The Prettiest Flower Gardens in Philly to Visit This June

Philadelphia can lay claim to a lot of titles, but none of them are more relevant this season than that of America’s Garden Capital. With more than 30 gardens located within 30 miles of the city, there’s no shortage of springtime blooms to see right now. Get outside and experience them for yourself this month by checking out these landscaped destinations. 

Shofuso Japanese Garden and House

Home to the Cherry Blossom Festival each April, Shofuso continues to boast colorful blooms through late spring. The West Fairmount destination features a garden designed by Junzo Yoshimura and renovated by Nakajima Kenjiark that mimics the authentic Momoyama style of early 17th-century Japan. Tour the tea garden or feed the koi fish while taking in the irises, flowering shrubs and other natural wonders. 

Bartram’s Garden

This hidden gem on the southern shores of the Schukyill formerly belonged to America’s first botanist, John Bartram. His legacy lives on today with gorgeous, well-kept gardens—home to peonies, tulips, daffodils and more—and naturally flowering meadows and woodlands. Bring a picnic or plan to walk Bartram’s Mile, the riverfront pathway. Best of all, the garden is free to visit year-round.

Morris Arboretum

Located along the Wissahickon, Morris Arboretum has more than 13,000 labeled plants of some 2,600 different varieties. In June, expect to see the rose garden in full bloom well as foxtail lilies, clematis and mountain laurel—Pennsylvania’s state flower. You may also spy the two resident swans not to mention a wide variety of ducks, warblers and other wildlife. Heads up: You’ll need to plan your visit ahead of time. Advance tickets are required.   

Wyck

This historic house, garden and farm located in Germantown is home to a 200-year-old rose garden with more than 50 different historic cultivars. In fact, it’s the country’s oldest rose garden still in its original plan. Many of the varieties, like the double-blooming ‘Elegant Gallica,’ were thought lost until horticulturalists discovered them growing at Wyck. The sweet-smelling blooms first open in May and last until late October, so you may have to visit more than once to see them all.   

Learn more about the Philadelphia Flower Show, sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.