
Bartram's Garden: A free, tranquil waterfront park with trails, wildlife, and the country's oldest surviving ginkgo tree.
Bartram's Garden is a free, tranquil waterfront park in Philadelphia with walking trails, a playground, and scenic river views. When weather allows, kayaking and fishing add seasonal activity. Guests praise easy trolley access, peaceful grounds, and nearby birding—from waterfowl to hawks. The site is home to the country's oldest surviving ginkgo tree, and a historic house on site that is sometimes closed to tours.
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Explore historic gardens with native plants and the oldest ginkgo tree in the U.S., offering seasonal beauty and educational insights.
Enjoy well-maintained trails along the riverfront, ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and scenic views of Philadelphia.
Access the Schuylkill River for recreational kayaking and fishing, available during warmer months for water-based activities.
Visit the historic Bartram House for tours and exhibits on colonial botany and the garden's legacy, with seasonal openings.
Participate in events like Nature at Noon bird walks, educational workshops, and family-friendly activities throughout the year.
Relax in designated picnic spots and a fantastic playground, perfect for families and casual outdoor gatherings.
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Overall rating
Kara Christiansen
Went to Bartram's Garden in the winter for a Nature at Noon bird watching meetup with Drexel's Academy of Natural Sciences. Easy to get there on the trolley. Beautiful views of the city and the river. The historic house was not open for tours unfortunately. The birding walk was lovely, featured some waterfowl, woodpeckers and hawks. Did not luck out and see the painted bunting but it was spotted there the following week. Seems great for kids, dog walkers and joggers. The trails are well maintained and there is a map available. When the weather is nice they have kayaking and fishing. I hope to visit again when the historic house is open.
Sarah!
It's free!!! Lots of lovely collections of plants in a waterfront setting minutes from central Philly. There's lots of walking trails and a fantastic playground. Not much late fall/ winter plant interest, so best to visit in spring and fall. Home to the country's oldest surviving ginkgo tree. It's male, so doesn't smell, and is gorgeous in the fall. Staff are friendly and encourage conversation.
Johannah C.
I’ve been here twice and I really enjoyed my time. I was here on a Wednesday this last time and it was super peaceful and relaxing. Not many people were here and I really got to enjoy the fall leaves with lots of squirrels running around. If you have a few hours before or after your flight, it’s the perfect way to spend decompressing since it’s only about 4 miles from the airport
R Pall
What an amazing hidden gem! So peaceful and take the time to walk to the river & lie down on one of the beautifully carved benches and gaze up to the sky & trees. No crowds, just peace :) And check out their gigantic ginkgo tree!
Danielle Howze
A pleasant surprise found in Philly. I enjoyed just strolling through and relaxing under a shaded tree on the swing that was there. Such a great idea!! I almost didn’t turn in because when you first see the sign on the gate you have to pass a building complex that is closed down. But keep driving it’s beautiful back there. And the welcome center you can purchase a souvenir and cold beverage.