Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens
Rating
Price
Free
Duration
1-2 hours
Best Ages
All ages
About
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens in Devon, Pennsylvania is a free, 46-acre native plant arboretum that specializes in azaleas, rhododendrons, and native woodland plants. Located on the Philadelphia Main Line about 30 miles from the city, it's one of the better free outdoor family destinations in the western suburbs.
The arboretum is particularly stunning in mid-April through May, when over 600 azalea varieties produce an explosion of color throughout the woodland paths. Families who time a spring visit get to experience one of the most beautiful seasonal displays in the greater Philadelphia region at no cost.
For year-round visits, the winding woodland trails, pond, and wetland areas provide nature exploration with birds, frogs, and native plants in a compact, manageable space. The full grounds can be covered in about 1.5-2 hours, which is the right scale for families with young children.
Admission is completely free. Open 9AM-5PM every day of the week. There's no food on site — pack a picnic and find a spot among the gardens. The Devon/Wayne area of the Main Line has excellent dining on Lancaster Avenue for post-visit options.
The gift shop carries plant-themed items and educational books that make good additions for nature-curious kids.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Not Available
Kid Meals
N/A
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Mid-April through May for peak azalea and spring bloom; fall for foliage
Wait Times
No wait
Nearby Food
No food on site. Devon/Wayne area on the Main Line has excellent dining options on Lancaster Ave, about 5-10 minutes away.
Why Kids Love It
Jenkins Arboretum in Devon is famous for its azalea collection — over 600 varieties that explode into color in late April and May. Kids enjoy the winding woodland paths, the pond and wetland areas where frogs and birds are plentiful, and the general permission to explore freely. The arboretum is small enough to navigate completely in one visit, which makes it satisfying for younger kids who like to feel they've 'done it all.'
Pro Tips from Parents
- Completely free admission — one of the best free family outings on the Philadelphia Main Line.
- Peak season is mid-April through May for the 600+ azalea varieties.
- Open 9AM-5PM, 7 days a week.
- Devon, PA is on the Main Line — easy drive from Philadelphia, about 30 miles west.
- Small gift shop with plant-themed items for kids interested in nature.
What to Bring
- Picnic food and blanket
- Water bottles
- Binoculars for birds
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Insect repellent in summer
Cost Info
Free Admission
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$0 — free admission.
Pack a picnic.
Tips to Save
- Completely free admission, 7 days a week, 9AM-5PM.
- One of the best-value outdoor family outings in the Philadelphia Main Line area.
- Pack your own food.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 9AM-5PM
- Monday
- 9AM-5PM
- Sunday
- 9AM-5PM
- Tuesday
- 9AM-5PM
- Saturday
- 9AM-5PM
- Thursday
- 9AM-5PM
- Wednesday
- 9AM-5PM