I'm attempting to determine what gardens are excluded from the reciprocal admissions program.
For example, driving distance to Hershey Gardens is greater than 90 miles but less if you use straight line distance. Can your website list the 270 botanical gardens and free or discounted fee as described in the benefits provided for Friends & Family?
Answer
Please see membership benefits page for Advocate level membership
Guidelines for members of RAP institutions when visiting other gardens:
The following guidelines for members to enjoy the Reciprocal Admissions Program are included in the RAP Guides on the American Horticultural Society RAP website, www.ahsgardening.org/rap. You can also search the list of participating gardens.
We recommend that you call all gardens ahead of time before you plan your visit. Some gardens have exclusions for special events or exhibits, or if you live within 90 miles of the garden (see the 90-mile Exclusion below), etc. Each garden has its own unique admissions policies, special events, and hours of operation, which is also why we recommend checking ahead of time to get the most up to date information.
Present your current membership card or proof of membership at the admissions counter or gift shop to receive the RAP benefit(s) listed for that garden. Each card will only admit the individual(s) whose name is listed on the card. In the case of a family, couple, or household membership card that does not list individual names, the garden must extend the benefit(s) to at least two of the members. It is at the garden’s discretion to extend benefits to more than two individuals. Some gardens may require a photo ID.
Remember that the gardens you visit rely on admissions and donations to maintain their collections and gardens for all to enjoy. Please support them by visiting their gift shops or making a contribution.
Be sure to check each garden’s listing to determine the benefits offered.
The 90-mile Exclusion allows gardens to exclude members of other gardens within 90 miles of them from receiving their reciprocal benefit(s) unless the gardens mutually agree to lift the exclusion. For PHS members, the exclusion is based on their home address and proximity to PHS, 100 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA. Please contact the garden you plan to visit to inquire about this guideline.