Welcome to Philadelphia's River Garden

Welcome to Philadelphia's River Garden. . , We invite you to explore our vibrant garden, riverfront, and Southwest Philadelphia's gateway to our city's parks and trails., Bartram's Garden is named for John Bartram (1699 - 1777), a naturalist and explorer whose journeys into the American wilderness fostered a transatlantic plant exchange that transformed landscapes in the colonies and Europe. Bartram's son, William Bartram (1739 - 1823), and granddaughter, Ann Bartram Carr (1779-1858), furthered our knowledge of the natural world through horticulture and the arts., The history of this garden extends beyond the Bartram family. This land has been home to the indigenous Leni Lenape, early Swedish settlers, the family of of Philadelphia industrialist Andrew Eastwick, and early African Americans living in and around the garden. For many, this natural space has served to inspire community and spark creativity through its connection to these histories and its unique access to the Schuylkill river. Asa public park, this inspiration is now accessible to any and all who seek it., The John Bartram Association nurtures this legendary landscape in partnership with the City of Philadelphia., Thank you for visiting. We hope you will visit often and take part in our diverse programs., Learn more about how you can be involved and join as a member in the Welcome Center., 🏠 Historic Quarters , The Bartram family's homestead features the Welcome Center, the house that John Bartram built by hand, historic outbuildings, and display gardens for the plants that were collected and shared from around the world., 🍃 Meadow , The meadow is reclaimed from a former concrete factory and now welcomes birders, trail enthusiasts, community events, and picnics., 🏞 River , With the only natural access to the tidal Schuylkill, the riverfront features the Community Boathouse and public dock, natural wetlands and pathways, and John Bartram's historic cider mill. The Bartram's Mile trail offers views of the Philadelphia skyline, anchored by the 56th Street Plaza to the south, and the Newkirk Monument to the north., 🌾 Farm , The youth-powered Sankofa Community Farm at Bartram's Garden connects our community with their food and cultural heritage.