Designing botanical gardens that appeal to kids is an art that has recently, well, blossomed. Whether set on single-acre plots, expansive formal estates, free-flowing meadows or in glass conservatories, many gardens now invite you to smell flowers, touch fuzzy leaves, feed fish and splash in fountains.

Spring is a great time to get reacquainted with the green outdoors, as tulips and azaleas provide the color you've craved all winter. As far as the eye can see, Longwood Gardens offers never-ending views of enchanting beauty and a wide range of activities for children of all ages.

KENNETT SQUARE, PENNSYLVANIA

LONGWOOD GARDENS:
Covering more than a thousand acres, Longwood Gardens is large in size and scope. Inside the conservatory, your kids can crawl through a tunnel in the rabbit-themed Children's Garden. Under the same roof, you'll find 20 theme gardens, such as the Banana House and the Bonsai Room. The outdoor floral displays are stunning from spring through fall. During summer months, visitors are treated to multiple daily fountain shows and fireworks. Your children won't want to miss the mazes, sunflower house, weather station, and drop-in garden bingo and crafts in the Idea Garden Kids Corner. Summer admission is $14 for adults ($10 on Tuesdays), $6 for ages 16 to 20, $2 for kids ages six to 15, and free for under age six. Call 610-388-1000.



Joan Huyser-Honig is a freelance writer in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated July 2005.