Walk our gardens to admire nature or cultivate ideas for your own garden. We have fresh ideas for every season!
The Scott Arboretum cultivates a variety of plants that create some of the region’s most intimate, authentic, and accessible horticultural experiences.
Tours and educational programs are available for budding and seasoned horticulturists.
Take a guided or self-guided tour to explore the extensive plant collections that make up the beautiful gardens across the Swarthmore College campus.
The idyllic 350-acre arboretum that makes up the Swarthmore College campus is often named one of the most beautiful in the country. Located just 11 miles from Philadelphia, the rolling hills, flowering trees, and hiking trails offer a nature escape on the edge of a busy metropolis.
The Arboretum is a living memorial to Arthur Hoyt Scott (Swarthmore Class of 1895). Mr. Scott’s family made a generous donation to established the Arboretum in 1929.
The mission of the Scott Arboretum is to delight, educate, and inspire visitors to enjoy the many benefits of horticulture whatever their resources or expertise. Our “garden of ideas” features plant varieties that thrive in this region, encouraging wise stewardship as well as the cultivation of plants to sustain the body, enchant the eye, and soothe the spirit.
The Scott Arboretum offers a variety of programs that give you hands-on experience in the gardens. Programs are available for novice and advanced horticulturists, Swarthmore College students, and volunteers.
We are part of America’s Garden Capital! Explore the over 30 public gardens in the greater philadelphia area.
With a tradition of horticulture going back 300 years, Philadelphia is America’s Garden Capital. Visit more than 30 public gardens, arboreta, and historic landscapes, all located within 30 miles of our landmark city.
“Gardening is the slowest of the performing arts.” – garden historian Mac Griswold. Check out all the great art programming happening in Delaware County this month with the Delco Arts Calendar. Enjoy the garden today and a show tonight without leaving the county!
Since 1971, the Associates of the Scott Arboretum have supported the goals of the Arboretum. By becoming a member, you will enjoy many benefits including:
