Longwood Gardens

The basics

This idyllic Brandywine Valley institution is one of the best places in Pennsylvania for a breath of fresh air. Admission tickets, which can be booked in advance, are timed to ensure that the garden doesn’t get too crowded. Take a guided Longwood Gardens tour for insight into the flora, or hire a private driver to check out attractions such as Brandywine Museum and the home of Andrew Wyeth as well.

Things to know before you go

• Tickets often sell out, especially during spring and summer weekends, so book in advance to avoid disappointment.

• Allow 3-4 hours to fully explore all areas of the garden.

• The gardens are wheelchair-accessible, and the garden map includes a suggested wheelchair route.

• Don’t forget to bring sun protection, water, and insect repellent, and check for ticks before leaving the garden.

How to get there

Longwood Gardens is on US Route 1 just northeast of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, and 30 miles (48 kilometers) from Philadelphia. The garden offers free parking in an on-site lot, as well as an overflow off-site lot during peak visitation times. There are two charging stations for electric vehicles.

When to get there

Mother Nature puts on a show at Longwood Gardens throughout the year; the garden website keeps visitors updated with what’s in bloom. The gardens are open daily, but hours vary by season.

Events at Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens is well known for its excellent lineup of events, including seasonal highlights such as Spring Blooms, Fall Colors, and Orchid Extravaganza. Perhaps the most popular event is the annual Longwood Christmas; during the holiday season, the greenhouses and grounds are decked out in more than half a million twinkling lights, making the gardens even more magical.

What is the best time to visit Longwood Gardens?

Longwood Gardens has something to offer at every time of the year, but spring (March–May) is a great season to visit as ranks of brilliant tulips blaze into bloom and wisteria and cherry blossoms flower. From late April, the garden fountains begin to play and the open-air theater comes to life.

How long does it take to walk around Longwood Gardens?

Longwood Gardens has almost 200 acres (80 hectares) open to the public, with literally miles of trails, from woodland strolls and meadow paths through to manicured promenades. The 2-mile (3-kilometer) walk around the perimeter takes most travelers 40 minutes excluding photo stops; allow 3–4 hours to fully explore the gardens.

Is parking free at Longwood Gardens?

Yes. Longwood Gardens has multiple parking lots, including overflow parking for busy days, and all of it is free. On very busy days, parking is at remote lots, with free transportation to the gardens. Longwood Gardens also has three free electric car charging stations plus accessible parking for travelers with disabilities.

What should I wear to Longwood Gardens?

What to wear for Longwood Gardens depends on the season and what you plan to do: A summer Instagram stroll requires a very different look than a Christmas hike. During the summer, bring water, bug spray, a hat, and sunscreen; and whatever the time of year, wear shoes that are comfortable to walk in.

Should I purchase tickets in advance of my visit to Longwood Gardens?

Yes. If you’re going for a show in the open-air theater or during the Christmas season, buying Longwood Gardens tickets in advance is a must as they often sell out. Purchasing in advance is wise during summer weekends and on public holidays, and it can save time all year round.

Does Longwood Gardens allow backpacks?

Technically yes, although there is no luggage check at Longwood Gardens, so bringing large backpacks or other luggage is not recommended. Plenty of visitors use small daypacks to hold water, sunscreen, and bug spray, although food and beverages are generally only allowed in the picnic area, which is outside the main gardens.

Ways to explore

Situated in “America’s Garden Capital,” Longwood Gardens is a standout among the dozens of gardens surrounding Philadelphia, and it’s often visited on a half-day trip to the Brandywine Valley. Reserve your timed-entry admission in advance, then explore its plants and trails on your own or as part of a guided tour.

If you plan to visit multiple attractions in Philadelphia, save money by booking sightseeing passes, which often include Longwood Gardens. To make the most of your trip to the Brandywine Valley, combine the gardens with the nearby Brandywine Museum of Art or Nemours Estate.

Accessibility

Most parts of Longwood Gardens are wheelchair accessible; download or ask for the map to find accessible pathways. Guests with limited mobility can bring their own wheelchair or scooter or rent one from the visitor center on a first-come, first-served basis.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, sunscreen, bottled water, bug spray

What to wear

Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire for the gardens’ extensive walking trails and open-air attractions.

Not allowed

Outside food and beverages (besides water), smoking, non-service animals

Amenities

Restrooms, dining options, gift shop, Wi-Fi

Address 

Longwood Gardens is just northeast of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, and 40 miles (64 kilometers) east of Philadelphia. Most visitors drive there or join a guided tour with round-trip transportation from Philadelphia, but you can also take the bus.

Driving

From Philadelphia, take I-95 and I-476 to US Route 1, then exit at Longwood. The gardens are just off the freeway, and you’ll find free parking and charging stations for electric vehicles.

Public transportation

On weekends only, you can take OurBus from Philadelphia’s Spring Garden station to Longwood Gardens; the journey takes about an hour each way. For NYC-based travelers, OurBus also picks up visitors in Hudson Yards.

Best times to visit

The gardens are typically busiest at midday, so go before 12pm for the best light and fewer visitors along the trails.

Best days to visit

Visit between Monday and Thursday if your schedule allows—the attraction is most crowded on weekends.

Best months to visit

Mother Nature puts on a show at Longwood Gardens year-round, but some attractions, such as fountain shows, close in the winter. Go from April–October for more action and better weather.

Special events

Highlights of Longwood Gardens’ frequent festivals include A Longwood Christmas, which features light displays and holiday music shows, and summer’s outdoor concerts and fountain performances.