Did you know that there are more than 30 public gardens in a 30 mile radius to Philadelphia? Morris Arboretum and Gardens is one that you must add to your list to visit. Located at 100 E. Northwestern Avenue in Philadelphia it is the home of 92 acres of beauty.
What to know before you go?
Tickets can be purchased online prior to attending. If you should need to purchase tickets in person you will do so by seeing staff at the entrance on the grounds. There is a lot to see and do. I spent a little over 2 hours. Comfort is king so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. There will be plenty of time to get your steps in. Parking is free and a few short feet from the Visitor Center. They are constantly changing the themes and currently for the summer is the Summer of the Dinosaurs.
They are also open daily except some key holidays.
Morris and Kids
They definitely have kids in mind. Exploring the grounds has never been easier. From the Treetop Canopy that has netting that allows you to see from up top. You can walk in it and maneuver to help guide you. It’s for all ages but kids especially will love it too. Whimsical Woods is a great place for kids to explore as well. There’s a 40 inch tunnel to explore, fairy garden, and every Tuesday until August 29th there are bubbles with themes. Yesterday was disco bubbles where kids and adults could dance while experiencing bubbles.
On August 29, during the Blooming Bubbles party come and make your own bubble wand.
Rose Garden
This was one of my favorite spots. The Rose Garden is magical. I really took my time to explore the entire grounds. There was so much to see from fountains, roses, rare flowers, and more. When they say don’t forget to stop and smell the roses that’s exactly what I did. Each moment made me feel as if I wasn’t even in Philly. This Rose Garden is massive and the care for each flower is easily seen.
English Park
This is a beautiful garden of flowers and one of the most beautiful water fountains. There are several water fountains on Morris Arboretum ground but none as quite as spectacular as this.
Garden Railway Dinos: Dinosaur Trains
Take your time exploring the trains and dinosaurs. There is a lot of detail that takes places. These active trains are majestic. I love how the dinosaurs come to life. Even while exploring a few of them almost felt as if they had ran into me. Not only do you get to learn about dinosaurs but you can see replicas of them that are without a doubt a highlight. From the lights, movement, and more you will be whisked away from current time to the time of the dinosaurs.
Self-Care at Morris
I have said this at almost every arboretum and garden but you can create self care moments here. From the weather to the quiet moments you can transfer your time to take in the scenes. Here’s my self-care suggestions:
- Bring a book and read
- Headphones for light music
- Picnic in the open areas for picnics
- Journaling
- Even do some art
- Sit on many of the benches and take in the scenes
- Meditate
- Enjoying your walk
- Stretch
If you’re like me you know just enjoying the elements forces you to slow down. We don’t do enough of that.
Surprises at Morris Arboretum and Gardens
If the scenery wasn’t enough I found that they also have a lot of activities. These activities range from things surrounding food, to writing prompt classes, guided tours, story time and more. So even if you’re not a gardener like me you can still learn and have fun while on the premises. I personally look forward to my next visit and plan to make it seasonal to check out new plants and flowers that they will surely have.
I was invited for an influencer meet up. There were some great individuals that came together as well. I was the only one who hadn’t been before. However I took my time with Brooke of The Vintage Gardener. She literally knows her stuff. I for sure would have missed many of the areas had she not taken me around. Make sure you follow her on YouTube.
Thanks to the Morris Arboretum and Gardens for having me. Your gift of hospitality was amazing and well received. Fyi go see all that they have to offer. This is just a glimpse!
