Scott Arboretum & Gardens

Nature Nook: Spring Session
2026-04-10 11:00 - 11:45, 2026-04-17 11:00 - 11:45, 2026-05-01 11:00 - 11:45 (America/Detroit) | 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.

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.

Virtual Lunchtime Tour: Spring Bulbs
2026-05-01 12:00 - 12:30 | Virtual Meeting
Take your lunch break virtually to explore the beauty of spring-blooming bulbs throughout the Arboretum & Gardens. Tune in on our YouTube channel.

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.

In-Person May Highlights Tour
2026-05-19 12:00 - 13:00 | Wister Center – Gillespie Room, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Take your lunch break and explore the blousy blooms of peonies and other spring beauties throughout the Arboretum & Gardens. A member of our horticulture staff will lead this tour to lend their insights and expertise. 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.

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!

Virtual Lunchtime Tour: Herbaceous Peonies
2026-05-28 12:00 - 12:30 | Virtual Meeting
Take your lunch break virtually to explore herbaceous peonies throughout Scott Arboretum & Gardens. Tune in on our YouTube channel.

Woody Plant Conference
2026-07-17 09:00 - 16:30 | Lang Performing Arts Center, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Mark your calendars for the 28th annual Woody Plant Conference at Scott Arboretum & Gardens. This popular, day-long conference focuses on great woody plants for the Mid-Atlantic region and how to use them in the landscape.
This conference is co-sponsored by Chanticleer, Longwood Gardens, the Morris Arboretum & Gardens, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, and the Scott Arboretum & Gardens.
The conference is ideal for professionals in the horticulture and landscape field, and avid gardeners.
Learn More
