10 Fascinating Spots In Philadelphia That Are Straight Out Of A Fairy Tale
By Kim Magaraci|Published March 15, 2020
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Kim Magaraci
Author
Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
Philadelphia is the kind of city where dreams come true. The original cobblestones were paved with a dream of freedom and liberty from the Crown. Octavius Catto’s dream of equality was supported in the City of Brotherly Love in the tumultuous post-Civil War era. The story of Rocky could only be set in the city of underdogs, and most recently, the Eagles shook all doubters and came home with a Super Bowl ring. Over the years, Philly has evolved into a fairytale city, and the most beautiful places in Philadelphia still keep up the enchanting, whimsical image that has come to define our city. Check out some of these spots in and around Philadelphia that are straight out of a fairytale.
Plopped right in the middle of one of Philly's busiest streets, you'll find John F. Collins Park. This urban oasis is small - it's literally a renovated alleyway, but it's the perfect place to escape from the city under the lights, surrounded by soft green plants and trees, with wooden benches that will transplant you to your own little Narnia.
Address: 1707 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19103
The Magic Gardens are a little louder, but they are an unbelievable art installment that is considered one of the most beautiful places in Philadelphia. Stroll this maze of mosaic art, read the stories in the tiles, and spot the found objects that reflect colorful light onto your path.
Fairmount Park's Shofuso House is celebrated as one of the best Japanese Gardens in the entire country. The house was constructed in Japan and moved here in the 1950s, after a brief exhibition at New York's Museum of Modern Art. Now, visitors are welcome to walk the well-kept grounds, feed the koi, and participate in the cultural programs at the house and pavilion.
Address: Lansdowne Dr. & Horticultural Dr., Philadelphia, PA 19131
Every spring, summer, and fall, Penn's Landing becomes the most enchanting spot in the city. Spruce Street Harbor Park creates an oasis along the river, with beautifully brightened trees, enormous adirondack chairs, colorful hammocks, kayaks, and more. You'll completely forget that you're in Philadelphia!
Address: 301 S Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19106
In the early 1990s, Martin Puryear had a vision for a stunning installment at Fairmount Park, and in 1993, his Pavilion in the Trees was dedicated. Now, visitors come to see the pavilion and escape the noise of the city. Visit in the spring for bright, blooming flowers, or in the fall for the best fall foliage views.
Did you know there's a fairy trail less than an hour from Philly? Winterthur, located in Greenville, Delaware, is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Their unbelievable gardens will take your breath away, and a walk through the Enchanted Woods will make you feel like you've walked into a storybook.
Philadelphia's only lighthouse stands at one end of Boathouse Row. It was built in 1887 to control traffic on the Schuylkill River and is currently operated by the Sedgeley Club (of #15 Boathouse Row). The social club attached to the light is available for parties and events.
The former home of Henry C. Mercer is the most majestic castle in the Philadelphia area. It was completed in 1910 and is currently home to the Mercer Museum. The 44 rooms include 10 bathrooms and 18 fireplaces.
Chanticleer is a stunning park, garden, and picnic grove on the main line in Wayne, PA. This fairytale garden is the perfect place to take a scenic walk on a warm spring day.
Of course Longwood Gardens makes this list. As one of the most beautiful places in Philadelphia, this unbelievable DuPont Estate shows off the best landscape architecture in the area. Walk through the tunnels of trees, observe the fountains on the lake, and climb to the top of the most enchanting treehouse you'll ever see.
Address: 1001 Longwood Rd., Kennett Square, PA 19348
Where do you go when you just need a touch of magic in your life? Philadelphia is filled with enchanting locations that delight all who visit. Share your favorite place to escape into a fantasy land in the comments below!
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