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Bartram's Garden
Philadelphia's historic waterfront oasis—where nature, history, and community thrive.
4.8(5 reviews)
$
Business
botanical-gardens
parks
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.
Philadelphia's historic waterfront oasis—where nature, history, and community thrive.
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Bartram's Garden is America's oldest surviving botanical garden, offering a serene escape along the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia. This 50-acre park features historic gardens, walking trails, a playground, and kayaking, with stunning city views. It's a free, family-friendly destination perfect for birdwatching, jogging, and exploring native plants, including the country's oldest ginkgo tree. Open year-round, it hosts events like Nature at Noon and provides a peaceful retreat just minutes from the airport and downtown.
Relax in designated picnic spots and a fantastic playground, perfect for families and casual outdoor gatherings.
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.
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.
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
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!
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.
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