Learn About Our Platinum Circle Partner: Longwood Gardens
One of the world’s great gardens, Longwood’s story is one of legacy, innovation, and stewardship.
Our Gardens are a living expression of all that our founder, Pierre S. du Pont, found inspiring, meaningful, and beautiful. From the intricate fountain systems to the meticulous gardens to the architectural grandeur, awe-inspiring discoveries await at every turn.
Our Rich History
Years before it was a public garden, the land on which Longwood Gardens stands was home to the native Lenni Lenape tribe and Quaker farmers. Since then, the land has undergone significant transformation to become the magnificent property that is enjoyed by more than a million guests each year.
Creating a Vision for the Future
Our ability to be leaders in public horticulture lies in our deliberate planning and adherence to the principles on which we were founded.
Our Rich History
Years before it was a public garden, the land on which Longwood Gardens stands was home to the native Lenni Lenape tribe and Quaker farmers. Since then, the land has undergone significant transformation to become the magnificent property that is enjoyed by more than a million guests each year.
Creating a Vision for the Future
Our ability to be leaders in public horticulture lies in our deliberate planning and adherence to the principles on which we were founded.
News:
Stewarding Suiseki
By Katie Mobley with Kevin Bielicki, on October 22, 2025
Earlier this year, we were delighted to receive a generous donation as multi-faceted and intriguing as it is beautiful. This gift of 42 suiseki stones, given to us by bonsai and suiseki enthusiast Dr. Thomas Goldbaum, not only enhances our existing bonsai collection but also offers an opportunity to share the cultural significance of the fascinating traditional Japanese artform of suiseki. Often referred to as “viewing stones”, suiseki involves the appreciation of naturally occurring stones for their aesthetic qualities and their resemblance to natural landscapes, from mountains to waterfalls, animals to islands. We are honored to steward these pieces and share their artistry—and their story.
Both suiseki and bonsai celebrate nature in miniature forms. While bonsai focuses on cultivating and shaping miniature trees, suiseki emphasizes the appreciation of naturally formed stones—which can be small enough to be held in one’s hands or as large as a carry-on suitcase. Among our collection are those ranging in size from 2.5 inches tall to more than 14 inches tall; those that resemble a near mountain, a distant mountain, huts, plateaus, and figures; and those in colors that range from dark green to red, with glossy to satin finishes. These stones have been collected by many prolific collectors such as Tom Elias, Les Allen, Sean Smith, Seiji Morimae, Jim Greaves, and Melba Tucker.
By Katie Mobley with Kevin Bielicki, on October 22, 2025
Earlier this year, we were delighted to receive a generous donation as multi-faceted and intriguing as it is beautiful. This gift of 42 suiseki stones, given to us by bonsai and suiseki enthusiast Dr. Thomas Goldbaum, not only enhances our existing bonsai collection but also offers an opportunity to share the cultural significance of the fascinating traditional Japanese artform of suiseki. Often referred to as “viewing stones”, suiseki involves the appreciation of naturally occurring stones for their aesthetic qualities and their resemblance to natural landscapes, from mountains to waterfalls, animals to islands. We are honored to steward these pieces and share their artistry—and their story.
Both suiseki and bonsai celebrate nature in miniature forms. While bonsai focuses on cultivating and shaping miniature trees, suiseki emphasizes the appreciation of naturally formed stones—which can be small enough to be held in one’s hands or as large as a carry-on suitcase. Among our collection are those ranging in size from 2.5 inches tall to more than 14 inches tall; those that resemble a near mountain, a distant mountain, huts, plateaus, and figures; and those in colors that range from dark green to red, with glossy to satin finishes. These stones have been collected by many prolific collectors such as Tom Elias, Les Allen, Sean Smith, Seiji Morimae, Jim Greaves, and Melba Tucker.
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Family Nature Walks
Discover the sights, sounds, and scents of the season with a fun, 30-minute nature walk designed for the whole family. Explore nature near and far with tools like magnifying glasses and binoculars while using your senses to experience the Gardens through a new lens. Recommended for adults and children (5-12 years old). Please note: To provide an enjoyable experience, capacity is limited. Walks are accessible, if you would like to join us with a Longwood scooter or personal mobility device. |
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HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
Longwood to Acquire Delaware Estate We are excited to announce a momentous moment in Longwood's history—we have entered into an agreement to purchase and operate Granogue, the 505-acre estate and long-time residence of the late Mr. and Mrs. Irénée du Pont, Jr. located in New Castle County in northern Delaware. Read more in The News Journal |
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Beauty in the Making
As Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience continues to take shape and as our cultural landscape evolves, we are delighted to share with you a few of the many facets of this incredibly detailed project … so you can see true beauty in the making. Watch as the Project Progresses |
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Longwood Gardens
Teen Volunteer Program |
Main Fountain Garden
Illuminated Fountain Performance |
Longwood Reimagined
Timelapse |
Paul B. Redman, President and Chief Executive Officer
As President and Chief Executive Officer of Longwood Gardens for the last 16 years, Paul has implemented institutional and strategic reforms that have positioned the Gardens as a premier horticultural, cultural, and educational institution of the 21st Century, while respecting the values of its founder, Pierre S. du Pont. The result has been nothing short of astounding with overall attendance doubling to almost 1.54 million visitors per year; an incredible climb in Membership support from 17,000 to 78,000 households; and earned income has almost tripled – all in the last decade. Longwood Gardens is now the most visited paid public garden in North America and the most visited paid cultural attraction in Philadelphia.
As President and Chief Executive Officer of Longwood Gardens for the last 16 years, Paul has implemented institutional and strategic reforms that have positioned the Gardens as a premier horticultural, cultural, and educational institution of the 21st Century, while respecting the values of its founder, Pierre S. du Pont. The result has been nothing short of astounding with overall attendance doubling to almost 1.54 million visitors per year; an incredible climb in Membership support from 17,000 to 78,000 households; and earned income has almost tripled – all in the last decade. Longwood Gardens is now the most visited paid public garden in North America and the most visited paid cultural attraction in Philadelphia.
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1001 Longwood Road
Kennett Square, PA 19348 |
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All Rights Reserved. 2025 8 Federal Road | Suite 1, West Grove, PA 19390 Phone: (610) 444-0774 | [email protected] | sitemap |
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