A sampling of Longwood's 20 outdoor gardens may include the Flower Garden Walk, Italian Water Garden, Main Fountain Garden, Eye of Water, Waterfall and Chimes Tower, Idea Garden, Open Air Theatre, etc., depending on the season, the weather, and the group's willingness to walk. Since only a limited number of guides are available, tours should be reserved as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment. Guided tours must be paid in full at least one week in advance. Refunds are given with 48 hours notice, but cancellations must be made directly through the Group Visits Office . Group Rates Tickets for unguided tours must be purchased by the group leader or driver upon arrival on the day of the visit.
Payment can be by cash, check, or major credit card.
Advance-sale tickets can also be obtained through the Group Visits Office. Our 20 outdoor and 20 indoor gardens feature 11,000 different types of plants from all over the globe, including tropical rain forest plants, desert and Mediterranean plants, palms, orchids, and insectivorous plants. The nearly four acres of heated greenhouses provide an opportunity for the indoor study of 4,500 types of plants regardless of weather. Outdoors, acres of ancient trees, formal gardens, meadows, and woodlands provide opportunities to focus on specific areas of interest, both natural and man-made. Longwood's Seasonal Festivals often have themes relevant to cultural studies, and the expansive Idea Garden is a good place to learn about gardening on a small scale.