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Explore fall foliage to 37 local gardens with a Passport to “America’s Garden Capital”

The Greater Philadelphia Gardens (GPG) collaborate for a fun way to explore the area’s local gardens.

It’s leaf-peeping season.

One way to explore the local foliage and greens? Get a passport.

The Greater Philadelphia Gardens (GPG) collective, a group of 37 public garden spaces within 30 miles of Philadelphia are offering a free passport to “American’s Garden Capital.” The booklet shares itineraries, info on the gardens, what to see, and links for more information.

Beyond gardens, location offerings include physical fitness, drive-in movies, wine tastings and more. Hike the trails at Tyler Arboretum, see Halloween decor at Nemours Estate, and learn about native plants at Mt. Cuba Center.

If you visit and stamp all 37 local gardens, you are eligible to win a prize.

List of gardens in America’s Garden Capital:

  1. Ambler Arboretum of Temple University
  2. Andalusia Historic House, Gardens and Arboretum
  3. Appleford Estate
  4. The Arboretum of West Laurel Hill & Laurel Hill Cemeteries
  5. Awbury Arboretum
  6. Barnes Arboretum at St. Joseph’s University
  7. The Barton Arboretum & Nature Preserve of Medford Leas
  8. Bartram’s Garden
  9. Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve
  10. Brandywine River Museum of Art
  11. Camden Children’s Garden
  12. Chanticleer
  13. The Gardens at Mill Fleurs
  14. Grounds for Sculpture
  15. Hagley Museum & Library
  16. Haverford College Arboretum
  17. Henry Botanic Garden
  18. Henry Schmieder Arboretum
  19. The Highlands Mansion & Garden
  20. Hortulus Farm Garden
  21. James G. Kaskey Memorial Park
  22. Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens
  23. Longwood Gardens
  24. Morris Arboretum of the University Of Pennsylvania
  25. Mt. Cuba Center
  26. Nemours Estate
  27. PHS Meadowbrook Farm
  28. The Philadelphia Zoo
  29. Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College
  30. Shofuso
  31. Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden
  32. Tyler Arboretum
  33. Tyler Formal Gardens at Bucks County
  34. Welkinweir
  35. Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
  36. The Woodlands
  37. Wyck Historic House, Garden, Farm

Cover photo: America’s Garden Capital 


Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia.

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