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General Information

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Membership FAQs

Membership Price Increase

Longwood has not raised its Membership pricing since 2007. Our priority is to continue to offer world class gardens, entertainment, and events for our Members. In order to do that, we must occasionally revisit the costs of providing a great experience, exceptional benefits, unparalleled access, discounts, and free offerings to our Members.

Membership ID Policy

Longwood strives to offer world-class exhibits, educational programs, performing arts and special Members-only events just for you, our Member. To help us maintain and preserve our Membership promise to you, we kindly request that you present proof of identification along with your Garden Pass when visiting the Gardens. Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience this may cause you, but our intention is to honor you, our most loyal friends, who generously participate in our Membership program. 

Can you provide Garden Passes that contain a photo, instead of requiring a separate photo ID?

In 2007, we converted to a non-photo ID Garden Pass because of the substantial growth to our Membership program. This allowed us to generate Garden Passes for our Members with a faster turn-around time so Members can begin enjoying all of the benefits of Membership immediately, such as general admission, accessing discounts on tickets online and onsite, and discounts at area garden centers and restaurants!

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Renee DePietro, our Membership Manager, at gardenpass@longwoodgardens.org or 610-388-1000. She would be pleased to assist you. We greatly appreciate your cooperation and understanding.

Renewing and Joining

How do I join or renew online?


JOIN TODAY! Memberships are available at tickets.longwoodgardens.org or in person at our Membership Desk, or by calling 610-388-1000.

Current Members may renew their Membership online at tickets.longwoodgardens.org or in person at our Membership Desk, or by calling 610-388-1000. *Phone processing fees do not apply to membership purchases.

I renewed/joined online, now what?


If you would like to visit Longwood Gardens soon, please bring your print-at-home temporary pass for quick and easy access to the Gardens. Permanent Member materials arrive in 4–6 weeks.

When will my Membership expire?


Your Membership is valid for one year from the date you purchased it. If you have purchased a two-year Membership, then it is valid for two years from the date of purchase.

If I renew my Membership before it expires, how will this affect my expiration date?

Your Membership is valid for 12 full months. If you renew your Membership early, that Membership will not start until your current one expires. (There is an exception if you upgrade your Membership in the middle of a cycle and wish for the new Membership to start immediately. In this circumstance, you will most likely receive a credit for the time remaining on your old Membership. The new/updated Membership will begin on the date of purchase and run for 12 full months.)

Can I apply my paid admission to my Membership if I decide to join by mail?


Yes, you may apply your paid admission toward the cost of your Membership within 30 days of your dated receipt/ticket stub. The amount that you can apply depends on the category of Membership that you are purchasing:

  • Up to $8 for a Student Membership (Dues $30)
  • Up to $18 for an Individual Membership (Dues $65)
  • Up to $18 for an Individual Plus Membership (Dues $105) 
  • Up to $36 for a Dual Membership (Dues $95)

For the following levels, up to $52 of the paid general admission from the individuals who will be on the the Membership will be applied.

  • Family Membership (Dues $120)
  • Garden Plus Membership (Dues $150)
  • Rose Arbor Membership (Dues $250)
  • Chimes Tower Membership (Dues $500)

Can I apply my paid admission to my Membership if I decide to join online?


Unfortunately, that option is not available at this time.

Why isn't the tax deductible amount of my Membership 100% of what I paid?


Each Membership (except Student level) comes with two complimentary guest passes (four passes for 2 year Memberships). These guest passes have a value of $16 each. The tax-deductable portion of your Membership is the purchase price of your Membership minus $32 (for 1yr Memberships), or $64 (for 2 yr Memberships).

Can I include my daughter/son as a secondary cardholder on my Dual or higher level Membership?


Yes, of course. Dual Memberships and higher categories include two cardholders. This includes any two people you wish to assign as the named cardholders, regardless of age and whether they live in the same household or not. All benefits are sent to the primary Member's address.

I used to have a Grandparent Membership, what category would you recommend?


The Family or Garden Plus Membership will accommodate your needs.

  • Family Memberships are for up to two adults and their children (18 years of age or younger) OR up to two adults and four grandchildren (18 years of age or younger).
  • The Garden Plus Membership is for up to two adults and their children (18 years of age or younger) OR up to two adults and four grandchildren (18 years of age or younger) PLUS one additional guest of any age on every visit.
  • The two named cardholders do not need to live in the same household.

Do I have to have a secondary cardholder?

Membership benefits extend only to named cardholders, and where applicable, their children (or up to four grandchildren) age 18 and under.  We strongly recommend that you name a second cardholder.

Do the primary and secondary cardholders need to live in the same household?


The two cardholders do not need to live in the same household, but the benefits of being a Member extend to only those two named Members and their children or up to four grandchildren age 18 and under. Please keep in mind that all Membership correspondence and mailings will be sent only to the primary cardholder.

When will I receive my permanent Garden Pass(es)?


Processing time takes approximately 4–6 weeks. During busier seasons, processing can take longer. If you plan to visit soon, please call 610-388-1000 to ask us to hold your Garden Pass and materials at the Member Services desk. We are happy to assist you.

Can I change the name(s) on my Garden Pass after purchase?


You may change the name(s) on your Garden Pass at the time of renewal. If you just joined (within the past four weeks), and wish to change the name(s) on your card, you must return all of your current Garden Passes to be issued cards with the new name(s).

I am a disabled Member and need a caregiver to assist me with my visit. What do you recommend?


You may purchase a Dual Membership and notify our staff that the secondary Member will be your caregiver.  You may also purchase the Individual Plus or Garden Plus Membership which allows Garden admission for one (1) additional guest per day.

Better Homes & Gardens and Martha Stewart Living

If you received a subscription to Better Homes and Gardens Magazine OR Martha Stewart Living magazine via renewing or joining last year, you will be asked to either continue with a paid subscription or cancel at your one year anniversary. You will receive a reminder of your anniversary from the magazine and if you wish to continue, simply wait until you get your invoice and renew your subscription. 

If you wish to cancel, there are three easy ways to do so:

  • Write cancel on the invoice and mail in the envelope they provide.
  • For BH&G, write a personal note with your name and address expressing your wish to cancel and mail to: Better Homes and Gardens, P.O. Box 37508, Boone, Iowa, 50037
  • Visit the Better Homes and Gardens website and update your account, click here.
  • Visit the Martha Stewart Living website and update your account, click here

Gift of Membership

How do I purchase the Gift of Membership?


You may purchase the Gift of Membership online, via phone, or mail. Find out more about purchasing a gift of Membership.

How do I redeem the Gift of Dual Membership that is a benefit of my Chimes Tower Membership?

After purchasing your Chimes Tower Membership, you will receive an application to redeem the Gift of Dual Membership. Simply fill out the application and mail it to Longwood Gardens, Attn: Membership Office.  We will process the application and send the Membership materials to your gift recipient.  Let us know if you would prefer we send the Membership materials to you, so that you can give them to the recipient. You may also give the application directly to the recipient, who can fill it out and return it to Longwood Gardens themselves.

- If you purchase your Chimes Tower Membership online, you will receive an application as part of your print-at-home acknowledgment email.
- If you purchase your Chimes Tower Membership through the mail or over the phone, an application will be sent in your Membership fulfillment packet.
- If you purchase your Chimes Tower Membership on site, you will receive an application with your Membership materials from one of our Guest Services Associates.

I'm getting married. How do I add a Membership to my wedding registry?


A Membership makes the perfect wedding registry gift! You can create a wedding registry with http://weddings.partyspace.com and add a Longwood Gardens Membership to your registry!

Membership Benefits

What are the benefits of being a Member?

Please click here to view benefits.

Can I receive discounts to local retailers with my Garden Pass?


Absolutely, please visit our Member Discounts page for details.

Do I receive complimentary one-time use guest passes with my Membership?


All categories, except for the Student Membership, include complimentary one-time use guest passes. You will receive two at the one-year level and four at the two-year level.

Complimentary guest passes are mailed when purchasing Memberships via the web, by mail or phone unless you specifically request they be held at will call prior to us mailing them out.  Because of the value associated with our complimentary guest passes, we cannot accommodate requests to issue them onsite when Membership is purchased via web, mail, or phone. If you purchase a Membership or renew onsite you will receive them immediately and they may be used immediately.

The benefits mention "Share—up to a 10% discount on up to six adult admission tickets for each guest during every visit.” What is the discounted price (based on paid admission)?


Adult admission is $16, regularly $18
Senior admission is $13, regularly $15
Student admission is $8, no discount (18 and under or with a valid student ID)
Child – FREE (ages 4 and under)
OR you can add a Bring Friends Package to your Membership!

Do I have to be a Member to purchase a Bring Friends Package?

Yes, the opportunity to buy a Bring Friends Package is a Members-only opportunity. If you would like to bring a group of friends to Longwood Gardens, please consider becoming a Member and adding on a Bring Friends Package. You many also want to consider organizing your visit through our Group Visits office.

Do I have to be present to redeem tickets from my Bring Friends Package?

Yes, Members who have purchased a Bring Friends Package need to accompany the guests using the Bring Friends Package tickets. Simply present your active Garden Pass with Photo ID to a ticketing team member to redeem your ticket(s). Bring Friends tickets are valid on the day they are printed only.

How can I find out how many tickets are left on my Bring Friends Package?

At any time, you may ask any Guest Services representative to check your record for the number of tickets remaining on your Bring Friends Package.

How do I get a Tripod permit?

Members can get an Annual Tripod Permit by visiting the Information Desk in the Visitor Center where you will fill out a permission form and receive a tripod tag good for one year.

Problems With Your Membership Materials

How do I update my mailing address?


You can updated your contact information and vew your Membership expiration date by visiting the Manage Your Account section of our website, under the Membership tab. You may also call our office at 610-388-1000 or email us at gardenpass@longwoodgardens.org to share your updated contact information.

I have not received any mailings since I became a Member.


Please call us at 610-388-1000 or email us at gardenpass@longwoodgardens.org to let us know so we can look into the problem and be sure to mail all pertinent information to you.

What happens if I lost my Garden Pass? Or if it was stolen?


Please call our office at 610-388-1000 to request replacement materials. The cost for a replacement card is $5.

What happens if I forget my Garden Pass?


Stop by the Membership Desk to ask for a temporary pass. You will be asked to provide photo identification.

I misplaced/threw away my complimentary one-time use guest passes. Can they be reissued? 

Misplaced complimentary guest passes will not be reissued as they have a $36 retail value.

I recently joined and still have not received my Garden Pass. I'd like to visit soon.


Membership processing takes 4–6 weeks. During busier seasons, processing can take longer. If you do not have a temporary card or e-receipt from your onlineMembership purchase, please contact us at 610-388-1000 or stop by Central Ticketing when you arrive. We would be happy to assist you.

I just received another renewal notice, but I sent in my payment already.


If you have already sent a payment, please disregard the renewal notice. The renewal notice and payment probably crossed paths in the mail.

Other Membership Levels

Do you have a Lifetime Membership level?

We do not offer a Lifetime Membership and do not plan to offer this in the future.

Do you have two-year Memberships?


Yes, two-year Memberships are available at all categories except the Student, Rose Arbor, and Chimes Tower levels.

Do you offer a Membership for two individuals?


Yes, we offer two Memberships to accommodate two individuals:
- The Dual Membership provides general Gardens admission for two named cardholders.
- The Individual Plus Membership provides general Gardens admission for one named cardholder, PLUS general Gardens admission for one (1) additional guest per day.
*Please visit the Membership Levels section of our website for further details.

Do you offer a Membership that allows me to bring a friend on each visit?


Yes, the Individual Plus, Garden Plus, Rose Arbor, and Chimes Tower Membership Levels offer general Gardens admission for additional guest(s) per day. Please visit the Membership Levels section of our website for further details.

Can I upgrade to a higher level of Membership?


1. If you have less than two months left on your Membership:
If you wish to upgrade any time less than two months prior to your renewal date, you will be asked to submit payment in full for the upgraded category. You will be given all of the benefits of the Membership level you have upgraded into and we will extend your Membership a full year from its current expiration date.
2. If you have more than two months left on your Membership:
Yes, please do. Upgrading is an option from the date of purchase until two months prior to your Membership expiration date. We will apply a portion of your paid dues to your new level and your expiration date will be extended for the number of months you have been a Member in your current level and cycle. Call us today to learn how at 610-388-1000.
3. The option to upgrade from a Dual Membership to an Individual Plus Membership is available upon returning both Dual Garden Pass Membership cards (the secondary member from the Dual Membership will no longer share membership benefits or Gardens admission on their own).

Can I downgrade to a different Membership Level?


The option to downgrade your Membership level is available at your time of renewal.

Discounted Memberships

Do you offer discounted Memberships for students?


Yes, we offer a discounted Student Membership for students (of any age) with valid ID. We also offer discounted admission for any child between 5-17 years of age. Group and School admission rates are also available. Please click here for admission fees.

Do you offer any other types of discounted Membership?


Other than the Student Membership, we do not offer other discounts.

Usage Guidelines

Can I use my Garden Pass for admission to other gardens and arboreta?


We are sorry, but Longwood Gardens does not participate in the American Horticultural Society's Reciprocal Admission Program. Please click here for a list of gardens that do reciprocate.
- Our new Explore & Save program offers a $2 discount on general adult admission at 10 different Brandywine Valley attractions. Visit the Explore & Save page for details and a complete listing of participants.

Who may use my Garden Pass?


Garden Passes are non-transferable and can only be used by the named cardholder(s). Guests or family members may not take the place of a named cardholder. Longwood Gardens is a non-profit organization that relies heavily on Membership support and attendance revenue to maintain its beautiful grounds and facilities. To preserve the integrity of our Membership program and its wonderful benefits for paying Members, we ask our Members to help us prevent misuse of the Garden Passes. Named cardholders and, where applicable, their children 18 and under, are privy to the benefits of Membership. Individual Plus, Garden Plus, Rose Arbor, and Chimes Tower Memberships provide the flexibility to bring additional guest(s) each day. 
*Please visit the Membership Levels page of our website for further details on these Memberships.
Members are required to stamp their hand for re-entry into the garden.

Can my spouse use my Individual Plus Membership?

The Individual Plus Membership provides general Gardens admission for one named cardholder, PLUS general Gardens admission for one (1) additional guest per day.  If you would like another person to be able to use your Garden Pass, please purchase a Dual Membership.

Who may access my Member benefits?

Membership event discounts apply to active Member tickets. Member guest event tickets must be purchased at full price. Wheelchair, scooter, and stroller rentals are free for active Members. This privilege may not be used to obtain rentals for extended family or friends.

Do I need a timed ticket for my guest(s) if I have a complimentary one-time use guest pass?


Complimentary one-time use guest pass holders do not need Timed Ticket(s) to enter the Gardens. However, you are required to purchase Timed Ticket(s) for any guests accompanying you who are purchasing tickets.

Members-only Events

Can I bring my nieces/neighbors/friends to a Members-only event?


Members-only events are designed specifically to benefit our named Members. To preserve the integrity of our Membership program, we generally do not allow Members to bring guests to our Members-only events. In the case where guests may be permitted to attend, an additional fee above the admission cost may be associated with the privilege and will be noted in the event description. Complimentary one-time use guest passes may not be used for Members-only events.

Can I use my complimentary one-time use guest passes to bring a friend to a Members-only event?


See answer above. Guest passes may be used only for general admission to the Gardens during our public hours.

Does my Individual Plus, Garden Plus, Rose Arbor, or Chimes Tower Membership allow me to bring a guest to a Members-only Event?


Unfortunately, due to the size of our Membership program and limited facility space for special events, exclusive Members-only events are for cardholders and their children where applicable.

Do I need to register for Members-only events?


Yes, due to space limitations for some of our events, we request that you register for all Members-only events that require pre-registration.  Our Members-only events are very popular and reservations do fill-up quickly!  We suggest visiting the Member Events page of our website often to learn about upcoming Member opportunities. 

We recently initiated an event wait list. If an event you have registered for is fully booked, you will receive a letter confirming that you are on the wait list. If a space becomes available we will attempt to notify you (email is our preferred method of contact).  If we are unable to get a response from you within 4 hours, we will contact the next Individual on the wait list. 
Kindly notify us if you are unable to attend an event that you have pre- registered for!

Children

Should I list my child if he/she is 4 years of age or younger?


Children 4 and under are admitted free of charge, but it is helpful to list them on your Membership as well.

Can I add a child to my Dual, Individual Plus, Individual, or Student Memberships?


We are sorry, but those categories do not include additional children. The Family and Garden Plus Memberships include the cardholder's children (or up to 4 grandchildren ) 18 years of age and younger.

Can children covered under a Family, Garden Plus, Rose Arbor, or Chimes Tower  Membership come without one of the named cardholders?


Yes, children covered by the Membership may come to the Gardens without one of the named cardholders. They must have one of the Garden Passes for admission. Students 16-18 years old should present a student ID or a drivers license if they posses one.

Can my nanny/babysitter bring my children to the Gardens using my Garden Plus, Rose Arbor, or Chimes Tower Membership?


Yes. Just let us know and we will put a sticker on your Garden Pass allowing a childcare provider to bring children covered under your Membership to the Gardens.

Can children bring a guest to the Gardens if they are part of a Garden Plus, Rose Arbor, or Chimes Tower Membership?


Yes, children who are covered by these Memberships may bring a guest with them to the Gardens. They must have one of the Garden Passes for admission. Students 16-18 years old should present a student ID or drivers license if they posses one.

Can I add my grandchildren to my Membership?


Sure, you are welcome to include your grandchildren on a Family, Garden Plus, Rose Arbor, or Chimes Tower Membership. Please let us know the number of grandchildren between the ages of 5 and 17. Up to four grandchildren may be included. Children 4 and under are admitted free of charge.

Concerts

I have been able to attend concerts free of charge in the past as a Member. Why is there a cost associated with attending some of your concerts?

Longwood continues to offer many wonderful performances that are included with a Membership. These exclusive and/or discounted Member offerings can be found by clicking here. Some concerts are associated with a fee. We are very excited to continue to bring world-class artists to Longwood, and to offer our Members exclusive presale and discount pricing on shows that require an additional cost.
 
Please check the events section of the website or your printed schedule of events for more information on upcoming concerts and performances.

 
Can I apply the concert ticket price to my Membership?

Concert nights are considered special event nights in the Gardens. You may apply a portion of a non-member purchased ticket to your Membership. Please ask a Visitor Services Associate for details.

Fireworks

Do Members pay an additional charge for Fireworks?


Yes, our spectacular Fireworks & Fountains shows are an additional ticket charge above your Membership dues. Please visit the events section of the website for more details and pricing information. Members receive a 20% discount on Fireworks tickets!

Do Members pay an additional charge for the Fireworks BBQ?

Yes, the Fireworks & Fountains BBQ is a separate ticket in addition to the actual Fireworks Show ticket. Please visit the events section of the website for more details. Members receive a discount on tickets!

Can I purchase Fireworks tickets for my guests at the discounted Membership rate?

Discounted tickets are available for Membership cardholders only. Full price tickets may be purchased for your guests.

Can I apply my Fireworks ticket fee to my Membership?


Fireworks nights are considered special event nights in the Gardens. You may apply a portion of a non-member purchased ticket to your Membership. Please ask a Visitor Services Associate for details.

Horticultural Information

Is there a hotline for gardening and/or plant related questions?


Yes, you may contact our Horticulture Information Team via the methods listed below. Due to our large volume of requests, email is the best way to get your questions answered quickly. Your patience is greatly appreciated!

  • EMAIL your question to: hortinformation@longwoodgardens.org
  • MAIL Complete this PDF form, please be sure to include an email address and phone number. Mail it to: Longwood Gardens, Inc., Horticulture Information Team, P.O. Box 501, Kennett Square, PA  19348.  You may also leave the form at Central Ticketing in the Visitor Center.
  • PHONE Leave a message for a team member on the Horticulture Information voicemail (610) 388-1000 ext. 6060. Please be sure to leave your email address (clearly spelled out) or your phone number on the message.

Please note that Longwood is unable to accept plant, insect or disease samples. For your reference, you may contact the Penn State Cooperative Extension.

What does Longwood do with the plants that are removed from the Gardens? Can Members purchase them?


As part of its sustainable practices, Longwood Gardens composts all of its plants and horticultural waste products, recycling them back onto the property as compost, mulch, and field soil amendments that help produce more beautiful seasonal displays for our guests.

Other

I did not see my Membership-related question listed above.


Please call us directly at 610-388-1000 or email gardenpass@longwoodgardens.org.