We’ve been to botanical gardens around the world and this is indeed one of the best. The scope of its “rooms” from the flower gardens to the meadow to the Italian Water Fountains to the Conservancy - the water lilies are fantastic - let alone the main water fountains are broader than most botanical gardens. We will come back again and again.

The gardens at Longwood are just beautiful. There are two fountain shows - if you want to see the major one, you need to get a timed ticket the day before or early in the day...very early. You will get closed out. The small one runs often during the day, and there is room to see it.

This is not a trip for small children. There are gardens filled with gorgeous plants, trees and flowers - but no playgrounds or activities meant to keep kids entertained...and did I mention the walking...

Lots of walking involved. Keep that in mind if it is a very hot day, or if you have someone with respiratory or movement issues.

Gift shop - I bought gorgeous plants - succulents. The gardener was there to advise me on selections and care. There are many other products from books to lotions and jewelry, and more. All very pretty.

The main house is open for walkthroughs, has a video and exhibits in the rooms. Don't miss the courtyard, which has bistro tables and chairs.

** There are a number of well loved and cared for rescue cats on the property. They are friendly and to keep the rodents and other pests away.

We recently visited with a friend from Wilmington, DE, just a short drive from there.

We were stunned by the grounds, not quite grasping how wonderful this place is. We had tickets to the mid-afternoon fountain show and proceeded straight over to the viewing area. This is such a great production, wonderful music and fabulous fountain display ... top rate.

We marveled at the wide variety of trees, plants and flowers in the large conservatory. We took a number of photos but you capture the real beauty unless you see it in person.

We echo what all the other positive reviews have noted. It also has a nice place to sit down, have refreshments or some healthy food.

The day we went was very hot and the conservatory is very warm as well, so having a hand fan or battery powered fan is a good addition to the visit. Definitely hydrate, bring some water.

We hope to make it back for an evening show someday, which we understand is magnificent ... Christmas time frame as well, given the breadth of decorations they do.

It was well worth the visit and we'd highly recommend spending time on the grounds if you get a chance.