The History of Longmeadow Garden
Longmeadow Garden is a well-known and well-loved garden located in Pennsylvania. The garden was started by F. Otto Haas and his wife, Phoebe, in 1934. The Haases hired a landscape architect named Thomas Sears to design the garden, which was originally called “Longwood Gardens.” Over the years, the garden has expanded to cover over 1,000 acres, and it is now one of the most visited gardens in the United States.
The Haas Family
F. Otto Haas was a businessman who made his fortune in the chemical industry. He and his wife were passionate about gardening, and they wanted to create a garden that would be accessible to the public. When they purchased the property that would become Longwood Gardens, it was a rundown farm with a few old trees and a dilapidated house. But the Haases had a vision for what the property could become, and they set about transforming it into a world-class garden.
The Design of the Garden
Thomas Sears, the landscape architect who designed Longwood Gardens, was known for his ability to create gardens that looked like they had always been there. He used a combination of formal and informal design elements to create a garden that was both beautiful and functional. The garden features a large conservatory, several outdoor gardens, and a series of fountains and water features.
Longmeadow Garden Today
Today, Longmeadow Garden is owned by the Longwood Foundation, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to preserving and maintaining the garden for future generations. The garden is open to the public year-round, and visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities and events.
The Conservatory
One of the highlights of Longmeadow Garden is the conservatory, a massive greenhouse that covers over 4 acres. The conservatory features more than 20 indoor gardens, each with its own unique theme. Visitors can stroll through rooms filled with tropical plants, orchids, ferns, and more. The conservatory is also home to a large collection of bonsai trees, which are displayed throughout the year.
The Outdoor Gardens
In addition to the conservatory, Longmeadow Garden has over 400 acres of outdoor gardens. The gardens are divided into several sections, each with its own unique features. Some of the most popular outdoor gardens include the Italian Water Garden, the Peirce-du Pont House Garden, and the Flower Garden Walk.
The Events
Longmeadow Garden hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including concerts, plant sales, and holiday celebrations. One of the most popular events is the Christmas display, which features over 500,000 lights and is open from mid-November through early January.
Visiting Longmeadow Garden
If you’re planning a visit to Longmeadow Garden, there are a few things you should know. First, the garden is open year-round, but the hours vary depending on the season. Second, there is an admission fee, but it is relatively inexpensive compared to other attractions. Finally, Longmeadow Garden is a popular destination, so it can get crowded during peak times. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the off-season or on a weekday.
Admission Fees
The admission fee for Longmeadow Garden varies depending on the time of year and the day of the week. Adult tickets are $25 during peak season and $23 during the off-season. Children’s tickets (ages 5-18) are $13 during peak season and $11 during the off-season. There are also discounts available for seniors, students, and military personnel.
Hours of Operation
Longmeadow Garden is open year-round, but the hours vary depending on the season. During peak season (May-September), the garden is open from 9 am to 6 pm daily. During the off-season (October-April), the garden is open from 9 am to 5 pm on weekdays and 9 am to 6 pm on weekends.
Getting There
Longmeadow Garden is located in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, about 30 miles southwest of Philadelphia. There is ample parking available, and the garden is easily accessible by car. If you’re coming from Philadelphia, take I-95 south to Route 322 west, then follow the signs to Longmeadow Garden.
Conclusion
Longmeadow Garden is a beautiful and fascinating destination that should not be missed. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, there is something for everyone at Longmeadow Garden. So why not plan a visit today? You won’t be disappointed.