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, fantastic 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 the perfect 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, entering into the conservatories appears 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 right 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 allure of downtown Kennett Sq.’s indie retailers and eateries, this was the perfect winter retreat.
By the point we left, we felt refreshed and impressed, regardless that we have been solely a brief drive from dwelling. It’s the sort of diversion that reminds you ways a lot magnificence and rest will be discovered shut by.
Whether or not you’re planning a romantic getaway or a peaceable winter journey, beneath 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 Foremost Conservatory’s central water characteristic with hanging tropical baskets | Photograph: Higher Residing
Winter unveils a quieter, extra intimate aspect 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 season attracts crowds to the well-known fountains and out of doors 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 challenge by the structure staff 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 possibly can simply spend a complete day shifting between distinct environments. The preserved Cascade Backyard options 16 waterfalls and meandering paths by means of 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 setting good for hands-on discovery. Whether or not taking part in, 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 really particular is the interaction between environments. One second, you’re watching snowfall silently on the formal gardens; the subsequent, you’re warming up in a verdant paradise the place towering palms attain towards glass ceilings and clusters of orchids add splashes of vibrant shade. Each flip right here reveals one other Instagram-worthy scene.
When it’s time for a meal, Longwood provides choices to swimsuit 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 take pleasure in these magnificent grounds of their most intimate season. Whether or not you’re strolling by means of 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 greatest? Our recommendation? Ebook forward—tickets and restaurant reservations go rapidly!
The place to Keep Close to Longwood Gardens – The Inn at Whitewing Farm
Winter view of The Inn at Whitewing Farm’s foremost 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 repute as one in every of Pennsylvania’s greatest mattress and breakfasts.
This 1700s farmhouse property turned our sanctuary throughout a February snowstorm and was the right dwelling 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 operating 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 dwelling space that includes a gasoline hearth, king mattress, and traditional furnishings | Photograph: Higher Residing
We stayed within the Hackney Suite. Clear and cozy, it felt like our personal personal condo within the nation. With its buttery yellow partitions, royal blue accents, and huge home windows framing views of the grounds, the suite struck the perfect steadiness of historic allure and trendy consolation.
The luxurious rest room with heated flooring within the Hackney Suite | Photograph: Higher Residing
The heated marble rest room flooring have been an expensive contact on frosty mornings, and falling asleep to the dancing flames of the timed gasoline hearth turned 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 have been simply steps away from all of the facilities, and breakfast, within the restored 1796 hay barn.
The restored 1796 hay barn’s cozy frequent space | Photograph: Higher Residing
The hay barn rapidly turned our favourite spot on the property. It encompasses a hearth, plush seating, and eating tables by the home windows the place we may take pleasure in wintery farm views. A complimentary espresso and tea station with Keurig machines, snacks, and refreshments is out there till midnight, and we beloved 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 every day spotlight, served at 9 AM sharp (don’t be late!) within the hay barn. Chef Lance’s Lemon Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes—topped with recent berries and pillowy whipped cream—have been simply among the many high 5 B&B breakfasts we’ve ever had. The still-warm banana bread disappeared rapidly from our plates as we gazed by means of 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, quite 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 a perfect spot for having fun with genuine tacos and do-it-yourself tamales. Lance stopped by to speak, sharing tales concerning 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
In the course of 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 may 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 an excellent place to name dwelling. With its heat hospitality, good location, and idyllic setting, you’ll be so glad you stayed right here.
Ebook your keep early, particularly in the course of the Winter Surprise season, to safe your spot on this charming B&B. They even supply a Winter Surprise package deal with 2 VIP untimed tickets to Longwood Gardens.
Superb Eating at 1906 – A Should-Attempt Culinary Expertise
Coming 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.
Situated 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 made out of fallen Longwood timber. The setting alone is cause sufficient to dine right here, but it surely’s the beautiful, garden-inspired delicacies that actually makes it extraordinary.
Winter Eating In contrast to Any Different
The principle eating room at 1906 | Photograph: Higher Residing
Arriving in 1906 is a part of the journey. A five-minute stroll by means of the out of doors 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 when 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
Government 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 substances 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 in case you’re within the temper for pasta, the handmade Trofie Bolognese is unbelievable. 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 concerning the meals—it’s concerning the environment, the service, and the connection to Longwood’s pure magnificence. Whether or not you’re in search of a romantic winter meal or celebrating one thing particular, that is an distinctive spot.
Take my recommendation – make reservations prematurely and plan additional time to discover Longwood’s conservatories earlier than or after your meal.
➡️Hungry for extra particulars? Dive into our full 1906 at Longwood Gardens assessment!
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 Pageant 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 gourmand dishes on menus to whimsical themed items in native retailers.
It’s the sort of place that appears like Foremost 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 straightforward to hop between retailers with out braving the chilliness for too lengthy. There’s additionally loads of espresso retailers and bakeries to assist heat you up. Twinkling lights and beautiful structure add to the city’s allure, 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 way in which.
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 gourmand mushroom merchandise, develop kits, and specialty meals, making it a terrific 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 fanatics and curious vacationers. Right here, you possibly can browse an array of mushroom-themed merchandise, from gourmand 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 trade.
Since Kennett Sq. is named 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 presents that say “Shittake Occurs” and “Who Provides a Shittake?” Whether or not you’re a seasoned mycophile or simply in search of a enjoyable and weird procuring journey, undoubtedly cease into The Mushroom Cap.
Mrs. Robinson’s Tea Store
Inside Mrs. Robinson’s Tea Store, the place tons of 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 fanatics and curious customers alike. Mrs. Robinson’s provides an unbelievable choice of premium loose-leaf teas sourced from world wide. The cabinets are lined floor-to-ceiling with over 200 kinds of tea, rigorously displayed in elegant tins.
We picked up two decaf blends—Summer season Romance and Over the Moon—after receiving suggestions from the useful employees, 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, refill in your go-to tea, or discover a reward for a tea-loving buddy, 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 vogue. Clear Slate Items is a cool store in case you’re in search of a singular, significant reward 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 straightforward. The streets are metered at 25 cents per quarter-hour, they usually settle for nickels, dimes, and quarters. Most of the spots we parked in already had a while left on the meters—possibly 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 off-the-cuff and enjoyable environment with nice meals and craft beer brewed on-site, Victory Brewing Firm in Kennett Sq. is the spot. Situated on the fringe of downtown, this taproom encompasses a 7-barrel brewhouse crafting beers unique to this location—you possibly can even see the brewing gear 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 a perfect spot to heat up after your time at Longwood.
Beer lovers will admire the in depth faucet checklist, 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 possibly can 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, recent 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 gentle, crispy beer-battered cod with avocado, pico de gallo, cabbage, and pineapple crema. The jalapeño slaw was the right spicy aspect.
Don’t hesitate to return for glad hour specials, and there’s loads of free parking within the again.
La Peña Mexicana
For among 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 hold locals coming again. Attempt the birria!
The Café at Longwood Gardens
The Café at Longwood Gardens is a good possibility for a fast, high-quality meal earlier than or after exploring the gardens.
The à la carte menu provides a choice 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, a neighborhood favourite that’s a must-try.
With each indoor and out of doors seating, The Café gives relaxed eating throughout the gardens. Understand that you’ll want a timed Gardens Admission Ticket or Membership to entry it.
Closing Suggestions 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 here are our important suggestions:
- Ebook lodging at The Inn at Whitewing nicely prematurely, particularly for weekend stays.
- Make dinner reservations for 1906 once you buy your Longwood Gardens tickets.
- Plan at the least 2-3 hours to discover the conservatories and winter gardens.
- Don’t skip the out of doors gardens—even in winter, the structure and panorama design shine.
- Layer up. Whereas indoor areas are cozy, you’ll wish 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 trendy 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 a perfect winter getaway that’s each energizing and peaceable.
Whether or not you’re planning a romantic weekend, a calming trip, or a day journey to expertise one in every of Pennsylvania’s most enchanting locations, winter at Longwood Gardens provides one thing really particular.
Simply keep in mind to ebook tickets to Longwood Gardens early—this hidden winter gem isn’t so hidden anymore.
Additional Studying Round Pennsylvania
