As winter settles over Pennsylvania’s Brandywine Valley, Longwood Gardens welcomes guests to its world-renowned horticultural vacation spot to flee the chilly.
Spanning over 1,000 acres, this botanical sanctuary gives spectacular indoor gardens, wonderful eating, and celebrates the enduring legacy of Pierre S. du Pont.
Whether or not you’re visiting for a day or a weekend, this information highlights the perfect locations to dine, keep, and discover at Longwood Gardens, profiting from your winter getaway.
Winter Marvel at Longwood Gardens
Winter blooms floating in The Conservatory at Longwood Gardens | Photograph: Higher Residing
Identified for its breathtaking shows of flowers, fountains, and conservatories, Longwood is a year-round landmark, however its Winter Marvel season (January 17–March 23, 2025) gives a uniquely serene and enchanting expertise.
Even in a snowstorm, entering into the conservatories looks like leaving the chilly behind, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant blooming flowers.
Your Winter Weekend Itinerary
Signature arched home windows overlooking snow-dusted gardens at 1906 | Photograph: Higher Residing
This journey was the proper excuse to indulge within the newly reimagined 1906 restaurant, a eating expertise that exceeded each expectation. From the elegant house and impeccable service to the suave plating and unforgettable dishes, it was a spotlight of our getaway.
Paired with a keep at The Inn at Whitewing Farm (only a 5-minute drive from Longwood) and the appeal of downtown Kennett Sq.’s indie retailers and eateries, this was the perfect winter retreat.
By the point we left, we felt refreshed and impressed, regardless that we had been solely a brief drive from house. It’s the sort of diversion that reminds you the way a lot magnificence and rest might be discovered shut by.
Whether or not you’re planning a romantic getaway or a peaceable winter journey, under is our itinerary for the place to dine, keep, and discover round Longwood Gardens.
Why Winter is a Good Time to Go to Longwood Gardens
The Fundamental Conservatory’s central water function with hanging tropical baskets | Photograph: Higher Residing
Winter unveils a quieter, extra intimate facet of Longwood Gardens, a historic property in Kennett Sq., PA that has been fascinating guests since its founding by Pierre S. du Pont within the early twentieth century.
Whereas summer season attracts crowds to the well-known fountains and outside shows, winter gives a serene escape the place snow-dusted gardens and heat indoor conservatories create a magical environment. The current $250 million Longwood Reimagined challenge by the structure group of WEISS/MANFREDI has elevated the winter expertise, significantly within the dramatic West Conservatory, the place Mediterranean-inspired gardens attain their peak flowering season beneath a hovering crystalline roofline.
Inside, you may simply spend a whole day shifting between distinct environments. The preserved Cascade Backyard options 16 waterfalls and meandering paths via lush rainforest plantings—a tropical retreat that feels worlds away from the winter chill.
A number of whimsical fountains can by loved by all ages within the Indoor Youngsters’s Backyard | Photograph: Higher Residing
The Indoor Youngsters’s Backyard delights guests of all ages with its whimsical bronze statues and inventive water options. Lush greenery and aromatic herbs line the pathways, making a sensory-rich surroundings excellent for hands-on discovery. Whether or not enjoying, exploring, or just soaking within the magnificence, this enchanting backyard gives infinite enjoyable for all.
Capturing backyard moments alongside the winding Conservatory paths | Photograph: Higher Residing
What makes winter right here really particular is the interaction between environments. One second, you’re watching snowfall silently on the formal gardens; the subsequent, you’re warming up in a verdant paradise the place towering palms attain towards glass ceilings and clusters of orchids add splashes of vibrant colour. Each flip right here reveals one other Instagram-worthy scene.
When it’s time for a meal, Longwood gives choices to go well with each style. The revolutionary 1906 restaurant presents garden-inspired delicacies overlooking the grounds—a beautiful alternative for a particular winter meal. For extra informal eating, The Café gives an à la carte menu with no reservations required.
Winter at Longwood Gardens is a singular alternative to get pleasure from these magnificent grounds of their most intimate season. Whether or not you’re strolling via snow-covered paths or basking within the heat of the conservatories, it’s a getaway that feels each refreshing and rejuvenating.
➡️Need to see Longwood Gardens at its winter finest? Our recommendation? E book forward—tickets and restaurant reservations go rapidly!
The place to Keep Close to Longwood Gardens – The Inn at Whitewing Farm
Winter view of The Inn at Whitewing Farm’s primary home and grounds | Photograph: Higher Residing
Conveniently situated simply 5 minutes from Longwood Gardens, we found why The Inn at Whitewing Farm has earned its status as considered one of Pennsylvania’s finest mattress and breakfasts.
This 1700s farmhouse property turned our sanctuary throughout a February snowstorm and was the proper house base for exploring the realm.
The innkeepers’ restaurant background is clear in each element. Lance and Sandy Shortt, highschool sweethearts turned restaurateurs, took over Whitewing Farm after 30 years of operating a profitable Italian restaurant. Their daughter Samantha, who checked us in, lives on the property along with her household and helps handle the inn, giving the place a home-like environment that chain lodges merely can’t match.
The Hackney Suite’s residing space that includes a gasoline fire, king mattress, and basic furnishings | Photograph: Higher Residing
We stayed within the Hackney Suite. Clear and comfy, it felt like our personal non-public condominium within the nation. With its buttery yellow partitions, royal blue accents, and enormous home windows framing views of the grounds, the suite struck the perfect stability of historic appeal and trendy consolation.
The luxurious rest room with heated flooring within the Hackney Suite | Photograph: Higher Residing
The heated marble rest room flooring had been an expensive contact on frosty mornings, and falling asleep to the dancing flames of the timed gasoline fire turned a nightly ritual we seemed ahead to.
The country Hackney Suite exterior with non-public entrance, illuminated at nightfall | Photograph: Higher Residing
The non-public entrance added to the sense of seclusion, but we had been simply steps away from all of the facilities, and breakfast, within the restored 1796 hay barn.
The restored 1796 hay barn’s cozy frequent space | Photograph: Higher Residing
The hay barn rapidly turned our favourite spot on the property. It includes a fire, plush seating, and eating tables by the home windows the place we might get pleasure from wintery farm views. A complimentary espresso and tea station with Keurig machines, snacks, and refreshments is offered till midnight, and we cherished sipping espresso as we relaxed by the fireplace.
Chef Lance’s signature Lemon Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes at The Inn at Whitewing Farm | Photograph: Higher Residing
Breakfast was a every day spotlight, served at 9 AM sharp (don’t be late!) within the hay barn. Chef Lance’s Lemon Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes—topped with recent berries and pillowy whipped cream—had been simply among the many high 5 B&B breakfasts we’ve ever had. The still-warm banana bread disappeared rapidly from our plates as we gazed via home windows overlooking the snowy farm. Recent purple flowers on every desk added a contact of spring, whilst winter white blanketed the grounds.
One snowy night, reasonably than enterprise out once more, we picked up takeout from La Peña Mexicana in close by Kennett Sq.. The hay barn, with its tables, silverware, and complimentary drinks, made a great spot for having fun with genuine tacos and selfmade tamales. Lance stopped by to talk, sharing tales in regards to the property’s historical past and his different enterprise endeavors. His heat and storytelling made the night much more memorable—proof that putting up a dialog with him is a should for anybody staying right here.
The snow-covered Pond Home at The Inn at Whitewing Farm | Photograph: Higher Residing
Through the day, we took winter walks across the property, exploring the frozen pond and wooded areas. Every stroll felt like a mini-adventure, with the quiet great thing about the winter panorama including to the sense of peace and rest. In the event you enterprise right down to the nook, you would possibly simply meet a pair of pleasant horses.
Two pleasant horses across the nook from the Inn having fun with a snowy morning | Photograph: Higher Residing
In the event you’re planning a visit to Longwood Gardens, The Inn at Whitewing Farm is an excellent place to name house. With its heat hospitality, excellent location, and idyllic setting, you’ll be so blissful you stayed right here.
💡 E book your keep early, particularly in the course of the Winter Marvel season, to safe your spot on this charming B&B. They even provide a Winter Marvel bundle with 2 VIP untimed tickets to Longwood Gardens.
Wonderful Eating at 1906 – A Should-Attempt Culinary Expertise
Getting into the bar and lounge space at 1906 | Photograph: Higher Residing
After a peaceable morning at The Inn at Whitewing Farm, we took a brief drive alongside quiet nation roads to 1906, Longwood Gardens’ outstanding new restaurant that opened within the fall of 2024.
Situated within the decrease degree of The Conservatory district inside Longwood Gardens, 1906 is greater than only a restaurant—it’s a celebration of meals and historical past, the place the gardens encourage each plate.
Reimagined as a part of Longwood’s $250 million transformation, the house is breathtaking, with vaulted ceilings, floor-to-ceiling home windows, and handcrafted tables constituted of fallen Longwood timber. The setting alone is purpose sufficient to dine right here, however it’s the beautiful, garden-inspired delicacies that actually makes it extraordinary.
Winter Eating In contrast to Any Different
The principle eating room at 1906 | Photograph: Higher Residing
Arriving in 1906 is a part of the journey. A five-minute stroll via the outside gardens leads you to the restaurant, taking within the winter surroundings earlier than arriving at your desk.
Inside, the ambiance is heat and welcoming, the place golden sconces solid a dreamy glow, and views of the snow-covered gardens create a serene backdrop.
Small touches elevate the expertise, like how they’ll retailer your leftovers when you discover the gardens or verify your coat with out lacking a beat.
A Menu Rooted within the Gardens
Atlantic Halibut with miso beurre blanc sauce at 1906 | Photograph: Higher Residing
Government Chef George Murkowicz’s menu celebrates Longwood’s horticultural heritage, dividing dishes into Flora, Fauna, and Funga—a artistic nod to the area’s mushroom-growing legacy.
Backyard-fresh components shine in each dish, from vibrant salads adorned with edible flowers to wealthy, umami-packed mushroom creations.
Seafood lovers will admire the peerlessly seared Atlantic Halibut, and when you’re within the temper for pasta, the handmade Trofie Bolognese is unbelievable. This dish is so comforting, it’ll have you ever planning your subsequent go to earlier than you’ve completed your plate.
Unforgettable Cocktails & Desserts
Caramelia at 1906: A whimsical tribute to Kennett Sq.’s mushroom heritage | Photograph: Higher Residing
Don’t miss the Frosted Violet cocktail—a stunning mix of mezcal, tequila, and crème de violette that appears prefer it was impressed by the backyard’s blooms.
For dessert, the whimsical Caramelia—a mushroom-shaped creation mixing espresso caramel and chocolate mousse—pays homage to Kennett Sq.’s well-known fungi.
Even the desserts right here inform a narrative.
Plan Your Go to
Eating at 1906 isn’t simply in regards to the meals—it’s in regards to the environment, the service, and the connection to Longwood’s pure magnificence. Whether or not you’re searching for a romantic winter meal or celebrating one thing particular, that is an distinctive spot.
Take my recommendation – make reservations upfront and plan further time to discover Longwood’s conservatories earlier than or after your meal.
➡️Hungry for extra particulars? Dive into our full 1906 at Longwood Gardens evaluation!
Exploring Kennett Sq. – Purchasing & Native Finds
The quaint retailers of downtown Kennett Sq. | Photograph: Higher Residing
Simply minutes from Longwood Gardens, Kennett Sq., PA is a picturesque and historic small city often called the “Mushroom Capital of the World.” Producing over half of the nation’s mushrooms, it’s well-known for its annual Mushroom Pageant each September. However its vibrant downtown is price visiting year-round.
Kennett Sq. seamlessly blends its agricultural roots with a walkable downtown stuffed with mom-and-pop retailers, cozy cafés, and acclaimed eating places. Right here, mushrooms are celebrated in each nook, from connoisseur dishes on menus to whimsical themed items in native retailers.
It’s the sort of place that looks like Fundamental Avenue America—a nostalgic reminder of how cities was once, the place each store has a objective and story.
Even within the chilly winter months, Kennett Sq. is a delight to discover. Compact and walkable, it’s simple to hop between retailers with out braving the chilliness for too lengthy. There’s additionally loads of espresso retailers and bakeries to assist heat you up. Twinkling lights and beautiful structure add to the city’s appeal, making it really feel particularly inviting in winter.
We spent the afternoon wandering its historic streets, stopping into a number of standout retailers alongside the way in which.
The Woodlands at Phillips
A family-run mushroom farm with over 100 years of historical past, The Woodlands at Phillips gives a small exhibit on mushroom farming, showcasing the rising course of and Kennett Sq.’s agricultural heritage. Whereas we didn’t take the tour, the on-site store is well-known for its connoisseur mushroom merchandise, develop kits, and specialty meals, making it an excellent cease for mushroom lovers.
The Mushroom Cap
The Mushroom Cap celebrates Kennett Sq.’s fungi heritage with enjoyable decor and native merchandise | Photograph: Higher Residing
The Mushroom Cap is a whimsical store for all fungi lovers and curious vacationers. Right here, you may browse an array of mushroom-themed merchandise, from connoisseur mushroom delicacies to quirky mushroom-shaped souvenirs and residential items. The store additionally gives museum-quality academic shows with fascinating insights into Kennett Sq.’s mushroom farming business.
Since Kennett Sq. is named the Mushroom Capital of the World, it’s no shock that this retailer celebrates all issues fungi. Alongside mushroom-based meals like pasta, scorching sauce, and low, you’ll discover some humorous mushroom-themed presents that say “Shittake Occurs” and “Who Provides a Shittake?” Whether or not you’re a seasoned mycophile or simply searching for a enjoyable and weird buying journey, undoubtedly cease into The Mushroom Cap.
Mrs. Robinson’s Tea Store
Inside Mrs. Robinson’s Tea Store, the place a whole bunch of specialty teas line the partitions in neat shows | Photograph: Higher Residing
Proper within the coronary heart of Kennett Sq., Mrs. Robinson’s Tea Store is a pleasant haven for tea lovers and curious customers alike. Mrs. Robinson’s gives an unbelievable number of premium loose-leaf teas sourced from world wide. The cabinets are lined floor-to-ceiling with over 200 kinds of tea, fastidiously displayed in elegant tins.
We picked up two decaf blends—Summer season Romance and Over the Moon—after receiving suggestions from the useful workers, who take the time to information you towards flavors you’ll love. Whether or not you’re seeking to uncover a brand new favourite mix, replenish in your go-to tea, or discover a reward for a tea-loving good friend, Mrs. Robinson’s Tea Store has one thing for everybody. Additionally they provide scorching samples, which was a pleasant solution to heat up on a chilly winter day. There’s even a sweet store linked subsequent door!
Clear Slate Items
A boutique specializing in ethically made, handcrafted merchandise, from artisan jewellery and residential décor to sustainable trend. Clear Slate Items is a cool store when you’re searching for a singular, significant reward whereas supporting small makers.
Parking in Kennett Sq.
The historic and charming downtown space of Kennett Sq., PA | Photograph: Higher Residing
Parking downtown was comparatively simple. The streets are metered at 25 cents per quarter-hour, and so they settle for nickels, dimes, and quarters. Lots of the spots we parked in already had a while left on the meters—perhaps you’ll get fortunate too!
Extra Nice Locations to Eat in Kennett Sq.
Victory Brewing Firm
Victory Brewing Firm’s iconic wall mural of their Kennett Sq. taproom | Photograph: Higher Residing
For an off-the-cuff and enjoyable environment with nice meals and craft beer brewed on-site, Victory Brewing Firm in Kennett Sq. is the spot. Situated on the fringe of downtown, this taproom includes a 7-barrel brewhouse crafting beers unique to this location—you may even see the brewing tools from the eating room.
The house impresses instantly with colourful murals and an industrial-meets-artistic vibe. It strikes a enjoyable stability between full of life and laid-back, making it a great spot to heat up after your time at Longwood.
Beer lovers will admire the in depth faucet listing, together with unique brews like El Gato Negro, a Mexican-style ale with nutty peanut butter notes, and the seasonal Peanut Butter Kandy Kake Porter, a enjoyable nod to its namesake. Unsure what to get? Tasters can be found so you may pattern earlier than committing.
Native Mushroom Crostini paired with Victory beer | Photograph: Higher Residing
The kitchen serves up elevated pub fare, together with burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and salads, plus loads of shareable apps. We began with the VICTORY Pretzel, served heat with Prima Pils cheese sauce and Hop Satan grainy mustard, and the Native Mushroom Crostini, that includes garlic herb goat cheese, recent arugula, and balsamic drizzle on buttery toasted ciabatta.
Home-made Carne Asada Tacos at Victory Brewing Firm, served with fries or spicy slaw | Photograph: Higher Residing
Since we arrived on Taco Tuesday, we tried each the Carne Asada Tacos, with fire-roasted salsa, scorching sauce crema, and salty cotija, and the Atlantic Cod Island Tacos, that includes mild, crispy beer-battered cod with avocado, pico de gallo, cabbage, and pineapple crema. The jalapeño slaw was the proper spicy facet.
Don’t hesitate to come back for blissful hour specials, and there’s loads of free parking within the again.
La Peña Mexicana
For a number of the most genuine Mexican meals within the space, head to La Peña Mexicana. This unassuming spot serves up extremely flavorful tacos, tamales, and conventional dishes that preserve locals coming again. Attempt the birria!
The Café at Longwood Gardens
The Café at Longwood Gardens is a good possibility for a fast, high-quality meal earlier than or after exploring the gardens.
The à la carte menu gives a number of ready-to-eat sandwiches, salads, scorching entrées, and freshly ready desserts, making it a handy and family-friendly possibility. One of many highlights is the well-known Longwood Gardens Mushroom Soup, a neighborhood favourite that’s a must-try.
With each indoor and outside seating, The Café supplies relaxed eating throughout the gardens. Take into account that you’ll want a timed Gardens Admission Ticket or Membership to entry it.
Ultimate Ideas for Your Winter Getaway
Intimate backyard paths with ornate lighting within the Conservatory | Photograph: Higher Residing
Impressed to go to Longwood Gardens this winter?
Listed here are our important ideas:
- E book lodging at The Inn at Whitewing nicely upfront, particularly for weekend stays.
- Make dinner reservations for 1906 once you buy your Longwood Gardens tickets.
- Plan no less than 2-3 hours to discover the conservatories and winter gardens.
- Don’t skip the outside gardens—even in winter, the structure and panorama design shine.
- Layer up. Whereas indoor areas are cozy, you’ll wish to discover the grounds and downtown.
- Go to downtown Kennett Sq. earlier than 5 PM, when most mom-and-pop retailers shut.
- Contemplate a weekday journey for a quieter time at each the gardens and eating places.
The magic of Longwood Gardens in winter lies in its contrasts—snowy gardens and plush conservatories, historic structure and trendy renovations, refined eating and informal tea retailers. Paired with a keep on the Inn at Whitewing Farm and a day exploring Kennett Sq.’s charming, walkable downtown, it creates a great winter getaway that’s each energizing and peaceable.
Whether or not you’re planning a romantic weekend, a soothing trip, or a day journey to expertise considered one of Pennsylvania’s most enchanting locations, winter at Longwood Gardens gives one thing really particular.
Simply bear in mind to e book tickets to Longwood Gardens early—this hidden winter gem isn’t so hidden anymore.