Morris Arboretum

Morris Arboretum is a private garden wedding venue in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. For couples who crave a break from the rush of city living, the intimate outdoorsy venue is the perfect spot. With 92 acres of colorful eclectic gardens, original Victorian architecture and magical fountains, the beautiful property is the definition of natural enchantment.

Facilities and Capacity

Couples can host up to 175 guests (155 with dancing) at the venue. The grounds have multiple outdoor ceremony locations, including Magnolia Slope, a hillside spot with a backdrop of rolling hills, and Two Lines, the highest point of the garden with a sculpture and garden views. Other options include Azalea Meadow, a wide open field, or Baxter Memorial, a round brick patio near the meadow garden. From July to September, couples may also choose Widener Lawn, a large open lawn area, or the Rose Garden, a private area for up to 20 people. Pennock Walk, a romantic gated garden, is available from April to September. Cocktail hour can be held on Out on a Limb, a beautiful walkway in the forest, or Widener Plaza, a space near the historic stone carriage house. Receptions may be held under the tent connected to the Widener Visitor Center, a gorgeous 100-year-old stone carriage house. The reception area also includes the lower gallery and classroom areas as part of the amenity space.

Services Offered

Morris Arboretum has a wide variety of options for the big day. They can provide the following amenities to couples:

• Included in the base rental rate:
  • Exclusive use of the gardens for your private event
  • Tented reception area and interior amenity spaces
  • A garden ceremony location, several sites to choose from
  • Chairs for ceremony seating up to 175
  • Round or rectangular tables and white padded seat reception chairs for up to 175
  • A golf cart and driver for the first three hours of event time
  • Five hours of event time with additional guest arrival and end of night clean up time
  • 114 on site parking spaces for guests and vendors included in base rental rate
  • Full catering kitchen for on site food preparation
• Additional amenities to enhance your experience:
  • Specialty flower gardens for ceremony and cocktail reception (June to September)
  • Out On A Limb treehouse feature for cocktail hour
  • Additional cart and driver for more transportation within the garden
  • Group rates for rehearsals prior to the big day
  • Additional time rental rates for extended photo sessions

Cuisine

The historic wedding venue provides five pre-approved caterers who offer a wide variety of menu options, styles and services. Outside caterers are not permitted.

Other Facilities

Before and during the celebration, your wedding party can use the McLean Room for your private bridal suite. There is wheelchair access and parking on the premises.

Other Services

The venue can also host your engagement party, engagement photo session and bridal shower. Individual rates apply and bookings are subject to availability.

History

In 1887, Morris Arboretum was established as the summer home of brother and sister John and Lydia Morris. During this time, it was known as Compton. The Morrises decided to create a school and laboratory on the property devoted to horticulture and botany. In 1932, Compton became the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania and is now a resource center for the University.

Location

The outdoor wedding venue is located 30 minutes from downtown Philadelphia. Nearby attractions include Gates Hall and Woodmere Art Museum. Wissahickon Valley Park is 11 minutes away, while Ridley Creek State Park is 31 minutes away. Philadelphia International Airport is a 37-minute drive from the venue.