If you’ve ever wanted to explore one of Pennsylvania’s most beautiful private gardens, you’ll only get one chance this year.
The Burpee Summer Open returns to Fordhook Farm on Saturday, August 15, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., welcoming the public onto the historic property for one day only. Normally closed to visitors, the 61-acre farm opens its gates just once a year, making this a rare opportunity to experience one of the country’s most celebrated horticultural destinations.
Even better, admission is completely free.
Located about an hour from Philadelphia in Doylestown, Fordhook Farm has been the home of Burpee since founder W. Atlee Burpee established the property in 1888.
Today, the farm continues to serve as Burpee’s trial station, where vegetables, flowers, and herbs are tested before many of them make their way into home gardens across the country. Visitors will also have the chance to admire the property’s ornamental gardens and impressive tree collections.
Photo courtesy of Burpee Gardening
🌸 What makes the Burpee Summer Open so special?
Unlike most public gardens, Fordhook Farm is only open to visitors once each year. During the Burpee Summer Open, guest can enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the historic grounds, stroll through the beautifully maintained gardens, and tour the newly restored Seed House.
The event also features morning and afternoon talks from Burpee Chairman George Ball, who will share stories about the company’s history, innovations, and the future of gardening.
At the Burpee Open, you can see our beautiful botanical garden through many different lenses,” says George Ball. “You can see it through the lens of a family and its history. You can see it through the lens of horticulture and American history. And you can see it through the lens of a great gardening company.
Photo courtesy of Burpee Gardening
🪻 What can you expect?
In addition to exploring the gardens, visitors can enjoy:
☀️ Self-guided walks through Burpee’s display gardens
🌱 Tours of the newly restored Seed House
✨ Morning and afternoon presentations by George Ball
👶 Kids’ activities
🪴 A behind-the-scenes look at Burpee’s historic trial gardens
Indeed, this is more than just a garden stroll. It’s the perfect summer escape for experienced gardeners, flower enthusiasts, or simply anyone looking for a unique summer day trip.
The Burpee Open is all about showing you things that you’ve never seen before and making you feel things that you’ve never felt,” says George Ball, Burpee Chairman
Photo courtesy of Burpee Gardening
🌼 Tips for visiting the 2026 Burpee Summer Open
⌚️ Arrive early to enjoy cooler morning temps and beat the crowds
👟 Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes since parts of Fordhook Farm feature gravel paths and uneven terrain
💦 Bring a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated while exploring the 61-acre property.
🧴 Pack sunscreen and a hat because much of the event takes place outdoors with limited shade.
📱 Bring your camera or phone to capture the colorful gardens and historic scenery
🅿️ Take advantage of free parking, available both on-site and in adjacent overflow lots
Guests are also asked to help preserve the gardens by leaving plants and sculptures undisturbed. Lastly, professional and commercial photography, smoking, and pets are not permitted.
🗺️ Map & location info
Just one hour from Philadelphia, Fordhook Farm offers a scenic escape in Bucks County, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing summer day surrounded by beautiful gardens.
📍 Fordhook Farm | 105 New Britain Road, Doylestown, PA 18901
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