Retreat to these local gardens and green spaces that feel like an escape, but all within city limits.

As Philadelphia continues celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, there’s no shortage of places to experience the region’s history outdoors. From America’s oldest surviving botanical garden to wooded trails and historic arboretums, these gardens and parks offer a chance to connect with nature while exploring Philadelphia’s past.

Here are eight historic gardens and green spaces worth adding to your summer bucket list.

Bartram’s Garden

5400 Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19143

America’s oldest surviving botanical garden is also one of Philadelphia’s most peaceful riverfront destinations. Set on 50 acres along the Schuylkill River, Bartram’s Garden features wetlands, walking trails, seasonal gardens and a boardwalk overlooking the tidal marsh.

Originally the home and nursery of botanist John Bartram, the property was once visited by figures including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Today, admission is free, and visitors can enjoy workshops, boating, fishing and other community events throughout the summer.

Penn Treaty Park

1301 N. Beach St., Philadelphia, PA 19125

For one of Philadelphia’s best waterfront views, head to Penn Treaty Park in Fishtown. Overlooking the Delaware River and Ben Franklin Bridge, the park is a favorite spot for picnics, bike rides and relaxing by the water.

Originally established in 1894, the park also hosts seasonal programming, including free outdoor movies through October.

Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania

100 E. Northwestern Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19118

Morris Arboretum’s 92 acres offer something to discover in every season. Visitors can explore winding garden paths, the historic Fernery, colorful orchid collections and one of the region’s most impressive tree collections.

To celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, the popular Garden Railway features a miniature “Revolutionary Philly” display through Sept. 30. Advance tickets are $22 for adults and $12 for children ages 3–17.

Laurel Hill East Cemetery

3822 Ridge Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19132

Part historic cemetery, part arboretum and part public park, Laurel Hill offers a unique way to experience Philadelphia’s history. More than 9,000 trees grow throughout the grounds, including rare specimens that are difficult to find elsewhere in the city.

Visitors are welcome to walk, bike and photograph the grounds year-round, or join one of Laurel Hill’s guided tours to learn more about the site’s history, architecture and landscape. BONUS: Join Green Philly’s Historic Garden Tour & Terrarium Workshop on 7/22!

Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) Park

1500 Pattison Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19145

FDR Park combines recreation with wildlife habitat across 348 acres in South Philadelphia. Beyond playgrounds, sports fields and the popular skatepark, visitors can kayak, fish, birdwatch or explore wetlands that support local wildlife.

The park also hosts nature programming throughout the summer, including fishing clinics, herbalism workshops and wildlife education events.

Awbury Arboretum

One Awbury Rd., Philadelphia, PA 19138

Looking for goats in Philadelphia? Awbury Arboretum is home to the Philly Goat Project, along with pollinator gardens, a food forest and miles of walking paths.

The 56-acre arboretum is free to visit year-round and regularly hosts community events, wellness walks and seasonal workshops. Visitors can also stop by the chicken coop, greenhouses and Many Hands Apothecary Garden while exploring the property.

Pennypack Park

Accessible parking: 8750 Pine Rd., Philadelphia, PA 19115

Spanning more than 1,000 acres in Northeast Philadelphia, Pennypack Park feels surprisingly wild for a city park. Forests, meadows and wetlands provide habitat for more than 150 bird species, making it a favorite destination for birders and hikers.

The park also offers trails for biking, running and horseback riding, along with picnic areas and playgrounds. Admission is free year-round.

Wissahickon Valley Park

Multiple trailheads throughout Northwest Philadelphia

If you’re looking to forget you’re in Philadelphia for a few hours, Wissahickon Valley Park delivers. The park preserves nearly 2,000 acres of forest surrounding Wissahickon Creek, making it one of the city’s most popular destinations for hiking, biking and trail running.

Beyond the well-known Forbidden Drive, visitors can explore Andorra Meadow, Frog Pond and the historic Rittenhouse Arboretum. Birders may also spot species including Great Horned Owls and Eastern Screech Owls that call the park home.

The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.

Before You Go

Many of these destinations host seasonal events, guided walks and educational programs throughout the year. Check each site’s website before visiting for the latest hours, admission information and event schedules.

Photo: Visit Philly

Erika Heinrich is a freelance journalist and photographer from South Jersey. She attended The College of New Jersey where studied business and women’s history. As well as working as the campus photographer for two years. Most recently, she worked with the South Jersey Informational Equity Program to share amazing local news stories on Black New Jersey residents. Erika loves to skateboard and eat at the South Asian Food Mart at FDR park. View all posts by Erika Heinrich