September 2026
Planning a garden getaway in the Brandywine Valley? From iconic botanical gardens to hidden horticultural gems, this weekend itinerary highlights some of the region's most beautiful places and things to do, all just a short drive from The Francis Hotel & Suites. Whether you're wandering through world-renowned displays, shopping for native plants to bring home, or learning more about the landscapes that make this region so special, this weekend itinerary in Kennett Square and the surrounding countryside has something for every garden enthusiast.
Along the way, we'll also point you toward some of the best places to eat around Kennett Square, complete with a few menu recommendations we think are worth ordering. Follow this weekend itinerary for a memorable getaway filled with beautiful blooms, local flavor, and the very best of the Brandywine Valley.
A Garden Lover’s Guide to the Brandywine Valley
A Brandywine Valley Itinerary for the Garden Enthusiast
Day 1: Longwood Gardens & The Francis Hotel & Suites in Kennett Square
Start your Kennett Square getaway at Longwood Gardens where you could easily spend an entire day getting blissfully lost in one of "America's Best Botanical Gardens." Wander their Orchid House, Waterlily Court, and the countless other indoor and outdoor displays that make every season feel unique. Don't miss the Bonsai Courtyard, with its displays of rare miniature trees, or the Cascade Garden, nestled inside a modern, glittering glass house and inspired by the lush beauty of a coastal rainforest. Before you leave, be sure to see the Chimes Tower District, where a hillside of rare trees and plants, a historic bell tower, and a picturesque waterfall come together to create one of the garden's most memorable settings.
When it's time for dinner, stay right on the grounds and enjoy a meal surrounded by fountains and flowers at their upscale restaurant, 1906. Save room for dessert, because the Caramelia is a must-try! Shaped like a whimsical mushroom with a glossy red mirror glaze on top, it features dark chocolate cake, chocolate cremeux, espresso caramel, and dark chocolate mousse, all on a bed of cocoa soil. Reservations are highly recommended for 1906, as tables fill up quickly.
If you want something more casual, The Café at Longwood is another delicious option. With everything from simple salads and ready-to-eat sandwiches to signature dishes like Miso Honey Glazed Cod and Korean BBQ Beef Bulgogi, even the pickiest eaters can find something to savor. End your visit with Longwood's spectacular Illuminated Fountain Performance or, if you're visiting on a Fireworks & Fountains Show date, reserve tickets for one of their dazzling seasonal performances.
After a full day at Longwood Gardens, check in at The Francis and settle into your room for the evening. Our contactless check-in experience makes arriving on your schedule simple, giving you more time to relax and recharge after a day of exploring. Each guest room tells a different chapter of Kennett Square's history, creating a stay that's as memorable as the destination itself. If it's available, consider booking The Gardener, a room with its own private courtyard entrance inspired by Kennett Square's rich carnation and mushroom-growing heritage to complement your garden-themed getaway.
Day 2: Nearby Winterthur & Kennett Square’s Main Streets
Begin your morning with breakfast at Café Emis, one of Kennett Square's most popular breakfast spots known for its Greek-inspired menu that changes seasonally. If you enjoy specialty coffee, order one of their signature iced espresso drinks topped with their seasonal "Cloud," a light, whipped topping that changes flavors throughout the year and adds a deliciously creamy finish.
After your wake-up call, make your way to the day's main attraction: Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library in nearby Delaware. Once the home of renowned collector Henry Francis du Pont, Winterthur offers a remarkable blend of history, horticulture, and art. Spend the morning exploring the museum, strolling through the gardens, or browsing one of the country's premier collections of rare books and manuscripts in the library. When it's time for lunch, stop by the Visitor Center Café for a fresh sandwich, salad, or wrap, then enjoy a picnic surrounded by the beauty of the estate.
Back in Kennett Square, spend the afternoon wandering charming State Street at your own pace. Browse locally owned boutiques, discover unique gifts for friends and family back home, or simply soak in the small-town atmosphere before treating yourself to an afternoon pick-me-up. Be sure to pop into The Mushroom Cap to pick up a souvenir celebrating Kennett Square's title as the "Mushroom Capital of the World." The shop is a fun introduction to one of the region's defining industries, which began when local Quaker florists discovered that mushroom cultivation thrived in the same climate that made the area famous for carnations.
As evening settles in, stroll over to The Creamery of Kennett Square for dinner. The Creamery's sprawling outdoor beer garden, colorful landscaping, and lively atmosphere make it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the Brandywine Valley's gardens. Enjoy a delicious meal, sip on a local craft beverage, and if you're visiting on the right night, stay for live music under the lights.
Day 3: From Native Plants at Mt. Cuba Center to Mushrooms in Kennett Square
Fuel up with breakfast at Café Americana 2, a cozy joint just a short drive from The Francis that is loved by locals. Their menu features classic American and Mexican breakfast dishes served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that's perfect for easing into another day of exploring the Brandywine Valley's best gardens.
You’ve toured beautiful formal gardens during your first two days in Kennett Square, but Mt. Cuba Center offers a sanctuary where native plants take center stage. Founded in 1935, this beautiful public garden is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the plants of the Piedmont region, including spring-blooming Virginia bluebells, flowering dogwood, purple coneflowers and more. Wander through vibrant display gardens, hike scenic trails that wind past ponds and meadows, and discover beautiful woodland wildflowers and native trees around every turn. Depending on the day's schedule, you may even have the chance to join a gardening workshop or seasonal program.
Pro tip: Mt. Cuba is the perfect spot for a picnic. Pick up lunch from one of Kennett Square's many cafés before you arrive, then find a peaceful place to enjoy it among the gardens when you're ready for a break. Before you leave Mt. Cuba Center for the day, stop by the garden shop to browse the unique selection of native plants and even find one to take home with you!
After your day among the wildflowers, spend a relaxing afternoon in downtown Kennett Square. If you have a sweet tooth, we highly recommend a stop at La Michoacana for their famous homemade ice cream. If you haven't gotten enough nature for the day, take a shaded walk along the Kennett Greenway before freshening up for dinner.
End your getaway with dinner at Portabellos, just steps from The Francis. Their mushroom-centric menu is a fitting finale to your visit, celebrating one of Kennett Square's most iconic traditions. We recommend starting with the Roasted Mushroom Soup before trying their signature Portabello Ravioli for your entrée.
Before heading home, end your Brandywine Valley getaway at Terrain in nearby Chadds Ford. Their beautiful garden-inspired café is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely brunch surrounded by lush greenery and thoughtfully curated décor. After your meal, take time to wander the nursery and garden shop, where you'll find everything from plants and pottery to home décor and unique gifts. It's a fitting final stop and a perfect place to bring home a little inspiration from your garden getaway.
Day 4: Brunch at Terrain
