Philadelphia Flower Show
 

Hi <BR> <BR>I was planning to go up to the Philadelphia Flower Show at the Convention Center in a few weekends. I'm looking forward to it immensely, having heard that it's fantastic. I read recently that I'll need to purchase tickets...should I buy them in advance or just wait till I get there? <BR> <BR>Thanks. DAN

I've been told that it sometimes sells out on opening day (March 4, this year) and other weekend days. For ticket info, check out its website: www.theflowershow.com

The Flower Show is terrific, but it is most definitely a mob scene on weekends. Do get your tickets in advance! There are many other tie-ins in the city with restaurants and other venues, so if you can swing a Thursday-to-Sunday type weekend you'd be best off. If you can get to the show about 3PM and stay into the evening, over the dinner hour, you have the best chance of seeing almost everything. I've been going to the show for 23 years (and, in fact, helped with exhibiting for a few years) and I wouldn't miss it!

You can buy tickets at most locations of Smith & Hawkins. I purchased my tickets at their Long Island, New York store a few weeks ago. Not only are the advance tickets alittle cheaper, but you save time on the show's ticket line. <BR>If you plan to see the show on a weekend, try to get there at 8 am sharp, before it gets very crowded; if attending on a weekday, the earlier poster is correct in suggesting late afternoon/dinner-time viewing for an optimal, leisurely experience.

Hello! <BR> <BR>Thank you for all the suggestions...I WILL take heed! <BR> <BR>DAN

Agree with all the above. Have gone in the evening the last few years and it's much quieter. If you haven't been in the Convention Center before try to wander over to the old train building- I think it's the headhouse- they did a really nice job renovating it. Also, I think they now allow you to get your hand stamped or whatever so you can leave and get something to eat over at the Reading Terminal. The food at the show is usually pretty limited. <BR>Make sure you see all the small exhibits. There is one exhibit where people make pieces of jewelry out of plant parts. It sounds bizarre but you will be totally awed by the ingenuity and creativity of the exhibitors! The best part is when you walk into the convention hall and smell all the flowers. What a breath of Spring! Enjoy!

One more hint for flower show goers--if you're not staying within walking distance, public transportation is definitely the way to go! You'll be dropped off "at the doors" (just about!) and avoid those horrendous parking lot lines. <BR>It's snowing here now, so...counting down the days until our preview to spring!

Just topping this highly informative post above the "Ugly Philly" one ; )