6.16.2009

Review: Tyler Formal Gardens

Outdoor Appeal: 7

Setting: Hillside garden, sculptures, fountains, hedges, some trees and a trail overlooking the Neshaminy Creek
Explorable Op's: A lot. The area is truly beautiful. The fountains seemed to be a big draw for the kids. The hedges aren't really a maze but they do just fine for a bit of hide-and-seek. There is a trail that has some views down a steep drop to the Neshaminy Creek.
Facilities: Civilized. Although we didn't explore Tyler Hall further than the first floor and the balcony area, it is a gorgeous building and its exterior sets a regal backdrop to the gardens. There are restrooms in the hall and the student center isn't far away with just about anything you may need as a travelling parent.
Difficulty: Moderate. The terraces of the gardens are flat. But the garden is situated on a hillside. If you walk all the way down to the "tennis court" level of the gardens it is a nice little hike back up to Tyler Hall and the parking area.
Review: When you think "community college" most don't envision something like Tyler Formal Gardens. At one time this was some one's house - George F. Tyler and Stella Elkins to be exact. Tyler Hall is very collegial in a New England brownstone kind of way. The gardens are mostly grass and hedges at first glance. But as you walk through there are fountains, a gazebo and flowers, some hidden some in plain view. The time of year you visit has a lot to do with what's blooming and what you'll see. It is a beautiful setting but it's certainly not the Sound of Music Tour in Salzburg or Longwood Gardens. The gardens in themselves aren't much of an attraction in my opinion. But Tyler Hall and its commanding view, the college center and the gardens together can make for a very nice little trip. On the balcony of Tyler Hall there is a wrought iron sign of an Indian pointing towards the Neshaminy Creek. The sign says, "Indian Rock." If you follow the path down to its end you'll find the best view of the creek from the ground, although it is obstructed a bit by trees. Be careful on Indian Rock. After the rock the path drops off a cliff and it's a long way down.
Recommendations: Keep your self-guided tour moving. Kids probably won't be able to explore everything they want to. Max and Frank really wanted to go in the fountains but obviously Tyler Formal Gardens isn't the kind of place for that. Take a quick spin around Tyler Hall. Meander through the gardens. Hike back up the hill to the balcony of Tyler Hall. If you're sure of your ability to keep your kids safe, venture down to Indian Rock to have a look. From there head towards the student center. If you go during the warmer months you can grab something to eat and take it outside and sit at a table with an umbrella. Besides Indian Rock, this little trip has a very refined feel to it. I enjoyed being in a distinguished setting yet I still felt free to let my kids have fun exploring. Plus it's free. It's a tiny gem and well worth the hour or so you spend. Hope you enjoy. Happy trails.

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