Longwood Gardens - Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

Introduction to Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens, located at 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348, is a breathtaking horticultural masterpiece and a renowned tourist attraction. This expansive estate offers a captivating blend of formal gardens, natural woodlands, and spectacular water features, creating an immersive experience for visitors of all ages. With a rich history spanning over 350 years, Longwood Gardens has evolved into a globally recognized showcase of horticultural artistry and design. The telephone number is 03881000, and the website for further details is longwoodgardens.org. It consistently receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, boasting an average opinion of 4.9/5 based on 28705 reviews on Google My Business.

A History of Beauty and Innovation

The story of Longwood begins in 1729 with Anthony Biddle, who envisioned a landscape garden for his family. Over the centuries, subsequent generations continued to expand and refine the estate, adding fountains, conservatories, and meticulously designed areas. Significant renovations and expansions occurred in the 20th century, particularly under the leadership of Horace and Mary Woodcock, who transformed the gardens into the spectacular destination it is today. Today, Longwood Gardens continues to evolve, introducing innovative exhibits and events while preserving its historical charm.

Key Features and Attractions

Longwood Gardens offers a vast array of experiences, catering to diverse interests. Here's a breakdown of some of the highlights:

• Formal Gardens: These meticulously crafted gardens showcase stunning displays of flowers, hedges, and sculptures, demonstrating the principles of classical garden design.
• The Conservatory: This glasshouse complex houses a collection of exotic plants from around the world, providing a tropical oasis within the Pennsylvania landscape.
• The Arboretum: A diverse collection of trees and shrubs, representing a wide range of species and habitats, offers a tranquil escape and opportunities for exploration.
• The Rose Garden: A fragrant and visually stunning display of hundreds of rose varieties, changing with the seasons.
• The Water Gardens: Impressive fountains, reflecting pools, and cascading waterfalls create a mesmerizing spectacle, particularly during the holiday light shows.
• Holiday Light Shows: Longwood is renowned for its spectacular holiday light displays, transforming the gardens into a magical wonderland during the winter months.
• The Kitchen Garden: Demonstrations and educational programs showcase sustainable gardening practices and the history of food production.

Visitor Information and Amenities

Planning a visit to Longwood Gardens is straightforward. The estate provides numerous wheelchair accessible entrances, wheelchair accessible parking lots, and wheelchair accessible restrooms, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the experience. A free parking lot is available. Tickets can be purchased in advance online, which is highly recommended, especially during peak season. The gardens cover a significant area, and visitors should allocate 4-5 hours to fully explore the grounds and appreciate the details. Photography is permitted, with the exception of professional photography, which requires prior authorization.

Other Points of Interest & Accessibility

Longwood Gardens prioritizes visitor comfort and convenience. Onsite services include restrooms, public restrooms, and a variety of dining options. The gardens also offer hiking trails for those seeking a more active experience. Good for kids, with kid-friendly hikes and engaging activities available. The extensive grounds and diverse attractions make it a fantastic destination for families.

Conclusion

Longwood Gardens stands as a testament to the beauty and artistry of horticulture. Its combination of historical significance, stunning landscapes, and diverse attractions makes it an unforgettable destination for visitors seeking a moment of tranquility and inspiration. The dedication to accessibility and visitor experience further enhances its appeal. A trip to Longwood Gardens is undoubtedly a worthwhile endeavor for anyone seeking a truly remarkable experience.

👍 Reviews of Longwood Gardens

Nandu M.

5/5

Best collection of flowers ever seen before. A great place to visit with family and children. Enjoy the beautiful gardens. Make sure it is the right season to get the complete coverage. It may take 4-5 hours if you want to take pictures and enjoy every single flowers. They do not allow professional photography.

Diana F.

5/5

I recommend going online to look up current features, classes and tickets. The new West Conservatory is absolutely a must-see marrying both functionality and aesthetics. The hinged roof and winged side access panels can be adjusted to let in a breeze as needed. It’s nice to just sit on a bench and marvel at the beautiful floral surroundings and the building configuration. The bonsai courtyard is one of my favorite spots featuring bonsai meticulously trimmed and cared for some for almost one hundred years. The orchid room highlights so many beautiful variations of a single plant, this is a favorite and busy spot among many visitors. Check into a membership too, it provides discounts on food and complimentary guest passes. Every season there is something different and exciting to see!

Alyssa C.

5/5

My husband and I love it here. We became members after our first visit because we knew we wanted to go back again. The last time we went, it did take a long time to park, and it seemed like a bunch of people in the front building. However, once you made it through check-in, it was open and never felt too crowded, and this was on a sold-out day! For anyone who likes plants or the outdoors, this is definitely a great place to visit.

John

5/5

If you’re looking for something to doing the week or even a weekend trip in Pennsylvania? Look no further than a day visit to Longwood Gardens. If I could think of just one word to describe this place. SPECTACULAR would be it. I was lucky to come visit on the last day of Winter Reservation. Looking forward towards the Spring displays. We visited all of the indoor conservatory’s. Plentiful of flowers and beautiful gardens. So many different colors and shapes, some looked almost too good to believe they were real. The smells walking throughout the gardens were memorizing. Love the new West Conservatory that houses all of the A MEDITERRANEAN-INSPIRED LANDSCAPE!! Every imaginable color palette is visible and vibrant! Love the water lilies. It’s almost like you’re encircled by water as you walk throughout the new Conservatory. Best for last, don’t miss making reservations at the Fine Dining Restaurant 1906. Make sure to book ahead because it fills up very quickly. It overlooks the fountains with large glass windows. I finally got reservations for Saturday.

Lauren D.

5/5

Super fun family activity to do! The grounds are beautiful and there is so much to explore. I hear the new restaurant is phenomenal as well. I got to see it, and it’s gorgeous but have not tried the food yet. Definitely recommend getting a resy there for a dinner date after walking the grounds. Great experience!

Lucas N.

5/5

This place is a must-see if you want a nice relaxing afternoon. The grounds have multiple conservatories that surprise you with spectacular views through each door. The place was busy, but I never felt crowded. There is so much to see at this place. I wish I could have had a few more hours to stroll around. If multiple conservatories and fountains aren't enough for you, there is a massive Italian garden to get lost in as well. The staff was really friendly and easy to talk to; they even remembered my name as I left, lol. I could go on and on about this place, just go and experience this gem for your self.

Little H.

5/5

Well manicured outdoor gardens full of history. Also beautifully lit up for the holidays. Check times if u wanna see the antique organ playing usually at 11a and 130p. Eat before u go...although not crazy overpriced for food, out two brats, chips and 2 beer cost almost $50.

Chanel B.

5/5

This has easily become one of my favorite places to visit. I visited as a kid on a field trip so long ago that I can’t even remember it but going back as an adult when I could appreciate it was amazing. We went on a perfect sunny day and enjoyed about 3-4 hours there. The gardens are expansive and beautiful, it’s hard to take everything in during just one visit.