures, gardens and many hidden gems, but also serves as a hub for scientific research and a canvas for stunning art installations. It’s a space where every visit can offer new discoveries, whether it’s a rare bloom, a hidden sculpture, or a tranquil pond that wasn’t there before. If you’re a NYC resident, this place is less than 2 hours away and is great for exploring in a single day.
Best things to do:
Every turn within Morris Arboretum reveals a different natural masterpiece, thoughtfully designed to showcase a rich diversity of plant life. From the flourishing Rose Garden to the serene Japanese Overlook, the arboretum offers an array of landscapes for visitors to explore.
What’s particularly striking about Morris Arboretum is its collection of plant species. These range from towering trees that have stood for generations to delicate flowers that bloom seasonally. It’s not just a feast for the eyes, either. The sounds of wildlife, from the chirping of birds to the buzzing of bees, bring each visit to life in a symphony of nature’s best.
2 of the most popular visitor favorites to check out are the Garden Railway and the Sculpture Garden.
- The Garden Railway is a hit with families, intricate model trains winding through a miniature landscape.
- And as for the Sculpture Garden, it’s a pace where art and nature meld in an inspiring display.
I’m also going to highly recommend the following spots:
- The Canopy Boardwalk
- Japanese Overlook Garden
These 2 spots (among many others in the Morris Arboretum) are some of the most scenic and engaging with visitors.
Events worth checking out:
If you’re eager to get involved and immerse yourself in nature, Morris Arboretum offers a bounty of activities that cater to all interests. Here, I’m going to highlight some of the engaging experiences you can indulge in during your visit.
For those who love to celebrate the changing of the seasons, Morris Arboretum hosts a variety of seasonal events and festivals. From the vibrant Cherry Blossom Festival in the spring to the Autumn’s Colors event, there’s always something happening that showcases the beauty and diversity of the gardens.
There are also a range of workshops and classes that cover topics like horticulture, botany, and garden design, as well as volunteering opportunities that allow you to contribute to the preservation of this beautiful space.
Families can look forward to an array of interactive experiences specifically designed for children. These include the ‘Nature Nuggets’ program, which introduces little explorers to the wonders of the natural world, and the Garden Discovery Series, where hands-on activities make learning fun.
For the more tranquilly inclined, the arboretum is a haven for photographers, bird watchers, and anyone who simply wants to stroll and take in the serene environment. With a variety of habitats and vistas, it’s a perfect place to practice nature photography or just revel in the peaceful sounds and sights.
Remember, no matter which activity resonates with you, there’s no rush. You can always adjust your approach down the road. The arboretum is an evolving canvas, providing fresh experiences with every visit.
Best times to visit:
If you want to witness the Arboretum at its most vibrant, the springtime is an absolute visual feast. The blossoms are in full swing, and the fresh greenery is a sight to behold.
However, fall is also worth noting here as it contains every single element of amazing sights inside the Arboretum but also adds in the autumn leave colors so if you’re into that, I’d set up a plan to visit this place then too.
While Morris Arboretum is a year-round destination, there are certain times that elevate the experience. Keep an eye on the calendar for seasonal events like the Cherry Blossom Festival or the Fall Festival to enhance your visit.
In my opinion, you can always adjust your approach down the road, but to start, aim for weekdays if you prefer a more tranquil environment. Weekends are great for that vibrant community feel, but they’re also busier.
The Morris Arboretum is usually open from morning to early evening. Before you head out, check the most current opening hours and admission prices, they’re just a click away on their website. While you’re there, it’s worth looking into the various passes and memberships that offer added perks.
I’m hoping you’re feeling ready to plan your excursion to Morris Arboretum. With these tips, you’re set to have an enriching and memorable experience, surrounded by nature’s artistry. And hey, if you’ve enjoyed your adventure, share the beauty, and bring someone new along next time. That way, the wonder of Morris Arboretum keeps growing, just like its splendid gardens!
I love finding places like this to visit outside NYC and highly recommend it. If you also enjoy places like these, there’s at least 2 other spots so far that I’ve found that resemble this area and they are Duke Farms NJ and the Grounds For Sculpture, both located inside New Jersey and about 30 minutes or so from the Morris Arboretum Garden.