Morris Arboretum
| Morris Arboretum | |
|---|---|
| Type | Arboretum / Public garden |
| Location | Chestnut Hill, Northwest Philadelphia |
| Coordinates | 40.0920,-75.2280 |
| Area | 92 acres |
| Established | 1887 (estate); 1932 (public garden) |
| Operated by | University of Pennsylvania |
| Features | Tree collections, fernery, Out on a Limb, gardens |
| Hours | 10 AM - 4 PM (varies by season) |
| Transit | SEPTA Regional Rail to Chestnut Hill stations |
| Website | Official Site |
Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania is a 92-acre public garden in Chestnut Hill, Northwest Philadelphia, featuring one of the finest tree collections in North America, Victorian-era gardens, and the whimsical "Out on a Limb" canopy walk. As the official arboretum of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Morris Arboretum combines scientific research with public enjoyment.[1]
The arboretum preserves the Victorian estate of John and Lydia Morris, transformed into one of America's most significant botanical gardens.
History
The Morris Estate
John T. Morris and his sister Lydia Morris purchased the property in 1887, developing it over decades as their summer estate "Compton." The siblings traveled widely, collecting plants from around the world.
The Morrises were Quakers with a passion for horticulture, and they designed their estate to combine scientific plant collections with naturalistic beauty.
Bequest to Penn
Lydia Morris bequeathed the estate to the University of Pennsylvania upon her death in 1932, stipulating that it be maintained as a public arboretum and botanical garden. Penn has operated the arboretum ever since, expanding its educational and research missions.
Collections
Trees
The arboretum is renowned for its tree collection:
- Over 2,500 labeled plants
- Significant Asian collections (particularly Japanese)
- Pennsylvania and North American natives
- Champion and historic specimens
- Extensive magnolia collection
Specialty Gardens
Themed gardens throughout:
- Rose Garden — Historic design, modern roses
- English Park — Naturalistic landscape
- Japanese Gardens — Asian influence
- Pennock Garden — Perennial display
- Swan Pond — Water garden
- Oak Allée — Formal tree-lined path
The Fernery
The Fernery is a highlight:
- Victorian-era restored structure
- Grotto with fern collections
- Unique architectural feature
- Cool, shaded environment
Attractions
Out on a Limb
The Out on a Limb canopy walk:
- 450 feet of elevated walkway
- 50 feet above the ground
- Bird's-eye view of the canopy
- Suspension bridges and platforms
- Extremely popular with visitors
Garden Railway
The Garden Railway (seasonal):
- Large-scale model trains
- Miniature Philadelphia landmarks
- Garden setting
- Popular family attraction
Sculpture
Sculptures throughout the grounds:
- Contemporary works
- Historic pieces
- Garden integration
Programs
Education
- Adult classes in horticulture
- Children's programs
- Professional training
- Certificate programs
Research
- Plant science research
- Urban forestry studies
- Conservation programs
Events
- Seasonal festivals
- Holiday displays
- Concerts
- Special exhibitions
Visiting
Hours
- Summer: 10 AM - 5 PM
- Winter: 10 AM - 4 PM
- Closed some holidays
- Check website for current hours
Admission
- General admission fee (check current prices)
- Discounts for students, seniors, children
- Free for Penn affiliates
- Membership available
Getting There
Location: 100 E. Northwestern Avenue, Chestnut Hill
By Public Transit:
- SEPTA Regional Rail to Chestnut Hill East or West stations
- Walk from Germantown Avenue
By Car:
- Free parking on site
- Enter via Northwestern Avenue
Tips
- Out on a Limb can have waits on busy days
- Spring (flowering trees) and fall (foliage) are peak seasons
- Combine with Chestnut Hill shopping and dining
- The Garden Railway has seasonal hours—check website
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
See Also
- Chestnut Hill
- Bartram's Garden
- Fairmount Park
- Longwood Gardens (Chester County)
References
- ↑ "Morris Arboretum". University of Pennsylvania. Retrieved December 30, 2025