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Longwood Gardens
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28 reviews for Longwood Gardens
love this place! sooo relaxing and beautiful! my favorite parts are the meadow and forest walk.... mostly because they are so quiet, natural, empty and beautiful. The idea garden is really cool and the conservatory is absolutely amazing!
i have only been there 2x now (as an adult).... but plan to go at least once a year. it is well worth the 30 miles out of the city.... and what an escape from the city it is!
i think it is best to go on an "off" day like a weekday when the weather isn't "perfect". the crowds can be a bit much. my husband and i went the other day when it was calling for rain and it couldn't have been more perfect.
if you haven't gone and you appreciate the outdoors, flowers, vegetables, creativity, beauty and nature....... just, go already! :)
sidenote:: the food at the restaurant is a bit pricey..... and sadly, there are not many good options for vegetarians. they had a vegetarian chilli and some salads but i was soooooo disappointed that they didn't have a vegetarian wrap or sandwich. i ended up with the kids mac and cheese and a side of squash. both very good... just not what i had in mind.
Longwood, hook up the vegetarian sandwiches!!!
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What a beautiful place. There is truly something for everyone. I've seen some amazing gardens but I've never seen such inspiring creativity.
There are several areas for kids with trains and other fun activities. This month, there were beautiful water lily exhibits. We also saw a harvest vegetable design competition in the main pavilion. And we ate a delicious lunch in the cafe.
I can not think of a better way to spend $16.00 for a relaxing day filled with the beautiful wonders of nature. Longwood's ever changing gardens and conservatories offer a new experience with each visit.
Located in the historic Brandywine Valley, beautiful and majestic trees, such as the Princess trees, which line a main walkway and look like a cross between a right side up Wisteria to a Lilac, are just one of many wonderous sights you will see. Longwood Gardens is considered to be one of the great gardens of the world and is often referred to as the world's premier horticultural showplace.
Numerous and beautiful fountains will entertain you with dancing waters and breath taking gardens surrounding them, such as the Italian gardens, In the evenings the fountains are illuminated with colors. During special events or throughout the year, fireworks blend into the skies behind these grandiose displays of water.
Inside of the Conservatories, you will find spectacular displays of lush tropical plants, lilies, the size of a child's head, Orchids galore, Cacti, banana trees with bunches hovering above, as well as all the familiar and unusual plants and flowers from around the world.
Events are happening here year round and with their open air theatre, concerts can be enjoyed by all ages.
My husband's sister and brother-in-law live in Silver Springs, Md. Anytime she wants to get together, she mentions Longwood Gardens. I share her love for flowers and outdoor beauty, so she never has to twist my arm.
Parking in Longwood Garden's huge parking lot is free. The doors open at 9:00am and year round passes are very affordable. I did notice that wheelchairs, strollers and motorized scooters were available, for minimal charge.
As we were leaving, both of our hubbies said "okay are we done now?" At that my sister-in-law and I both said, simultaneously, "No, we have not visited the Gift Shop"! Many great gift ideas, as well as a gift for yourself, along with an indoor and outdoor flower area, where you can purchase a little Longwood Garden number to take home with you. Flowers make me smile.
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1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/28/2008
I love flowers, so, therefore, I love Longwood Gardens. You can easily spend most of your day here… Read more »
I can recall a time when I came here with family and relatives. This is a very stunning place to visit.
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Walking through Longwood Gardens is like journeying into another world -- a world of brilliant reds, and yellows, and purples, of glistening lakes and sparkling fountains, of magnificent greenhouses and impressive topiary. It's like the setting of a fairytale -- only real -- and impeccably manicured.
I love going to Longwood in the winter, for their Christmas show, in the early spring, when the first buds are just starting to bloom, and again for Indian Summer, when the fall colors are just beginning to peak through. With a large greenhouse of exotic plants, several fountain gardens, a waterfall, a topiary garden -- and fields upon fields of beautiful flowers that passersby can wander through, Longwood is truly exquisite.
My only complaint is that it's not more open! How wonderful it would be to wander through the Italian fountain garden -- maybe run through the fountains -- rather than gaze at them longingly, from afar. I want to go up into the Bell Tower and SEE the giant bell ring, and walk up the old staircase next to the waterfall. 10 years ago, you could do these things -- now they're roped off.
Even so, Longwood from a distance is still a magical place -- a perfect weekend escape.
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Visited Longwood Gardens for the first time this weekend! Longwood has been on my to visit list since moving to PA but, we just haven't gotten a chance to get there till now. What a wonderful way to spend the day. The gardens and conservatory were lovely, it is really such an incredibly beautiful place. Water baby that I am, I particularly enjoyed the fountains. Many of the areas made you feel like you were in a completely other world or time.
I will definitely visit Longwood again soon, I am looking forward to seeing it at different times of year.
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Spectacular. Absolutely worth the $16 admission price ($14 for Seniors).
We came on a beautiful April day after two days of continuous rain. The grounds of Pierre du Pont's estate are stunning. Don't forget your camera! Also, don't pass on seeing the video about his life in the estate house. He actually bought the estate in 1906 for around $15,000 to keep the trees from being chopped down for lumber.
The flowers are so stunning. So much work must go in to keeping this place maintained. We were here on a Thursday and it had lots of visitors. The self serve cafe (a bit pricey for cafe food) was jam-packed. We decided to dine in the newly revamped and even more pricey sit down 1906 Restaurant. I should of made an http://opentable.com reservation and earned 100 points! Maybe next time!
It is only around 30-something miles from Philly - a nice day trip. It's even a nice drive from DC.
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A few cold Decembers ago, my lady friend and I decided to spend a couple of days up in the Amish Country in Lancaster County, PA. We absolutely love it there. Each time we go, it's like entering some mysterious world of long, long, long ago. Time stands still, while peace and tranquility lovingly massage the troubled soul. Of course, with our trusty camera in tow, there were photos, photos everywhere and nothing too small to escape. Yes, the scrapbook back home would soon tell the tale of covered bridges, open air markets, horse-drawn buggies clanking down narrow dirt roads, in a life-or-death struggle with today's mechanical monstrosities, and a gorgeous landscape dotted with folks, who look as if they could use another change of clothes. Speaking of clothes, the eye of our "all seeing" camera, was able to capture some authentic Amish underwear, furling and unfurling, on a clothes line painted across a late Autumn sky. (Sadly, we were run off when the owners of said underwear returned unexpectedly in their horse-drawn buggy, flashing a frown that clearly said, "I wish you two big-city perverts would return from whence you came."
In the midst of all this reverie, my beautiful lady friend announces that she had been reading about a wonderful place called Longwood Gardens, located down in the Brandywine Valley. She thought it would be the perfect way to end our trip. Well, I must admit that I wasn't too thrilled, as I'm not exactly a man of flowers and shrubbery. Though I do know "nice" when I see it. But I thought, "What the heck, if it makes my lady friend happy, we'll go and check out the cute little plants for a whole fifteen minutes or so, and then move on to something "really'" interesting." Well, little did I realize, that I was about to experience the shock of my life.
We approached the park right at dusk and were trying to find the entrance. I happened to gaze up from my windshield, and that's when I saw them! Yes,"THEM"! They looked like creatures from the planet Xenon. Huge majestic figures that seemed to erupt from very the earth below. They were ornately clad in cloaks of many colors, and their many arms seemed to reach up into heaven itself. Even from the road it was enough to make my jaw drop. And to think that we were heading right for them! Finally, we made our way into the park and discovered that these beings were not made of flesh and blood at all, but of wood, Christmas lights, and the uncommon genius of human imagination. Yes, these were trees! Glorious, wonderful, magnificent trees, all decked out in luminous finery befitting the heavens to which they seemed ascend. The poet asks, "What could be as lovely as a tree?" And Longwood Gardens answers, "A tree kissed with God's very own Christmas Spirit."
We wandered the park for hours, each step an adventure. The water fall that changes color in perfect sync with the Christmas music that fills the park, the fountains, the tree houses, and of course, those wonderful trees, decked out with stars and Christmas lights that all blend together just perfectly. Truly, a choreography worthy of the finest Broadway play. I don't have time here to fully discuss the wonders inside the building, but suffice to say, the choir, the old time Christmas gifts, the restaurant, the gift shop and more plants than you ever dreamed possible, should keep you joyfully occupied. I guess the moral of the story is this: When your lady speaks, you should listen. Who knows? Fifteen minutes could become an eternity!
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Freaking gorgeous any time of the year. Really. Go here. You won't be disappointed.
I did freeze my ass off here this year at Christmas, but that's not Longwood's fault. ;)
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Purdy Flowers!
So I went out here last night for the Fireworks & Fountains show. It was alright. I was more impressed by the gardens and conservatory. I had fun running through the kiddie part and then strolling through the exotics & orchid collection. I will have to upload some of the pics when I get a chance.
I need to go back in the Spring and spend a whole day.
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Shakespeare wrote about music as the food of love, but after coming to Longwood I think it must be flowers... It is an enchanted escape with hours to see and experience. The fountain shows are charming; the Italian fountains didn't have a show but were my favorite fountain area. The tree houses are intriguing. I had a map and wanted to plan out our visit, but I'm glad my boyfriend convinced me to just wander instead... Everything we saw was something we wanted to take in... The only disappointment was the "Eye of Water," which appeared much larger online than in person. The Terrace Restaurant Cafe has a bunch of fresh, flavorful choices--try the roasted veggie wrap! I would love to go back at Christmas and see the gardens then...
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Honestly I always thought this place would suck and be full of mothball gum mouthed AARP heads ( which it sorta is ) but on the up side is actually quiet a neat place to go when you are a new parent. I really had a great time going here for the first time in my Philadelphian life. Our newborn and friends really had a blast walking in the gardens and enjoying the fresh botanical scents and colorful orchids. I cannot wait until my sweetpea can walk so she'll be able to enjoy the children's garden. I would definitely return and suggest Sunday mornings during mild Eastern PA spring weather as a good time. Although I've been told that the Christmas decor is worth another visit.
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I love Longwood Gardens. (The do not accept a discount for PHS members though - Pennsylvania Horticultural Society). So fork over the admission fee and wear comfy shoes. It's an ALL DAY affair.
There is so much to see here - each season is special. (Winter has a wonderful display in the conservatory.) Spring is a must! I love to wander the grounds when all my favorite bulb flowers bloom (tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, etc.)
What a national treasure.
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It's probably the second nicest garden in the Philly area, with Morris Arboretum beating it out for my money. At Christmas, Longwood becomes a winter wonderland of extravagant proportions. It's so gorgeous with the lighting, the indoor Christmas room full of poinsettias, and the ice skating performances. If you have a special someone, it's a perfect spot to take them and share a romantic evening.
The cost is minimal for the Christmas show, especially if you're a student.
Also, bring your camera for the Orchid room. They are drop-dead awesome.
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Breathtakingly beautiful, serene and a lot of fun, not JUST for families. While this place's admission is grossly over-priced ($16 for adult admission and NO, don't tell me "it's a fair price" It simply isn't), it would be a good place for a day date. I may recommend a 'school' day or later afternoon on a Sunday to avoid so many obnoxious mommy types with their SUV strollers. It's over 200 acres and the heat combined with my hayfever and ADD had me too antsy to linger long in the conservatories, but I'd recommend then nevertheless. I gave my friend hell about going but once I was there, was so glad I made it. Find yourself a nice bench in a shaded area overlooking either the waterfall and bell tower, or the Italian fountain garden. We simply don't see enough of these things in America so take the opportunity while you have it and check it out!
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We could have walked around for days and been satisfied. Except for the heat, but with the trees all around it wasn't even so bad.
This is a gorgeous place to see. Perfect for visitors (mine was an avid gardener so she was thrilled). Huge with tons of varieties to hold your interest through hours of plant wandering. Signs label all the plants so you're constantly learning as you go.
Mind retention excercises needed beforehand though.
The manicured bush (not THAT kind of bush) garden was a beauty, Orchids breathtaking, fountains were nice to sit and watch, treehouses were cool, they have a restaurant too. we didn't eat, it probably has it's own review.The kids garden was nice and cute, so it's tot friendly.
Only service Pups are allowed in, non-working slacker regular Dogs aren't. I always check.
$16 dollars to enter and their gift shop is, of course, pricey.
*But*, for somewhat of a bargain on orchids --look for the non-bloom rejects (they will bloom again and I found one with blooms budding) they are all half off.
Yay for orchid rejects, yay for Longwood Gardens.
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Wow. Just wow. We had a super visit to here yesterday. The gardens are as beautiful as ever. Don't let the $16 to get in put you off. It's totally worth it. The conservatory alone is worth it, and there are acres of other gardens and fountains to go and enjoy. Take the kids. Let them wander a bit. Have a blast! We spent the whole day and still felt there was a lot more to explore that we hadn't seen yet.
Wow. Its winter and the outdoor stuff is either covered or off and the flowers and trees arent in bloom, but inside... wow!
Theyve got plants, trees, and flowers from all over the world, self guided tours, a number of buildings, topiaries (those bushes cut into animal shapes).. its almost endless.
Inside they were having an orchid show, so they were all over, but there were so many flowers that I want for my yard. Some rooms are really hot and steamy for tropical plants, some rooms are cold because they are seasonal plants.. everything is well organized and clean! I didnt see any trash or cigarette butts anywhere which tells me (since people are inconsiderate pigs), that they have an invisible staff that works all the time.. and thats just awesome!
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You have to go at least once. It really is incredible and of course Christmas time is their busiest with all the lights. But summer is underrated.
This is also a well-known spot for proposals. So if your boyfriend wants to take you and is quiet the whole way and sweaty, that is why.
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What a great place!!! The lights are majestic, the flowers are beautiful and everyone should check out this wonderous place. I was concerned about walking to and fro here, outside, in sub-freezing conditions, but it really was not bad at all. You can split up sessions outside with a walk through the mansion or conservatory. Bring your camera, the one you are with and have a spectacular trek through this amazing gem of a place.
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I've wanted to go to Longwood Gardens for years. And I never got around to going until last weekend. There is so much ground that we didn't cover, but we mainly went because of the children's garden in the arboretum, which my son had a BLAST in. It's like fountain heaven for any toddler. Bring a change of clothes because most likely your kid will be soaked. I can't wait to go back at Christmas. Hell, I can't wait to go back when we have a sitter. It's absolutely beautiful.
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Longwood is a beautiful place to visit. It's massive...so make sure that you wear comfortable shoes! That's very very very important...it's a whole lotta walking!
If you love horticulture, history, art, architecture, go here please! I cannot describe how fascinating the place was to me. Greenhouses filled with flowers, they even have a banana tree in one. There's a small play area for children...sadly I don't think it's as interactive as a child would like...but who knows! I loved it!
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I remember coming here years ago and I still have not seen anything like it. The Gardens are beautiful and the water fountians are amazing. It's too bad they do not have weddings here, it would be a brides dream.
When I was there they had a spectacular water fountain light show at night set to music. My cousin was 5 at the time and she loved it. Running around smelling all the different flowers. I think kids will like it. They also have statues scattered throughout and a little gift shop for souvenirs. I laos remember some kind of small castle like tower. Very Rapunnzel.
A wonderful place!
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Spring at Longwood Gardens is beautiful and smells wonderful!
Although slightly expensive at $14 per adult, the spacious, elegant, and well-kept gardens, greenhouses and fountains let you know that your money was well spent.
My favorite was the wall of orchids at the greenhouse! Fantasmagoric!
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We are a long time fans of Longwood Gardens, making sure to visit it at least once every year. If we lived closer (we are driving from Maryland) I'm sure we'd be there more often. Beautiful landscaping, wonderful fountain and firework shows, breathtaking views, magical conservatory and gourmet food restaurant was like a magnet to us.
But over the years we also witnessed slow but sure decline of this facility. It started at the time when management was changed (few years ago). The quality of the services went down; the quality of the shows decline, even the choice of the plants and flowers became not that interesting as it was before.
Once, one of the joyful activities during Christmas time was singing along carols with absolutely wonderful accompaniment of the organ in the Ballroom hall. People would stand in long lines to experience this. They canceled it because of restoration of the organ but after restoration they never came back to that wonderful Christmas sing-along show. Such a pity!
Another example of bad management was Memorial Day Firework/Fountain show. They delayed it because of the weather (the thunderstorm was gathering) till 9:50pm. The moment the show started as well started the rain. So many people just headed to the parking lot. We stayed a little longer but the view was blocked by umbrellas and the quality of what we've seen was so poor that we decided to leave too. After paying $34 per ticket we actually saw nothing and felt nothing but frustration. If they wouldn't delay it would be over before the rain began.
BTW, speaking about the value for your money, few years ago you'd buy a $25 ticket to the same kind of Show which included a wonderful gourmet dinner-buffet. Over the time first the quality of the food went down, then the quality of the Show went down and now these $34 dollars/ticket didn't buy us no food nether Show.
IT"S A SHAME!!!!!!!!!!!
I think it was our last visit.
The best gardens anywhere (at least on the east coast). I have practically grown up here as my mother is an avid gardener. Some might think it's not good for kids, but I disagree. There is a large childrens garden (which they are currently doubling the size of). Staff is friendlly and helpful. And there are plenty of places for kids to run around.
Absolutely gorgeous gardens, formal and not so formal. Beautiful water gardens and fountains that rival those in Europe by which they were inspired. One of the largest collections of trees anywhere. HUGE indoor greenhouses open year round. And really neat light displays at Christmas time. The property was owned and developed by the famed DuPont family.
My husband and I went this past spring which I think is the best time to visit, but it is really pretty all year round. Love this place.
Longwood is cool... and that's coming from a guy who growing up, had parks, not gardens.
This is a wonderful site for the eyes. Great healthy, outdoor activity place that's great for couples, families, the elderly, and pretty much anybody. It's a bit of a hike from the city, but I've always found the drive pretty.
The fountains are my favorite aspect.
I visited Longwood again this time in was hot outside so I was walking all around outside rather than staying indoors like my first visit during winter. The place is really neat, however, I was really distraught that there seemed to be no peace and quiet...everywhere I went outside had some noisy workers going around in trucks...or cutting trees...others were using those horrible gas guzzling leaf blowers that are so noisy...they should do maintenance before they open to the public...I am lowering my rating by a star because of all the noise..oh and a private photo shoot. so much for a nice walk in the garden!
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1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/4/2008
This is an awesome place. I highly recommend a visit...take a peek at their website for more… Read more »
