Spring in Pennsylvania is pure magic. The long winter finally fades, flowers burst into color, and the air smells fresh again. If you love nature, photography, or just peaceful walks among blooming landscapes, Pennsylvania has some of the most beautiful gardens to explore this season. Below are ten of the best gardens to visit in spring 2025, each offering something unique — from grand floral displays to quiet woodland trails.
Longwood Gardens is one of those places that simply takes your breath away. It’s one of the largest and most famous gardens in the U.S., and spring is when it truly shines. You’ll find over 1,000 acres of meadows, woodlands, conservatories, and fountains — all exploding with tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and cherry blossoms.
The famous Spring Blooms display runs from late March through May, featuring over half a million bulbs.
The new West Conservatory and reimagined areas are now open, offering fresh floral installations.
Perfect for photographers — the color combinations and reflections in the fountains are unreal.
Book tickets online ahead of time; weekends can sell out quickly.
Visit early morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds.
Plan at least 3–4 hours to explore comfortably.
- Website: longwoodgardens.org
2. Morris Arboretum & Gardens – Philadelphia, PA
If you prefer something quieter and more natural, Morris Arboretum is a wonderful option. Nestled in Philadelphia’s Chestnut Hill neighborhood, this 92-acre garden combines historic landscapes with peaceful walking trails and spring wildflowers.
Cherry blossoms, magnolias, and early tulips create a picture-perfect setting in April.
The Out on a Limb Tree Canopy Walk lets you stroll 50 feet above the forest floor — a unique experience.
Educational tours and family events make it great for both adults and kids.
Arrive early to find parking.
Bring comfortable shoes — there’s a mix of paved and wooded paths.
Combine your visit with a stop in Chestnut Hill for local cafés and boutiques.
- Website: morrisarboretum.org
3. Chanticleer Garden – Wayne, PA
Often called “a pleasure garden,” Chanticleer is one of Pennsylvania’s most creative landscapes. Instead of traditional flower beds, you’ll find artistic arrangements, unique sculptures, and carefully designed garden “rooms.”
The gardens reopen in late March, just in time for tulips, daffodils, and flowering dogwoods.
The Ruin Garden and Tennis Court Garden are visitor favorites — beautiful spots for photos.
It’s smaller and less crowded than Longwood, so you can wander at your own pace.
The garden is closed on Mondays; check hours before visiting.
Bring a picnic and relax on the grassy areas.
Perfect for an afternoon trip from Philadelphia.
- Website: chanticleergarden.org
4. Hershey Gardens – Hershey, PA
Right next to the famous Hersheypark, this 23-acre botanical garden is ideal for families and flower lovers alike. With sweeping views of the town and seasonal displays, it’s a refreshing place to visit in spring.
The Tulip and Daffodil Display is one of central Pennsylvania’s prettiest seasonal events.
Visit the Butterfly Atrium, which houses hundreds of tropical butterflies — open year-round.
The Children’s Garden keeps kids entertained while adults enjoy the blooms.
Combine your trip with a visit to The Hershey Story Museum or Chocolate World.
Buy combo tickets online to save on admission.
Early mornings offer the best lighting for photos.
- Website: hersheygardens.org
5. The Arboretum at Penn State – State College, PA
This garden might not be as famous as Longwood or Hershey, but it’s absolutely worth the trip. Located on the Penn State University campus, it’s beautifully maintained and free to visit.
The H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens come alive with tulips, lilacs, and ornamental trees.
There are several themed gardens, including a Children’s Garden and Pollinator & Bird Garden.
Free events like Earth Day celebrations and spring festivals are planned for April 2025.
Parking is free on weekends and after 5 PM on weekdays.
Great place for a peaceful walk or picnic.
Bring a camera — the sunset views over the gardens are lovely.
- Website: arboretum.psu.edu
6. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens – Pittsburgh, PA
Located in the heart of Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood, Phipps Conservatory is one of America’s oldest and most sustainable botanical gardens. It’s famous for its glasshouse architecture and stunning seasonal flower shows.
The annual Spring Flower Show features tulips, hyacinths, orchids, and whimsical design themes.
Indoor gardens make it perfect for any weather — no worries about rain.
The Center for Sustainable Landscapes showcases eco-friendly garden design ideas.
Book tickets online (entry slots can sell out).
Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds.
Stop by the on-site Café Phipps — they serve locally sourced, organic food.
- Website: phipps.conservatory.org
7. Tyler Arboretum – Media, PA
Just outside Philadelphia, Tyler Arboretum spans 650 acres of gardens, meadows, and historic trees. It’s one of the oldest arboretums in the U.S., dating back to 1681.
Over 200 acres of natural woodland trails filled with wildflowers and dogwoods.
The Wister Rhododendron Collection puts on a colorful show each May.
Ideal for hikers and photographers who love nature as much as gardens.
Wear hiking shoes — the trails can be muddy after spring rains.
Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic picnic areas.
Families will love the Treehouse Trail with fun elevated structures.
- Website: tylerarboretum.org
8. Mt. Cuba Center – Hockessin, DE (near Kennett Square, PA)
Though technically in Delaware, Mt. Cuba sits right on the Pennsylvania border and is a must-see for native-plant enthusiasts. This peaceful woodland garden focuses on preserving Mid-Atlantic native species.
The Trillium Trail and Woodland Wildflower Garden are spectacular from late April through May.
Ideal for anyone interested in pollinator plants, ecological gardening, or quiet nature walks.
Their educational displays show how to bring native beauty into your own yard.
Best visited mid- to late April when the woodland floor blooms.
Guided walks with botanists are available — worth booking ahead.
Bring a reusable water bottle; the center is eco-conscious and minimizes waste.
- Website: mtcubacenter.org
9. Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens – Devon, PA
A true hidden gem on the Philadelphia Main Line, Jenkins Arboretum is small but incredibly beautiful in spring. It’s best known for its azaleas, rhododendrons, and peaceful woodland trails.
May brings a brilliant show of azaleas and mountain laurels in bloom.
Admission is free, making it a perfect budget-friendly stop.
The visitor center deck offers panoramic views over the valley.
Parking is limited — arrive early.
Great for a one-hour scenic walk or picnic.
Bring binoculars; it’s a bird-watcher’s paradise in spring.
- Website: jenkinsarboretum.org
10. Shofuso Japanese House and Garden – Philadelphia, PA
Located in Fairmount Park, Shofuso brings Japanese tradition to Pennsylvania with its serene koi pond, tea house, and cherry blossom trees. It’s one of the most picturesque spots in Philadelphia each spring.
The Cherry Blossom Festival in April is a highlight — expect pink blooms and cultural performances.
The garden’s design dates back to 17th-century Kyoto architecture, blending water, wood, and stone.
A peaceful retreat from the busy city around it.
Check festival dates early (usually mid-April).
Bring cash or card for tea ceremony tickets or small souvenirs.
Visit on weekdays to avoid long photo lines near the pond.
- Website: japanphilly.org/shofuso
Final Thoughts
Pennsylvania’s gardens showcase just how diverse and vibrant spring can be. From the grandeur of Longwood to the cultural charm of Shofuso, every destination offers a new perspective on nature’s beauty. Visiting even a few of these in 2025 will leave you inspired — and maybe with a few ideas for your own backyard garden.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When is the best time to visit gardens in Pennsylvania during spring?
The best time to visit most Pennsylvania gardens is between mid-April and late May. That’s when tulips, daffodils, cherry blossoms, and azaleas reach full bloom. Some gardens, like Longwood and Morris Arboretum, start showing color as early as late March if the weather warms up early.
2. Which Pennsylvania garden is the most family-friendly?
Hershey Gardens is perfect for families. It features a Children’s Garden, a Butterfly Atrium, and plenty of space for kids to explore safely. The Arboretum at Penn State is another great choice — it’s free, spacious, and has educational displays for younger visitors.
3. Are any of these gardens free to visit?
Yes! Both the Arboretum at Penn State and Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens offer free admission year-round. These are excellent options if you’re traveling on a budget but still want to enjoy Pennsylvania’s spring beauty.
4. Can I bring my pet to these gardens?
Most botanical gardens in Pennsylvania have strict no-pet policies to protect plants and wildlife. However, some places like Tyler Arboretum allow leashed dogs on certain trails during specific hours. Always check the official garden website for the latest rules before visiting.
