Mt. Cuba Center — Attraction in Hockessin, Delaware

First, I recognize that it isn't fair to compare every estate and garden in this area to Longwood Gardens. I feel that if I'm going to give an honest review for those traveling out of state—or for individuals like myself who have health and physical limitations, it is good to draw a comparison between the two places since they are only miles apart. Mt. Cuba charges $15 and Longwood $25 for adults (anyone under 18, it's $13).

I would want to know if the trip and money spent would be worth it or if I could have gone just a few miles farther away and been more than satisfied with a planned visit to Longwood Gardens. I have visited there many times, along with my husband and children, over the last two decades. With Mt. Cuba's proximity to our town, we often spoke about visiting, especially if either of us didn't feel up to handling a crowd or being overwhelmed by too much stimuli.

We finally visited! I can see Mt. Cuba is holding an advantage in this area for many individuals. It provides an opportunity to enjoy a quieter and less overwhelming environment. A larger, busier botanical gardens such as Longwood could hold a disadvantage for someone who gets anxious and overloaded by large groups of people, music playing, sounds of the fountains, and other stimuli you'll face.

I've included pictures because they truly speak a thousand words. I will most likely purchase a membership, but this is because I want to support more local businesses. I think you'll fall a little more in love with plants, gardening, and the potential for horticulture to improve peoples’ lives. We locals should enjoy getting out here, and out of state visitors will also enjoy as long as they have realistic expectations. I've been to Botanical Gardens in the Southwest with sculptures and hardscaping, in the South I've visited some lovely Estates and Gardens, and Longwood is a favorite several times a year.

Anyone checking my profile sees health issues, and limitations are my main concern. I want to share things in my reviews for others who have challenges due to aging or health. We can still enjoy a lot. By the way, Copeland house carries juice, water, and iced tea plus varieties of snack bars, crackers, nuts, and fruit for sale. There's someone there to assist you with purchasing food and drinks.

Next time, we decided to bring a lunch and sit at the tables with umbrellas or ask for one of their picnic blankets to use on the grounds. Check out and register for a couple of activities I read about online. I got excited over the Night Hike, but we're not sure I'd do well with that. One of our date nights could be the Bale and Brews hayride instead. Either way, I'm looking forward to revisiting even as Longwood...

We visited Mt. Cuba Center at the end of June, and it was absolutely beautiful. If you're someone who appreciates nature in its more natural, enchanting form, this is a place worth experiencing. It’s not meant to impress with grand displays or perfectly manicured flower beds like Longwood Gardens—so don’t come expecting that. Mt. Cuba is something different: more intimate, peaceful, and quietly magical.

The gardens focus entirely on native plants, and that commitment really shows. Every trail and path leads you through lush, regionally appropriate plantings that support pollinators and local wildlife. We saw butterflies, bees, frogs, birds, and little woodland critters all living in harmony with the environment. It honestly felt like we were walking through a storybook woodland or a gentle fairytale glade.

What makes Mt. Cuba truly special is how it highlights the ecological value of native plants. These aren't just pretty flowers—native species play a vital role in restoring and sustaining local ecosystems. They provide food and shelter for insects, birds, and animals, many of which can't survive on non-native ornamentals. Visiting here not only soothes the soul, it also inspires you to consider what you might plant in your own yard to support biodiversity and create beauty with a purpose.

The trails are well-kept and walkable, and even though we visited on a weekend, it wasn’t crowded. That added to the sense of calm and serenity throughout the grounds. It’s a wonderful place for a thoughtful stroll, some quiet reflection, or even just a break from the usual busy pace of life.

Highly recommend for gardeners, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a bit of peace and...

I came here for the first time today and I can say I'm thoroughly impressed. The staff are very friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable about the site, the mansion, and the plants. The landscaping was absolutely beautiful and well maintained, the paths were well maintained, and there were very clear directions along the way so no one should get lost easily. Lots of beautiful statues throughout the garden, a few small waterfalls, ponds, some fountains, many local plants, and many butterflies. You can pack a picnic, bring it in, and they even offer picnic blankets for you, and many picnic areas! Honestly, I loved it so much I'm considering buying an annual pass. In addition to all of this I'd like to say that this place isn't snobbish at all. It's beautiful, historical, but also very down to earth. This would be a place where someone could come and study, draw, have a nice date, or even bring small kids and do a...