Top 10 Public Gardens to Visit in Valley Forge & Montgomery County

Villanova, PA

Once a family home, is now a public garden managed by Natural Lands. It showcases the beauty of native plants and the importance of biodiversity. Stoneleigh invites everyone to relax, enjoy nature, and discover the simplicity and beauty of gardening with native plants. Admission is free, so come visit, unwind, and leave feeling inspired.

Meadowbrook, PA

Enjoy this public garden free of charge, open from mid-April to mid-October. Explore acres of beautiful gardens with seasonal flowers and lush greenery set against a historic estate backdrop. Enjoy walking paths, benches to relax on, and the sights and sounds of visiting birds. No reservations are needed.

Gladwyne, PA

Dedicated by Father Divine as the Mount of the House of the Lord, Woodmont Estate is owned and operated by Palace Mission Inc. of the Peace Mission Movement. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1998, Woodmont holds significant cultural and historical value. Modest Dress is required.

Fort Washington, PA

A 59-acre historic site with a late 18th-century Georgian mansion and a two-acre formal garden surrounded by beautiful stone walls. The gardens showcase early 20th-century estate gardening, blending plants with unique architectural features. Since October 2001, the Highlands Historical Society has been restoring the garden to its 1925-1935 appearance

Ambler, PA

The Ambler Arboretum of Temple University spans 187 acres across the Ambler Campus. This expansive site features a variety of gardens and a diverse collection of trees. It serves as an outdoor classroom for students, faculty, and staff, facilitating hands-on teaching and learning experiences. Visitors are encouraged to explore the arboretum, stroll through its grounds, and appreciate its natural beauty.

Audubon, PA

The John James Audubon Center offers free public access to its grounds during daylight hours. Admission fees apply for the Visitor Center and Historic House, with guided tours of the house available at 1pm from Wednesday through Sunday. The center's mission is to educate and inspire people to cherish and protect the natural world, preserving Audubon’s legacy and supporting the conservation goals of the National Audubon Society.

Schwenksville, PA

Beginning in the year 1900, Ott’s is a local business staffed with knowledgeable florists, containing a plethora of exotic plants, trees, flowers & seeds. They offer a variety of greenhouse and nursery plants, along with nursery stock.

Ardmore, PA

The Friends of Linwood Park are dedicated residents aiming to foster a vibrant community through active park maintenance, fundraising, and support for park-related activities. Their efforts include organizing community events, maintaining gardens, promoting environmental education, and establishing partnerships with local groups, township personnel, and businesses in Ardmore. Their goal is to build a stronger and more connected community.

Merion, PA

Saint Joseph’s University and the Barnes Foundation partner to enrich educational opportunities in horticulture and the arts. Pedestrian access is permitted until 5:30 PM. No reservations or tickets are required for visiting, though donations to support the Arboretum are welcome.

Bryn Athyn, PA

Bryn Athyn Cathedral Gardens aims to highlight how gardens can engage and inspire us to connect more deeply with the natural world, fostering appreciation for our environment and its beauty.