Parents are often asking, "Is there much for my kids to do at Longwood Gardens?" and my answer is always a resounding, "Yes!" Longwood Gardens is very family-friendly. From the fountains, to storytimes to spectacular holiday displays, your kids will likely love the time to explore and take it all in.
Our first step once we arrive is to grab a map. My kids LOVE using maps, and what better hands-on learning than using it in real life to locate the treehouses or the Children's Garden? We typically make a mental "Longwood Gardens To Do List" for our visit - as in, name one Must-See or Must-Do exhibit at Longwood Gardens. We check the map and head out to our first destination! That's how much there is for families to do, we have to make a list to be sure we all get to our favorite spots before it's time to go!
Some of our favorite spots include:
The Treehouses - Longwood Gardens has three fun treehouses, all suitable for exploring - Lookout Loft Treehouse, Birdhouse Treehouse and Canopy Cathedral Treehouse. Kids can look for birds, climb stairs and enjoy nature in each treehouse. There is a treehouse near the Italian Water Garden/Large Lake, the Cafe/Peirce-du Pont House and in the Meadow Garden.
The Fountains - While the Main Fountain area is currently under renovation, the Open Air Theater has fountain shows and the dates and times are listed on the map. My kids LOVE the fountain shows (and I do, too!). We try to catch at least one when we go, if they are running.
The Chimes Tower and Eye of Water - These are also two spots my kids love, but both are closed during renovation. Check them out with the family, once the garden reopens!
The Children's Corner - An outdoor garden and play area designed for kids. There is even a small fountain where kids can play (but they might get a little wet, so be prepared). There are seating areas here for you to stop and take a break.
The Indoor Children's Garden - This spot, inside the conservatory, is always popular and is a great place to visit in inclement weather. Kids can spend time splashing in fountains, painting with water, following the jumping fountain or learning something new at the learning cart in the back corner, often staffed with someone eager to teach the children something new or lead them in a gardening activity. On our last visit we started bean plant seedlings that the kids could take home and plant/pot. Your kids will likely get a little wet in this area, so be prepared. It's such a fun spot to explore. You can also often find scavenger hunt ideas here, too! Kids can look for different sculptures or designs around the indoor garden. This is a great activity for older children and keeps their eyes open to new details they might have missed! There are many great sights to see within the Conservatory, as well - The Music Room, The Waterlily Display (seasonal) and the Silver Garden are all favorites. We also never miss a chance to make a wish in the fountain at the entrance.
The Cafe - The Cafe is centrally located and offers lots of different food choices for all. There is indoor and outdoor seating available. There is also stroller parking, just outside the cafe.
The Meadow Garden - My kids love walking the bridges in The Meadow Garden and taking in all that is below and beyond!
The Italian Water Garden - This spot is another great one for fountain-spotting and we always enjoy a stop here. It is across from the Large Lake.
The Topiary Garden - Kids will love the shapes and designs in the topiary garden!
The Flower Garden Walk - This was one of our first favorites when we visited Longwood a few years back. It is still one of my favorite spots. It's a great stroll down the path and it seems like there is always something new to see. This is a great spot to check out new plants and plant names. There always seems to be something interesting to spot!
Other "Good to Know" points for families
*Some seasonal family-friendly or not-to-be-missed exhibits or activities include - Railway Garden (Fall), A Longwood Christmas, OrKid Days, Tulips (Spring), Storytimes
*Strollers are available for rent and rental is included in membership. Strollers are available on a first-come first-serve basis. Single and double strollers are available.
*Consider a membership if you feel you will visit multiple times. We have loved our membership and the ability to visit whenever we wish for a quick trip or a full-day outing.
*Children under 5 visit Longwood Gardens for free!
*Longwood Gardens has many family friendly restrooms and baby changing area. (Don't miss the "Best Restrooms" in the Conservatory with the famous Green Wall.)
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