Historic Homes and Gardens Itinerary
Half-Day Itinerary:
• Begin in the 18th century colonial garden in Independence National Historical Park, and step into the handsome, vine-covered gazebo, the centerpiece for this charming period garden of flowering plants, herbs and vegetables.
• Next, tour the 18th century mansion of Dr. Philip Syng Physick, “Father of American Surgery.” The house is a stunning example of Federal style architecture, filled with French-influenced neoclassic furnishings.
• Don’t miss the Powel House, an elegant Georgian mansion, which counts Benjamin Franklin and George Washington among its famous visitors.
• Stop by City Tavern for lunch, and enjoy authentic Colonial cuisine.
Make It a Full Day:
• Discover America’s first botanical garden – Bartram’s Garden – which houses the oldest Gingko tree in the country.
• Enjoy dinner in a historic home, arranged with a special event planner from Historic Philadelphia.
Make it a Weekend: Day 2
• Take a guided tour of the historic mansions of Fairmount Park, all exquisite examples of Colonial architecture, and the former homes of Philadelphia’s elite.
• Picnic on the grounds of Fairmount Park, with a view of Philadelphia’s skyline.
• Tour the Brandywine Valley, including magnificent Longwood Gardens – often called the world’s premier horticultural showplace with more than 1,000 acres of woodlands, majestic gardens, opulent conservatories, and dancing fountains.
• Return to Philadelphia for dinner at one of Center City’s many group-friendly restaurants.
