Photo by Anne O’Hirsch.
Longwood Gardens
2 hours away
With more than 1,000 acres of gardens, woodlands, and meadows, Longwood Gardens (610-388-1000) in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, is one of America’s premier horticultural showplaces. Started in 1906 by Pierre S. du Pont, it’s home to a large conservatory that shelters 20 gardens, including a dizzying display of orchids. Tickets are $18 for adults.
Spring is an ideal time to follow the outdoor trails past imaginative topiaries, clever treehouses, and elaborate fountains. Need a break? The property’s casual Terrace Restaurant is green-certified and serves local foods.
Make a Brandywine Valley weekend of it with an overnight stay at the elegant Hotel du Pont (302-594-3100), about 20 minutes away in Wilmington, Delaware.
Rooms at the Hotel du Pont range from $179 on weekends to $469 on weekdays.
