Holiday experiences are anticipated by many every year. The one on most people’s mind in the Maryland, Delaware line is that of the Longwoods gardens.
If you’re looking for a fun day trip out of Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens is a must-visit. With acres of gardens, ornate fountains, and sprawling greenhouses, there’s something for everyone at Longwood. From the Conservatory to the outdoor gardens. Here are seven things not to miss at Longwood Garden’s Christmas this year.
OUTDOOR GARDENS:
As you walk the grounds, you can’t miss the avenue of trees, especially when night falls and the trees are illuminated. All the trees around the garden are specially decorated with different set of ornaments to set the tone of a super Christmas wonderland. Look out for the cedar tree at the small lake with intense blue lights illuminating the tree from its roots to the top. quite magical. Don’t miss out on the Enchanted Forest with its fairy-tale trees lit up in all colors of the rainbow. There is also a magical tree house as you make your way through the gardens. It is open for exploration especially if you are visiting with children.
THE FOUNTAINS:
As you take a leisurely walk through the beautiful landscape of flowers, gardens, and trees, you will arrive at one of the fountains. There have a display of the water, lights and music every 15minutes. Pick a seat and reveal in the beauty and sounds resonating from this fountain. It is a Christmas delight for sure. You can always circle back around during your visit. or catch another fountain display of lights and music only, no water at the pavilion near the observatory. Longwood gardens is known to have the world’s famous fountains. https://longwoodgardens.org
The Fountain Garden with its 4 million gallons of water and spectacular light show is one of the biggest highlights of the summer months.
THE OBSERVATORY
One of the biggest and magical moments of things not to miss at longwood garden Christmas, is their outstanding observatory. Amongst other interesting exhibits and events, the fire and ice display are the showcase exhibit for this year. The theme is elaborate and spectacular.
You really have to see it to appreciate all the hard work and designing that went into its creation. The cascading water between beautiful flowers, perfectly decorated Christmas trees, an exotic array of point setters. Walking through and around the observatory is like being in a dream wonderland complete with a plush dinner table set for the holidays. It will continue to be spectacular until January 15th, so it is not too late to plan a holiday trip that will be worth your while.
HOLIDAY HOUSE TOURS:
Visitors can tour six beautifully decorated model homes in historic garden as one of the 5 things not to miss at longwood gardens Christmas. If you love history and will like to explore how people lived in the past, you will be excited to tour. My favorite house was The Peirce du Pont house which explores longwood’s beauty and history including how he acquired the gardens from the Peirce family back in the 1900s. The house is beautifully decorated you would not want to leave. Can’t miss the atrium with a gigantic Christmas tree as you tour the house, with light music permeating through the flowers and decorations. This house is definitely one of the things not to miss at longwood gardens Christmas.
DECORATED TREES GALORE:
This year, Longwood Gardens is decorated for Christmas with more than 1 million lights and ornaments. The holiday season begins with having a Christmas tree. There is no shortage of trees at longwoods gardens. Including special displays for kids made by kids Christmas. You could literally see a different tree at each turn you make. Some had gift wrapped boxes under and around the trees to bring it to life like it was Christmas morning.
The colors are bright and cherry with ornaments that brings life to the trees. Several twinkly lights all over the trees. Not to mention garlands and snowflake ornaments for everyone. The trees looked like you could just wish one to be placed in your living room.
The one tree that was quite intriguing amongst several, was that which was decorated with buckets of birdseed, wheat and millet bundles clipped along a clothesline garland, and decorative suet pinecones that are woven around the tree. They call this the wildlife tree for birds and rabbits. It was fascinating to see that there was tree to cater for the birds. This tree warms the heart of every animal lover.
There is so much to see and do at this beautiful winter wonderland. If you want to get into the Christmas spirit and find a way for your whole family can enjoy, this will be a good choice.
I hope you enjoyed my blog post on how to get into the holiday spirit while visiting longwood garden. It’s a great way to experience winter. There are plenty of opportunities for families with children, couples or even solo visitors who want to enjoy some quality time outdoors during this season.
It is a place where anyone can come share in the beauty of nature, while also enjoying time with others. If you love Christmas wonderlands, trees and lights, then you can’t miss out on the 5 things not to miss at longwoods Christmas holiday. For other Christmas gardens in the Baltimore area not far away check this linkhttp://ec-travels.com/one-of-top-five-gardens-in-north-america
NOTE:
- The website will inform you of entry ticket prices and entry times. Be sure to purchase your tickets online prior to your trip.
- Dress comfortably and warm (include hat and gloves)
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Have some snacks and water or cash to purchase. There are several food outlets including a full restaurant to enjoy.
- You can plan and reserve dinner at the restaurants on the grounds.
- If you get too cold outside, there are fire pits set at different stations to warm your hands and roast some marshmallows.
- Arrive on time so as to park close to the entrance and easy exit.
- If in the Baltimore area, other gardens that you can
This short video brings it to life and whets your appetite to go see it for yourself.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qnwpp2WndU