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 sits on 92 acres in Chestnut Hill, Northwest Philadelphia. It's home to one of North America's finest tree collections, Victorian-era gardens, and the whimsical "Out on a Limb" canopy walk. The arboretum holds official status as Pennsylvania's state arboretum and brings together serious botanical research with public enjoyment.[1]
At its heart, the arboretum preserves what was once a Victorian estate belonging to John and Lydia Morris. They transformed it into something remarkable: one of America's most significant botanical gardens.
History
The Morris Estate
In 1887, John T. Morris and his sister Lydia Morris bought the property and spent decades developing it as their summer estate, "Compton." Both siblings were world travelers who collected plants everywhere they went.
Quakers with genuine passion for plants. That shaped everything about the estate. They wanted to blend scientific collections with natural beauty.
Bequest to Penn
When Lydia Morris died in 1932, she left the estate to the University of Pennsylvania with explicit instructions: it had to become a public arboretum and botanical garden. Penn's been running it ever since, growing its educational and research programs over the decades.
Collections
Trees
The tree collection here is what puts Morris on the map:
- Over 2,500 labeled plants
- Significant Asian collections (particularly Japanese)
- Pennsylvania and North American natives
- Champion and historic specimens
- Extensive magnolia collection
Specialty Gardens
You'll find themed gardens scattered 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 deserves special mention:
- Victorian-era restored structure
- Grotto with fern collections
- Unique architectural feature
- Cool, shaded environment
This was the height of Victorian garden design.
Attractions
Out on a Limb
Here's what draws people back again and again. The Out on a Limb canopy walk stretches 450 feet above the ground—specifically 50 feet up—so you're walking through the treetops themselves. Visitors get a bird's-eye view of the canopy with suspension bridges and platforms connecting everything together. It's become extremely popular, which means busy days can mean waits.
Garden Railway
The Garden Railway runs seasonally and features large-scale model trains winding through miniature Philadelphia landmarks set in the garden. Families love it, though you'll want to check the website for seasonal hours.
Sculpture
Contemporary and historic sculptures are scattered throughout. They're integrated into the gardens rather than stuck in a separate area.
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
Opening times shift with the seasons:
- Summer: 10 AM - 5 PM
- Winter: 10 AM - 4 PM
- Closed on some holidays
- Check their website for current details
Admission
- General admission fee (prices change—check current rates)
- 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
- It's a short walk from Germantown Avenue
By Car:
- Free parking on site
- Enter via Northwestern Avenue
Tips
Out on a Limb draws serious crowds on nice days, so go early if you're planning to walk it. Spring's when the flowering trees explode, and fall offers stunning foliage. Both are peak seasons. You can't go wrong combining a visit here with shopping and dining in Chestnut Hill itself. Garden Railway hours change seasonally. Check the website before you go. Bring comfortable walking shoes; there's a lot of ground to cover.
See Also
- Chestnut Hill
- Bartram's Garden
- Fairmount Park
- Longwood Gardens (Chester County)
References
- ↑ "Morris Arboretum". University of Pennsylvania. Retrieved December 30, 2025