Morris Arboretum Philadelphia
The city's beautiful backyard
Andrea from Philadelphia
Craving some green? Look no further than the Morris Arboretum. On the outer edge of the city's northwest, this huge public garden is the perfect sylvan escape from Philadelphia's urban bustle.
Every time we stroll the formal flower gardens or weave our way through the roses, my husband tells me this is his favorite place in all of Philadelphia. I agree. Its 92 acres of green are studded with shady gazebos, fountains, monuments, and sculptures. The swan pond is tranquil all year, and Oak Alley offers cool shade.
The trees are well labeled, so you can learn as much as you care to. Or you can just ease onto one of many well placed benches and relax. Head to the log cabin, where you'll find adirondack chairs overlooking a creek. The Morris family used to entertain here and elsewhere on their vast property, until they donated it to the University of Pennsylvania (Penn) in the early 1930s.
Revolving art exhibits focus on nature themes and materials that fit the natural environment. There is an outdoor train display in the summer and again at the holidays, a favorite for kids. And the historic fernery is a glassed-in paradise on chilly days.
Out on a Limb is my favorite, a grandiose modernist tree house that takes you into the tree canopies, with a giant robin's nest sculpture, and huge hammocks that visitors can climb down into, a wonderful place to relax. Don't miss this gem!
Philadelphia Spotter Andrea
About this spot
Our Philadelphia City Guide
Find your way with 157 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Philadelphia
Cacia's Bakery
Bakery + pizza = Yum
"Cacia's Bakery" in Philadelphia is a local gem. I like their pizza most of all, esp. the pizzaz. My mouth has been watering just writing this article...
by
Doug
Daub
Amy Sherald's Mural
5 stories of elegant power
"Amy Sherald's Mural" in Philadelphia is 5 stories high! In the context of the skyline, seeing this young student in these bright colors is a revelation...
by
Andrea
Szyper
Navy Yard
Grab your bike and go!
The "Navy Yard" in Philadelphia is perfect for bike rides next to carriers! I love coming here and discovering places for picnics & seeing the naval ships.
by
Doug
Daub
Morning Glory Diner
Breakfast is served!
"Morning Glory Diner" is the restaurant in Philadelphia I take guests for breakfast/brunch. Everything is made from scratch - check out the frittatas!
by
Doug
Daub
John's Roast Pork
Poooooooooooooorrrrrrrrk
"John's Roast Pork" in Philadelphia has just been making ridiculously juicy roast pork sandwiches since 1930. Come here, get the large, and be quick!
by
Doug
Daub
Philip's
The Old-Fashioned cheesesteak
"Philip's" in Philadelphia is a cheesesteak restaurant that mixes neighborhood and strip & that's a little different. My only tip? Just try to eat inside!
by
Doug
Daub
Eastern State Penitentiary
Spooky!
"Eastern State Penitentiary" Philadelphia is the first prison to use the term - it was the the place to find penitence... Creepy, especially on Halloween!
by
Doug
Daub
Ben Franklin Bridge
What a view
"Ben Franklin Bridge" is great for running or walking over. It was opened in 1926 and has been offering great views ever since...
by
Doug
Daub
Tony Luke's
My fave cheesesteak
"Tony Luke's" is the restaurant (it's really a shack) that makes my favorite cheesesteak in the whole of Philadelphia. Follow my tips for correct ordering!
by
Doug
Daub
Ishkabibbles
The chicken steak
"Ishkabibbles" on Philadelphia's South Street is a great little local hole-in-the wall restaurant. It's got cheesesteak, but with chicken instead of beef.
by
Doug
Daub
Fort Mifflin
Present meet past
"Fort Mifflin" in Philadelphia is a place even most locals don't know about! It's one of the few star forts in the Mid Atlantic. I urge you, just go there.
by
Doug
Daub
Heading to Philadelphia?
157 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 157 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Philadelphia
Our team loves Philadelphia
Get to know our other Spotters from Philadelphia
As featured on:
