2024: Philadelphia Voted Bartram’s Garden Best Public Garden!
Bartram’s Garden
(215) 729-5281
bartramsgarden.org
This sprawling 50-acre public garden is the oldest botanical garden in America featuring the oldest ginkgo tree in the country. The southwest Philadelphia National Historic Landmark location provides a variety of environments from rolling hills to a dockside entertainment space on the banks of the Schuylkill River. A 300-capacity ballroom provides a perfect venue for events ranging from company parties to a unique Philly wedding experience. Between flower gardens and a riverside meadow, guests can enjoy a beautiful view of the city skyline while their senses are being bombarded by distinctly non-city surroundings.
2023: Philadelphia Voted Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania Best Public Garden!
Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania
100 E Northwestern Avenue
(215) 247-5777 – morrisarboretum.org
There’s no bad time to visit the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania. The Arboretum has something for everyone from families to school groups to explore. Seasonal changes allow for the Arboretum to showcase what’s growing and various events like their ArBOOretum in the fall. Public tours are a great way to learn more about the flowers and plants that make the Arboretum home. It’s a perfect backdrop for special events like weddings or any social gathering.
2022: Philadelphia Voted Shofuso Japanese House and Garden Best Public Garden!
Shofuso Japanese House and Garden
Lansdowne Drive and Horticultural Drive
(215) 878-5097 – japanphilly.org
Shofuso Japanese House and Garden is a traditional 17th century style Japanese house and garden in West Fairmount Park that receives more than 30,000 visitors per year. The park is maintained and operated by the nonprofit agency, the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia. The park features 1.2 acres of lush garden, a koi pond and tiered waterfall, island, tea garden and traditional tea house. A new addition to the park is the pebble beach along the pond, based on 1957 drawings for the property. Members of the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center can visit as often as they please at no charge.
2021: Philadelphia Voted Morris Arboretum Of The University Of Pennsylvania Best Public Garden!
Morris Arboretum Of The University Of Pennsylvania
100 E Northwestern Ave
(215) 247-5777 – morrisarboretum.org
Bucolic and lush aren’t necessarily descriptions used for an inner-city garden area. But this is Philadelphia, a place filled with the history of estates and gardens of the rich such as Compton, the summer home of John and Lydia Morris. Impeccably landscaped, the Morris Arboretum is the very definition of manicured lawns, statues and topiary!
