Planning a visit to the Morris Arboretum and Gardens?
The Morris Arboretum and Gardens is one of the best gardens in the Philadelphia area.
The estate of John and Lydia Morris was originally planned to become a horticulture school. However, in 1932, their property officially became the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania. And in 2023, their name changed to the Morris Arboretum and Gardens.
This 175-acre arboretum is full of fun and adventure for both young and old. With “secret” passages, a huge train display, and a place to play high in the trees, the Morris Arboretum will keep your kids entertained at all times.
Located in the beautiful Chestnut Hill neighborhood, the Morris Arboretum and Gardens is a must-see when you live near or are just visiting Philadelphia. And it’s close to some other favorites, like Wissahickon Valley Park and the Woodmere Art Museum.
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Getting to the Morris Arboretum and Gardens
Located at 100 E Northwestern Ave in Philadelphia, the Morris Arboretum and Gardens is easy to get by car from any of the surrounding area. There is a large parking lot on-site after you pay admission (or present your pre-purchased admission) at the entrance.
The garden also encourages visitors to bike and walk. They offer discounted admission to those that do.
Admission to the Morris Arboretum
The Morris Arboretum is open daily except for New Years Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
Admission ranges from $10-$20. Members of the arboretum as well as members of the American Horticultural Society (AHS) Reciprocal Admission Program (RAP) are allowed to enter for FREE.
They offer discounts for seniors, military, and students, and visitors who walk or bike to the garden. They also participate in the ACCESS card program. Just present your card for $2 admission for up to four people.
Attractions Your Kids Will Love at the Morris Arboretum
Out on a Limb Tree Canopy Walk
After you walk past the Visitor Center, the “Out on a Limb Tree Canopy Walk” is the first feature you’ll encounter. High above the ground, visitors experience what life is like in the trees. Walk on nets and experience what it is like to be a bird or squirrel.
Kids may be a little nervous to walk out on the nets, but once they get over the fear, they will love climbing and laying on them. The area also features a huge bird’s nest with large robin’s eggs. Kids can pretend they are a fledgling bird!
The Garden Railway
One of the features at the arboretum that kids will love is the Garden Railway. It is a miniature train display made up of a quarter-mile of track. The trains go overhead, in tunnels, and loop around the display.
Fans of Thomas The Tank Engine will have fun searching for Thomas, Percy, and James! Many Philadelphia landmarks can be found within the display, including the LOVE statue, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
During the month of December, the Garden Railway is adorned with sparkling lights to celebrate the holiday season. The arboretum is open later on select nights for visitors to enjoy the display.
Places to Explore
While the main paved path circles the arboretum, there are so many fun trails throughout the park that allow you to explore the plants and statues more closely. There are also some quiet places to sit and relax while you take in your surroundings.
Kids will love the little log cabin in the woods, complete with table and chairs. They will also enjoy the “secret” path from the Mercury Loggia. The arboretum has so many exciting places to explore!
Statues and Sculptures
An unexpected surprise is all of the artwork found throughout the arboretum. Some pieces are out in the open, while others are hidden away at the end of a “secret” path. There is a nice mix of very modern art and classic pieces. The sculptures really add to the experience and atmosphere.
Not just Flora, but Fauna too!
Like any natural area, wildlife abounds. The insects especially enjoy the flowers, and it is always fun to watch bees buzz around from bud to bud. Near the pond, visitors will find swans, ducks, and turtles.
Things to Know Before You Visit
- The primary part of the arboretum is paved and wheelchair and stroller accessible. However, there are many dirt and uneven paths throughout the gardens that are not easily accessible by wheelchair.
- Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours at the arboretum to fully enjoy the features and gardens.
- There is a small cafe open seasonally in the original mansion, near the parking lot.
- No pets are allowed at the arboretum.
- Picnics are allowed in specified locations.
Have You Visited the Morris Arboretum With Kids?
We think the Morris Arboretum is the perfect place to spend a beautiful day outdoors with kids. Have you visited this beautiful garden? Philadelphia is full of some wonderful gardens to take the kids! Kids will also love visiting Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, NJ or Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA. Both are about an hour from Philadelphia.
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