There are a few places in this life that beckon us back again and again. Longwood Gardens is one of those places. And, when the fountains are dancing to the music of the Beatles, I’m not sure it gets any better.
My Happy Place
Without sounding too sappy, Longwood Gardens is one of my happiest happy places. Every time we visit, the beauty and serenity of the gardens brings out the happy in me. I never grow tired of discovering something new and wonderful. And, since the gardens can change with the seasons, there is definitely always something new to enjoy.
The Beatles
When we realized the music of the Beatles was scheduled for the dancing fountain/water show, it was a no-brainer. We had to be there. As it turned out we were scheduled to drive through Pennsylvania on a recent road trip, so a little detour to Kennett Square, PA was another no-brainer.
I would love to post our videos for you to see, but unfortunately, the powers-to-be in cyber space won’t let me due to licensing issues, which I assume is about the music of the Beatles. So, you’ll just have to trust me when I say the show (like all of Longwood Gardens’ shows) is fantastic. I certainly found myself singing along under my mask.
In Time of Covid-19
This was our third visit to the gardens and just like all of our other visits, it did not disappoint, even though this was a much shorter visit. On our first visit to the gardens we stayed for nine (yes 9!) hours. Our second visit was to take in the Christmas extravaganza, which was incredibly festive and beautiful.
Both of those visits happened in what we now call “normal” days, before Covid-19. But this visit was different and rightfully so. Unlike our other visits, there are currently no in/out passes, no hand stamps. Inside the visitors center the gift shop was closed, the small introductory movie theater was closed, as were the restrooms (other restrooms were open) in order to keep people from congregating in the visitors center.
To watch the show, we stood in front of the conservatory. We were asked to stand on a socially distant green spot. And, of course, masks were required.
The Conservatory
While Abi saved our green spot, I took a quick one-way stroll through the conservatory. The conservatory is actually four acres under glass and the plethora of plant life is wonderous. No short cuts, no backsies allowed due to social distancing. Well-done Longwood Gardens for safeguarding visitors. We look forward to our next visit when we won’t be pressed for time. And, trust me, we will be back!
If You Go (and really you should)
- Longwood Gardens – 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348
- Smoke free environment
- Restaurant & Cafe on site
- Gift Shop & Visitors Center
- Timed admissions
- Garden maps available
- Children’s garden
- Wheel chair accessible
- Ample surface lot parking
Patti, sounds like these gardens are very special. Loved the colorful fountains and with Beatles songs to accompany the dancing of the fountains it must have been magical.
That’s an excellent word to describe all aspects of Longwood Gardens, Gilda… magical!
What a fun looking place.
You would love Longwood Gardens, Linda. It is beautiful, like nothing you’ve ever seen.
I think I’ve already told you that I grew up at Longwood and now return whenever I visit my PA family. So many wonderful memories. Thank you for stirring those today
I do remember you saying that you had grown near Longwood Gardens, lucky girl! We absolutely love the gardens, there is just something almost magical about being there, it calms me every time we visit. I’m glad we stirred up a few favorite memories for you.