Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania Travel Forum Reviews

Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania

Description

There’s this thing about ancient trees — the kind with moss on the bark, ringed with stories — that just grounds a person, you know? At the Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania, you’ll sense that the moment you cross the threshold. It’s not one of those places with manicured flowerbeds lining symmetric walkways, either. Instead, these gardens feel alive and wild, but in the best possible way, anchored by a stately 19th-century estate and bursting with all kinds of flora from around the globe.

And if you’re someone who wants to skip the typical urban Philly scene for an afternoon, this arboretum is a real breath of fresh air — literally. It’s not exactly a hidden gem (since plenty of folks seem to treasure it), but it definitely doesn’t have that touristy, overcrowded vibe. Kids run around on the playground. Couples laze in the grass with a picnic. You’ll even spot art students with their sketchbooks, tracing the jagged lines of ancient trunks.

Honestly, I’ve always had a soft spot for places where you can just… wander. No rigid agenda guiding you from rose bush to koi pond. Here, the meandering trails twist past champion trees (meaning, the very largest of their kind — who doesn’t love a living record-holder?), over bridges, and through surprising pockets of color that seem to bloom just when you need them. There are moments of jaw-dropping beauty here, and while some bits might look a little wild (nature rarely colors inside the lines), that’s exactly what gives the gardens such soul.

Sure, there might be some minor quirks — an occasional muddy path after rain, or crowds near the Tree Adventure canopy walk on sunny weekends. But in all honesty, these are the kind of imperfections that prove the place truly hums with life. Anyone craving a quiet escape, a dash of whimsy, or even the perfect spot for a low-key wedding (yep, they do those!), will find themselves feeling right at home.

Key Features

  • Expansive Collection of Flora: Over 13,000 labeled plants, including rare and champion species from North America, Asia, and Europe. Botanists and hobby gardeners, bring your notepads.
  • Historic 19th-Century Estate: Architecture buffs, rejoice. The estate’s stately charm, with its quaint stonework and timeless design, is an absolute treat to explore.
  • Hiking Trails: Varied walking paths wind through landscaped and natural areas. You can pick a trail to match your mood — from easy strolls under flowering magnolias to more challenging routes where every step brings a new vista.
  • Picnic Areas: Lush lawns and shaded picnic tables offer perfect settings for outdoor feasts. (Just remember: outside alcohol isn’t allowed — found out the hard way!)
  • Playground and Kid-Friendly Activities: Kiddo in tow? There’s a creative, nature-themed play space, plus plenty of gentle hikes for small legs. Good luck getting them to leave without a bribe of ice cream.
  • Tree Adventure Canopy Walk: Get a bird’s-eye view from 50 feet up in the treetops — it’s a highlight for both adults and children (and maybe a test for any fear of heights).
  • Art Installations: Rotating outdoor exhibits and sculptures pop up throughout the grounds; you never quite know what delight you’ll stumble across.
  • Accessible Facilities: Wheelchair-accessible pathways, restrooms, and parking make this an inclusive spot for visitors of all abilities. As someone who has toted both strollers and grandparents, I’ve appreciated this more than once.
  • Public Restrooms and Gender-Neutral Options: Clean facilities — enough said.
  • Onsite Parking (Free!): Nothing kills the garden mood like circling for a spot. Thankfully, parking is a breeze here.
  • Contactless Payment Options: Admission and gift shop accept cards, so there’s no need to fish around for spare change.

Best Time to Visit

Truthfully, every season brings something special to Morris Arboretum. But if you want to catch it at her absolute best, mark down spring and fall — trust me on this:

  • Spring (Late March-May): The cherry blossoms, magnolias, and rhododendrons wake up; everywhere you look, it’s like Monet went wild with his paintbrush. Great for allergy sufferers too (well, bring tissues just in case).
  • Fall (Late September-October): Those champion trees flash blazing gold, amber, and crimson in a leaf show that rivals any New England road trip. Cool breezes, fewer crowds — pure bliss.

Summer’s no slouch either; the shady trails keep things cooler than the city pavement, and you’ll find more families picnicking or kids on the playground. Winters tend to be quieter, more reflective, with a stark beauty that calls to photographers and anyone looking for peace. One December morning, I stumbled upon a group meditating under the ginkgo tree, the world hushed under light snow — moments like that stay with you.

You’ll want to check their hours before heading out (I’ve made that mistake, only to arrive just as they’re closing the gates). And special events can add some extra sparkle, so peek at their calendar for plant sales, outdoor concerts, or even those enchanting nighttime garden illuminations.

How to Get There

Getting to Morris Arboretum isn’t rocket science, but a little planning helps — especially if you’re coming from out of town.

By Car: Honestly, most folks drive. There’s free onsite parking, so don’t sweat that part (how rare is that for Philly attractions?!). From downtown Philadelphia, it usually takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. I once tried it during Friday rush hour — learn from my mistake and pick a less chaotic time.

Public Transportation: If you’re arriving via regional rail, the closest SEPTA train stop is Chestnut Hill West. It’s about 2 miles from there, so you’ll need to hail a cab, ride-share, or hop on a local bus for the last stretch. I’ve done it — it’s manageable, but factor in a little extra time for connections.

Biking: Feeling adventurous? The quieter roads leading to the Arboretum are actually lovely for cyclists, especially in fall when the leaves line the route. There are bike racks at the entrance too, just don’t forget your lock.

Accessibility: The main entrance and parking lot are wheelchair accessible and friendly for families with strollers or mobility needs. Not every trail is perfectly even, but the main paths are wide and easy to navigate. If you or your travel companions have specific access concerns, the visitor desk is super helpful.

Tips for Visiting

Let me be straight with you — visiting Morris Arboretum is as chill or as action-packed as you want it to be. Here’s what I’ve learned from years of wading through both mud puddles and rose petals out there: