Insider Tips to Reserving at Longwood Gardens

As a member of Longwood Gardens, you have the special privilege of skipping long ticket lines and gaining easy access to the breathtaking gardens. But as any member knows, it can still get crowded during peak times, especially in the busy spring and summer seasons. Avoid the crowds and make the most of your membership by using insider tips to reserve access at Longwood Gardens.

You'll learn when reservations are required or encouraged, how to easily book online, and tips to ensure a smooth, hassle-free visit. Read on to become a Longwood Gardens reservation pro!

When Are Reservations Required for Longwood Gardens Members?

Longwood Gardens members are required to make reservations during the Gardens' peak visitation seasons - spring and summer. This includes April through August, when the blooming flowers and fountains draw huge crowds. Member reservations are also required during holidays like Easter, Mother's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.

Additionally, members must reserve tickets if they plan to arrive after 3pm from June through August. This "after 3pm" rule ensures members can get in during the busy late afternoon and evening hours. Reservations are not needed for early or mid-day arrivals though.

The only exception is Gardens Premium members, the highest membership level, who never need reservations. Gardens Innovators, the second-highest tier, only require reservations after 5pm during peak times. All other membership levels should reserve in advance when arriving after 3pm.

Peak Visitation Seasons

• Spring: April - May
• Summer: June - August
• Holidays: Easter, Mother's Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day

After 3pm Reservations

• Required June - August (except Gardens Premium members)
• Encouraged on holidays and busy weekends

How to Make Longwood Gardens Member Reservations

Making a reservation as a Longwood Gardens member is easy and can be done completely online. Just follow these three simple steps:

Step 1: Set Up Your Online Member Account

If you haven't already, start by setting up your online member account on the Longwood Gardens website. This will allow you to access member-only ticketing and features. Make sure to have your membership number handy when creating your account login.

Step 2: Purchase Reservation Tickets

Next, purchase your dated reservation tickets through your member account. You can reserve tickets for a specific date and entry time. Daily tickets are released two weeks in advance, so be sure to book early, especially for peak days.

When reserving, you can add guest tickets for any friends or family joining you. Additional fees apply for guests not covered by your membership. Reservation tickets will be emailed to you upon booking.

Step 3: Print or Download Your Tickets

Finally, access your reservation ticket through your member account and either print it at home or download it to your smartphone. Bring your printed or digital ticket with you for easy scanning at the Member entrance when you arrive at Longwood Gardens.

Longwood Gardens Reservation Policies

When making member reservations, be aware of Longwood Gardens' ticket policies. This will ensure your reservation goes smoothly:

Guests

• Each membership level includes a certain number of complimentary guest tickets.
• Additional guests can be added for a fee when reserving.
• All guests must be accompanied by the member ticket holder.

Reservation Time Slots

• Reservations can be made for morning, afternoon or evening entry.
• Arrive within 1 hour of your entry time for full access.

Premium Membership

• No reservations needed at any time.
• Digital membership card provides easy garden entry.

Be sure review all ticket policies on the Longwood Gardens website before your visit to avoid surprises or confusion.

Tips for Making Longwood Gardens Reservations

Use these handy tips and tricks to become a Longwood Gardens reservation expert:

Book Early for Popular Days

Reserve your tickets as far in advance as possible, especially for peak spring and summer days. Tickets often sell out up to two weeks in advance during busy seasons.

Have Your Membership Number Ready

Keep your membership number handy when reserving online. This allows quick access to member-only ticketing options.

Add Guests When Reserving

To avoid delays, add any guests who will join you when making your initial reservation. Additional tickets can't be added later online.

Prioritize High-Demand Days

Focus on reserving tickets for the most popular days first, like weekends and holidays when crowds are heaviest.

Accessing Tickets and Confirmations

Once you've reserved tickets, here are the various ways to access them:

Digital Options

You can access member reservation tickets right from your smartphone. Options include:

• Email ticket link
• Longwood Gardens app ticket

Print at Home

For easy scanning, print tickets directly from your member account and bring them along.

Confirmations

Check your email or member account for reservations confirmations containing your ticket barcode.

Changing or Canceling a Longwood Gardens Reservation

Plans change, so here's how to modify an existing reservation if needed:

Change Online

Log into your member account online to change reservation dates, times or add/remove guests if space allows.

Cancel Reservation

To cancel a reservation, login to your member account online. Refunds are provided based on Longwood's cancellation policy.

Contact Member Services

For help changing or canceling reservations, contact Longwood Gardens Member Services for assistance.

When Are Reservations Encouraged?

While reservations are only required during peak times, they are strongly encouraged for:

Holidays and Special Events

Reservations allow easy, quick entry for busy holidays like Christmas and Mother's Day along with special events and performances.

Taking Advantage of Member Perks

Reservations are needed to receive member-only perks like discounts on Member Appreciation Days and exclusive member morning hours.

Avoiding Peak Times Without Reservations

If reservations are full, try visiting during these less crowded times:

• Early morning before 11am
• Weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday
• Tracking real-time crowds on the Longwood Gardens app

Arriving right at opening time, avoiding weekends and planning around crowd levels can make reservations less necessary.

By mastering the ins and outs of making reservations, Longwood Gardens members can fully enjoy exclusive perks like:

• Priority access - skip the lines with reservations
• Special events and previews
• Dedicated concierge services
• Member-only areas for relaxing
• Member discounts on programs, dining and shopping
• Invitations to member appreciation events

We hope these insider tips help you reserve tickets seamlessly, avoid crowded times and take advantage of all the special privileges your Longwood Gardens membership offers. Now you can relax and soak in the beauty knowing your entry is secured in advance!