Lakes District

The Lakes District, with its postcard-perfect scenery, is known to spark a distinct state of serenity. Open vistas, rolling green lawns, sparkling water, and splashing fountains recall a Victorian holiday from days gone by, reminding us of the joy of fresh air, a nice walk, and an exquisite view.

About This District

This area, which includes the Italian Water Garden and the Large and Small Lakes, reflects two of our founder Pierre S. du Pont’s passions: the beauty of water, and his delight in providing spaces for public enjoyment. Soon after he purchased the property in 1906 he began restorations to this area. The Large and Small Lakes provide open, spacious views, which serve as a welcome moment of decompression after leaving the more intimate pathways of Peirce’s Woods and Peirce’s Park. In 1925 Pierre embarked upon the construction of the Italian Water Garden, which added contrasting elements of formal design to the more naturalistic setting of the surrounding landscapes. In 2008, we added a new surprise for guests to enjoy–the Canopy Cathedral Treehouse.

Gardens in this District

Italian Water Garden

Italian Water Garden

Enclosed by pristine allées of littleleaf lindens and mature evergreens, this formal space, with its symmetrical blue-tiled pools and splashing fountains, offers the allure of a secret garden.
Large & Small Lake

Large & Small Lake

Take in the expansive views of rolling green lawns, midnight-blue water, and trees that reach for the sky. Nearby Cathedral Canopy Treehouse offers a chance for inspired exploration and new-found vistas.

District Highlights

A stone decorative gazebo stands tall under green trees

A wooden two-story treehouse sits among a large area of trees with green and orange leaves

Four rectangular pools of water with fountains in the middle surrounded a small circular fountain with green grass surrounding them all

Two people look out a large wooden with a wood lattice out at an area of green grass and trees

A row of green trees is reflected below in a large calm lake

A stone decorative structure stands on the edge of a large lake with dormant winter trees surrounding

Small water fountains arch over a larger pool of water in the ground surrounded by green grass

What’s in Bloom

Chinese Scholar-tree

Styphnolobium japonicum

Styphnolobium japonicum, commonly known as the Chinese Scholar tree, is a deciduous species valued for its graceful form, late-summer blooms, and cultural significance. Native to China, it has long been associated with Buddhist temples, where it is often planted as a symbol of peace, resilience, and spiritual reflection. Its clusters of fragrant, creamy-white flowers provide a vital late-season nectar source for pollinators, while the tree’s structure offers habitat and shelter for various bird species. This specimen which resides on the west side of the Small Lake is the Pennsylvania State Champion, meaning it is the largest of its species in the state. The last time it was officially measured the tree stood 77 feet in height!
- Bonsai Courtyard
- Small Lake
Sweet Pepperbush

Clethra alnifolia ′Hummingbird′

‘Hummingbird’ is a dwarf selection of the deciduous shrub Clethra alnifolia that displays full-size flowers on a compact three foot plant. The flowers release a wonderful scent when the upright panicles bloom from July to August. Sweet pepperbush prefers moist soil in dappled sun but will tolerate a little less light or even full sun and is hardy from USDA zones 4 to 9. This American native is deer resistant and is a vigorous spreader. It also attracts butterflies. You can't but enjoy the fragrance of Clethra alnifolia 'Hummingbird' when you step into Peirce's Woods!