Longwood Gardens

Over Labor Day weekend, Derek and I were trying to decide what to do with the long weekend. We debated on going to Cape May (my favorite beach in the area!) but decided against it because we didn't want to deal with a crowd. Plus, I'm all for the beach in the fall for sight seeing and relaxing purposes. Instead, we finally made the drive to Longwood Gardens! I wrote an article on them for my school paper in college and had never gotten to go and have wanted to since then. It was such a peaceful break from the city and everything about it was incredibly beautiful. There were so many flowers and fountains and cute walking paths, it was a bit overwhelming - but in the best way possible. 

The Italian Water Garden made me nostalgic for Europe. The display was stunning and there were various little statues and details around the garden. Also, the shaped shrubberies (above) were immaculate and without a piece out of place. 

The Conservatory was absolutely breathtaking with numerous rooms all around devoted to different plants and landscapes. There was an orchid room (one of my favorites!), roses and even a room full of cacti. 

Giant lily pads! There were a few different ponds scattered around full of different types/shapes of lily pads. The giant ones were HUGE, they made you wish you could jump right on them- I would not recommend that. 

The meadow garden was probably my favorite part. We walked for an hour at one point and ran into barely any people on the hike. It was so relaxing and quiet while surrounded by fields of flowers. The fields seemed to stretch on for miles and there were cute little signs to read on the way. 

The Summer Spectacular season is over but as of yesterday Autumn's Colors is now on display until November 25. If you live in the Philadelphia area, I 100% recommend a day trip to Longwood Gardens!