The Bower is a 36 acre meadow and woodland site on the north slope of the Appalachian Mountains. Located in Perry County Pennsylvania (30 minutes from Harrisburg, PA), The Bower is a sanctuary where art and the natural world co-exist in harmony. The Bower is a public garden and rural nature preserve featuring woodlands, naturalized landscape, native plant gardens and large-scale sculpture and land art. We are committed to supporting and becoming a resource for the arts, educational and nonprofit communities.
We are excited about opening soon, May 3, 2023 for our third season.
New Directions in American Landscape Winter Series
Download Self- Guided Tour Map
The Bower was designed and constructed over the three-year period between 2018 and 2021. During that period, we collaborated with landscape architects and artists to design and construct landscape, gardens, sculptures, and facilities, which are placed sensitively within the extensive woodland and acres of meadows.
We are open to the public by appointment between May and October each year. Appointments can be made via links on our Visit page.
“Expanding the practice of landscape design”
Founded in 1990 by Larry Weaner, the New Directions in American Landscape (NDAL) in person and virtual series brim with the speakers and knowledge we all need to expand the practice of landscape design for the wellbeing of our land and planet.
We are excited to bring our story to life with landscape designer Ethan Dropkin. Join us for a few virtual hours via the link above and make sure to visit us this season starting May 3rd.
When open, the public is welcome to visit The Bower by appointment. Appointments are free and exclusive, meaning the attendees (as individuals or groups) shall visit the site as the sole visitors during that time period. This outdoor experience will be available to all ages. We encourage groups of all types to experience The Bower.
bower (noun) 1. a pleasant shady place; 2. a retreat or sanctuary