There are many reasons to visit Morris Arboretum & Gardens, but the spring and summer especially shine here with unique events, outdoor pop-ups and plenty of other seasonal treats sprinkled into its schedule.
This weekend kicks it all off with a Botanical Mixology workshop on May 3, at 6 p.m. The 21+ event will teach participants how to add fresh garden ingredients to seasonal cocktails along with other flavor combinations and techniques. This particular experience is BYO crackers and cheese (if you want a snack) and runs for $65 (or $60 for members).
The month of May will also feature the Mid Atlantic Plant Research Conference (May 8, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), where conference speakers will discuss new research in plant science that can help us understand the current challenges in our wetland and coastal regions ($80-$150) and the Spring Blossoms Tour (May 9). With the tour, participation is free with admission, and visitors can meet at the Welcome Center at 11 a.m. Morris will also host Storytime for kids on May 20 at 10:30 a.m., featuring the book ‘Give Bees a Chance’ by Bethany Barton.
Later in the month, a Kickoff Weekend for ‘Revolutionary Philly and Plants from the Colonial Era’ will be in full swing at the venue. Taking place May 22 to 24 (times vary), visitors can learn about plants native to Pennsylvania and how they were used in the 1700s and participate in sensory activities throughout the occasion, which is all free with admission.
May 22 also marks the seasonal opening for the Garden Railway, which will remain on view to the public through Sept. 30. With this particular fixture — which is perhaps the most popular feature at Morris — Philadelphians are able to wander through one of the largest outdoor model train displays in the United States with more than 15 different rail lines running along a third of a mile of track. This year will also mark the Railway’s ‘Revolutionary Philly’ activation, which boasts scenes inspired by colonial Philadelphia.
Anyone can also join the free More Hidden Gems Tour on May 23, at 11 a.m. Through this activity, Morris says visitors can “go off the beaten path to visit places you’ve never been and experience Garden gems you haven’t seen before.” Kiddos can additionally enjoy the Bloomin’ Bubbles Kickoff!, which starts May 26 and will run every Tuesday through Aug. 25 (11 a.m. to noon). Through this series, the venue will transform the Whimsical Woods into a magical bubble party with dancing, crafts, and activities.
And finally, the 2026 schedule also features Yoga in the Treetops and the Garden Highlights Tour. Yoga will take place on May 28, at 5:15 ($35-$40), while the Highlights Tour will run weekdays at 10:30 a.m. and weekends at 1 p.m. (free with admission).
For a full schedule of offerings and events at Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania (100 E Northwestern Ave.) this season, visit morrisarboretum.org
