We are going to Philadelphia in a week or so. We like public gardens and plan to visit Morris Arboretum. (We have visited Tyler Arboretum before--wonderful).

Anyway, we are thinking of going to Bartram's Garden there just north of the City. Has anyone been there? Is it worth the trip?

I've been to Bartram's Garden - and I think there are better gardens. Morris Arboretum is really nice - you'll enjoy that. Of course, the best garden is Longwood Gardens, which is farther afield. Nearby Longwood is Winterthur.

A really nice garden, outside the city, is Chanticleer. That's not as far away as Longwood or Winterthur.

If you want something in the city, the Japanese Garden in Fairmount Park is nice.

Thanks, Karen. We've been to Longwood and Winterthur--you are right--they are great. I am going to do a search on Chanticleer.

We were mostly looking at Bartram because we've read up a bit on William and John Bartram, and, apparently, this is just about the oldest garden in the states.

Is it run down?

Thanks again.

I've been there once, for an evening occasion. I've never been there during the day time. Just want to point out that it is SOUTH of the city, and is not in the best part of the city. But I think going during the day time you'll be fine.

BTW, even though you said you've been to Longwood Gardens, have you been there during their spring Tulip festival? I've been twice and it is amazing!
http://www.longwoodgardens.org/Seaso...esOfSpring.htm

I've been to Chanticleer in the summer, when it was truly gorgeous, but I'm not sure how much will be in bloom now. Some of the other gardens, like Longwood, have indoor growing facilities, so there may be more to see.

Thanks to all of you. I dunno why I thought Bartram's was north of the city. Well. Morris is North, right?

Hummmm. Maybe another trip to Longwood is in order.

There was just a write up on Chanticleer in the Phila. paper and it sounded great.

Yes, Morris is just north of the city boundary line. It's near a GREAT city park called Valley Green. If you like to hike, or just walk, this is a great place to do it. The wide walking path parallels the Wissahickon Creek for about 6 miles, and in that 6 miles, you only cross one road with cars. This is amazing considering you are in a park in one of the largest cities in the country.