Disclosure: I am a Longwood Gardens Mom Ambassador. All opinions are my own.
This weekend our family enjoyed a lovely time outdoors visiting the new garden that debuted in June. I tend to enjoy going to Longwood Gardens with my husband since he can help with the girls, so I know it is a rare treat. We arrived as early as we could after having a nice breakfast at a local cafe, and meandered in flashing our member card.
Right off the bat I knew I wanted to check the meadow with our girls so that we could do the best with the energy they had for the outdoors. It looked like there were plenty of people with the same idea because the crowds were growing and heading to the area. How does one excite two little ones with a great expanse of nature trails and wildflowers?
We forgot our double stroller so we only had a single one and alternated having the girls ride in it for a rest while my husband carried one of the girls on his shoulders.We brought a small ball for the girls to throw while walking but then that was forgotten as we chased butterflies and discovered a lake. I noticed that actively speaking to our daughters about all the beautiful things we saw, made the experience much more enjoyable.
When we first arrived at the garden I showed the Meadow garden map to my almost 3-year-old. She had it in mind we were visiting the Carillon only but we promised her that we would eventually arrive after checking out the Meadow, fountains, and flowers. She was patient and she kept asking to see the map available at different checkpoints. I was glad that this kept her attention.
We met several families and people throughout our little journey on the trail but we noticed that we were the only young family walking the trail. At first I thought the girls would lose interest but we kept reminding ourselves that although the girls might not be interested, that my husband and I wanted to enjoy the trails available to us.
It was really fabulous that this was available to the public because it was so gorgeous and serene. I was already planning coming back with a walking partner just to finish the 3-mile walk.
As we continued with our adventurous walk, we noticed signed describing and pointing out interesting facts. I noticed that at different points in our walk that there was a tram available for those wanting take a rest from walking.We loved the bridges we came across and the little lessons we could explain to our girls. We showed them birds nests and little fish in the pond, and we even spotted a turtle in the pond as well. I really cannot wait to go back!
I liked all the boardwalks and stairs that lead to the Meadow because it kept everything so natural yet unique and set apart from the rest of the gardens.
After we finished the new Meadow, we headed towards the main gardens to finish our walk. My youngest daughter fell asleep in the stroller and even though my oldest still wanted to make it to the Carillon, she was tired so, we rented a Longwood Gardens stroller for free, which is one of the benefits of being a member. Love it!
We head to the Carillon only to find out that the area was roped off since the garden staff were setting up for fireworks for the evening. My poor toddler was sad but then the bell chimed and she lit up. Even though disappointed I distracted her with smelling roses and chasing her around the topiaries.
Here is a little more about the new Meadow Garden:
- Spanning 86 acres, the new Longwood Gardens Meadow Garden—designed by Jonathan Alderson Landscape Architects and a team of artisans—showcases the best practices in ecological garden design with artful interventions. Meander through three miles of walking trails, experience sweeps of native wildflower plantings; explore four learning pavilions, the historic Webb Farmhouse & Galleries, and more. The story and evolutionof the Meadow landscape over time is revealed as you experience the harmony of nature’s variety and man’s careful stewardship.
- Longwood’s Meadow Garden is on view every day, weather permitting. Explore the 86 acres of the Meadow during Gardens hours until dusk.
- Meadow Garden access is included in Gardens Admission.
- Join Longwood Gardens for Meadow Days on September 20 (11 am–3 pm), October 11 (11 am–3 pm). Meadow Days offer more opportunities for fun andexploration. Experts will be on hand to answer questions and share the story of the Meadow Garden's flora and fauna as you explore our walking trails, embark on a nature seek-and-find for kids, and more. Learn more about Meadow Days here: http://longwoodgardens.org/events-and-performances/events/meadow-days
Have you ever been to Longwood Gardens? How about a chance to check the new Meadow Garden with your family? Thanks to the folks at Longwood who have generously donated a pair of tickets for someone to win. Children under the age of 4 are free so the tickets would be good for 2 adults. Enter below:
Labels: #100MeadowDays, family trips, giveaway, Kennett Square, Longwood Gardens, Meadow Garden, nature walks, outdoors, trails, weekend, win
