

Philadelphia and Brandywine Valley
October 13-17, 2026 | Trip Chairs: Lacy Hagler and Michele Cundari
- Enjoy four nights’ accommodations at the Sofitel Philadelphia, the perfect blend of French elegance and American style, ideally located in the City of Brotherly Love.
- Join us on an unforgettable journey exploring some of Pennsylvania’s and Delaware’s most stunning botanical treasures. This trip is perfect for nature lovers, garden enthusiasts, and culture seekers who appreciate the serene beauty of private homes and renowned public gardens alike.
- Morris Arboretum: Explore the official arboretum of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, nestled within the University of Pennsylvania, boasting a rich variety of exotic trees and seasonal displays.
- Private Gardens Tour: Wander through historic and exclusive gardens, including the Olmsted-designed Krisheim Estate, the idyllic Erdenheim Farm with its storied heritage, and the uniquely artistic Alice’s Garden.
- Longwood Gardens: Immerse yourself in over 1,100 acres of breathtaking gardens, woodlands, and meadows in the picturesque Brandywine Creek Valley, a must-see destination attracting over 1.5 million visitors annually.
- Mt. Cuba Center: Experience a botanical garden devoted to native plants and ecological gardening; a living classroom dedicated to sustainable beauty.
- Brandywine River Museum of Art: The Brandywine River Museum of Art, nestled in the scenic Brandywine Valley, is renowned for its exceptional collection of American art, with a special focus on the works of Andrew Wyeth. Visitors can explore stunning paintings, engaging exhibits, and beautifully landscaped grounds along the Brandywine River, an inspiring destination for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
- Chanticleer Garden & Private Estate: Delight in the 48-acre botanical wonderland set on the historic Rosengarten estate, located in Philadelphia’s prestigious Main Line area.
- Barnes Foundation: Cap off your trip with a visit to one of the world’s most important collections of impressionist, post-impressionist, and early modernist art — inspiring both the mind and soul.
- Calder Gardens: The Gardens at Calder offer a peaceful urban oasis where nature and art beautifully intertwine. Wander through vibrant flower beds, tranquil pathways, and thoughtfully designed green spaces that blend native plants with artistic landscaping. Designed by renowned landscape architect Piet Oudolf, the gardens showcase more than 250 plant varieties that change with the seasons, creating a living masterpiece year-round.
Suggested Flights to Book on Your Own:
Tuesday, October 13 | Flight AS 1461| Portland (PDX) 8:00 AM → Philadelphia (PHL) 4:06 PM
Saturday, October 17 | Flight AS 1461 | Philadelphia (PHL) 5:15 PM → Portland (PDX) 8:06 PM
We request you be in good health with good mobility to best enjoy this trip. Please be aware that this itinerary involves significant walking and the use of stairs at multiple locations. Participants need to be comfortable walking for extended periods and navigating through historic venues and uneven terrain.
*Trip Highlights subject to change.










