The Philadelphia area"s most scenic spots for fall foliage
Between the promise of pumpkins and the arrival of cooler, more temperate breezes, there's not much to dislike about the advent of autumn in Philadelphia. The new season also brings an invited change of scenery, as the landscapes of area parks make their slow transformation from emerald greens to a mosaic of golden yellows, fiery reds and rich browns.
Below, find five of Philly's most scenic spots to take in fall foliage. (Why not make a weekend of it with a stay at these Philadelphia B&Bs?)
A stroll along Forbidden Drive, the gravel bridle path that follows the contour of the Wissahickon Creek, will reveal Fairmount Park's foliage in a kaleidoscope of color. Those seeking a scenic workout can traverse Forbidden Drive on bicycle or horseback, or follow any of the sinuous trails that cut through the hilly, wooded landscape. More »
While Valley Forge Park is best known as the site of the Continental Army's winter encampment in 1777, this 3,500-acre National Park is also noted for its native biodiversity: More than 315 species of animals and 730 species of plants call the park home.
Deciduous trees, grassy meadows and wetlands combine to create an untouched, contiguous landscape—a portal into Pennsylvania's horticultural past. A visit to Valley Forge Park during the fall months won't disappoint foliage fanatics.More »
As summer turns to fall, Longwood Gardens continues to be one of the Philadelphia area's most beloved public gardens. Meander through the 86-acre Meadow Garden, pausing to take in a stunning autumn landscape created by native wildflowers and grasses in varying stages of seasonal change. Cap off your visit with a stop by the seasonal Garden Railway to watch G-scale model trains chug through an elaborate display.More »
Steeped in American history, the 500-acre Washington Crossing Historic Park commemorates the site upon which George Washington embarked on his legendary crossing of the Delaware River during the Revolutionary War.
One of the park's more popular attractions, the 125-foot-tall Bowman's Hill Tower marks the hillside believed to have served as Washington's lookout point during the war. Climb the stairs to the observation deck to take in a sweeping, 14-mile view of Bucks County set ablaze in fall splendor.More »
The Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania offer visitors a unique opportunity to view autumn's changing colors from a larger-than-life "bird's nest" suspended 50 feet into the sky. Once back on solid ground, explore the arboretum's 92 acres of native Pennsylvania shrubs, trees, grasses and aster in sunny yellows, cherry reds and vibrant purples.More »
Below, find five of Philly's most scenic spots to take in fall foliage. (Why not make a weekend of it with a stay at these Philadelphia B&Bs?)
1. Wissahickon Valley Park
A stroll along Forbidden Drive, the gravel bridle path that follows the contour of the Wissahickon Creek, will reveal Fairmount Park's foliage in a kaleidoscope of color. Those seeking a scenic workout can traverse Forbidden Drive on bicycle or horseback, or follow any of the sinuous trails that cut through the hilly, wooded landscape. More »
2. Valley Forge Park
While Valley Forge Park is best known as the site of the Continental Army's winter encampment in 1777, this 3,500-acre National Park is also noted for its native biodiversity: More than 315 species of animals and 730 species of plants call the park home.
Deciduous trees, grassy meadows and wetlands combine to create an untouched, contiguous landscape—a portal into Pennsylvania's horticultural past. A visit to Valley Forge Park during the fall months won't disappoint foliage fanatics.More »
3. Longwood Gardens
As summer turns to fall, Longwood Gardens continues to be one of the Philadelphia area's most beloved public gardens. Meander through the 86-acre Meadow Garden, pausing to take in a stunning autumn landscape created by native wildflowers and grasses in varying stages of seasonal change. Cap off your visit with a stop by the seasonal Garden Railway to watch G-scale model trains chug through an elaborate display.More »
4. Bowman's Hill Tower
Steeped in American history, the 500-acre Washington Crossing Historic Park commemorates the site upon which George Washington embarked on his legendary crossing of the Delaware River during the Revolutionary War.
One of the park's more popular attractions, the 125-foot-tall Bowman's Hill Tower marks the hillside believed to have served as Washington's lookout point during the war. Climb the stairs to the observation deck to take in a sweeping, 14-mile view of Bucks County set ablaze in fall splendor.More »
5. Morris Arboretum
The Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania offer visitors a unique opportunity to view autumn's changing colors from a larger-than-life "bird's nest" suspended 50 feet into the sky. Once back on solid ground, explore the arboretum's 92 acres of native Pennsylvania shrubs, trees, grasses and aster in sunny yellows, cherry reds and vibrant purples.More »
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