Your Day Trip at a Glance: Quick Facts
Ready to escape the city? Here’s a quick overview of what to expect on your day trip from Philadelphia to the enchanting Longwood Gardens.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance from Philadelphia | ~35 miles (56 km) southwest of Center City |
| Average Travel Time | 60-90 minutes by car |
| Estimated Cost Per Person | $60 – $120 (includes ticket, transport, and food) |
| Best Time to Visit in 2025 | Year-round! Spring for tulips, Summer for fountains, Fall for foliage, and Winter for the famous Christmas lights. |
How to Get to Longwood Gardens from Philadelphia
While driving is the most direct way to reach this horticultural paradise, it’s absolutely possible to make the journey without a car. We’ve broken down the best options to help you choose the right path for your adventure.
| Transportation Mode | Estimated Time (One Way) | Estimated Cost (Round Trip) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | 60-90 min | $10-$20 (Gas/Tolls) | Fastest, most flexible, direct | Can hit rush hour traffic |
| Amtrak + Rideshare | ~1.5 hours | $50-$90 | Relaxing train ride, avoids driving | More expensive, requires coordination |
| SEPTA + Rideshare | 2 hours+ | $35-$60 | Most affordable public transport option | Longest travel time, multiple transfers |
Option 1: Driving (The Easiest Route)
For ultimate freedom and convenience, driving is your best bet. The primary route is straightforward: take I-95 South to US-322 West, then follow signs for US-1 South, which leads you directly to Kennett Square. A huge bonus? Parking at Longwood Gardens is completely free and plentiful! Always check Google Maps or Waze before you leave for real-time traffic updates.
Option 2: Public Transportation (Train + Rideshare)
It’s important to know that there is no single train or bus that goes directly to Longwood Gardens. However, a two-part journey is a fantastic car-free alternative.
Using Amtrak + Uber/Lyft
This is the fastest public transport combo. Simply take a comfortable Amtrak train from Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station (PHL) to Wilmington, DE (WIL). The ride is a quick 25-30 minutes. From the Wilmington station, a 25-minute Uber or Lyft will take you right to the gardens’ entrance.
Using SEPTA + Uber/Lyft
For the most budget-friendly approach, use SEPTA’s Regional Rail. Take the Media/Elwyn Line to its final stop, Elwyn Station. From there, it’s a 25-30 minute rideshare to the gardens. While it takes a bit longer, it’s a great way to save a few dollars.
Top 5 Must-See Attractions at Longwood Gardens
With over 1,000 acres to explore, it helps to have a game plan. Here are the five spots you absolutely cannot miss on your first visit:
- The Conservatory: Prepare to be amazed. This stunning 4.5-acre greenhouse is a world of its own, featuring lush indoor gardens that change with the seasons. Don’t miss the breathtaking Orchid House, the tropical Palm House, and the vibrant floral displays that are always in bloom.
- Main Fountain Garden: This is the crown jewel of Longwood. Modeled after the grand fountains of Europe, this five-acre garden puts on spectacular daily shows set to music. In the summer, the Illuminated Fountain Performances at night are a truly magical experience. Check the show schedule as soon as you arrive!
- Italian Water Garden: Find a moment of zen at this serene, blue-tiled oasis. Designed by Pierre S. du Pont himself and inspired by a garden in Florence, Italy, it’s a perfect spot for quiet reflection and beautiful photos.
- Meadow Garden: For a taste of the region’s natural beauty, wander through the 86-acre Meadow Garden. With over three miles of walking trails, you’ll see native wildflowers, waving grasses, and the historic Webb Farmhouse. It’s a peaceful escape for nature lovers.
- Peirce’s Woods: Take a stroll through this beautiful woodland walk, which honors the land’s history and the original collection of trees that inspired du Pont to purchase the property. It’s a shady, tranquil part of the gardens that connects you to its roots.
Planning Your Visit: Tickets, Hours & Tips
A little planning goes a long way. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
- Tickets: Timed-entry tickets are required and must be purchased online in advance. They often sell out, especially for special events, so book early! Standard adult admission is around $25-$30, with higher prices for events like A Longwood Christmas.
- Opening Hours: Hours change seasonally. Generally, the gardens open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but summer and holiday hours are often extended into the evening. Always check the official website for the hours on your specific date of visit.
- Accessibility: Most of the gardens are accessible to wheelchairs and ECVs, which are available to rent. The website provides a detailed accessibility map to help you plan your route.
- When to Visit: Weekdays (especially Tuesday-Thursday) are far less crowded than weekends. To beat the crowds, arrive right at opening time or in the late afternoon.
A Sample Itinerary for Your Day Trip
Want a foolproof plan for a perfect day? Follow this simple schedule to maximize your time.
- 9:00 AM: Depart from Philadelphia to get ahead of any traffic.
- 10:30 AM: Arrive at Longwood Gardens. Park your car, grab a map at the Visitor Center, and check the daily fountain show schedule.
- 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Immerse yourself in the wonders of the massive Conservatory. Take your time exploring the different rooms.
- 1:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious and casual lunch at The Café.
- 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Catch a spectacular Main Fountain Garden show. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the Italian Water Garden and into the shady Peirce’s Woods.
- 4:30 PM: Make your way back towards the entrance, perhaps stopping at the charming gift shop for a souvenir.
- 5:00 PM: Depart for Philadelphia, filled with beautiful memories.
Where to Eat: On-Site and Nearby
From fine dining to a quick, delicious treat, you won’t go hungry. Here are our top recommendations:
Dining Inside Longwood Gardens
- 1906 (Fine Dining, $$$$): The perfect choice for a special occasion or an elegant meal. The views are as exquisite as the food. Reservations are highly recommended.
- The Café (Casual, $$): A high-quality, cafeteria-style spot with a wide variety of options, from soups and salads to hot entrees. It’s convenient and consistently good.
- The Beer Garden (Seasonal, $$): In warmer months, this is the place to be. Enjoy pub fare, local craft beer, and often live music in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Great Restaurants in Kennett Square
- Portabello’s Restaurant ($$): A fantastic option for a creative American/Italian sit-down meal after your visit.
- Talula’s Table ($$$): A renowned gourmet market and café perfect for grabbing high-end sandwiches, coffee, and pastries.
- La Michoacana Ice Cream ($): The ultimate reward after a long day of walking. This spot offers authentic and delicious Mexican ice cream and treats.
What to Pack for Your Day Trip
Pack smart to ensure your day is comfortable and enjoyable. Here’s a simple checklist:
- Very comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be walking for miles!)
- Camera and/or smartphone for photos
- A portable power bank to keep your phone charged
- A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat (especially for summer)
- A light jacket or layers for changing weather
- Your credit card or debit card (the gardens are a cashless venue)
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Here’s a look at what your day trip might cost, depending on your travel style.
| Expense | Budget Option (SEPTA + Café) | Mid-Range (Driving + Casual Dining) |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | ~$45 | ~$15 |
| Admission Ticket | ~$30 | ~$30 |
| Food & Drink | ~$25 | ~$40 |
| Estimated Total | ~$100 | ~$85 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many hours do you need at Longwood Gardens?
You need a minimum of 3 to 4 hours to see the main highlights like the Conservatory and Main Fountain Garden. For a more relaxed pace that includes a meal and exploring the outdoor gardens like the Meadow, plan for a 5 to 6-hour visit.
Is there public transportation from Philadelphia to Longwood Gardens?
No, there is no direct public transportation. The best method is to take an Amtrak or SEPTA train to a nearby station (like Wilmington, DE, or Elwyn, PA) and then use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft for the final 25-minute leg of the journey.
Does Amtrak go to Longwood Gardens?
Amtrak does not go directly to Longwood Gardens. The closest Amtrak station is in Wilmington, Delaware (WIL), which is about a 25-minute drive from the gardens.
Is there a bus that goes to Longwood Gardens?
No, there is no regular public bus service (like SEPTA or Greyhound) that provides a route to Longwood Gardens. Driving or a train and rideshare combination are the only reliable options.
TLDR: Your Perfect Day Trip Cheat Sheet
In a hurry? Here are the most important things to know:
- Book Tickets in Advance: Timed entry is required. Don’t show up without a ticket!
- Driving is Easiest: It’s the most direct route, and parking is free.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You will walk a lot. This is non-negotiable.
- Must-Sees: Prioritize the Conservatory and a Main Fountain Garden show.
- Visit on a Weekday: If you can, go Tuesday-Thursday to avoid the biggest crowds.
