Adrian Berlutti
In a stunning recognition of its unparalleled beauty, a garden in Pennsylvania has been named the most beautiful in the world. With lush greenery and artistic plant arrangements, this enchanting oasis has become a must-visit destination for garden lovers and tourists. This past June, a global study by Titan Travel unveiled the crème de la crème of botanical beauty: Pennsylvania’s own Longwood Gardens.
The Beauty of Longwood Gardens
If you have ever wondered where you can find a botanical paradise in the United States? Look no further than Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. Spread across over 1,100 acres, this garden is a dazzling blend of gardens, woodlands, and meadows. Open all year round, it offers a spectacular array of native and exotic plants, indoor and outdoor horticulture, and an impressive lineup of events and performances.
A Legacy of Green Thumbs
Did you know the roots of Longwood Gardens go back to 1798? When Joshua and Samuel Peirce began planting exotic trees, transforming the area into what became known as Peirce’s Park. Fast forward to 1906, when industrialist Pierre Samuel du Pont purchased the property and renamed it Longwood. Du Pont’s passion for horticulture led him to develop stunning conservatories between 1919 and 1921 and establish a foundation in 1937.
A Garden for All Seasons
Longwood Gardens is a year-round spectacle, with outdoor gardens that range from formal to naturalistic landscapes. Imagine strolling through 1.6 acres of glass-enclosed Conservatory gardens featuring 13 indoor gardens and a dazzling array of 859 types of permanent plant species. The garden isn’t just about plants; it’s also home to mesmerizing fountains that add a touch of allure to the whole experience.
Education and Entertainment Galore
This garden is a gardener’s dream school with educational programs like a tuition-free two-year school of professional horticulture, a fellows program, and extensive internships. And let’s not forget the hundreds of events hosted each year, from flower shows and gardening demos to concerts and fireworks displays. Its Christmas light display is a holiday favorite, attracting more than a million visitors annually since 2012.
A Plant Lover’s Paradise
With over 10,000 plant species and varieties, Longwood Gardens is a true haven for plant lovers. While the focus is on stunning horticultural displays, certain collections get special attention and care. Core collections like Nymphaea, Buxus, Chrysanthemum, and Peirce’s trees are accredited by the American Public Gardens Association Plant Collection Network.
