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 provides spectacular indoor gardens, high-quality 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 one of the best locations to dine, keep, and discover at Longwood Gardens, profiting from your winter getaway.
Winter Surprise 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 Surprise season (January 17–March 23, 2025) provides a uniquely serene and enchanting expertise.
Even in a snowstorm, moving into the conservatories seems 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 clever 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 best winter retreat.
By the point we left, we felt refreshed and impressed, although we had been solely a brief drive from house. It’s the form 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 Excellent Time to Go to Longwood Gardens
The Major 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 charming guests since its founding by Pierre S. du Pont within the early twentieth century.
Whereas summer time attracts crowds to the well-known fountains and outside shows, winter provides a serene escape the place snow-dusted gardens and heat indoor conservatories create a magical environment. The current $250 million Longwood Reimagined mission by the structure workforce of WEISS/MANFREDI has elevated the winter expertise, notably 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 transferring 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 artistic water options. Lush greenery and aromatic herbs line the pathways, making a sensory-rich atmosphere excellent for hands-on discovery. Whether or not enjoying, exploring, or just soaking within the magnificence, this enchanting backyard provides limitless enjoyable for all.
Capturing backyard moments alongside the winding Conservatory paths | Photograph: Higher Residing
What makes winter right here actually particular is the interaction between environments. One second, you’re watching snowstorm silently on the formal gardens; the following, 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 provides choices to go well with each style. The progressive 1906 restaurant presents garden-inspired delicacies overlooking the grounds—a beautiful alternative for a particular winter meal. For extra informal eating, The Café provides 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 shortly!
The place to Keep Close to Longwood Gardens – The Inn at Whitewing Farm
Winter view of The Inn at Whitewing Farm’s principal home and grounds | Photograph: Higher Residing
Conveniently positioned simply 5 minutes from Longwood Gardens, we found why The Inn at Whitewing Farm has earned its fame as certainly one of Pennsylvania’s finest mattress and breakfasts.
This 1700s farmhouse property grew to become 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 working 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 fuel hearth, king mattress, and traditional furnishings | Photograph: Higher Residing
We stayed within the Hackney Suite. Clear and comfy, it felt like our personal personal 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 best steadiness of historic appeal and fashionable consolation.
The luxurious toilet with heated flooring within the Hackney Suite | Photograph: Higher Residing
The heated marble toilet flooring had been an expensive contact on frosty mornings, and falling asleep to the dancing flames of the timed fuel hearth grew to become a nightly ritual we seemed ahead to.
The country Hackney Suite exterior with personal entrance, illuminated at nightfall | Photograph: Higher Residing
The personal 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 widespread space | Photograph: Higher Residing
The hay barn shortly grew to become our favourite spot on the property. It includes a hearth, 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 obtainable 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 each day spotlight, served at 9 AM sharp (don’t be late!) within the hay barn. Chef Lance’s Lemon Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes—topped with contemporary berries and pillowy whipped cream—had been simply among the many prime 5 B&B breakfasts we’ve ever had. The still-warm banana bread disappeared shortly from our plates as we gazed via home windows overlooking the snowy farm. Contemporary purple flowers on every desk added a contact of spring, whilst winter white blanketed the grounds.
One snowy night, fairly 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 an excellent spot for having fun with genuine tacos and selfmade tamales. Lance stopped by to speak, 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 all the way 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 a superb place to name house. With its heat hospitality, excellent location, and idyllic setting, you’ll be so joyful you stayed right here.
💡 E-book your keep early, particularly throughout the Winter Surprise season, to safe your spot on this charming B&B. They even supply a Winter Surprise bundle with 2 VIP untimed tickets to Longwood Gardens.
High-quality Eating at 1906 – A Should-Strive 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.
Positioned 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 comprised of fallen Longwood bushes. The setting alone is motive sufficient to dine right here, nevertheless it’s the beautiful, garden-inspired delicacies that really makes it extraordinary.
Winter Eating Not like Any Different
The primary 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 alluring, 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 whilst you discover the gardens or test 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
Govt 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 superbly seared Atlantic Halibut, and when you’re within the temper for pasta, the handmade Trofie Bolognese is unimaginable. 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 beautiful 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 on the lookout 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. – Buying & 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 generally known as the “Mushroom Capital of the World.” Producing over half of the nation’s mushrooms, it’s well-known for its annual Mushroom Competition each September. However its vibrant downtown is price visiting year-round.
Kennett Sq. seamlessly blends its agricultural roots with a walkable downtown crammed 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 form of place that seems like Major Avenue America—a nostalgic reminder of how cities was once, the place each store has a function 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 coolness for too lengthy. There’s additionally loads of espresso retailers and bakeries to assist heat you up. Twinkling lights and wonderful 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 best way.
The Woodlands at Phillips
A family-run mushroom farm with over 100 years of historical past, The Woodlands at Phillips provides 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 fans 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 provides museum-quality academic shows with fascinating insights into Kennett Sq.’s mushroom farming business.
Since Kennett Sq. is called 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 items that say “Shittake Occurs” and “Who Provides a Shittake?” Whether or not you’re a seasoned mycophile or simply on the lookout for a enjoyable and strange procuring journey, undoubtedly cease into The Mushroom Cap.
Mrs. Robinson’s Tea Store
Inside Mrs. Robinson’s Tea Store, the place a whole lot 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 fans and curious customers alike. Mrs. Robinson’s provides an unimaginable collection of premium loose-leaf teas sourced from around the globe. The cabinets are lined floor-to-ceiling with over 200 forms 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 trying to uncover a brand new favourite mix, top off in your go-to tea, or discover a present for a tea-loving pal, Mrs. Robinson’s Tea Store has one thing for everybody. In addition they supply scorching samples, which was a pleasant method to heat up on a chilly winter day. There’s even a sweet store related subsequent door!
Clear Slate Items
A boutique specializing in ethically made, handcrafted merchandise, from artisan jewellery and residential décor to sustainable style. Clear Slate Items is a cool store when you’re on the lookout for a singular, significant present 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, they usually 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 informal and enjoyable environment with nice meals and craft beer brewed on-site, Victory Brewing Firm in Kennett Sq. is the spot. Positioned 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 steadiness between energetic and laid-back, making it an excellent spot to heat up after your time at Longwood.
Beer lovers will admire the intensive 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. Undecided 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, contemporary 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 return for joyful 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. Strive the birria!
The Café at Longwood Gardens
The Café at Longwood Gardens is a superb possibility for a fast, high-quality meal earlier than or after exploring the gardens.
The à la carte menu provides a collection 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, an area favourite that’s a must-try.
With each indoor and outside seating, The Café offers relaxed eating throughout the gardens. Understand that you’ll want a timed Gardens Admission Ticket or Membership to entry it.
Last 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 below are our important suggestions:
- E-book lodging at The Inn at Whitewing effectively upfront, particularly for weekend stays.
- Make dinner reservations for 1906 while you buy your Longwood Gardens tickets.
- Plan at the least 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 need to discover the grounds and downtown.
- Go to downtown Kennett Sq. earlier than 5 PM, when most mom-and-pop retailers shut.
- Take into account 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 luxurious conservatories, historic structure and fashionable 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 an excellent 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 certainly one of Pennsylvania’s most enchanting locations, winter at Longwood Gardens provides one thing actually particular.
Simply bear in mind to ebook tickets to Longwood Gardens early—this hidden winter gem isn’t so hidden anymore.
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