Centennial Arboretum

Centennial Arboretum is a botanical garden in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, spanning about 27 acres with specimen trees and shrubs from Asia, Europe, and North America. The grounds blend different plant collections within a park setting that invites walking and exploration.

The arboretum was established in 1876 during the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition to mark the anniversary of American independence. It grew out of a larger effort to develop the Fairmount Park area as a green space and botanical resource.

The grounds feature the Shofuso Japanese House, a structure built with traditional design that hosts the annual Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival each spring. This space brings Japanese cultural practices to life and shows how visitors from the region connect with East Asian traditions through seasonal celebrations.

The gardens sit at the intersection of Belmont and Montgomery Drive in the park, making navigation straightforward for visitors. Plan time to walk through the different plant zones, as the grounds offer multiple paths and sections worth exploring.

Many of the original trees planted during the 1876 exposition still grow on the grounds, documenting growth spanning more than 145 years. These older specimens reveal the botanical story of the place through their size and form.

Location: Pennsylvania

GPS coordinates: 39.98300,-75.21040

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:40