Bartram's Garden

Bartram's Garden is a 50-acre National Historic Landmark located on the west bank of the Schuylkill River in Southwest Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Established in 1728 by botanist John Bartram, it is considered the oldest surviving botanical garden in North America.

The garden features a diverse collection of native and exotic plant species, many of which were originally collected and cultivated by John Bartram and his descendants. Visitors can explore the historic Bartram House, built between 1728 and 1731, which showcases 18th-century architecture and period furnishings.

The grounds include several distinct garden areas, such as the Ann Bartram Carr Garden, which was restored in 2015 and features various rose species. The site also boasts notable trees, including the Franklinia alatamaha (Franklin Tree), which the Bartrams are credited with saving from extinction, a centuries-old Ginkgo biloba believed to be the oldest in North America, and a historic Yellowwood tree.

Bartram's Garden serves as an important educational resource, offering guided tours, workshops, and programs focused on botany, horticulture, and environmental science. The garden also provides the only recreational access to the Tidal Schuylkill River in the area, with opportunities for boating and fishing.

The John Bowman Bartram Special Collections Library, located on-site, houses an extensive collection of documents related to the garden's history and the development of botany in America. Throughout the year, the garden hosts various events and activities, including plant sales, art exhibitions, and community gatherings.