Lancaster Hidden Greenhouses, Local Gardens, & Plant Galleries

Lancaster is lovingly nicknamed the "Garden Spot". Whereas Lancaster City is referred to as the "Red Rose City." For that reason, it makes perfect sense that in this area of PA, there are so many places to purchase and enjoy plants. People think it's all Amish and farms, but there is a community of flower-loving plant enthusiasts in Central, PA.

You can find garden centers or a hidden plant nursery off the grid. Lancaster County is a land renowned not just for its pastoral beauty and Amish heritage but also for its secret gardens, secluded greenhouses, and enchanting plant galleries. These hidden spots offer a unique blend of tranquility, beauty, and fun activities, making them perfect for plant lovers, couples seeking a unique date night, or friends looking for a memorable afternoon.

Why are the Gardens and Greenhouses hidden?

This is not on purpose, but it is not an accident. Lancaster County brings in 4 Billion (yes with a B) dollars in tourism every year. People travel to Lancaster, PA from all over the world to learn the history and check out the Amish lifestyle firsthand.

The old-order Mennonites keep to themselves. Yes, they are running a business, but gardening is also their passion. And they have no interest in becoming a tourist attraction. So, people share responsibly as we know these days one viral tik tok can erupt into chaos for a small business. Keep reading for instructions on how to get to one of the most off-grid greenhouses in Lancaster County.

Local Gardens Open To The Public

Conestoga House & Gardens

Located on 7.8 acres of land Conestoga House is full of trees, a beautiful garden, and rose bushes galore. Just down the street from President James Buchana's Wheatland Property, Conestoga House is hidden in plain sight. On the outskirts of Lancaster, PA their helpful staff offers a variety of ways to visit this gorgeous location.

 If you aren't there for a private party or a wedding you can visit here to find other opportunities to explore this large selection of plants and flowers. Including Date Nights with music and music by the dipping pool. Picnic General admission days, or guided tours of the Conestoga House grounds. 

Charles Demuth Museum Garden - Downtown

Very few long-time natives of PA know about this beautiful garden. One way to visit is on the Breakfast and History Tour, where you will learn more about the Demuth family while eating local breakfast. Another option is to visit the FREE museum and simply take a gander at the garden behind the museum located here. You'll find Charles Demuth's mother's 100-year-old roses in this garden right off King Street in downtown Lancaster. 

Ken's Gardens

Did I even write a blog about Greenhouses and gardening if I don't mention Ken's Gardens? Or should we call them shrubs R'US? They do refer to themselves as the shrub experts. This family-owned business has been around since the 1970s. But did you know they also have events in Lancaster, PA? View their calendar to fill your weekend with plants and local activities. Such as faith-based activities centered around gardening. Garden activities for kids, and Garden pot workshops. You'll find Ken's Gardens locations all over the county. Their nursery, local downtown storefront, and growing centers are only the beginning. 

Hidden Lancaster, PA Greenhouses

The Whispering Willow Greenhouse
This adorable plant nursery is a beautiful place to shop for seeds, perennials, and annuals. If you are wondering where to buy roses, look no further than the Whispering Willow. This magical place is ready to fill your home with houseplants, or anything else your green thumb could desire. The plants keep the air fresh, and the flowers are always blooming. With an emphasis on organic gardening and sustainable practices, this greenhouse doesn’t just sell plants; it educates visitors on how to care for them, making it a haven for both novice and experienced gardeners alike.

Country Succulents aka "The Cherished Gardens"

If you saw my recent Instagram post, then you might be here wondering WHERE IS THAT BEAUTIFUL GREENHOUSE! I lived in New Holland for a short bit and stumbled on it with the greatest delight. So your search for the best greenhouses in Lancaster is over. You will not find better quality succulents and houseplants than in this magnificent space. They are open Monday- Saturday, except Wednesdays from 9 am-5 pm.

The two Mennonite sisters caring for these lovely succulents know everything about plants. Even their yard is full of flower beds, and pots full of flowers, and herbs. They have some perennials, and lots of unique pots, and sell garden supplies. This is not your Lowe's garden center. They only accept cash and prefer to keep this beautiful space peaceful.

How to get to the "cherished gardens"

Take the back roads to this immaculate greenhouse and enjoy the local landscape. They are located near the corner of N Railroad and Snyder in New Holland. You will see a sign on a light post that says SUCCULENTS with an arrow pointing to the left, Follow Synder less than a quarter of a mile. Stop when you see a sign for the business. Go down the gravel driveway. You can park near the grass on the side of the house. Please use caution as many animals are running loose here.

Plant Gallery - Downtown Lancaster

Gallery Grow is not a secret but it is a beautiful place! You can build your plant terrarium inside of this cool planting bar. This is one of the best places to celebrate a birthday with friends in Lancaster, PA. Located on Gallery Row on Prince Street, this cute plant gallery offers something for everyone. For those who cannot seem to keep plants alive, do not worry! They also have air plants. If you need ideas for a date night in Lancaster, consider this local shop for BYOB and a fun activity in the city. I rented this place for my birthday and it was a great time.

Summary

There are many more places in PA where you can find the perfect greenhouse or local garden. Now that the weather is getting warmer, I hope you will purchase your perennials, annuals, and shrubs from a local business. That's one of the most beautiful things about PA. We have a strong business community that supports one another. I hope this list makes your search a little easier. For herbs in your garden this season, stop by Lemon Street Market for their organic vegetable selection of seeds, and starters. Skip the chain garden centers this year and choose a local spot to make your space beautiful!