Awbury Arboretum - green grass and trees near river during daytime
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Awbury Arboretum

4.7
·367 reviews·Philadelphia, United States

A free, peaceful urban oasis offering natural beauty, community events, and a serene escape in Philadelphia.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming magnolias & fresh air

CrowdLow
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Awbury Arboretum - green grass and trees near river during daytime

Awbury Arboretum

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming magnolias & fresh air

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A free, peaceful urban oasis offering natural beauty, community events, and a serene escape in Philadelphia.

4.7
(367 reviews)

"Absolutely beautiful oasis full of flora, fauna, and friendly people!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission & Parking

Enjoy this urban oasis without cost! Parking is available in the back.

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the natural trails and grounds with ease.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Farm & Goat Paddock

The Farm & Goat Paddock

The Farm at Awbury Arboretum

Meet friendly goats and explore the Storybook Trail for a whimsical outdoor reading adventure. Perfect for families!

Instagram
Magnolia Blooms

Magnolia Blooms

Various locations

In spring, the arboretum bursts with the delicate beauty of blooming magnolias, a truly picturesque sight.

Reddit
Nature Trails & Pond

Nature Trails & Pond

Throughout the arboretum

Wander through serene nature trails, discover a tranquil pond, and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Free Escape

Awbury Arboretum offers a peaceful, free retreat in the city. Open dawn to dusk, it's perfect for a quiet walk or reconnecting with nature. Plan for leisurely exploration rather than structured tours. Instagram

Discover Hidden Trails

While not as manicured as other Philly gardens, Awbury's charm lies in its natural beauty and winding paths. Grab a map to uncover its history and diverse flora. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blooming magnolias & fresh air
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays, dawn to dusk
Why
Peaceful escape from city bustle
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday afternoons
Why
Community events & activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Qui veut grimper aux arbres ? 😅 #awburyarboretum #philly #philadelphie #famille #jeux #enfants #parcdejeux #nature
@bonvoyagefroggy
3.8K likes • 35.2K views

🎯 Free Admission & Parking

Enjoy this urban oasis without cost! Parking is available in the back. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the natural trails and grounds with ease. Reddit

When it all feels heavy, remember that Awbury Arboretum is here. A free and peaceful escape open 365 days a year from dawn to dusk. 🌿 Take a moment to reconnect with nature, touch grass, and breathe deep. We’re here for you—a green space for brighter days ahead. 🌱💚 #FindPeaceInNature #AwburyArboretum #NatureHeals #optoutside #GreenerFuture #OutdoorEscape #ReconnectWithNature #PhillyParks #Open36...
awburyarboretum
120 likes • 1.6K views
last time we was here it was winter but awbury arboretum in the spring is a whole vibe. there’s nothing like skating surrounded by nature. now ion’t remember what year this album dropped but i remember luke lo having a chokehold on my headphones. #rollertherapy #shauwneysskatepalace #suregripskates #outdoorskating #🛼 #phillyskate #rollerskating #awburyarboretum #lykkeli
itsgreeeen
9 likes • 102 views

🗺️ Grab a Map

Enhance your visit by learning about the arboretum's history and layout. Reddit

🌳 Climb Trees (Carefully!)

Embrace your inner child and enjoy the natural playground. TikTok

Walk and talk with Kristen around awbury arboretum! I'll share about the trees we work with, our relationship with the arboretum and why we think this process is so important! PART THREE! #sustainable #sustainableliving #sustainability #environment #furnituredesign #furniture #highend #design #citylife #philly #philadelphia #awburyarboretum #housewares #woodenchairs #howitsmade #behindthescenes #...
fuugswoodworking
22 likes • 434 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission & Parking

Enjoy this urban oasis without cost! Parking is available in the back. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the natural trails and grounds with ease. Reddit

🗺️ Grab a Map

Enhance your visit by learning about the arboretum's history and layout. Reddit

🌳 Climb Trees (Carefully!)

Embrace your inner child and enjoy the natural playground. TikTok

🛹 Roller Skating Vibes

Experience the unique joy of outdoor roller skating surrounded by nature. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(367 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Awbury Arboretum as a beautiful, free urban oasis offering a peaceful escape with diverse flora and nature trails. Many appreciate its community-focused activities and the chance to connect with nature. Some note it's less manicured than other famous gardens but value its unique charm and accessibility.

"Awbury is nothing like Morris Arboretum or Longwood Gardens, but it’s completely free. They have some lovely magnolias, a pond, and some nature trails. It’s a nice place to just walk around"

Kurt Knepley

"Absolutely beautiful oasis full of flora, fauna, and friendly people! We did our volunteer hours for Weavers Way here and it was our first time visiting ... SO impressed; cannot wait to return for more service time AND for some leisurely visits. Bonus was all the kind volunteers and visitors we met while we walked the property picking up trash around the property's perimeter streets. Can't believe I am only just now learning of this amazing (FREE admission) place! Looking forward to exploring the pond area, nature trails, and historic house."

J M

"A great community space for everyone! Lots of activities happen here and an amazing place to get fruits fresh from the trees!"

Mahalia Sealy

What People Like

Free admission
Peaceful atmosphere
Natural beauty

What People Dislike

Less manicured than formal gardens

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Awbury Arboretum is accessible by public transportation and car. Many visitors enjoy biking to the arboretum as a scenic route through the city. Reddit Parking is available on-site. Reddit

While it's a hidden gem, following GPS or using a map will guide you to its location within the city. Reddit

Absolutely! Biking is a popular and enjoyable way to reach Awbury Arboretum, offering a pleasant ride through Philadelphia. Reddit

Check local transit schedules for bus routes that service the area near Awbury Arboretum for convenient public transport access.

Yes, there is parking available at the back of the arboretum, making it convenient for those arriving by car. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Awbury Arboretum offers free admission, making it an accessible and budget-friendly destination for everyone. InstagramReddit

The arboretum is open daily from dawn to dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy its natural beauty at their leisure. Instagram

Yes, Awbury Arboretum is open 365 days a year, providing a consistent green space for relaxation and nature appreciation. Instagram

Since admission is free and it's open to the public, no advance booking is required to visit Awbury Arboretum.

While general admission is free, some special events or workshops hosted by Awbury Arboretum or its partners might have separate registration or fees. Check their official channels for details.

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

You can explore nature trails, enjoy the Storybook Trail, meet goats at The Farm, admire blooming magnolias, and even try roller skating. Instagram+1 It's a great place for leisurely walks and appreciating nature. Reddit

Yes! The Storybook Trail and the goat paddock at The Farm are particularly engaging for children. Instagram Plus, the opportunity to climb trees adds to the fun. TikTok

While not explicitly stated, the open green spaces suggest that picnics are likely welcome. It's always a good idea to check for any specific park rules regarding picnicking.

While not always scheduled, you can often find information about the arboretum's history and trees through pamphlets or by engaging with staff or volunteers. Reddit

Visitors can spot various birds and animals, contributing to the serene, natural ambiance of the arboretum. Reddit You might even see a bee swarm capture if you're lucky! Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The blooming magnolias in spring, the tranquil pond, and the natural trails offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The Storybook Trail also provides charming scenes. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed, allowing you to capture the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the arboretum. Instagram

While general photography is encouraged, it's always wise to be mindful of other visitors and any specific event guidelines if applicable.

Drone usage policies can vary greatly. It's best to check with Awbury Arboretum directly regarding any regulations on drone photography.

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best natural light for photography, creating a softer, more atmospheric look.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Awbury Arboretum is a fantastic, free option for families. The Storybook Trail at The Farm is a must-do, turning reading into an outdoor adventure. Instagram Don't miss the chance to see the goats in their paddock! Instagram Encourage your kids to explore the natural trails and, if they're adventurous, even climb a tree under supervision. TikTok It's a great place for them to connect with nature and burn off energy in a safe, engaging environment. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Explorers & Nature Lovers

For those seeking a peaceful escape, Awbury Arboretum is your sanctuary. Its free admission and open hours from dawn to dusk make it an accessible retreat. Instagram Wander the serene nature trails, find a quiet spot by the pond, or simply enjoy the diverse flora. Reddit It’s the perfect place to de-stress, practice mindfulness, or enjoy a leisurely walk surrounded by natural beauty. Instagram

❤️ Couples & Romantic Outings

Awbury Arboretum offers a tranquil and picturesque setting for couples. Enjoy a romantic stroll hand-in-hand along the nature trails or find a quiet bench by the pond. Reddit The natural ambiance provides a serene backdrop for quality time together, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful date or a quiet moment away from the city's hustle. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Active Adventurers

Awbury Arboretum is a great destination for cyclists looking for new routes in Philadelphia. Many visitors enjoy biking to the arboretum as part of their weekend rides. Reddit Once there, you can explore the grounds on foot or even enjoy a unique outdoor roller skating experience surrounded by nature. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Charm of Awbury Arboretum

Awbury Arboretum stands apart from more formal gardens like Morris Arboretum or Longwood. Its appeal lies in its natural, untamed beauty and its role as a free community space in the heart of Philadelphia. Visitors often describe it as a 'hidden gem' offering a peaceful escape from urban life. Reddit The arboretum encourages a more relaxed, exploratory visit, inviting people to wander its grounds and discover its quiet corners. Instagram

Unlike meticulously curated botanical gardens, Awbury embraces a more organic landscape. This means you'll find winding nature trails, a serene pond, and diverse flora that thrives in a less controlled environment. Reddit It’s a place where you can truly 'touch grass' and breathe deep, fostering a sense of peace and connection with nature. Instagram The arboretum also hosts various activities, from volunteer days to beekeeping demonstrations, highlighting its role as a vibrant community hub. Instagram

Family Fun and Nature Play

For families, Awbury Arboretum is a delightful destination. The Storybook Trail at The Farm is a standout feature, allowing children to immerse themselves in stories while surrounded by nature. Instagram This interactive experience makes reading an adventure, and it's available in both English and Spanish. Adjacent to the trail is the goat paddock, where kids can observe and interact with friendly goats, adding an element of animal encounter to the visit. Instagram

Beyond these specific attractions, Awbury offers a natural playground. The idea of climbing trees is embraced, encouraging children to engage with the environment in a playful and adventurous way. TikTok The arboretum's open spaces and natural trails are perfect for running around, exploring, and simply enjoying the outdoors. It’s a place where kids can burn energy and connect with the natural world in a safe and accessible setting. TikTok

Sustainability and Community at Awbury

Awbury Arboretum is deeply committed to sustainability and fostering a strong community connection. This is evident in initiatives like their work with local woodworking groups who utilize the arboretum's resources responsibly. Instagram The arboretum serves as a living example of how urban green spaces can support ecological practices and local craftsmanship. Instagram

The arboretum also actively engages the community through volunteer opportunities and partnerships. Visitors can participate in service days, helping to maintain the grounds and contributing to the preservation of this valuable urban oasis. Reddit Events like those hosted by the Philly Beekeepers Guild showcase the diverse ecological and educational programming available, demonstrating Awbury's role as a center for learning and environmental stewardship. Instagram

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