What To Do: Peak summer — local schedule loaded with events

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times

This is a weekend when the area’s activity schedule is loaded with popular annual events – a diverse array of events many of which are family-oriented.

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library (5105 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, Delaware, 800-448-3883, www.winterthur.org) is presenting its annual “Artisan Market” on July 18 and 19.

Visitors can spend a summer day — or the entire weekend –exploring Winterthur while shopping for artisan-made crafts and gifts.

Some of the region’s most talented craftspeople will present their outstanding wares, including antiques and collectibles, furniture and home décor, upcycled items and architectural salvage, high-quality handmade crafts, vintage clothing and jewelry, artisanal and small-batch gourmet goods, original art in a variety of media, garden items, and much more.

“Artisan Market” reflects the mission of Winterthur by showcasing local artisans through a variety of handmade crafts relating to art, textiles, ceramics, glass, woodworking, antiques, and gardening. Each of these categories connects to Winterthur’s past.

Gates open daily at 9:30 a.m. Ticket booths, transportation, and artisan booths open at 10 a.m.

Tickets are $29 for adults, $27 for seniors and students and $13 for youth.

Now through July 18, the Malvern Fire Company Fair (Monument Grounds, Monument Avenue, Malvern, 610-647-0693, http://www.pa-carnivals.com) will be held from 6-10 p.m. each night.

The free Malvern Fire Company Fair features rides, games and fun for the entire family and discount ride coupons will be available at local merchants.

Guests can ride an unlimited number of rides at the 2026 Malvern Fire Company Carnival for just $30 per person per day when purchased online or $35 when purchased onsite.

This annual fire department fundraiser features rides for all ages by Houghton Enterprises, plenty of delicious food and treats, carnival games & prizes, fire truck rides, and more.

If you enjoy country fairs, you should check out the 97th Annual Kimberton Community Fair (Kimberton Fairgrounds, Route 113, Kimberton, 610-933-4566, http://kimbertonfair.org) which is running from July 20-25.

The Kimberton Community Fair, which was first staged in 1929, is one of the oldest community fairs in the state — and one of the last “free admission” fairs operating in the Pennsylvania State Association of County Fairs. The Kimberton Fair is a “free admission fair with parking by donation.”

As always, the fair offers a huge array of free attractions — a festive midway with amusement rides, live entertainment shows, nightly contests, exhibit buildings and livestock displays.

There will be a fireworks display on July 25.

The fair will be held at the Kimberton Fairgrounds on Route 113 approximately one mile south of Phoenixville. The non-profit event, which lists the volunteer Kimberton Fire Company as its beneficiary, attracts over 60,000 people each year.

There will also be open class and 4-H competitions along with a full midway of rides by Reithoffer Shows.

The Kimberton Fair is a “rain-or-shine” event – more or less.

According to the event’s website, they never officially “close” the fair as a result of rain because they must remain “open” to adhere to Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture operating guidelines.

The indoor attractions stay open even in inclement weather, but the festival may shut down any amusement ride if the weather causes safety issues.

As part of Historic Philadelphia’s anniversary celebration at Franklin Square (200 Sixth Street, Philadelphia, phillychineselanternfestival.com), the organization is illuminating the park with its annual “Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival in Franklin Square.”

Now through August 16, Franklin Square will come alive every night with its Chinese Lantern Festival featuring more than two dozen illuminated lanterns – all constructed by lantern artisans from China.

In addition to the gorgeous light installations, visitors can enjoy live cultural stage performances, see the choreographed fountain light show in the historic Rendell Family Fountain, taste expanded food and drink options including Asian cuisine and American comfort food, drink a toast at the Dragon Beer Garden, and shop for Chinese folk artists’ crafts created on site as well as Festival-themed merchandise.

Guests can also play Philly Mini Golf and ride the Parx Liberty Carousel at a discounted rate. A portion of the proceeds from the festival benefits Historic Philadelphia, Inc. for the programming and care of this important public space and its many year-round free events.

Chinese-inspired performances will take place in Franklin Square twice nightly. Performances, which celebrate

Chinese performance art and entertainment, are 30-minutes long and are scheduled for 7 and 9 p.m.

Festival hours are 6-11 p.m. Admission is $32 for adults, $29 and $16 for youth.

In 2026, America turns 250, and Philadelphia is throwing the ultimate yearlong celebration.

After all, we’ve been first in freedom, first in innovation and first in fun for 250 years.

52 Weeks of Firsts (www.visitphilly.com/52-weeks-of-firsts) is a yearlong, citywide celebration honoring Philadelphia’s legacy of innovation produced by the Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee.

Not only was Philadelphia the birthplace of the country, but it was also the backdrop for many other marvels.

To honor these groundbreaking inventions and firsts, the Philadelphia Historic District is holding a year’s worth of free events to celebrate the country’s 250th birthday.

52 Weeks of Firsts shines a light on different Philly-born Firsts each week through a series of free public events called Saturday Firstivals — held every Saturday of 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in more than a dozen neighborhoods.

Firstival: Saturday July 18 will present “First Ice Cream Soda: 1874.”

What do you get when you mix ice cream and fizzy soda? A delicious Philadelphia invention!

Cool off and sip back in time with the first-ever ice cream soda. Sweet, creamy and bubbly fun.

The event’s sculpture was crated by Roselyn Dooley, a Philadelphia-based mural artist known for vibrant, expressive work that transforms public spaces. With a BFA in Graphic Design from Towson University, her murals reflect a strong sense of composition and storytelling.

She has created large-scale works locally and internationally, including in Brisbane, Australia. Inspired by travel and nature, her colorful style often features animals, plants and organic forms that celebrate energy and connection.

This sculpture celebrates the invention of the first ice cream soda, a moment of playful creativity that turned a simple treat into a lasting tradition. The bright colors and swirling forms capture the joy and spontaneity of that discovery.

The event will be held July 18 at The Franklin Fountain, which is located at 116 Market Street in downtown Philadelphia.

Visiting Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, www.longwoodgardens.org) is a real treat at any time during the year but especially sweet during the summer when the grounds are filled with vibrant colors produced by a variety of flowers.

Longwood Gardens is one of the best outdoor attractions in the area, one of the best family attractions in the state and one of the best gardens attractions in the country.

The popular illuminated fountain shows are being held throughout the summer.

This Saturday’s show visits the yellow brick roads and magical world of Oz, as the powerful fountains dance to the music of “The Wizard of Oz,” “The Wiz” and “Wicked.”

The fountains show will be followed by an impressive fireworks spectacular.

There are times when even the very best can get better.

Each of the six districts has a distinct personality.

Chimes Tower District — A stunning hillside of rare, expertly edited plants, a historic bell tower anchored on a 50-foot waterfall, and award-winning trees beckon, all within view of the majestic Main Fountain Garden.

Conservatory District — Considered the centerpiece of Longwood Gardens, stunning 19th-century architecture works in harmony with a perpetual flower show under acres of glass. Explore dazzling displays and rare plant species through a series of breathtaking rooms.

House & Theater District — Developed with the specific purpose of display and performance, experience a vista to the early days of Longwood, taking in views that Pierre and his family enjoyed more than a century ago, including Peirce’s Park and Peirce’s Woods.

Lakes District — Open vistas, rolling green lawns, sparkling water, and splashing fountains recall a European holiday from days gone by, reminding us of the joy of fresh air, a nice walk, and an exquisite view.

Meadow & Forest District — The expansive landscape of the Meadow and Forest District harmonizes the best practices in ecological restoration with garden designs showcasing horticultural excellence and beauty while prioritizing plant and animal communities.

Main Fountain Garden District — The classical gardens and grand theatre of this district have captivated guests for more than 90 years. Inspired by Pierre S. du Pont’s travels to Europe’s great water gardens, World’s Fairs, and expositions, the Main Fountain Garden highlights horticulture, engineering marvels, and the beauty of exceptional design.

Longwood’s summer schedule features Main Fountain Garden Performances through October, Illuminated Fountain Performances Thursdays-Saturdays through October, Festival of Fountains through October, Fireworks & Fountains Shows on select dates through October, Open Air Theatre Fountain Shows daily through November, and Festive Fridays one per month.

Admission to Longwood Gardens is $38 for adults, $38 for seniors and college students, $29 for active military and $22 for youth.

Philadelphia Expo Center (100 Station Road, Oaks, 610-529-3614, phillyexpocenter.com) hosts one of the venue’s most popular semiannual events this weekend.

There will be a lot of model trains and a lot of toys on display and for sale when Greenberg’s Train & Toy Show visits the area for a two-day stop at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center.

The show, which is scheduled for January 18 and 19 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. both days, will feature a number of operating train displays, including Royersford Modular Model Railroaders HO Scale Layout, Strasburg Model Railroad HO Scale, North Penn O Gaugers O Gauge, North Penn S Gaugers S Gauge and South Eastern Pennsylvania Garden Railway Society G Scale.

Alde featured will be Allegheny Western Lines Model Railroad Club 38′ x 44′ HO Scale, Northeast Corridor Historical Society 35′ x 35′ HO Scale, Philadelphia N-Trak 40′ x 44′ N Scale, and Dave Brent’s Model Railroad 5′ x 32′ HO Scale

This weekend’s show will also offer free clinics on a wide variety of topics, including track work, using accessories and using a digital command control.

There will be a large number of dealers with toys, trains, accessories and hobby publications. Other features include hourly door prizes.

Tickets for adults are $11 for Saturday and $10 for Sunday. Children (12 and under) are admitted free.

Also on July 18, the Expo Center will host the “Wicked Gluten Free Expo” from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

It aims to be “your best GF day ever,” with 110-plus food trucks, purveyors, restaurants, bakeries and eateries — every one of them gluten-free and celiac-safe.

You’ll also find vegan vendors, nut-free vendors, and products for people managing other food allergies and sensitivities.

Ticket prices start at $8.

The Expo Center will also host the “Rico Rico Fiesta” now through July 19.

Visitors can step into a weekend celebration of Latin culture, cuisine, music, and community. “Rico Rico Fiesta” brings together bold flavors from across Latin America, high-energy performances, immersive experiences, and family-friendly fun.

Whether you’re coming for the 80-plus food vendors, the electrifying Lucha Libre matches, the samba parade, or just a packed weekend with friends and family, “Rico Rico Fiesta” is your passport to Latin America.

The event runs from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $13.78.

The “Highland Cow Festival” will be the central attraction on July 18 at Cherry Crest Farms (150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks, cherrycrestfarm.com).

Visitors are invited to “Get ready for a day packed with fuzzy fun as we celebrate these adorable bovines.”

Festival Highlights are Cow Themed Games, Brush-A-Highland, Cowboy Hat Decorating, Photo Ops, Live Music, and Local Brewery & Winery.

There will be special performances by Trick Roper MacKenzie Fish from 1-4 p.m. and Country Line Dancing from 6-9 p.m.

The festival will run from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Laurel Hill Cemetery (3822 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, 215-228-8200, laurelhillphl.com) will present “Nurture with Nature – Blooms & Brews: Native Bouquet & Herbal Tea” on July 18 from 3-5 p.m.

In this hands-on workshop, guests will discover the art of crafting stunning fresh bouquets using professional arranging techniques. The staff will utilize a beautiful mix of native plant materials harvested directly from the garden, combined with specially selected pre-found elements.

Participants will learn how to properly prepare and display their floral creations, and even how to dry them for long-lasting decoration!

The staff will highlight three incredible native plants, teaching how to identify and incorporate them into both home and landscape. Guests will also learn to create their own custom herbal tea mixture featuring these beneficial plants for daily enjoyment.

They will leave with their own gorgeous, hand-arranged bouquet and a personalized herbal tea blend, ready to infuse their life with nature’s goodness.

Working with the healing power of plants can help to decrease stress and anxiety, process grief, and improve overall well-being.

Combining eco-mindfulness and creative activities, the workshops in this series invite participants to learn about the uses and roles of specific native plants through the lens of natural cycles.

Workshops are led by Kate Irvine, a licensed Therapeutic Horticulture Practitioner and mixed media artist.

This session will take place in Nature’s Sanctuary, one of two green burial habitats at Laurel Hill West.

Tickets are $25 for adults, $23 for seniors and students and $12.50 for youth.

On July 19, Woodside Farm Creamery (1310 Little Baltimore Road, Hockessin, Delaware, www.woodsidefarmcreamery.com) is hosting its National Ice Cream Day Celebration from noon-4 p.m.

Visitors to the free event will be able to try new ice cream flavors, take a behind-the-scenes tour, play field games, meet one of the creamery’s Jersey cows, and take part in an ice cream eating contest.

There is a $5 registration fee for the ice cream eating contest with all the proceeds being donated to the Delaware Food Bank.

Additionally, Food Bank will be accepting non-perishable food items.

Elmwood Park Zoo (1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown, www.elmwoodparkzoo.org) is hosting “Breakfast with the Animals – Harmony Hideaway” on July 18 and 19.

Participants will enjoy a delicious outdoor breakfast buffet right next to our animals. After they’ve cleared their plates, they will enjoy an exclusive interaction with the respective animals dedicated to their reservation.

The menu includes scrambled eggs, sausage, turkey sausage, breakfast potatoes, waffles and toppings, fresh fruit and cookies.

“Breakfast with the Animals” will be held rain or shine. Tickets are $55.

Philadelphia Zoo (3400 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, www.philadelphiazoo.org)  is bringing more than 100 award-winning craft beers, seltzers, ciders, delicious local food trucks and live music to its 42-acre campus for the best beer festival of the season.

Summer Ale Festival presented by Constellation is the only beer celebration in the region set among big cats, great

apes and other incredible animals.

Summer Ale Fest is happening July 18 from 7-10 p.m.

Performing this year are Philly-based bands Nik Greeley and the Operators, Echo Kid, and Moonroof.

This year’s brewery lineup includes local favorites like Victory Brewing Company, Evil Genius Beer Company, Wander Back Beerworks, Last Wave Brewing, Mermaid Spirits, Wissahickon Brewing Company and more.

For the freshest food for purchase, local food trucks The Fabulous Fig, Bonjour Creperie, The Munchy Machine, Calle Del Sabor and more will be set up around the Zoo for every appetite.

The live music lineup includes the return of indie surf rock band Dry Reef and Philadelphia’s own Mr. Hollywood DJ who are sure to keep guests grooving.

In addition to offering a special night of memories at one of the region’s most unique attractions, the event raises money to support the Zoo’s mission to create joyful discovery and inspire action for animals and habitats.

Tickets are $85 for general admission and $45 for non-drinker admission.

Summer Ale Fest is limited to those 21 or older with valid identification. Event is rain or shine.

Chaddsford Winery (632 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221, http://www.chaddsford.com) is presenting “Live on the Lawn” now through September 27 and “Friday Night Wine Down” now through September 25.

“Live on the Lawn” is a brand-new outdoor music series featuring local talent, great wine, and relaxed vibes every summer weekend afternoon.

“Friday Night Wine Down” offers fun games, drink specials, and extended hours on Friday evenings.

The laid-back, laugh-filled series features Quizzo trivia with fun themes and great prizes; seasonal wine slushies, PA craft beer, fresh mocktails, and the venue’s newest wine releases; and delicious bites from the winery’s new, in-house food menu including specialty weekly pizzas.

Penns Woods Winery (124 Beaver Valley Road, Chadds Ford, http://www.pennswoodswinery.com) is presenting “Live Music on the Lawn” every weekend during the summer months.

On July 17, Joe Vandetty will perform from 5-7 p.m.

Greg Jones will play from 1-4 on July 18 and Brooke DiCaro will provide live music from 1-4 p.m. on July 19.

The West Chester Railroad (610-430-2233, www.wcrailroad.com) is running its “Summer Picnic Specials” every Sunday now through September 22 at noon each day.

Passengers can enjoy a relaxing 90-minute train ride from West Chester to Glen Mills and return on a warm summer afternoon. They can also pack a lunch to have during the excursion’s stop at the Glen Mills train station picnic grove.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for children (ages 2-12).

The New Hope Railroad (32 Bridge Street, New Hope, 215-862-2332, www.newhoperailroad.com) is running its “Grapevine Express,” which features “Grapevine Express” on July 18 and 19 at 5 p.m. each night.

Riders are invited to take part in a romantic “Wine and Cheese Excursion” and enjoy fine gourmet cheese, artisan crackers, meats, fruit, and our featured local wines. Additional Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic beverages are also available onboard.

Wine and cheese will be served to passengers as they travel along the same railroad line passengers did when it was built in 1891 connecting New Hope with Philadelphia. The journey travels through the beautiful hills and valleys of Bucks County, along once vital waterways and streams and across numerous trestle bridges.

The excursions will take place aboard one of the railroad’s lavishly appointed early-1900’s first-class parlor cars.

Tickets are $116 (Ages 21 and older only).

This weekend, the Strasburg Railroad (Route 741, Strasburg, 717-687-7522, www.strasburgrailroad.com) is running its “Wine & Cheese Train” on July 18 and 19 at 6 p.m. on Saturday and 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Passengers can enjoy the luxurious, climate-controlled first-class accommodations and a tasting of select wine, cheese, and crackers as they travel in style down the tracks from Strasburg to Paradise and back. The total trip time is 45 minutes.

“Wine & Cheese Train” boarding is 30 minutes before the scheduled departure. Riders must be 21 or older and have their photo ID ready when they board.

Featured wines are carefully selected from Waltz Vineyards, and cheeses are paired accordingly. Beer and select non-alcoholic beverages are also available for purchase upon request. Riders can purchase a souvenir wine glass on board the train if desired. Glasses are $7 each.

In accordance with Pennsylvania law, alcohol is only served during the train ride. The rail line is not permitted to serve alcoholic beverages while the train is berthed in the station.

This popular train is available on select Friday and Saturday evenings throughout the season. Tickets are $70.

On July 18, “Meet Marsh Animals at DuPont Environmental Education Center” will be held at 1:45 p.m. at the DuPont Environmental Education Center of Delaware Nature Society, 1400 Delmarva Lane, Wilmington, delawarenaturesociety.org).

Participants will be able to take a naturalist guided boardwalk stroll to look for wildlife and meet the Center’s live “Animal Ambassadors.”

Thanks to DelNature Members there is no cost to the program. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

On July 18, the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum (8601 Lindbergh Boulevard, Philadelphia, www.fws.gov/refuge/John_Heinz) is presenting a “Bird Walk with Chuck Root and Emily Dodge” at 8 a.m.

On July 19, there will be a “Bird Walk” with Mary Ellen Krober as the tour guide.

Each walk will run from 8-10 a.m.

Participants can take an educational walk with one of the refuge’s knowledgeable volunteers.

They’ll be able to discover the 300-plus species of birds that use the refuge during their migration routes. Each week guarantees different species.

Both walks will start at the visitor center and be at a relaxed paced on flat surfaces.

A sweet place to enjoy flowers in bloom is Tyler Arboretum (515 Painter Road, Media, 610-566-9134, www.tylerarboretum.org).

The arboretum’s schedule for this weekend was slated to include

“Saturday Wildflower Walk,” “Serpentine Barrens Pink Hill Tour,” “Gentle Flow Yoga” and “Beyond the Fence Trail Hike.”

Unfortunately, the Arboretum has cancelled these events because of “threats of severe thunderstorms.”

However, on Sunday, there will be “Champion Trees Tour” at 9:30 a.m. and “Bluebird Nesting Box Tour” at 11 a.m.

Admission to Tyler Arboretum is $18 for adults (ages 18-64), $15 for seniors (65 and older) and $10 for children (ages 3-17) and Military with valid ID.

Treetop Quest Philly (51 Chamounix Drive, Philadelphia, www.treetopquest.com) is an aerial adventure park that will challenge you physically and mentally as you maneuver from tree to tree through obstacles and zip-lines.

Once you’re equipped, they will teach you how to operate your equipment and you’ll be able to swing through each course as many times as you want for 2.5 hours.

Each participant is outfitted with a harness and gloves. Each course has a continuous belay system — a lifeline that is impossible to detach without a staff member. The activity is self-guided, and the staff is ready to assist when needed.

Gloves are required for this activity. During this time, we encourage participants are encouraged to bring their own gloves to use while up in the trees. Gardening gloves are perfect for this activity.

Ticket prices start at $49.

A long-running summer music tradition in Lancaster County is the Long’s Park Summer Music Series (www.longspark.org/summer-music-series).

The free concerts, which are running now through August 23, are held at Long’s Park. The concert venue is located at Harrisburg Pike and Route 30 in Lancaster.

The concerts, which start at 7:30 p.m. are free (with donations welcomed). There will be food trucks on site.

The 2026 schedule is: July 19, Low Lily; July 26, New Breed Brass Band; August 2, J & The Causeways; August 9, Low Cut Connie; August 16, Ghost Funk Orchestra; and August 23, Hayes Carll.

The Fallser Club (3721 Midvale Avenue, Philadelphia, thefallserclub.org) will host “Songs of Welcome, Concert for Immigrant Aid” on July 19 for a daylong event.

Proceeds will benefit The Welcome Project, a Hatboro-based social services organization that provides aid to immigrants in Philadelphia and Montgomery and Bucks counties.

The concert will feature local performers including Dan May, John Faye, Adam Brodsky, Cliff Hillis, Laura Mann, Scott McClatchy, Irene Lambrou, Hannah Linowski, Liz Miller, Joe Plush, Laura Jean, Scotti Mann, Pat Robinson, Michael Spear, Clapton America, Gene Smith Band, Fooling Ourselves, Honey Spot Boulevard, and Ben Morris & Cara Finkel.

“Songs of Welcome, Concert for Immigrant Aid” will run from 2-8 p.m. on July 19. Tickets are $20.

The annual “Punk Rock Flea Market” will be held now through July 19 at the Sheet Metal Workers Union (1301 South Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, www.phillyprfm.com).

The Punk Rock Flea Market is the place to shop for vintage clothing, records, crafts, art, and most of all old punk junk from more than 200 vendors.

This is an indoor event, rain or shine, inside the armory that will run from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day.

Tickets are $12 at the door.

Sesame Place (100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, www.sesameplace.com) is presenting its “Summer Splash” now through September 7.

There’s nothing like summer at Sesame Place Philadelphia! It’s a great time to have fun and cool off with splashy water attractions for all ages. Enjoy Bert & Ernie’s Splashy Shores, Big Bird’s Beach, The Count’s Splash Castle, Big Bird’s Rambling River, and more.

Plus, have even more fun in the sun by enjoying our family-friendly rides like Oscar’s Wacky Taxi Roller Coaster, Elmo’s Flyin’ Fish, the Sunny Day Carousel, and the 123 Playground!

Summer is the perfect time to meet your favorite Sesame Street friends at Sesame Place! Grab one-of-a-kind pictures with your favorite furry friends! Dance and sing along with everyone at our exciting character dining experiences and shows. Don’t miss the Sesame Street Party Parade which is full of fun and promises to get the whole family singing and dancing.

Hope Lodge (553 South Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington, 215-343-0965, http://www.ushistory.org/hope/) will be presenting a “Guided Mansion Tour” on July 19.

Hope Lodge was built between 1743 and 1748 by Samuel Morris, a prosperous Quaker entrepreneur. Morris acted as a farmer, shipowner, miller, iron master, shop owner, and owner of the mill now known as Mather Mill. Hope Lodge is an excellent example of early Georgian architecture, and it is possible that Edmund Woolley, architect of Independence Hall, offered advice in building. Samuel Morris owned the estate until his death in 1770.

Visitors can participate by watching a short film and then taking a tour. Guided tours of the mansion will depart at 1 and 2:30 p.m.

Tour admission is $8 for adults, $5 for seniors (age 65+) and for youth ages 6-17, and free for children under 5. Hope Lodge is a Blue Star Museum which means that active-duty military personnel, including National Guard and Reserve and their families, are admitted free for regular tours from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

“Botany of Nations,” which will run now through February 14, 2027 at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University (1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, ansp.org), is a groundbreaking exhibition that provides a new perspective on the legendary Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery.

Co-curated with Enrique Salmón, PhD, an ethnobotanist and author of IWÍGARA: The Kinship of Plants and People, and developed with contributions from Indigenous cultural historians, Botany of Nations offers a culturally layered view of the plants of North America.

Collected on the famous expedition, some of the oldest plant specimens in the country today are housed in the Academy’s own Lewis and Clark Herbarium. Learn how the Native Nations Meriwether Lewis met on the trail shaped America’s plant knowledge long before Western scientists claimed these “discoveries.” Centering the voices of Native Nations who have protected and cared for the lands for thousands of years, Botany of Nations presents plants as portals to Indigenous storytelling and knowledge.

Admission prices are — Adults (Age 13 and above), $22; Seniors (age 65+), $19; Children (Age 2 – 12), $18.

The newest exhibition at the Brandywine Museum of Art (1 Hoffman Mill Road, Chadds Ford, brandywine.org), is “Treasures from the Family: The Gift of Betsy James Wyeth.”

Visitors can discover Betsy James Wyeth’s role as the curator and archivist of the Wyeth family’s rich history and collections in “Treasures from the Family: The Gift of Betsy James Wyeth.”

The exhibition consists of art and archival material from the major bequest she left to the Brandywine Museum of Art upon her death in 2020.

Andrew and Betsy Wyeth were long-time supporters of the Museum. From its earliest days, the Wyeths stepped in to ensure there would always be works of art in the galleries. Their role in transferring the N.C. Wyeth House and Studio, and later, the Andrew Wyeth Studio to the Museum’s care helped to transform the institution’s mission.

The couple’s vision for the future led to the creation of the Museum’s Andrew and Betsy Wyeth Study Center, which also stewards the collection of the Wyeth Foundation for American Art. In a final act of philanthropy, Betsy Wyeth planned a major gift of artworks—beyond those by Andrew Wyeth—and the family’s rich trove of archival material to the Museum.

“Treasures” highlights paintings held by the Wyeth family, many of which were on loan to Brandywine for decades. Such paintings as N.C. Wyeth’s Self-Portrait with Palette (ca. 1909-1912) or his Captain Nemo (1918) have frequently hung in the galleries but will now make Brandywine their permanent home thanks to Betsy Wyeth’s planning.

In addition to these familiar paintings, other works in the bequest showcase moments in N.C. Wyeth’s career development such as a teenage self-portrait and his experiments with impressionist brushwork. Among the gems in the exhibition are examples of his early Western work that catapulted him to the top of the illustration field.

 Admission to the Brandywine Museum of Art is $20 for adults,

$18 for seniors (65+) and $8 for children ages 6-18 and students with ID.

Hagley Museum and Library (Buck Road East entrance via Route 100, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-658-2400, www.hagley.org), a 230-acre historical village on the site of the original du Pont Company gunpowder mills in northern Delaware, has a popular ongoing attraction – “Nation of Inventors.”

“Nation of Inventors” celebrates the American spirit of ingenuity by taking visitors on a journey from the early years of the patent system, in the 1790s, through the “golden age” of American invention, in the late 1800s. The exhibit features more than 120 patent models from Hagley’s acclaimed collection highlighting the diverse stories of inventors from all walks of life.

In the exhibition, visitors will enjoy engaging experiences around every corner, testing their knowledge of innovation and hearing personal accounts from inventors.

“Nation of Inventors” is located on the first two floors of Hagley’s Visitor Center. Visitors can plan to spend about 30 minutes on their self-guided tour of the exhibition.

Admission to Hagley is $20 for adults, $16 for students and seniors (62+) and $10 for children (6-14).

Thursdays through Sundays, Rockwood Park & Museum (4671 Washington Street Ext, Wilmington,  Delaware, 4671 Washington Street Ext, Wilmington, www.newcastlede.gov/431/Rockwood-Park-Museum) is presenting “Self-Guided Museum Tours.”

Visitors will be able to explore the grandeur, history and beauty of Rockwood Mansion, home of the Shipley, Bringhurst and Hargraves families for 120 years. This tour emphasizes the magnificent mansion interiors and stories of the families that lived there.

The 2026 season is underway at Nemours Estate (1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington, Delaware, nemoursestate.org).

Originally constructed in 1910, Nemours Estate is one of Delaware’s grandest buildings and includes the largest formal French garden in North America.

Nemours Estate comprises an exquisite, 77-room mansion, the largest formal French gardens in North America, a Chauffeur’s Garage housing a collection of vintage automobiles, and 200 acres of scenic woodlands, meadows and lawns.

Nemours was the estate of Alfred I. duPont.

Alfred named the estate Nemours, after the French town that his great-great-grandfather represented in the French Estates General. While looking to the past and his ancestors for inspiration, Alfred also ensured that his new home was thoroughly modern by incorporating the latest technology and many of his own inventions.

The Gardens are one of the estate’s prime attractions. The 157 jets at the center of the one-acre pool shoot water 12 feet into the air; when they are turned off, the entire “Long Walk” is reflected in the pool. The pool, five and a half feet deep in its deepest section, holds 800,000 gallons of water and takes three days to fill.

The Art Nouveau-style, classical mythology-based “Four Seasons” around the pool are by French-born American sculptor Henri Crenier (1873–1948).

Admission to Nemours is $23 for adults, $21 for seniors and $10 for children.

You can take advantage of these options with the 2026 Brandywine Treasure Trail Passport (www.visitwilmingtonde.com/passport/).

The cost is $49 for an individual pass and $99 for a family pass (for up to five family members).

The Brandywine Treasure Trail Passport is good for one-time admission to Wilmington and Brandywine Valley’s top attractions now through October 31.

A family pass, which includes one-day admission to each of 12 sites, can bring a savings of over $200 for the holders — especially since many of the participating institutions have regular admission fees in double figures.

The list of locations covered by the Brandywine Treasure Trail Passport includes Longwood Gardens, Delaware Museum of Nature and Science, Brandywine River Museum, Delaware Art Museum, Delaware History Museum, Hagley Museum and Library, Delaware Center for Contemporary Arts, Nemours Mansion & Gardens, Read House and Garden, Mt. Cuba Center, Rockwood Museum and Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library.

Historic Odessa (Main Street, Odessa, Delaware, 302-378-4119, www.historicodessa.org) is both a scenic and an historic site in Delaware.

Historic Odessa just reopened for spring tours and celebrated the beginning of its 2026 season.

Known in the 18th-century as Cantwell’s Bridge, Odessa played a vital role in commercial life along the Delaware River as a busy grain shipping port.

Today, visitors can stroll along tree-lined streets and admire examples of 18th- and 19th-century architecture in one of the best-preserved towns in Delaware. They can also tour a remarkable collection of antiques and Americana preserved in period room settings and quaint exhibits.

Historic Odessa is open to the public from March through December, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Sunday from 1-4 p.m.  The site is also open Monday by reservation.

The Delaware Art Museum (2301 Kentmere Parkway, Wilmington, Delaware, www.delart.org) is currently featuring several new exhibitions.

“Living Indigenous,” which runs through August 23, celebrates the creative contributions of Indigenous artists living in and connected to Delaware, developed in partnership with the Nanticoke Indian Museum.

“Citizen Artist,” which is on display through July 19, coincides with the Semiquincentennial in 2026.

The “Citizen Artist” will meet a moment of national reflection with a celebration of artist workers in America.

“The People’s Gallery,” which runs August 7 through September 6, amplifies Delaware 250 by inviting up to 600 Delaware residents or DelArt Members to submit one work of art for exhibition in the Museum.

The Museum is open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday and will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Admission is $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and $6 for youth.

Newlin Grist Mill (219 South Cheyney Road, Glen Mills, 610-459-2359, www.newlingristmill.org) is holding a “Public Archaeology Day” on July 18.

The public is invited to participate (or just watch) as Newlin Grist Mill’s professional archaeologist, Keith Doms, and a dedicated corps of archaeology volunteers seek to gain a deeper understanding of the site’s history through careful excavation using scientific techniques and thorough documentation.

Depending on the day, visitors might be invited to help screen excavated soil to look for small artifacts or assist with cleaning artifacts that have already been excavated.

Excavations this season are planned for the Trimble farm complex in the Historic Area.

The Trimble family built their house on the property adjoining the Mill in 1739 and, over time, built a whole complex of structures to support the operations of their household and farm.

By conducting archaeological studies in the area around the Trimble House, the Newlin Grist Mill staff hopes to learn more about the people who lived and worked there in the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries.

The event will run from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. It is free and open to all ages (children must be accompanied by an adult). No reservations are required

If you would like to help out with the dig, be sure to wear clothes that can get dirty and close-toed footwear. Bring work gloves if you have them; the site has a limited number of pairs to lend. For safety, hands-on participation is limited to those ages 5+.

Newlin Grist Mill will also present its “1704 Mill Tour” on July 18 and 19.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the site’s 1704 water powered mill.

While the Mill is not currently operational, visitors on guided tours will get a rare opportunity to see the process of building a new waterwheel and waterbox.

Visitors must be on a guided tour to go inside the Grist Mill.

Cost is $10 for adults and $6 for seniors and children 12 and under.

The 2026 season is in full swing at Chanticleer (786 Church Street, Wayne, www.chanticleergarden.org).

The Chanticleer estate dates from the early 20th-century, when land along the Main Line of the Pennsylvania Railroad was developed for summer homes to escape the heat of Philadelphia. Adolph Rosengarten, Sr., and his wife Christine chose the Wayne-St. Davids area to build their country retreat. The family’s pharmaceutical firm would become part of Merck & Company in the 1920s.

The Rosengartens hired architect and former classmate Charles L. Borie to design the house, which was completed in 1913. Landscape architect Thomas Sears designed the terraces as extensions of the house. A 1924 addition converted the summer home into a year-round residence and the family moved here permanently.

Rosengarten’s humor is evident in naming his home after the estate “Chanticlere” in Thackeray’s 1855 novel “The Newcomes.”

As the home of the Rosengartens, Chanticleer was beautiful and green with impressive trees and lawns. Most of the floral and garden development you see today has occurred since 1990 — designed by Chanticleer staff and consultants.

Admission to Chanticleer is $12 for adults and free for pre-teen children (12 years and under).

Andalusia Historic House, Gardens and Arboretum (1237 State Road, Andalusia, www.andalusiapa.org), which is located on a wooded promontory overlooking the Delaware River, has been a stately presence on this stretch of water, just north of Philadelphia, for more than 200 years.

The ancestral home of the Biddle family, Andalusia is also a natural paradise of native woodlands and spectacular gardens that have evolved over time.

Placed on the National Register of Historic Landmarks in 1966, the Big House — one of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in the United States — provides an unparalleled look into our nation’s past, while also offering a glimpse into the life of a family that helped to shape its future.

Its surrounding gardens delight the senses all through the year, from the tumbling, brightly colored leaves of fall to the floral extravaganza of spring and the abundance and scent of summer.

Self-Guided Garden Tours will be available Mondays through Wednesdays through November 4 (excluding holidays) at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m.

Visitors can stroll the spectacular formal gardens and native woodlands during a self-guided garden tour at their leisure and enjoy sweeping views from the banks of the Delaware River. Picnics are allowed on the grounds (with a “carry-in, carry-out” policy).

If you enjoy walking around garden displays or if you like to look at model railroad layouts, then you should definitely check out the Garden Railway Display at the Morris Arboretum & Garden (100 Northwestern Avenue, Chestnut Hill, www.morrisarboretum.org).

The ultra-popular Garden Railway Display has become a major summer attraction at The Gardens at Morris Arboretum. The 27th annual edition of the display opened May 23 and will remain open until September 30.

This summer, Morris Arboretum will unveil a brand-new exhibition in its popular Garden Railway – “Garden Railway: World Pollinators,” part of its new summer-long exhibition, “Bees, Butterflies & Blooms: A Pollinator Paradise.”

As one of the largest outdoor miniature train displays in the United States, the Garden Railway will delight and amaze visitors of all ages.

The railway has a quarter mile of track featuring seven loops and tunnels with 15 different rail lines and two cable cars, nine bridges (including a trestle bridge you can walk under) and bustling model trains.

The buildings and the display are all made of natural materials – bark, leaves, twigs, hollow logs, mosses, acorns, dried flowers, seeds and stones – to form a perfectly proportioned miniature landscape complete with miniature rivers.

Philadelphia-area landmarks are all meticulously decorated for the holidays with lights that twinkle. There is even a masterpiece replica of Independence Hall are made using pinecone seeds for shingles, acorns as finials and twigs as downspouts.

Visitors will be able to see miniature replicas of iconic structures at some of America’s most famous public gardens including the Climatron at Missouri Botanical Garden, Torii Gate and Pavilion at Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Science Pyramid at Denver Botanic Gardens, and so much more.

Admission is $22 for adults; $20 for seniors (65 and older); $12 for youth (ages 13-17 or with ID), active military and retired military; and free for children (under 3).

Ghost Tour of Philadelphia (215-413-1997, www.ghosttour.com), Ghost Tour of Lancaster (717-687-6687, www.ghosttour.com) and Ghost Tour of Strasburg (717-687-6687, www.ghosttour.com) operate throughout the winter and offer an eerily entertaining evening of true ghost stories and real haunted houses.

The Ghost Tour of Philadelphia, which is based on the book, “Ghost Stories of Philadelphia, PA.,” is a candlelight walking tour along the back streets and secret gardens of Independence Park, Society Hill, and Old City, where ghostly spirits, haunted houses, and eerie graveyards abound.

Participants can discover the ghost lore of America’s most historic and most haunted city with stories from the founding of William Penn’s colony to present-day hauntings.

The activity is open year-round – weekends, December-February; every night, March-November. Tickets are $24.

The Ghost Tour of Lancaster and the Ghost Tour of Strasburg are based on the book, “Ghost Stories of Lancaster, PA.”

Participants in the Ghost Tour of Lancaster explore the long-forgotten mysteries of one of America’s oldest cities, with haunting tales of otherworldly vigils, fatal curses, and star-crossed lovers. The tour provides the opportunity to experience 300 years of haunted history from the Red Rose City’s thorny past. Tickets are $20.