Bartram's Garden

Bartram's Garden is one of Philadelphia's greatest treasures and one of its best-kept secrets. Founded in 1728 by John Bartram — America's first botanist — the 50-acre property on the banks of the Schuylkill River is the oldest surviving botanical garden in North America. It's also completely free.

The garden occupies a long stretch of the Schuylkill River in Southwest Philadelphia, an area that most visitors to the city never see. The property includes the 1731 Bartram farmhouse (the oldest botanical garden house in the country), formal garden beds, native plant meadows, and trails that wind down to the river. The landscape is naturalistic and wild — closer to a nature preserve than a manicured botanical garden.

For families, Bartram's works as a nature escape within city limits. The meadow trails are flat and manageable for young kids. The river views are scenic. The community boathouse offers free kayaking events on the Schuylkill in summer (registration required). And the free family nature programs — guided walks, planting activities, birdwatching — are genuinely well-run and engaging for kids 4+.

The garden is also an active community resource, running food programs, environmental education, and free fitness classes. It's the rare historic site that's more focused on its present community than its past glory. Visiting feels like participating in something meaningful rather than consuming a tourist product.

Getting there: the garden is about a 15-minute drive from Center City. Free parking is available on-site. SEPTA bus route 36 stops nearby but service can be infrequent. Driving is the practical choice for most visitors.