Editing Morris Arboretum

{{Infobox Park
| name = Morris Arboretum
| image =
| image_caption = Morris Arboretum gardens and historic structures
| 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 = https://www.morrisarboretum.org
}}

'''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.<ref name="morris">{{cite web |url=https://www.morrisarboretum.org |title=Morris Arboretum |publisher=University of Pennsylvania |access-date=December 30, 2025}}</ref>

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 ==
<references />

== External Links ==

* [https://www.morrisarboretum.org Morris Arboretum]
* [https://www.chestnuthillpa.com Chestnut Hill Business Association]

{{#seo:
|title=Morris Arboretum Philadelphia - Gardens, Trees & Out on a Limb Canopy Walk
|description=Guide to Morris Arboretum of Penn in Chestnut Hill. 92-acre public garden with tree collections, Out on a Limb canopy walk, Victorian fernery, and garden railway.
|keywords=Morris Arboretum Philadelphia, Chestnut Hill gardens, Out on a Limb canopy walk, Philadelphia botanical gardens, University of Pennsylvania arboretum, Northwest Philadelphia
|type=Article
}}

[[Category:Parks]]
[[Category:Gardens]]
[[Category:Northwest Philadelphia]]
[[Category:Chestnut Hill]]
[[Category:Attractions]]