Bartram's Garden

from bartramsgarden.org

History
If it's truly a Philadelphia Institution -it must have a long history and Bartram's Garden in Philadelphia fits the bill perfectly.
John Bartram (1699-1777) was a third-generation Pennsylvania Quaker, born in nearby Darby, Pennsylvania. Bartram had a curiosity and reverence for nature, as well as a passion for scientific inquiry. Bartram purchased 102 acres from Swedish settlers in 1728, and systematically began gathering the most varied collection of North American plants in the world. As a result, he was the first Botanist in this country.

His garden became a source of inquiry and pleasure for luminaries like Thomas Jefferson and George Washington. Bartram's Garden was the first botanical garden and nursery in the United States. His seed and plant business thrived, with lists appearing as early as the 1750’s in London publications. In 1783, Bartram published the first ever nursery catalog in the United States. His international plant trade and nursery business survived him and thrived under the care of three generations of Bartrams.

Today

The property consists of Bartram's historic home, a central garden area and a series of woodland paths, some of which border the nearby Schuylkill river. There are numerous unusual and old trees on the property. When in the garden, you lose all trace of the city of Philadelphia around you. Quiet and scenic a true Oasis in the middle of the Eastwick section of Philadelphia.

Trail

Completed in the summer of 2012, the mile-long trail at Bartram’s Garden connects visitors to the Schuylkill riverfront. The Bartram Trail is a new tranquil thruway for bicycles, strollers, and nature lovers.

Bartram's Garden Trail

To plan your visit, visit here for a bike map.

For a list of Bartram Garden Events click here

Planning is underway for the Bartram’s Mile trail, an initiative with Philadelphia Parks and Recreation and Penn Praxis, which will connect Bartram’s Garden to center city via the Gray’s Ferry Crescent by 2015.

Where to Stay?

If your visiting the Eastwick Section of Philadelphia (better known as Philadelphia Airport Area) the Embassy Suites Philadelphia offers all Bartram Garden Visitors: