Scott Arboretum & Gardens

Winter Celebration: “A Garden Inferior to Few…” The Williamsburg Garden of John Custis IV
2026-03-22 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Detroit) | The Inn at Swarthmore, 10 South Chester Rd, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Due to expected inclement weather affecting speaker travel, Winter Celebration has been rescheduled to Sunday, March 22.
Celebrate America 250 with an exploration of sophisticated garden that is globally influenced but American in execution.
John Custis IV is one of Williamsburg, Virginia’s more colorful historic residents. In addition to being an influential member of the political elite, a wealthy plantation owner, and eventually the first father-in-law of Martha Washington, Custis was the creator of one of the most renowned colonial gardens of the early 18th century. Custis’ indulgence in ornamental garden design resulted in the creation of a pleasure garden said to rival that of the Royal Governor. Known as Custis Square, the four-acre garden was said to contain gravel paths, topiary, hundreds of native and imported plant varieties, and even statues. Friendships with gardening luminaries such as John Bartram and Peter Collinson opened up Custis to a global palette of plants and the correspondence between these “brothers of the spade” has revealed much about the plants within the garden. However, the actual appearance and layout has remained a mystery… until now. The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation has just concluded a five-year archaeological excavation to uncover this important lost landscape.
We will explore the evidence gathered through excavation and specialized environmental analysis to discover the design for the garden, revealing a truly baroque layout. From the locations of individual fruit trees to the evidence for large-scale earthmoving to create vistas, the results of this research have provided details recorded nowhere else. Developed at a time of transformation in European garden fashions, studying Custis’ garden provides an opportunity to better understand how elite Americans translated new landscape conventions into a different cultural and environmental setting. The result is a sophisticated garden that is globally influenced but American in execution.
Event schedule:
3:00 pm – Lecture
4:00 pm – Reception with hors d’oeuvres and cash bar
After the lecture, mix and mingle with the speaker during the reception.
For an easy dinner, make a reservation at the Broad Table Tavern. Members of the Scott Associates receive a 15% discount at the Broad Table Tavern (discount not valid on alcoholic beverages).
Advance registration for this event is closed. Walk-in registrations will be accepted. Bring exact cash ($25), check, or card for payment. Call 610-328-8024 with questions.
Program Details

Advance registration is required.
Limited to 150 people.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

About the Presenter
Jack Gary is the associate vice president for historic resources for the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. He leads a team of archaeologists, curators, architects, and scholars to reveal the hidden stories of Williamsburg’s past. He is currently directing the archaeological research for the restoration of the garden of John Custis IV as well as the research into Williamsburg’s First Baptist Church, the oldest Black Church in the United States. Jack oversees a collection of over 60 million artifacts and the development and construction of the new Campbell Archaeology Center, which will open in 2026 as the country’s premier archaeology museum. He is the former director of archaeology and landscapes for Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, where he directed the archaeological research that led to the Garden Club of Virginia’s restoration of the ornamental landscape surrounding Jefferson’s villa retreat.
About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to 3 guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Nature Nook: Spring Session
2026-03-27 11:00 - 11:45, 2026-04-03 11:00 - 11:45, 2026-04-10 11:00 - 11:45, 2026-04-17 11:00 - 11:45, 2026-05-01 11:00 - 11:45 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Calling all little nature explorers! Join Rachel Warren at Scott Arboretum & Gardens for mornings full of singing, stories, crafts, and dancing. Each session is seasonally themed around nature and the garden. This program is designed for children ages 2 to 5 years old.

Registration Cost:
Members: Free
Non-Members: $50 for all eight sessions
ACCESS Cardholder: $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.
Did you know a Family level membership to the Associates of the Scott Arboretum is only $55 and includes benefits for two adults and up to four children? Become a member of the Associates of the Scott Arboretum here.
Register Now
Program Details

Registration is required. Registration includes all eight sessions. Please note: there will be no class on April 24, 2026 in preparation for the Arbor Day Celebration on April 25.
Class size is limited.
Registration for members includes participation for up to four children and their caregivers.
Registration for non-members includes one child and their caregivers.
Siblings under 2 are welcome to attend at no additional charge.
Please list the child’s first name during registration.
Sessions will start in the Wister Center with a story and craft, followed by a short walk to explore a garden.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

Scott Medal & Award Presentation
2026-03-29 16:30 - 18:45 | Lang Performing Arts Center, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Please join us in honoring Paul Redman, President & CEO of Longwood Gardens, as the recipient of the 2026 Scott Garden & Horticulture Medal and Award.
In-person registration includes attendance at the award presentation and reception at the Lang Performing Arts Center on the campus of Swarthmore College.
Advance in-person registration is now closed. Walk-ins welcome. Virtual registration will remain open through the event.
Virtual Registration
Paul B. Redman – 2026 Award Recipient
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly announces Paul B. Redman as the recipient of the 2026 Scott Garden & Horticulture Award, recognizing a career that has profoundly shaped the art, science, and public experience of horticulture.
Since assuming the role of President and Chief Executive Officer of Longwood Gardens during its centennial year in 2006, Redman has led one of the most ambitious transformations in the history of American public gardens. Guided by a visionary 40-year master plan, his leadership has positioned Longwood as a premier horticultural and educational institution of the 21st century—one dedicated to its enduring mission to bring joy to all people through the beauty of nature.
Under his tenure, Longwood has more than doubled its annual attendance to 1.8 million visitors, expanded membership nearly fivefold, and become the most visited paid public garden in North America.
Redman’s impact is evident across Longwood’s landscape including the East Conservatory Plaza and its landmark green wall, the expansive Meadow Garden, and the revitalized Main Fountain Garden. Most recently, he oversaw the breathtaking 2024 reimagination of seventeen acres featuring a floating all-glass conservatory, new garden spaces for bonsai and the Cascade Garden, and expanded facilities for dining, events, and education.
Plantsman Richard W. Lighty observed, “Behind the scenes at Longwood, Paul has led the revitalization and modernization of horticultural research and technology… It is his policy to share all these progressive techniques with the wider public garden world.”
Beyond physical transformation, Redman’s legacy is defined by education, collaboration, and stewardship. He has expanded horticultural conservation through Longwood at Granogue, championed workforce development through internships and professional programs, and helped found Seed Your Future, a national initiative advancing horticulture awareness and careers.
2014 Scott Medal & Award Winner Jane G. Pepper noted, “Paul’s leadership extends beyond Longwood’s grounds… fostering design, research, conservation, and the professional development of future horticulturists.”
Through more than three decades in public horticulture, Paul B. Redman has made an indelible mark—cultivating landscapes, institutions, and generations of leaders. Scott Arboretum & Gardens is honored to recognize his extraordinary contributions with the 2026 Scott Medal and Award.
THE SCOTT GARDEN AND HORTCULTURE AWARD was established in 1929 to recognize individuals who, in the opinion of the selection committee, have made outstanding national contributions to the science and art of gardening. The 2026 award of the medal, together with $20,000, is given as an acknowledgement of “. . . achievement of great merit, recognition of work in creating and developing a wider interest in gardening.”
THE SCOTT MEDAL, designed by American sculptor Walker Hancock, represents man cultivating the ground, lifting his arms high above him as if to call down inspiration to mingle with the water that pours from the vase. The water falls on two motifs, the tree peony and the iris. The reverse side shows the tree of life.
ARTHUR HOYT SCOTT (1873-1927), an 1895 graduate of Swarthmore College and a successful manufacturer, maintained an abiding love of beautiful gardens throughout his busy life. He was at one time treasurer of the American Peony Society, a founder and treasurer of the American Iris Society, and a breeder of irises and peonies. Scott Arboretum & Gardens, through its educational programs and displays of plants, continues Arthur Hoyt Scott’s vision.
Program Details

All registrations include access to the virtual live stream.
In-person registration is limited to 600. Due to limited seating, virtual registrants cannot attend in person.
Registration is free and encouraged.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

School’s Out: Spring Blooms
2026-04-01 09:30 - 12:00 | Cherry Border, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, 19081, United States
Drop by Scott Arboretum & Gardens this April Fools’ Day for some outdoor adventure, trickery, and creativity! Children ages 3-12 with a caregiver can enjoy a nature-themed craft, learn about plants that play tricks in nature, and go on a scavenger hunt throughout our gardens. Bring a picnic and enjoy the day outside!
Join us at 10:00am for a special read aloud with local author and horticulturist, Gregg Tepper. Gregg recently wrote the book “Mirabelle Visits a Garden: A Native Plant Garden Adventure“. After the read aloud, the book will be available for purchase and signing.
Stay for a free, family-friendly tour of the Arboretum & Gardens at 10:30 am.
This is a free, drop-in program, and no registration is required. Scott Saplings, this is a great opportunity to stamp your code catcher and pick up your spring prize!

Schedule:

9:30 am – 12:00 pm: Crafts, Bookwalk, Scavenger Hunt, Plant Trickery and more!

10:00 am – 10:30 am: Special Read Aloud with Gregg Tepper, Author of Mirabelle Visits a Garden

10:30 am – 11 am: Family – Friendly Tour

Program Details:

This event will be held in the Cherry Border. In case of inclement weather, we will move inside to the Wister Center.
All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

In-Person Highlights Tour: Flowering Cherries
2026-04-01 12:00 - 13:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Explore flowering cherries at Scott Arboretum & Gardens with our new Associate Director, Horticulture, Tony Aiello. Tony is a renowned plant expert with a special interest in flowering cherries. Gardeners and plant enthusiasts of all levels are welcome.
Register Now
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott Arboretum offices (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

Gardens & Galleries: A Spring Day in Brooklyn
2026-04-09 07:00 - 19:00 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Join fellow Scott Associates for a delightful day exploring one of Brooklyn’s most beautiful cultural and green spaces. This enriching bus trip combines world-class gardens, inspiring art, and vibrant neighborhood attractions.
Our day begins with a tour of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG). Founded more than a century ago, BBG is internationally celebrated for its exceptional urban horticulture and thoughtfully designed landscapes. Highlights include the serene Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, the charming Shakespeare Garden, and the lush Steinhardt Conservatory. At this special time of year, we hope to enjoy the Garden’s spectacular cherry trees in full bloom, a truly unforgettable sight. Check out what else is blooming in April on BBG’s website.
Following the tour, enjoy free time to explore the Garden at your own pace or venture into the surrounding area before our afternoon departure. Lunch is on your own, with excellent options nearby, including BBG’s Yellow Magnolia Café, the Brooklyn Museum Café, and a variety of highly regarded local restaurants—several recognized with Michelin stars.
Just steps from BBG is the Brooklyn Museum, one of New York City’s premier cultural institutions. Its impressive collections span Asian and Islamic art, Egyptian antiquities, European and American masterpieces, as well as contemporary and decorative arts. Guests are welcome to stroll the galleries at leisure and draw inspiration from this neighborhood treasure.
Also adjacent to the Botanic Garden is Prospect Park, designed by the same visionaries behind Central Park. This 526-acre oasis is beloved for its scenic landscapes, winding waterways, and rich natural beauty. Within the park you’ll find a zoo, the nation’s first urban Audubon Center, an ice rink, band shell, carousel, and numerous recreational facilities—making it a dynamic and inviting destination for visitors and locals alike.
This thoughtfully curated day promises beauty, culture, and relaxation—an ideal springtime escape with Scott Associates.
Travel by coach bus, driver gratuity, admission fees to Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Brooklyn Museum, snacks, and refreshments on the bus are all included in the price of this trip. Lunch will be on your own.
Accessibility: This excursion is wheelchair accessible; contact us by March 19 to indicate wheelchair use. Participants must be able to traverse up to 2 miles at a leisurely pace. The bus will drop the group off at Brooklyn Botanic Garden and return at the end of the day for pick up.
Registration Cost:
Members: $165
Non-Members: $205 (includes a one-year Individual level membership to the Associates of Scott Arboretum & Gardens)
Registration closes Thursday, April 2.
Call to register 610-328-8025.
Become a member of the Associates to attend trips.
Important information about this event. Thank you for reading before registering:

This trip is limited to 30 members of the Associates of the Scott Arboretum.

Become a member here.

Online payment is required to register. No checks or cash will be accepted.

Dogwood Doggie Day Out
2026-04-11 09:30 - 12:00 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Bring the pups to Scott Arboretum and Gardens’ inaugural Dogwood Doggie Day Out! This casual, drop-in event is for people and their leashed pets to explore the blooms of spring, including our flowering dogwood trees.
Activities will include a dog-friendly guided walking tour of the dogwoods, self-guided stroll, and interactive activities to learn about dogwood trees. Meet adoptable dogs from a local shelter and stop by the membership table for a special dog-themed giveaway. A limited number of dogwood trees and doggie goodies will be available, while supplies last.
Events Schedule:
9:30 am – 12 pm:

Dogwood activity station
Scott Arboretum & Gardens member doggie swag giveaway (one per membership, while supplies last)
Visit with adoptable dogs from a local shelter
Dogwood tree giveaway
Self-guided tour

10 – 11 am: Dog-Friendly Dogwood Tour
Program Details:

This event will be held in the Wister Center Parking Lot.
In case of inclement weather, the event will be held inside the Wister Center.
All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Pets must be on a leash at all times to be in compliance with Swarthmore Ordinance 949.608.02.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

Dog-Friendly Walking Tour
2026-04-11 10:00 - 11:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Bring your favorite leashed pup(s) for a dog-friendly walk led by our horticulture staff. This tour will feature blooming dogwoods, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed, leashed stroll perfect for enjoying springtime with your furry friends.
Register Now
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott Arboretum offices (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Pets must be on a leash at all times to be in compliance with Swarthmore Ordinance 949.608.02.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

Dahlias for Days: An Introductory Workshop
2026-04-16 18:00 - 19:30 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Explore the colorful world of dahlias in this hands-on workshop, perfect for new and seasoned growers alike. Ted Patterson, long-time Scott garden volunteer and dahlia enthusiast, believes there is a dahlia form, color, or habit for everyone. He will share his knowledge of how to choose healthy tubers and even grow from cuttings or seeds. We’ll discuss soil prep, planting, staking, and the care to get your dahlias through their long bloom period. The class includes an easy, practical overview of overwintering—whether you plan to store tubers indoors or leave them in the ground—so you can enjoy your plants year after year.
No prior experience is required. You’ll leave with practical knowledge, helpful resources, and your own dahlia tuber to start your garden journey.
Registration Cost:
Members: $35
Non-Members: $45
ACCESS Cardholder : $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.
Call 610-328-8025 to register.
Program Details

Registration is required.
Class size limited to 18.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

About the Presenter
Ted Patterson is a long-time Arboretum Assistant who volunteers in the garden and chairs events. He is also on the board of Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens and a member of the Greater Philadelphia Dahlia Society. Dahlias have been expanding their footprint in his garden for over 20 years.
About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to three guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Spring Crum Woods Hike
2026-04-18 10:00 - 11:30 | Matchbox, 500 College Ave, Swarthmore, PA, 19081
Experience the spring awakenings in the Crum Woods! Discover flowers, listen to the babbling creek, and take a deep breath as you enjoy a meditative moment in the woods. Our Crum Woods hike will be led by a horticulturist on staff who can answer your plant questions and provide you with a rich wealth of knowledge during your tour.
We recommend this hike for adults and children ages 5 and up. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Register Now

Program Details

Please note this tour has a different departure location than other tours.
This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
This tour will depart from the front of the Matchbox building.
Please park in the Field House Parking Lot and walk to the departure location, following Arboretum logo signs.
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Accessibility:

This program is NOT wheelchair or stroller accessible.
Participants must be able to hike on unpaved, hilly surfaces for about 2 miles, with exposed roots and rocks. There is a brief, uphill walk from the parking area to the departure location.
Email us if you have other accessibility needs for this program.

Accessible Green Roof Tour
2026-04-22 12:00 - 13:00 | McCabe Library, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, 19081
Celebrate Earth Day with a tour of our earth-friendly green roofs. Learn about the inner workings, benefits, sustainability, and beauty of green roofs at Scott Arboretum & Gardens. This tour will start with green roofs recently completed outside of Sharples Commons. Then the group will use an elevator to view the Green Roof on the David Kemp Residential Building. This tour will depart from the front of McCabe Library and will take an accessible route.
Register Now
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
This tour will depart from McCabe Library.
Accessible parking can be found around the Rose Garden Circle and Wister Center Parking Lot.
This tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Please note that our campus is on a hill, so participants should be prepared to move along accessible paved paths up and down the hill.
Please note this tour has a different departure location than other tours.
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have additional accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025

Arbor Day Celebration
2026-04-25 10:00 - 13:00 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Celebrate Arbor Day at Scott Arboretum & Gardens! Enjoy a tree-themed scavenger hunt, learn from expert arborists, participate in engaging tree activities, and explore the stunning spring gardens. Take home a free sapling to plant in your garden (one per family, while supplies last). Join us at noon for our Arbor Day Tree tour led by a member of our horticulture staff.
Event Schedule:
10 am – 1 pm: Arbor Day Scavenger Hunt, Tree Activities, and Tree Giveaway
noon – 1:00 pm: Arbor Day Tree Tour
Program Details:

Rain or shine event.
This event will be held in the Wister Center and surrounding gardens.
All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Arbor Day Tree Tour
2026-04-25 12:00 - 13:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
To celebrate Arbor Day, join us for an enriching, in-person tree tour led by a member of our horticulture staff. This guided walk will immerse you in the diverse world of trees, showcasing the beauty and unique characteristics of our collection. Whether you’re a tree enthusiast or just looking to learn something new, this tour offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and gain valuable insights from an expert.
Before your tour, stop by the Wister Center for our Arbor Day Celebration!
Register Now
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott offices (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

Tree Peony Tour
2026-04-29 18:00 - 19:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
One of our first collections after our founding in 1929 was tree peonies. These gorgeous flowers are a highlight every May. Enjoy the early evening ambiance while learning about the different types of tree peony hybrids in our collection from our horticulture staff.
Gardeners and plant enthusiasts of all levels are welcome.
If you enjoy peonies, be sure to check out the American Peony Society Convention from May 2 – 5, hosted by the Mid-Atlantic Peony Society.
Register Now
Program Details

Rain or shine event.
This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott offices (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

Art in the Garden: Youth and Family Workshop
2026-05-02 09:00 - 10:30 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Join Young Rembrandts at Scott Arboretum & Gardens for a fun morning of art and nature—a perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day! Each participant will design a beautiful flower creation using watercolor pencils while being immersed in the springtime garden. The workshop’s step-by-step guided instruction allows participants of all abilities to thrive in a collaborative environment. This program is open to children ages 5 and up with their caregiver.
Registration Cost:
Member: $20
Non-Member: $30
ACCESS Cardholder: $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.
Register Now
Program Details

This workshop is for participants ages 5 and up; no experience needed.
All children must be accompanied by a caregiver.
Registration is required for each child and adult participating.
Please include the first name of all participants during registration.
Registration includes all supplies.
Workshop limited to 24 people.
In case of inclement weather, this workshop will be held in the Wister Center.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to three guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Members’ Plant Exchange and Sale
2026-05-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Join us for this unique, fun, and sustainable plant shopping experience by exchanging plants from your garden for new plants brought by fellow members (must be a member of the Scott Associates to participate).
Learn all the details about the exchange and sale here.

Centre County in Bloom Trip
2026-05-11 - 2026-05-13 | Wister Center, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Discover Centre County’s beauty with the Scott Associates! Explore gardens, peonies, and Penn State’s celebrated Arboretum with Scott Arboretum & Gardens staff.
Check out the complete itinerary here.
Register Now
Become a member of the Associates to attend trips.
Important information about this event. Thank you for reading before registering.

Online payment is required to register. No checks or cash will be accepted.
This trip is limited to 30 members of the Associates of the Scott Arboretum.

Become a member here.

Green Roof Tour
2026-05-15 12:00 - 13:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Learn about the inner workings, benefits, sustainability, and beauty of green roofs at the Arboretum. A member of our horticulture staff will lead this exploration of one of the many green roofs on campus. All participants must be 18 or older.
Register Now

Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott Arboretum offices (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

Rose Celebration
2026-05-20 16:00 - 19:00 | Dean Bond Rose Garden, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Celebrate one of summer’s most prized flowers with a free event for the whole family, including appreciating the beauty of the Dean Bond Rose Garden, learning about roses, enjoying live music, and more!
This free event is rain or shine.
Featured activities:

Tours of the Dean Bond Rose Garden at 4:30, 5:30, and 6:30 pm
Rose planting demonstrations at 5:00 and 6:00 pm
Snap a picture with our live floral arbor designed by TissaRose
Taste rose-inspired bites and beverages
Sample floral flavored water ice from Vera’s Water Ice and rosé wine from Chaddsford Winery
Create rose art and get a temporary rose tattoo
Enjoy live music from the Bickel Brothers Band
Purchase dinner from Humpty’s Dumplings or bring your own picnic
Members of Scott Arboretum & Gardens: Pick up your free rose plant!

Program Details:

This event is free and open to all.
The event will be held in and around the Dean Bond Rose Garden at Scott Arboretum & Gardens on the Swarthmore College campus.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Driving/Parking Information:

Navigate to 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA 19081 and follow the event/parking signs to Swarthmore College’s North entrance.
Free parking is available in the Whittier parking lot.
Arboretum directional signs will direct you from the parking lot to the Dean Bond Rose Garden.

Behind the Scenes Tour: Geoexchange Plant
2026-06-10 14:00 - 15:00 | PA
Take a behind the scenes look at Swarthmore College’s geoexchange plant and learn how it contributes to the goal of carbon neutrality on campus by 2035. This tour is recommended for ages 12 and older.
Register Here
Accessibility

Participants must be able to get to the Dining Center and Community Commons (approximately ⅓ mile from the recommended parking) and be stationary and/or move for 45 minutes during the tour.
Email us at scott@swarthmore.edu if you have other accessibility needs for this program.

Program Details

This tour will depart from the Kemp Family Commons, located in the Dining and Community Commons building
Please park in or near the Wister Center lot and walk to the departure location, following Arboretum logo signs.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025

Stamp Your Passport Series: Glen Foerd and Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum
2026-06-11 08:00 - 17:30 | PA
Join Scott Arboretum & Gardens staff for a day-long excursion to two historic garden destinations: Glen Foerd and Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum. Enjoy private guided tours of these beautiful properties, part of the region’s 38 gardens within 30 miles of Philadelphia.
Glen Foerd, set along the Delaware River in Philadelphia, shines in mid‑June with lush perennial borders, flowering shrubs, and expansive lawns framed by mature trees. Its historic estate landscape blends formal design with naturalistic plantings. Expect peak blooms, rich foliage textures, and an intimate look at a culturally layered landscape that feels both grand and welcoming. We will enjoy lunch al fresco (weather permitting, included with trip cost) before continuing to Andalusia.
Up the river, Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum offers a masterclass in classical landscape design and arboretum excellence. June is an especially rewarding time to visit, with long garden vistas fully leafed out, specimen trees at their best, and seasonal blooms accenting one of the region’s finest historic estates.
Together, these two sites offer a richly textured experience—combining garden beauty, horticultural expertise, and riverside tranquility. The day includes transportation to and from Scott Arboretum & Gardens, a relaxing lunch, guided tours of the gardens and houses, and time to explore on your own.
Registration Cost:
Members: $65
Non-Members: $105 (includes a one-year Individual level membership to the Associates of Scott Arboretum & Gardens)
Call 610-328-8025 to register.
Important information about this event:

This trip is limited to 18 members of the Associates of Scott Arboretum & Gardens.
You can become a member here.
Online payment is required to register. No checks or cash will be accepted.
Registration fee includes tour fees and lunch.
Additional information will be emailed to participants two days before the trip.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025

Garden Design Basics Workshop
2026-06-13 09:00 - 12:00 | Wister Center, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Are you ready to turn your yard into a more thoughtful, functional, and beautiful garden? This introductory workshop is designed for gardeners and homeowners who are starting their garden design journey, either with a blank slate or an established garden in need of rejuvenation.
The workshop will begin with a brief presentation covering essential design principles, how to observe and approach a garden space, and how to develop ideas that fit your site, lifestyle, and budget. You’ll also learn what questions to ask when working with a garden designer or contractor, helping you communicate your goals and make informed decisions.
Following the presentation, participants will spend the majority of the class on an inspirational walk through Scott Arboretum & Gardens, using real landscapes to explore design concepts for their own home and spark new ideas. Participants will be encouraged to discuss, ask questions, and take notes for reference. A garden journal and pen will be provided to take home.
No prior design experience is required—just curiosity and a desire to learn how to start your garden design with confidence.
Registration is now closed.
About the Presenter
The workshop will be led by David Mattern, Horticulturist at Chanticleer, where he cares for the Teacup Courtyards and Vegetable Garden. David holds a degree in Landscape Contracting with an emphasis on design and a minor in Horticulture, and is a graduate of the Professional Horticulture Program at Longwood Gardens, where he is also an instructor. His gardening experience includes work in England and South Africa, and he frequently writes, teaches, and lectures on gardening.
About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to 3 guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Green Roof Tour
2026-06-17 17:00 - 18:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Learn about the inner workings, benefits, sustainability, and beauty of green roofs at the Arboretum. A member of our horticulture staff will lead this tour, sharing their insights and expertise while you explore one of the many green roofs on campus. All participants must be 18 or older.
Register Here
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott Arboretum & Gardens offices (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Solstice Yoga and Sound Bath
2026-06-20 18:00 - 19:15 | Scott Outdoor Amphitheater, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
This program is a partnership with the Park Avenue Community Center to promote health and wellness throughout our community.
Celebrate the summer solstice with an evening of tranquility and renewal in the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater. As the golden hues of sunset wash over the open sky, join us for a gentle yoga flow designed to awaken your senses and align your body with the rhythm of the season.
Following the movement practice, surrender to the soothing vibrations of a live sound bath, featuring crystal singing bowls, gongs, and chimes. Let the harmonious tones guide you into deep relaxation as you soak in the natural beauty of the amphitheater.
Come as you are, bring a mat or blanket, and embrace the magic of summer’s arrival in this serene, open-air setting.
Though this event is free, please consider making a donation of $10 while registering to support our educational programs.
Register Here
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
We recommend this event for adults and children ages 10 and up. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
This event will be held in the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater.
This event will move to an indoor location in the event of inclement weather.
Bring a water bottle and yoga mat or towel.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Driving/Parking Notes

Navigate to 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA 19081 and follow the event/parking signs to Swarthmore College’s North entrance.
Free parking is available in the Whittier parking lot.
Arboretum directional signs will direct you from the parking lot to the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater.

About the Presenters
Mary Thompson, E-RYT 200, YACEP, first discovered yoga to maintain balance and strength throughout her career in federal law enforcement. As a teacher, Mary creates a nurturing space for students to experience yoga as a gateway for transformation and growth, and as a modality of life-long wellness. Mary is a certified Yoga for Healthy Aging teacher, and the founder of Sanctuary Yoga, a spiritual wellness ministry at Trinity Church, Swarthmore. Mary is also the Director of Adult Programs and Health & Wellness at the Park Avenue Community Center, where she creates programming and offerings to serve and support the health and wellness needs of the Delaware County community. When Mary first moved to Swarthmore, her daily walks through the Arboretum with her family and dogs inspired her to volunteer at Scott Arboretum & Gardens, where she recently served as President of Council to the Scott Associates. Mary deeply appreciates the Scott Arboretum & Gardens as a place for all generations to share, learn and experience year-round horticultural beauty.
Audrey Uchimoto, AKA Sound Baths by Aud, is a passionate sound healer based on the Main Line of Philadelphia. Certified in Sound Healing and Crystal Singing Bowls, Audrey uses the therapeutic application of sound frequencies and vibrations to align individuals’ energetic fields and brain waves into a state of harmony and peace.
Audrey entered the sound healing community in 2017 while living in Los Angeles. Since returning to her East Coast roots, Audrey has been bringing the healing power of sound baths to local yoga and wellness studios and retreats, as well as in her home studio.
Her collection of sound healing instruments allows Audrey to create a mixture of harmonic and binaural tones that give her sound bath attendees a deeply profound, one-of-a-kind experience accessing the inner layers of their subconscious through sound vibrations.

In-Person Highlights Tour
2026-06-26 12:00 - 13:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Take your lunch break to explore early summer blooms throughout the Arboretum & Gardens. A member of our horticulture staff will lead this tour, sharing their insights and expertise with attendees.
Register Here
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott Arboretum & Gardens offices (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Members-Only Experience: Forest Bathing
2026-07-15 09:00 - 11:00 | Scott Outdoor Amphitheater, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Due to the forecast of extreme heat, we are rescheduling this program for September. Details to come! Thank you for your understanding, and please stay safe during the heat.
Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is a Japanese practice that invites participants to slow down and connect with nature through the senses. Join Campus Engagement Manager Sue MacQueen in the Crum Woods for a guided members-only experience of this calming approach. Over the course of two hours, Sue will lead the group with gentle prompts to notice the sights, sounds, textures, and scents of the forest. The pace is slow, but participants should be able to walk up to 1.5 miles over steep, uneven terrain and sit on the forest floor.
Because of the quiet, reflective nature of the program, this is an adults only event.
Become a member of the Scott Associates to attend this event!
Accessibility

This program is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
Participants must be able to walk on unpaved, hilly surfaces for about 1.5 miles, with exposed roots and rocks.
Participants must also be able to sit on the forest floor.

Program Details

This members-only event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
The tour will depart from the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.
Please note this hike has a different departure location than other tours.

Driving/Parking Notes

Navigate to 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA 19081 and follow the event/parking signs to Swarthmore College’s North entrance.
Free parking is available in the Whittier parking lot.
Arboretum directional signs will direct you from the parking lot to the meeting location.
