Longwood Gardens Membership Levels Explained

By

Tim Jennings, Senior Horticulturalist at Longwood Gardens, shares his knowledge about Longwood's Waterlily Garden and plants with a group of Longwood Garden members.
Image via Longwood Gardens on YouTube.
Tim Jennings, Senior Horticulturalist at Longwood Gardens, shares his knowledge about Longwood's Waterlily Garden and plants with a group of Longwood Garden members.

Welcome to the enchanting world of Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, where beauty and nature meet in perfect harmony!

Whether you’re a frequent Longwood Gardens guest or planning your first visit to take in Longwood Reimagined this November, understanding the variety of membership options can save you money and significantly enhance your experience.

From solo explorers to groups, Longwood Garden’s membership plans cater to all needs, ensuring your visits are filled with wonder and convenience all year round.

Let’s dive into what makes each membership level special and how you can select the best one to unlock the magic of Longwood Gardens over and over again this year.

Unlock the Magic of Longwood Gardens for One

Imagine strolling through the vibrant, ever-changing landscapes of Longwood Gardens any day you choose. With a Gardens1 membership, that freedom is yours! For just $115 a year, you can enjoy nearly unlimited access to the garden’s many wonders.

This membership level promises year-round delight, whether it’s the lush Spring Blooms, the enchanting A Longwood Christmas, or the lively Festival of Fountains.

For some special events and peak seasons, making a timed reservation is essential, and they tend to fill up fast, so plan ahead.

But that’s not all—Gardens1 individual members plan includes two complimentary guest tickets. These are perfect for sharing the beauty of Longwood with friends or family. Just like member tickets, these are timed and subject to availability, and they’re valid for one year from the date of issue.

Do note that these guest passes aren’t valid during the blackout days of A Longwood Christmas or for special ticketed events.

Members also benefit from a 10 percent discount on additional general admission tickets, Longwood’s Garden Shop purchases, and all dining experiences. Indulge in a casual meal at the Café, grab a drink and a mini pizza at the Beer Garden, or treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at 1906, Longwood’s fine-dining venue.

There are exclusive discounts at select Brandywine Valley attractions and local businesses. There are also an array of free performances and talks you can attend, special Member Appreciation Days, and members-only hours.

This membership keeps on giving, including exclusive communications and virtual benefits to connect you to Longwood’s seasonal highlights and behind-the-scenes happenings.

There’s an additional perk for young adults 25 years and under—a $35 discount on your membership purchase, available onsite with a valid ID. This makes it even easier to start your journey with Longwood Gardens.

Explore More Together with the Gardens2 Membership at Longwood Gardens

Are you and a friend or loved one looking to experience the stunning beauty of Longwood Gardens throughout the year? The Gardens2 membership is your perfect gateway!

For $185 annually, this membership grants unlimited year-round access for two people, making it an ideal choice for couples or close friends. Remember, some events and peak seasons, like the Spring Blooms, A Longwood Christmas, and the Festival of Fountains, require timed reservations, and these slots can fill up quickly.

In addition to the entry perks, Gardens2 membership comes with two complimentary guest tickets. These tickets allow you to bring different friends or family members to experience the gardens, offering a one-time general admission valid for a year from the issue date.

Keep in mind that these guest tickets are not valid on blackout days during A Longwood Christmas or for special ticketed events.

Members also enjoy a 10 percent discount on additional tickets, purchases in the Garden Shop, and all dining options. Whether it’s a snack in Longwood’s Café, a drink at the Beer Garden, or a luxurious meal at the fine-dining restaurant 1906, you’ll save while you savor the flavors of Longwood.

Like the Gardens1 option, the Gardens2 membership plan extends beyond the gardens with discounts at select Brandywine Valley attractions and businesses, adding even more value.

And, of course, there are numerous members-only benefits, including free admission to special performances and talks, exclusive Member Appreciation Days, and access to members-only hours.

The Gardens2 membership includes personalized cards for up to two named cardholders, and while one must be present for entry, children aged 4 and under come along for free. It’s a fantastic way to foster a shared passion for nature and make every visit memorable.

Family Fun with Gardens5 Membership at Longwood Gardens

Bring your family or group of friends and dive into the natural splendor of Longwood Gardens with the expansive Gardens5 membership. For $250 per year, this membership grants unlimited access for up to five individuals year-round, making it ideal for families or small groups.

As with all Longwood Gardens memberships, be aware that during peak times like the Spring Blooms, A Longwood Christmas, and the Festival of Fountains evenings, it’s crucial to book your timed reservations early, as they are likely to sell out.

In addition to the entry benefits, this membership offers two complimentary guest tickets. These can be used for general one-time admission and are valid for one year from the date they’re issued. These tickets can’t be used on blackout days during A Longwood Christmas or for special ticketed events.

The perks extend beyond entry, with a 10 percent discount on additional general admission tickets, purchases at the Garden Shop, and dining experiences at Longwood’s various eateries. Whether you’re grabbing a bite at the Café, enjoying a refreshing drink at the Beer Garden, or treating yourself at the upscale 1906 restaurant, these discounts make every visit a little more special.

Gardens5 members can also enjoy discounts at selected Brandywine Valley attractions and businesses, as well as free admission to a variety of performances and talks offered throughout the year. Member Appreciation Days and exclusive members-only hours further enhance your connection to Longwood Gardens.

Moreover, if you’re bringing the kids along, the Gardens5 membership allows the addition of up to five youth passes (ages 5-18) for just $15 each, making it easy to include the entire family. Note that these additional passes must be added at the time of membership purchase.

With exclusive member communications and virtual benefits, the Gardens5 membership isn’t just about visiting—it’s about experiencing and belonging to a community that cherishes nature and beauty.

Step Up Your Garden Experience with Gardens Preferred Membership

Ready to take your love for Longwood Gardens to the next level? The Gardens Preferred membership is designed for those who want more from their visits. Priced at $400 per year, this premium membership offers unlimited access for up to five individuals year-round.

It’s perfect for families or groups of friends who frequent the gardens to soak in seasonal events like the Spring Blooms, Longwood Christmas, and the evening festivities during the Festival of Fountains. These popular events require timed reservations as they often sell out.

The benefits extend beyond simple entry. Members receive two complimentary guest tickets annually, perfect for sharing Longwood’s magic with others. These tickets are valid for one year from their issue date, but remember, they’re not applicable on blackout days or special ticketed events.

A standout feature of the Gardens Preferred membership is its array of discounts. Enjoy a 10 percent discount on additional general admission tickets, Garden Shop purchases, and dining at Longwood’s Café, Beer Garden, and the elegant 1906 restaurant.

But that’s not all—members also get up to 15 percent off select Performing Arts concerts and 10 percent off Continuing Education classes, enriching every visit with learning and cultural experiences.

Additionally, members benefit from exclusive access to a variety of performances and talks, Member Appreciation Days, and members-only hours. Discounts at selected Brandywine Valley attractions and businesses further enhance the value of your membership.

For families, the Gardens Preferred membership allows adding up to five youth passes (ages 5-18) for just $15 each, ensuring that the younger ones can join in the fun too. Keep in mind that these additions must be made at the time of the membership purchase.

With exclusive member communications and virtual benefits, Gardens Preferred membership isn’t just a pass to the gardens; it’s an invitation to a community passionate about nature, culture, and continuous learning.

Maximize Your Longwood Experience with Gardens Premium Membership

For $725 a year, this plan offers unrivaled access and benefits, ideal for anyone serious about their garden visits. This membership covers year-round unlimited admission for up to nine people, perfect for large families or groups.

A standout feature of this membership is the ease of access during peak seasons; unlike other membership tiers, Gardens Premium members do not require timed reservations for events like Spring Blooms, Longwood Christmas, and the Festival of Fountains evenings, making year-round spontaneous trips possible.

Each membership comes with two complimentary guest tickets per year. These are ideal for sharing the Longwood experience with others, although it’s important to note that these tickets are not valid on blackout days or for special ticketed events. They are valid for one year from the date of issue and can be easily obtained online, onsite, or via phone.

Members also benefit from a 10 percent discount on general admission for additional guests, purchases from the Garden Shop, and dining experiences at the café, the Beer Garden, and the upscale 1906 restaurant. Further, enrich your Longwood experience with a 10 percent discount on Continuing Education classes and up to 15 percent off select Performing Arts concerts.

An added feature for Gardens Premium is the flexibility of garden re-entry, allowing up to nine individuals per day, which is perfect for groups planning a full day split by short breaks.

Additional perks include free admission to an array of performances and talks, exclusive Member Appreciation Days, and members-only hours, ensuring that every visit is special. Also, Gardens Premium members receive exclusive communications and virtual benefits, keeping you connected to Longwood’s happenings no matter where you are.

For those looking to bring along young enthusiasts, up to five additional youth passes (ages 5–18) can be added for just $15 each. Please remember that these must be added at the time of membership purchase.

The Gardens Premium membership is not just a season pass; it’s a gateway to making every visit to Longwood Gardens a luxurious and effortless experience.

Which Longwood Garden membership option is right for you?

Deciding which Longwood Gardens membership option is best for you comes down to four factors: how often you plan to visit, the number of folks you typically bring when you visit, which benefits most enrich your Longwood Garden experience, and which option comfortably fits your budget.

When choosing your Longwood Gardens membership, consider the number of guests you usually have, the perks and flexibility each option provides, and how well they suit your financial plan.

How often do you plan to visit?

If you’re planning to visit Longwood Gardens more than twice in the next year, a membership might be the way to go. A general admission ticket for an adult is $32, while college students and seniors (65+) pay $28.

Take the Gardens1 membership, for example. For $115, you get unlimited general admission for one person for the entire year. Without a membership, three visits would set you back $96. By opting for the Gardens1 membership, you’ll save money if you visit at least four times, making it a smart investment for frequent visitors.

How many people typically accompany you:

  • Gardens1: Covers 1 person
  • Gardens2: Covers 2 people
  • Gardens5: Covers up to 5 people, with the option to add up to 5 youth for an additional $15 each
  • Gardens Preferred: Covers 5 people, with the option to add up to 5 youth for an additional $15 each
  • Gardens Premium: Covers 9 people, with the option to add up to 5 youth for an additional $15 each 

Special Perks

Exploring higher-tier Longwood Gardens memberships, like Preferred or Premium, has its advantages. Both the Preferred and Premium options give you a 10% discount on Continuing Education classes and up to 15 percent off selected Performing Arts concerts.

In addition, with Gardens Premium, for example, you can bring along up to nine people and drop by any day, even during peak seasons like Spring Bloom and A Longwood Christmas, without making a reservation.

Your budget

Membership costs vary, starting at $115 for Gardens1 and going up to $725 for Gardens Premium. Think about how often you’ll visit and balance that with your budget. Weigh the membership costs against the price of daily admission to see if it adds up financially for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the most frequently asked questions about purchasing a Longwood Gardens membership plan to help you select the right annual membership plan for you.

Can I apply the cost of my general admission ticket to a Longwood Gardens membership?

You can apply your ticket purchase towards an annual Longwood Gardens Membership for a limited time. The amount you can apply depends on the ticket price and the membership category you choose.

Here’s a quick look at how it works:

  • Gardens1 (1 year: $115): Pay $83 with one regular adult admission ticket.
  • Gardens2 (1 year: $185): Pay $121 with two regular adult admission tickets.
  • Gardens5 (1 year: $250): Pay $186 with two regular adult admission tickets.
  • Gardens Preferred (1 year: $400): Pay $336 with two regular adult admission tickets.
  • Gardens Premium (1 year: $725): Pay $661 with two regular adult admission tickets.

To find out your credit amount and purchase your membership, call Longwood Gardens at 610.388.1000 with proof of purchase.

How can I buy an annual Longwood Gardens Membership?

There are three ways to purchase an annual Longwood Gardens membership. You can purchase a Longwood Gardens membership in three convenient ways. First, you can visit the Longwood Gardens membership page online. After completing your purchase, you’ll receive a temporary membership card via email for immediate access to the gardens, with permanent membership materials arriving within 2-4 weeks.

Second, you can call 610.388.1000 to buy your membership over the phone. If you plan to visit before your membership packet arrives in the mail, simply stop by Ticketing & Member Services to get a temporary card printed.

Lastly, you can send your payment to the Membership Department using the address:

Longwood Gardens
P.O. Box 501
Kennett Square, PA 19348-0501
Attention: Membership Department

What if I have more children than my Membership level covers?

If you purchase a Gardens5, Gardens Preferred, or Gardens Premium Membership, you can add up to five additional youth access passes to your membership.

Each additional youth access costs $15 and is valid for children ages 18 and under. Please note that additional youth access can only be added at the time of your membership purchase.

I recently joined but have still not received my membership card. I’d like to visit soon. What should I do?

Membership processing typically takes 2-4 weeks, though it can take longer during busier seasons. If you want to visit Longwood Gardens before your membership packet arrives, stop by Ticketing & Member Services at the Visitor Center, and someone will print you a temporary membership card.

If you purchased your membership online and don’t have your temporary card or email confirmation, contact Longwood Gardens at 610.388.1000 or visit Ticketing & Member Services in the Visitors Center when you arrive.

Does Longwood Gardens offer corporate or company Memberships?

At this time, Longwood Gardens does not offer corporate memberships for groups of employees or clients. Memberships are intended for up to two individually named members, depending on the membership level.

Named members can visit year-round and bring guests based on their membership level.

Is there a promo code I can use to get a discount on a Longwood Gardens membership?

Use promo code REIMAGINE24 to get 15% off any Longwood Gardens membership level through September 25, 2024.

Is there a volume discount for buying multiple Longwood Gardens Memberships at one time?

Yes, there is! If you purchase 10 or more Gifts of Membership, you will receive a 10 percent discount on your entire purchase. To take advantage of this offer, complete the form with your gift recipients’ details and send it to Melissa Detrich, Longwood Gardens’ Associate Director of Membership. Once Melissa receives your form, she will follow up to complete the payment with a credit card.

Can I change my membership level once I become a member?

You can upgrade to a higher membership level at Longwood Gardens. If you have less than 2 months left on your current membership, you’ll need to pay in full for the upgraded level. Once you do, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of the new membership, and Longwood Gardens will extend your membership for a full year from its current expiration date.

If you have more than 2 months left on your current Longwood Gardens membership, they’ll extend your membership for a full year from today’s date and credit you for the unused portion of your current membership.

As for downgrading your membership level, that option is available at the time of renewal.

Unlock Year-Round Magic: Choose Your Longwood Gardens Membership

With Longwood Gardens’ membership options, every visit becomes an enchanting journey through nature’s wonders.

Whether you opt for solo adventures or family outings, there’s a plan tailored just for you.

Save on each visit, relish member-exclusive perks, and immerse yourself in beauty all year round. Choose your membership today and keep the magic of Longwood Gardens close, every season, every time you visit.

Explore Longwood Gardens’ Membership page to discover more and start your membership adventure today!

XXXXXX

Stay Connected, Stay Informed

Subscribe for great stories in your community!

"*" indicates required fields

This field is hidden when viewing the form
MT Yes
Advertisement