Explore Our “gardens of ideas”
Walk our gardens to admire nature or cultivate ideas for your own garden. We have fresh ideas for every season!
We can teach you what we practice
The Scott Arboretum & Gardens 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.
Visit Scott Arboretum & Gardens
Take a guided or self-guided tour to explore the extensive plant collections that make up the beautiful gardens across the Swarthmore College campus.
One of the most beautiful college campuses in America
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.
How we started
The Arboretum is a living memorial to Arthur Hoyt Scott (Swarthmore Class of 1895). Mr. Scott’s family made a generous donation to establish the Arboretum in 1929.
Mission
The mission of the Scott Arboretum & Gardens is to delight, educate, and inspire visitors to enjoy the many benefits of horticulture, whatever their resources or expertise. Our “gardens of ideas” feature 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.
Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) Statement
The Scott Arboretum & Gardens, as a part of Swarthmore College, is committed to the College’s values of respect for the individual, social responsibility and justice, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
The Scott Arboretum & Gardens staff and Scott Associates Council value the principles of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access (IDEA).
Recognizing that nature and horticulture belong to everyone, our goal is to share our common humanity through all our endeavors.
Learn horticulture through application
The Scott Arboretum & Gardens 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.
Our programs include:
- Hands-on workshops, lectures, and classes
- Community Gardening
- Volunteering
- Swarthmore College Student Employee Program
- Internships
America’s Garden Capital
We are part of America’s Garden Capital! Explore more than 30 public gardens in the Greater Philadelphia area.
Greater Philadelphia Gardens
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.
Delaware County ARTS Calendar
“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!
Become a Scott Associate
Since 1971, the Associates of the Scott Arboretum & Gardens have supported the goals of the Arboretum. By becoming a member, you will enjoy many benefits including:
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Discounts on events, programs, workshops, and excursions.
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Discounts on regional businesses and garden centers.
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Free admission to 360+ North American gardens.
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Two plant dividends per year.
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and more!