The Widener Visitor Center, built in 1888, is located in the grey stone building that first served as the gardener’s cottage, carriage house and stables. Our facility offers a variety of room combinations and set-ups available for meeting and other private and semi-private daytime rentals. During Café hours, food service is available through our café operator, Company’s Coming. For food service at meetings occurring outside of Café hours, you may choose from any of our approved caterers, who represent a variety of cuisine styles and price ranges.
The building is outfitted with Central Air. Quality audio-visual equipment can be provided for your use. While wifi is not currently available in the Center, if internet access if required, we will supply a laptop and Ethernet cable for no additional fee.
The Upper Gallery is located on the main floor of the Widener Visitor Center and is a great location for multiple meeting/retreat layouts, including audience-style, classroom, banquet or boardroom. The floors are carpeted, lights are dimmable, and the walls are lined with nature-inspired exhibits. This space includes a projector, screen and podium with microphone and the original barn door slides to create a separation from the Arboretum’s gift shop. Size: 40’x 23’
The Classroom is located on the lower level of the Widener Visitor Center and works well for classroom style set-ups for up to 22 people. The room includes a large chalkboard and screen. The Mercer tile floor, stucco walls, exposed wood beams and French doors create a cozy, rustic ambience. Size: 23’ x 19’
The McLean Room is located next to the Upper Gallery and is carpeted. The room includes a large White Board, two bulletin boards and a screen. The character of the historic building is evident in the stable windows and exposed woods beams. A set of double doors connect it to the Upper Gallery and it is often rented in addition to the Upper Gallery for food and refreshments. Size: 17’ x 18’
For daytime events during the months of April through October, the side tent is a great outdoor option. From this hillside vantage point behind the Widener Visitor Center, many of the Arboretum’s trees and other plantings serve as the backdrop. This area is adjacent to the Compton Café and screened for privacy. The Side Tent is not air conditioned but cooled by ceiling fans. The Side Tent accommodates 50 people audience style and 40 at round tables. 25’ x 30’
| Rental Area | Size | Capacity | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| McLean Room | 18x17 | 12 Board Style | $100/hour |
| Classroom | 23x19 | 22 Classroom Style | $200/hour |
| Side Tent | 25x30 | 50 Audience Style 40 Round Tables |
$400/hour |
| Upper Gallery | 40x23 | 80 Audience Style 65 Round Tables |
$400/hour |
For more information contact the Rentals team at 215.247.5777 x158 or email rentals@morrisarboretum.org.
Please visit our Wedding Rentals page
| Space | Capacity | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| McLean Room | 12 people | $300 |
| Gates Hall Conference Room | 13 people | $300 |
| Classroom | 22 people | $400 |
| Side Tent | 50 people audience style | $600 |
| Upper Gallery | 80 people audience style 64 at round tables |
$600 |
Meetings Discount
For a limited time, book three meetings at once and receive at 20% discount.
Non-profit Organizations
Non-profit organizations receive 10% off rental rates.
For more information about these specials or to book, contact: rentals@morrisarboretum.org
The Arboretum’s paths are clear but due to icy conditions some features may be closed.
The Morris Arboretum is excited to be open! We have instituted new policies as required by the government of Pennsylvania in order to keep the public safe while visiting. Please review the policies below before your visit.
The Arboretum is open as usual. Click here for hours.
Please note: The Rose Garden is closed for maintenance every Thursday morning until noon.
Weather conditions may limit garden access to certain features even if the garden is open – please check the web site or call (215) 247-5777 for updates before visiting. Our visitors’ safety in the garden is our top priority. Therefore when inclement weather is predicted, we will make decisions about closing the garden accordingly.
