Out and about around Philadelphia, Pa: Longwood Gardens

Last visited 8/22

https://longwoodgardens.org

So, a nice get area to get out and do a bit of walking is Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pa. It's about 30 miles (1 hour) southwest of Philly on Route 1, but a world away. This area was originally founded by Pierre du Pont in 1906, and went against his own advice of never owning property. I would suggest going in spring when the flowers are blooming (Meadow Garden), or at Christmas time when they have poinsettias and lights decorating everywhere (especially in the conservatory). We visited in summer, past the spring flowers but not quite into the changing of the leaves, so it was a little disappointing for us. The gardens have revolving attractions, and when we visited they had an artistic light show set up throughout the property, which I am sure was stunning once the sun went down. Find more information here: https://longwoodgardens.org/

One of the past Christmas decorations in the conservatory

I would suggest that you start at the main house where you will get the history of both the

du Pont legacy and the property's history.

Pierre du Pont home

The atrium enterance to the home

After you tour the house, you can make your way to several different areas and pathways. We headed to the meadow, but it was mostly dead at this time of the year. We also did the wood path where there are several tree houses that kids can play in. They also have boxes placed along the way with magnifying glasses and things that kids can use to explore their surroundings.

One of the treehouses on the property

At the hourglass lake Nathan was kissing his lucky frog

All year long they have a water display, which (surprisingly) Nathan said was "beautiful". Coming from an indifferent teenager, that means a lot. It has 1,719 jets of water that dance to music on several quarter hours throughout the day. Come early to get the best views as they are doing construction next to the conservatory, which is taking up former viewing area.

The smaller fountains

The large dancing fountains

The night time water presentation

Inside the conservatory are several different areas, each with its own flavor. The Orchid Extravaganza, Acacia Passage, and the Orangery are just a few of these locations. They are currently adding on to this area, so be prepared for noise, etc. while visiting.

Entrance to the conservatory

Main area of conservatory

The orangery area with a hybrid grapefruit tree in the middle

Inside the children's garden of the Conservatory

At the Italian style features behind the main fountain area

Water feature behind the water fountains

Italian style fountain area

Hot and tired of seeing yet another flower garden

Make sure to hit all the parts of the outside areas. It's easy to miss something with the size of the place! One that is unlikely to be missed is the bell tower, which chimes periodically throughout the day. It is one of only about 630 carillons around the world, and has 62 bells as little as 6 inches/20 pounds, and as large as 6 feet/6,908 pounds. Longwood hosts world renowned carillonneurs to play live concerts throughout the year.