Longwood Gardens

Since 1906, Longwood Gardens, 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, has offered one of the world’s greatest horticultural displays, encompassing 1,100 acres of alluring gardens, woodlands, and meadows, plus a grandiose conservatory. In November it unveiled Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience, an ambitious revitalization ahead of its 100^th birthday. The renovation saw the addition of new buildings and landscapes across 17 acres of its central grounds. The sparkling centerpiece is a newly built 32,000-sq.-ft. glasshouse that appears to float on water. Inside is a Mediterranean-inspired wonderland, featuring planted garden islands with 65 different species set amid canals, bridges, and fountains. The project also unveiled a 12,500-sq.-ft. outdoor Bonsai Courtyard and a new greenhouse dedicated to Brazilian landscape designer Roberto Burle Marx’s iconic tropical Cascade Garden, which has been carefully preserved and relocated. Additionally, the destination restaurant 1906 was completely reimagined with a newly designed home, concept, and chef. Led by George Murkowicz, it serves upscale American fare with a focus on seasonal, garden-grown ingredients.