With Philly moving to the Yellow Phase with plans of reopening after the coronavirus pandemic, the slew of announcements of establishments opening their doors has been quite exciting. That also rings true for one historic institution that will be opening back up just in time for the summer.
On Monday, June 15, Andalusia Historic House, Gardens and Arboretum will be resuming services and all Philadelphians will be allowed to tour the lush and green property overlooking the Delaware River. Being only 13 miles out of the city in Bucks County, this destination in the past has been sought out by many and will undoubtedly ignite some day trips for those itching to get out of Philly in the near future as well. The property is mainly outdoors, offering the perfect way to enjoy some sunshine while still maintaining six feet from others and staying healthy.
According to the release, the 100-acre property is home to more than 800 trees, including nearly 250 unique specimen and cultivars from around the world. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, The Andalusia Foundation preserves and maintains the grounds so that visitors can enjoy the ancestral home of the Biddle family and the natural paradise of native woodlands and spectacular formal gardens.
One of the most stunning features of the property is the ‘Big House’ that overlooks the waterfront. Placed over five decades ago in 1966 by the Register of Historic Landmarks, the early 19th-century Greek Revival mansion features a monumental columned porch, and still acts as an aesthetic draw for visitors.
To make 2020 extra special for the establishment, the release states that this year, Andalusia Historic House and Gardens added Arboretum to its name after being awarded Level II accreditation by ArbNet. It is now recognized in the Morton Register of Arboreta, a database of the world’s tree-focused public gardens.
Andalusia will be following certain and specific guidelines to help keep guests safe as well. The new stipulations will correlate with the COVID-19 yellow regulations and will feature timed, and limited pre-purchased tickets as requirements to allow for a safe, relaxing and enjoyable experience. Although visitors are allowed and encouraged to explore the exterior architecture and design of the “Big House,” the interior of the house will remain closed and will not be open for tours this season.
Those interested in visiting the grounds can purchase tickers in advance by visiting the Andalusia Historic House, Gardens and Arboretum website. Public tours will be offered Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. Tickets cost $15 per person. According to the release, tours by reservation are offered Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.; with tickets also being $15 per person. Andalusia will host its first of four special Open Saturday events on June 20, offering the public opportunities to enjoy the gardens and grounds and advance tickets are required with entry times at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
To learn more information and to buy tickets, visit andalusiapa.org
