Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum has reopened for its 2026 season with a range of new features and experiences.
The site has debuted two special exhibitions in honor of the nation’s semiquincentennial: ‘Revolutionary Family: The Biddles & American Independence’ and ‘Radical Americana: Sophie Glenn & Jody Graff.’ This year’s opening has also brought on some enhancements to the award-winning gardens, including newly installed 12-foot-tall rose pillars and ornamental topiaries.
'Revolutionary Family: The Biddles & American Independence' is its centerpiece this season, and the exhibit examines the Biddle family during the 1770s—two decades before Andalusia was established. Through original objects and manuscripts, the showcase highlights the family’s role in the Revolutionary War and emphasizes their strong familial bonds during a pivotal moment in American history—like Owen Biddle’s work developing technology designed to sink enemy ships, alongside the service of brothers Nicholas, Edward, and James in the Continental Navy.
As a release notes, the exhibition also explores how Mary and Rebekah Biddle supported the cause of independence within the constraints of 18th-century gender roles, while providing insight into life at the pre-Andalusia site during the 1770s. ‘Revolutionary Family’ will be on view at the Historic House now through Nov. 13.
Andalusia is also partnering with The Clay Studio on ‘Radical Americana’, a collaborative initiative where artists Sophie Glenn and Jody Graff were commissioned to create new, research-driven works inspired by Andalusia’s history and the city’s broader cultural legacy. Glenn’s piece—a steel chair influenced by the mansion’s Greek Revival design—blends historical references with contemporary local culture, including nods to the Philadelphia Eagles and ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.’
Graff’s work features large-scale quilted compositions made from pressed leaves gathered on the grounds, displayed outdoors alongside explanations of her process and inspiration. Glenn’s work will be exhibited in the Historic House, while Graff’s quilts will be installed in the gardens. ‘Radical Americana’ will also be on view now through Nov. 13.
Beyond the exhibitions, Andalusia’s award-winning gardens will also debut six towering rose pillars alongside new ornamental topiaries. Installed in the Walled Garden, these features were designed by acclaimed English garden designer Arabella Lennox-Boyd and represent the latest chapter in her decade-long collaboration with Andalusia, which began with a major garden reimagining in 2016. Roses will be planted on the pillars this season, allowing visitors to watch them mature and transform the space over time.
Andalusia's regular hours are Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with select Saturdays offering extended hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 4 and 18, May 16 and 30, June 27, July 11, Aug. 22, Sept. 19, Oct. 10 and 24, and Nov. 7. Special programming for these Saturdays will be announced soon, including the return of Yoga in the Gardens, led by Atlas Yoga & Movement, on April 18, May 30, June 27, Sept. 19, Oct. 10, and Nov. 7.
General admission to the gardens is $20 per person, with Historic House tours available for an additional $10 (required to view the new exhibitions). Children 12 and under, as well as members, visit free. Tickets can be purchased online or in person, with reservations strongly recommended for house tours.
To learn more information about Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum (1237 State Road, Andalusia), visit andalusiapa.org
MORE:Made in Philadelphia Spring Market returns to Dilworth Park this weekend
