Located in nearby Wayne, Chanticleer Gardens was originally a private estate owned by the Rosengarten family. The family kept the gardens flourishing, and when the eldest son died in 1990, he left the estate for the education of the public, opening the doors to the several "themed" gardens spread across the property. Hailed as one of the most romantic and imaginative gardens in America, Chanticleer is certainly a place you will want to take pictures of as you relax and reflect in nature.
Credit: Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia®
While Franklin Square might be one of Philadelphia's original squares in Colonial times, its park is a much newer attraction. Featuring a carousel, Philadelphia-themed mini-golf, and a burger outpost called SquareBurger, Franklin Square is a great place to relax amidst the hustle-bustle of Center City. Find a bench by the fountain, read a book, people-watch, or go ahead and try for that hole-in-one at the mini-golf: there is always something to do at Franklin Square.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Two parks in one: what could be better? About an hour away from campus, Dorney Park and its water park counterpart Wildwater Kingdom is a fun destination to unwind after a hard day's study. Take a weekend to go down and ride some of their famous coasters like Steel Force, or take a plunge in the wave pool to cool off. While this park doesn't have a lot of flowers or beauty like the other ones, it does have fun and entertainment for everyone, thrill seekers or not.
Photo: Discover Lehigh Valley
Follow Rt. 1 into towards Kennett Square and you'll reach Longwood Gardens, one of the most historical gardens in Pennsylvania. Large acres and glassed-in conservatories hold a magnificent array of plants, from flowers to trees to hedges to water lilies. Each season holds a special event, and almost every night, there is a spectacular fountain show with the hedge gardens in the background. Some of the best times to go are during the holidays; Christmas is a popular season to attend, with Christmas trees and poinsettias all around, and the Fourth of July (if you're still around the campus) is especially fun with fireworks shot over the fountains. There is even an archive and library there with materials collected by the original owners of the estate.
Credit: Photo by B. Krist for Visit Philadelphia™
Another one of the five original squares planned for Philadelphia, Rittenhouse Square is of the "posher" varity. Surrounded by a fence, and filled with well-kept trees, Rittenhouse Square is a popular destination to merely relax and enjoy the sunshine. The neighborhood is home to many shops, museums, and restaurants, and at night, the area turns into a hot-spot of fun and entertainment. There are also outdoor art exhibits and flora festivals that occur throughout the year, so just hop on a SEPTA train and go to the park to see what's happening.
Credit: Photo by M. Edlow for VISIT PHILADELPHIA™
Fairmount Park is technically a park system, stretching from the Schuylkill River to Wissahickon Creek; it even includes the Philadelphia Art Museum. Paths run throughout the park that can provide valuable exercise throughout your time at St. Charles, and there are many historical homes along the way that can be toured or viewed by the public. Stop at one of the parking lots, and take a hike, have a picnic, whatever strikes your fancy: you won't regret spending some time in one of the largest park systems in America.
Credit: Photo by M. Fischetti for VISIT PHILADELPHIA®