Morris Arboretum Philadelphia
The city's beautiful backyard
Craving some green? Look no further than the Morris Arboretum. On the outer edge of the city's northwest, this huge public garden is the perfect sylvan escape from Philadelphia's urban bustle.
Every time we stroll the formal flower gardens or weave our way through the roses, my husband tells me this is his favorite place in all of Philadelphia. I agree. Its 92 acres of green are studded with shady gazebos, fountains, monuments, and sculptures. The swan pond is tranquil all year, and Oak Alley offers cool shade.
The trees are well labeled, so you can learn as much as you care to. Or you can just ease onto one of many well placed benches and relax. Head to the log cabin, where you'll find adirondack chairs overlooking a creek. The Morris family used to entertain here and elsewhere on their vast property, until they donated it to the University of Pennsylvania (Penn) in the early 1930s.
Revolving art exhibits focus on nature themes and materials that fit the natural environment. There is an outdoor train display in the summer and again at the holidays, a favorite for kids. And the historic fernery is a glassed-in paradise on chilly days.
Out on a Limb is my favorite, a grandiose modernist tree house that takes you into the tree canopies, with a giant robin's nest sculpture, and huge hammocks that visitors can climb down into, a wonderful place to relax. Don't miss this gem!
About this spot
Find your way with 156 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Philadelphia
Bio Pond U. Penn
Urban oasis in West Philly
The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park in Philly (known by locals as the Bio Pond) was University of Penn’s first botanic garden. Makes for a romantic date...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Stina Pizzeria
Delightful Mediterranean fare
"Stina Pizzeria" in Philadelphia offers an enticing blend of pizza but also the best spanakopita I've ever tasted and other Mediterranean-inspired dishes...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
The Modern Republic
Midcentury home decor
"The Modern Republic" in Philadelphia is a midcentury modern home decor shop that is colorful, ebullient, high-ceilinged, and tastefully curated!
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Lil Nas X Mural Gayborhood
LGBTQ icon
"Lil Nas X Mural Gayborhood" in Philadelphia is 36-feet-large and portrays the early 21st-century LGBTQ+ icon that's conquered the world...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Dream Garden
Beautiful free art
When you see it for the first time you are struck by its size.
by
Jeff
Landis
Contrafuerte
Outdoor sculpture
"Contrafuerte" in Philadelphia is Miguel Antonio Horn's latest sculpture which comprises of eight entangled nude bodies holding a small concrete bridge...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Poquessing Creek Trail Ruins
Prison farm ruins
These old farm ruins outside Northern Philadelphia are covered in graffiti and belong to a now-abandoned prison...
by
Holly
Miller
Two Persons Coffee
Excellent coffee zen space
"Two Persons Coffee" in Philadelphia is in a building that used to be a public vocational school, and its furniture was salvaged to complement the cafe...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Merchant Exchange
Greek Revival architecture
My favorite building in Philadelphia is the Merchant Exchange, conveniently located across the street from my favorite movie theater...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Sally
Friendly, local, tasty food!
"Sally" in Philadelphia is a casual and friendly restaurant that's also been named the Best New Restaurant of 2021...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Chris Jazz Cafe
Live jazz and Southern cuisine
"Chris Jazz Cafe" in Philadelphia has been keeping the jazz flames alive in Center City for over 30 years. A night here is an absolute event...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Heading to Philadelphia?
156 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 156 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Philadelphia
Our team loves Philadelphia
Get to know our other Spotters from Philadelphia
As featured on:
