Hello PA folks, I'm thinking to spend some time in PA soon. I'm a person that must have a daily dose of nature, walk in a park or hiking a mountain, gardens, zoo... But I've been sorta choosing the places I tour, based on my essential need to have my nature fix. One conservative said, "some people just can't live without the wild". That's me. I need nature everyday. Anyway, could you offer me some suggestions about wild places, parks, artistic places, antique ambience, gardens, ect.. Things that will appeal to a romantic poet who needs inspiration and a taste of wild beauty?  

Thankyou so much

Try the Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey area.  Lots of state parks, gardens nearby, hills,
a few riverside areas to walk, and lots of open space.

To be honest I've never been to Longwood Gardens, but inside Phila this would be a good bet.

In Phila there is Fairmont Park, the largest city park in the county. My favorite hikes would be the Village green area and wishickon area.  

There are sevela very nice state parks close by such as Geen Lane, French Creek and Ridley square.

For some good back woods treks, I like the Delaware water Gap, and the Wharton State forest, both in New Jersey.  In Warton there is the Mullica River, which is a great canoe ride. There is a back woods overnight site available in both places as well.

Also check out the Delaware Valley Orienteering Association (DVOA), they have weeky orienteering events in the area.  You get out in woods on a unique trail using a compass and a really cool map.

It's absolutely beautiful and you can get there pretty easily from downtown.

I am a huge nature junkie myself. I LOVE hiking. I live in the DC area and hike a lot at Great Falls National Park. It is a lovely hike and a great workout with awesome views.  I recently went to the DC Zoo and it was a nice time. I really wanted to go to the zoo while I lived in Philly, but sadly never made it!

Some very great suggestions here! I really do thank you. I will be sure to visit the gardens and zoo. Lots of Love. Enjoy Nature. Cameo