The East coast of America is popular all over the world as a place brimming with opportunities. The charm of the big city life has historically attracted Americans from all over towards the Eastern side, and the quickly spreading urbanisation has brought a flood of new activities, new cuisines and new opportunities into the state of Pennsylvania. It also features excellent hotels and Airbnb vacation rentals to accommodate tourists. However, Chester County, or Chesco as it is known, still retains the old-world charm that takes one back to the good ol’ days. This seamless marriage of the quiet country life coupled with new and exciting activities make Chesco a wonderful place for any traveller to be in. So let us explore what Chester County has to offer, and read on as we look at some of the best things to do in Chester County, Pennsylvania!
1. Have an incredible time at Brandywine Valley (from USD 895.0)
Brandywine Valley is a beautiful estate that encompasses acres upon acres of land, dedicated purely to creating a wonderful living experience for its visitors. From bed & breakfast accommodations and hotels, to special events dedicated to unique interests, to delicious cuisine served at the multiple restaurants here, Brandywine Valley is the ultimate place to visit when in Chester County. Enjoy a day of shopping, dining, strolling through the gardens, and enjoying amazing accommodation as you experience luxury at its finest. You are sure to have a grand time here and recommend it to all your friends!
Brandywine Valley
Address: 300 Greenwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348, United States
Website: Brandywine Valley
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Brandywine Valley Tour with Private Driver
Duration: 10 hours
2. Drop by Chadds Ford Historical Society
If you are a history buff, you are sure to enjoy this. Chadds Ford Historical Society hosts a wide variety range of events and activities that are oriented towards the unique history and culture of the city of Chadds Ford. Explore beautiful and sprawling ancient houses that have been meticulously preserved and restored, or enjoy a cultural theatrical program that shows you the history of this region. Indulge in the many events it hosts, such as pumpkin carving contests, Christmas or Chadds Ford Day. You can also enjoy a special event known as Tavern Nights, which includes drink tastings.
Chadds Ford Historical Society
Address: 1736 Creek Rd, Chadds Ford, PA 19317, United States
Website: Chadds Ford Historical Society
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 10am - 4:30pm (closed from Sun - Tue)
3. Attend interesting events at Chester County Historical Society
Situated in West Chester, this historical society is dedicated to the preservation of Chester County’s rich history and culture. Hosting tons of events and exhibits for display for its visitors, the Chester County Historical Society is a great place if you wish to learn more about the history of this beautiful place. There are free events held throughout the year. You can attend without worrying about the expenses, or you could also check out the historical exhibits, photographs and newspaper clippings dating back centuries. In addition, there are also book clubs and a huge public library that you can check out.
Chester County Historical Society
Address: 225 N High St, West Chester, PA 19380, United States
Website: Chester County Historical Society
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9am - 4:30pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
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4. Go on a shopping spree at Historic Kennett Square
Kennett Square is one of the must-see destinations that you cannot miss when you visit Chester County. A long, sprawling open marketplace that is filled with local vendors selling anything and everything, it is the hub of the city. From beautiful antique stores, fine-dining luxury restaurants, home decor, and craft stores, hobby workshops and art shows, you will never be bored at this incredible place no matter how many times you go. There is truly something for everyone here, and you will need to return multiple times to finish just window shopping through the aisles!
Historic Kennett Square
Address: 106 W State St, Kennett Square, PA 19348, United States
Website: Historic Kennett Square
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
5. Book a show at The Colonial Theatre
The Colonial Theatre is a historical landmark that is very dear to the hearts of Chester County residents. It has been a part of this city for more than a century, established in 1903. Before movies, it would be showcase theatre performances, dance programs, magic stage performances and musicals. These days, it shows all kinds of movies including independent and classic ones, children’s movies and even concerts. On the first and third Sundays of each month, it even offers a free tour of the premises and its history. What a treat!
The Colonial Theatre
Address: 227 Bridge St, Phoenixville, PA 19460, United States
Website: The Colonial Theatre
Opening hours: 12:30pm - 9pm (daily)
6. Take a tour of Brandywine Battlefield Park
The Brandywine Battlefield Park is a national landmark. It is a must-visit destination while you are in Chester County. Available only on the weekends and closed for most of the weekdays, this park is dedicated to those days of the American Revolution when a huge battle took place on those very grounds. There is a 20-minute film to show you around the premises, after which you can visit the museum and check out the amazing exhibits from the battle day, as well as go on the conducted tour of Gideon Gilpin House and Washington Headquarters.
Brandywine Battlefield Park
Address: 1491 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, PA 19317, United States
Website: Brandywine Battlefield Park
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 9am - 4pm; Sun: 12pm - 4pm (closed from Mon to Thu)
7. Witness a dance performance at Brandywine Ballet Theatre
Ballet performances have been a symbol of elegance and luxury since time immemorial. The gracefulness, the training and hard work that goes into each performance is beyond the scope of most of us. Why not check out these magnificent performances at Brandywine Ballet Theatre? With shows available throughout the year, you will never need to miss out on this golden opportunity. Check out classic childhood stories such as Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, and Ruby Gala, interpreted through the form of ballet dancing. We are sure you will be left mesmerised by the talented performances here.
Brandywine Ballet Theatre
Address: 317 Westtown Rd #5, West Chester, PA 19382, United States
Website: Brandywine Ballet Theatre
Opening hours: Mon, Wed, Fri: 11am - 4pm (closed on Tue, Thu, Sat & Sun)
8. Organise a family picnic at Miller Park
Who doesn’t love picnics? One of the most popular picnic destinations in Chester county is Miller Park. Spread out over a sprawling area of 20 acres (8 hectares), this park is great for a wide variety of activities and events such as concerts, picnics, sports tournaments and more. You can also book barbecues to aid your picnicking, or have it in a beautiful gazebo!
Miller Park
Address: 220 Miller Way, Exton, PA 19341, United States
Website: Miller Park
Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)
9. Witness The Mill at Anselma
This is another important landmark that you must visit if you are interested in history or culture. The Mill at Anselma has been around since the 18th century, but today it is a historical site that is accessible by the public. If you wish to see the mill running, you can do so on the second Saturdays of the months from April to December. There are various interesting events that are held throughout the year that you can attend as well, such as Christmas Santa at the Mill, Demonstration Day, and many more.
The Mill at Anselma
Address: 1730 Conestoga Rd, Chester Springs, PA 19425, United States
Website: The Mill at Anselma
Opening hours: Sat: 10am - 4pm; Sun: 1pm - 4pm (closed from Mon - Fri)
10. Sample beers at Levante Brewing Company
If you are interested in beers and brewing, or just wish to go visit a chilled out place to relax with your friends or spouse, Levante Brewing Company has got you covered. It is considered one of the best breweries in the area, and is a wonderful place to relax and sample some craft beers made right there in the restaurant. Guests highly recommended their dark beers, which have a higher wheat concentration, thereby making them tastier.
Levante Brewing Company
Address: 208 Carter Dr Suite 2, West Chester, PA 19382, United States
Website: Levante Brewing Company
Opening hours: Tue - Wed: 4pm - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 11pm; Sun: 11am - 9pm (closed on Mon & Thu)
11. Savour incredible flavours at La Michoacana Homemade Ice Cream
Have you ever wondered why ice-cream flavours are so generic? If you are tired of the same old vanilla and chocolate and strawberry, head over to La Michoacana Homemade Ice-cream, which makes ice-creams in extremely innovative, and sometimes wacky, flavours. It’s time to reinvent ice-cream flavours, and these people are doing it right. You can sample corn, avocado or even mushroom ice-cream here!
La Michoacana Homemade Ice Cream
Address: 231 State St, Kennett Square, PA 19348, United States
Website: La Michoacana Homemade Ice Cream
Opening hours: 12pm - 9pm (daily)
12. Have the region's best ice-cream at Chester Springs Creamery
If wacky ice-cream flavours are not your thing, don’t worry, Chester Springs Creamery has got you covered. With a variety of ice-cream sundaes and combinations available in diverse flavours, some known and some new, this place has a reputation for being the best ice-cream store in the region! After all, classics are the best, whether it’s ice-cream or something else.
Chester Springs Creamery
Address: 521 E Uwchlan Ave, Chester Springs, PA 19425, United States
Website: Chester Springs Creamery
Opening hours: Fri - Sun: 1pm - 9pm (closed from Mon - Thu)
13. Taste the delicious food at The Whip Tavern
Posted by The Whip Tavern on Friday, 20 September 2019
If you enjoy the vibes of an old-school English pub, with the rustic wooden decor and the friendly bartender who is always up for a chat, this is a wonderfully warm and welcoming place for you. The Whip Tavern prides itself on being a classic pub, and serves all the foods and beverages that you might get in one. So go for the fanciest classic cocktails that you can find, and gather your friends along to relax in the rustic homey ambience.
The Whip Tavern
Address: 1383 N Chatham Rd, Coatesville, PA 19320, United States
Website: The Whip Tavern
Opening hours: Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat: 11am - 12am; Sun: 10am - 12am (closed on Tue & Thu)
14. Order a steak at Ron's Original Bar & Grille
Set in an industrial-themed decor, this cosy and unassuming restaurant is a perfect example of the upscale bars and grilles you might find in big cities. With brick walls, exposed ducts and a warm and friendly atmosphere, you are encouraged to let yourself go and dig into your meal in a relaxed way. Guests loved the steaks and tacos here, so definitely try those.
Ron's Original Bar & Grille
Address: 74 E Uwchlan Ave #1203, Exton, PA 19341, United States
Website: Ron’s Original Bar & Grille
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 11:30pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 1am; Sun: 11:30am - 11:30pm
15. Engage in a game of your choice at Grand Slam USA
Bring your inner child out with a trip to Grand Slam USA, a great arcade where you can play old-school arcade games along with modern games such as laser tag. This indoor amusement centre has everything you need for a great evening spent in some friendly competition with your family or friends.
Grand Slam USA
Address: 11 Lancaster Ave, Malvern, PA 19355, United States
Website: Grand Slam USA
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 12pm - 9pm; Fri: 12pm - 10pm; Sat: 9am - 10pm; Sun: 9am - 9pm
16. Purchase tickets for a live show at Kennett Flash
Going for a live performance is always a classic way to spend a quiet evening with your spouse or friends. So if you are looking for an interesting activity during the evenings, check the schedule at Kennett Flash. This performance theatre is a non-profit organisation. It hosts all kinds of shows including rock concerts, plays, dance performances, and even comedy routines.
Kennett Flash
Address: 102 Sycamore Alley, Kennett Square, PA 19348, United States
Website: Kennett Flash
17. Fly high with Air Ventures Balloon Rides
A balloon ride is always a thrilling experience that can be enjoyed thoroughly by people of all ages. So give your loved ones a surprise by planning a ride with Air Ventures Balloon Rides, and gift them an experience to remember for a lifetime. The best time to fly is at sunrise, as you can watch the slanting rays stream over the city and marvel at the colour of the sky from up above.
Air Ventures Balloon Rides
Address: 2904 Conestoga Rd, Glenmoore, PA 19343, United States
Website: Air Ventures Balloon Rides
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 2pm; Sun: 10am - 12pm
18. Bring your children to Anson B. Nixon Park
Spread across 106 acres (43 hectares) of land, Anson B. Nixon Park is open throughout the day and is perfect to bring your family along for an outing, whether you are with your spouse or children. The park also hosts multiple events throughout the year that you can catch if you’re lucky, and has a dog park, picnic areas, and a playground for your kids to play. There are also ponds that have fishing areas.
Anson B. Nixon Park
Address: 405 N Walnut Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348, United States
Website: Anson B. Nixon Park
Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)
19. Enjoy a shot at mini-golf with Boulder Falls Mini Golf
Whether you are travelling with family or friends, miniature golf is the perfect winding down activity after a long tiring day of touring and travelling around the city. Boulder Falls Mini Golf, located in Chester County, is the perfect solution to your problems. Head on over for a quick game of mini-golf before you hit the restaurants for dinner, and get in a bit of friendly competition with your loved ones. The best part about this is that even your kids can join in the fun! Boulder Falls opens in spring and summer, so you may miss it if you are in Chester County other times of the year.
Boulder Falls Mini Golf
Address: 1426 Marshallton Thorndale Road Downingtown, PA 19335
Website: Boulder Falls Mini Golf
20. Go kayaking with Brandywine Outfitters, Inc.
For an adrenaline junkie, Brandywine Oufitters Inc. has quite the treat. You can go canoeing or kayaking to the picturesque and beautiful Brandywine River along with the guide and your friends or family. Lunch is included in the tour, and you can stop for lunch around noon, then continue paddling along the river, back to your destination. It offers the best of both worlds, engaging enough so that adventurous travellers won’t get bored, and informative enough so that less adventurous people can gain some insight too, or maybe develop a knack for it.
Brandywine Outfitters, Inc.
Address: 2096 Strasburg Rd, Coatesville, PA 19320, United States
Website: Brandywine Outfitters, Inc.
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 8am - 1pm (closed from Mon - Fri)
21. Go biking at Chester Valley Trail
If you are craving a little bit of adventure and the thrill of outdoor sport, Chester Valley Trail is the perfect activity for you. This is a 13-mile (20-kilometre) long trail that goes through Route 30 and 202. It moves through Montgomery and is a wonderful trail to take your bike along. You can rent bikes from nearby places for the day and just head out early in the morning and return by afternoon after a gruelling biking session, ready to munch down some fresh food.
Chester Valley Trail
Address: Chester Valley Trail, PA, USA
Website: Chester Valley Trail
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
22. Shop till you drop at Exton Square
One of the best parts of going on a vacation is shopping. All new stores, new goods, new apparel, and a whole world of opportunities, suddenly open up to you. Exton Square offers just that, with a sprawling mall space filled with tons of different kinds of stores, from fashion, home decor, and electronics to food and beverages and everything in between. This is a great place to check out on a lazy afternoon when the weather isn’t favourable enough for outdoor activity.
Exton Square
Address: 260 Exton Square Pkwy, Exton, PA 19341, United States
Website: Exton Square
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 11am - 9pm
23. Ride a hot-air balloon (from USD 275.0)
Embark on a memorable adventure above Chester County with an exhilarating 1-hour hot-air balloon ride. There’s nothing more exciting than appreciating the scenic landscape of Chesco from above. Admire the breathtaking views of tree-covered rolling hills, Schuylkill River and its tributaries, changing hues of Philadelphia skyline, and Southeastern Pennsylvania’s towns and villages. If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of New Jersey and Delaware on a clear day. You can choose to have the ride as a private or shared activity.
Upon touch down, you’ll be able to chill out in an air-conditioned van where you’ll enjoy light bites and champagne toast. An official flight certificate will be provided as your perfect trophy for an unforgettable flight through the skies of Chester County.
Chester County: Shared or Private Hot Air Balloon Ride
Duration: 3 hour
24. Take a romantic walk at Longwood Gardens
The Longwood Gardens is a wonderful place to spend a quiet evening just taking a walk, enjoy a picnic or bring your little ones if you are travelling with your kids. Sprawled across a whopping 1077 acres (435.8 hectares) of area, these gardens feature a variety of different attractions, including a walking path, multiple gazebos, woodlands and more. These gardens are a special treat in case you are interested in gardening or horticulture, as they are filled with unique and interesting species of plants, herbs, shrubs and trees. The gardens are also sprinkled with attractive fountains all across, lending them a very charming aesthetic.
Longwood Gardens
Address: 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348, United States
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
25. Handpick delicious fruits at Highland Orchards
If you are travelling with younger children, this is a wonderful way to connect with them over a special day of picking different fruits right off the Highland Orchards. They have special Pick Your Own seasons at certain times of the year where you can pick your own fruit and buy it as per weight. This is a unique educational opportunity for younger children, to teach them how the produce we all eat is grown and picked. This can also be a great way to enjoy an early morning activity, and you can follow it up by having the same fruit for a light breakfast!
Highland Orchards
Address: 1000 Marshallton Thorndale Rd, West Chester, PA 19380, United States
Website: Highland Orchards
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 10am - 6pm; Wed - Fri: 8am - 6pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 5pm
26. Go for a splash at Marsh Creek Swimming Pool
At almost half an acre in size (0.2 hectare), Marsh Creek Swimming Pool is a great place to check out if you have younger kids. While you take a dip in the swimming pool or try to compete with your spouse or friends for laps, your children can frolic about in the splash pad complete with multiple fountains and unique showers. You can even relax and sunbathe along the sides of the swimming pool, or hang out at the barbecue area. All in all, you are sure to have a wonderful time and come home with tons of great memories!
Marsh Creek Swimming Pool
Address: 675 Park Rd, Downingtown, PA 19335, United States
Website: Marsh Creek Swimming Pool
Opening hours: Sat - Thu: 11am - 6:45pm; Fri: 10am - 5:45pm
27. Enjoy a corn maze adventure at Hurricane Hill Farm
Enjoy the best country life at Hurricane Hill Farm. From pumpkin decoration during fall, running through a complex corn maze, to a farmers’ market where you can shop for fresh produce, pickled items, and local foods, this place is the best to visit for a wholesome countryside experience. They also host festivals dedicated to specific types of fruit or flowers, so definitely check the schedule on the website for special events so you don’t miss any!
Hurricane Hill Farm
Address: 704 E Reeceville Rd, West Brandywine Township, PA 19320, United States
Website: Hurricane Hill Farm
Opening hours: Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed from Mon - Fri)
28. Explore the world of QVC Studio Park
Airing at 11:00 am today on QVC Gourmet Holiday show. Last Christmas in July show. #qvc #qvccrew #justbagels #nybagels #waterbagels
Posted by Just Bagels on Wednesday, 31 July 2019
Who hasn’t heard of QVC? The brand that has become a household name for infomercial products, and is responsible for creating amazing household inventions to make our lives easy, is located right in Pennsylvania. So head over to West Chester, PA, if you would like to see how the process of filming takes place, as well as check out the adjacent retail store from where you can buy a wide variety of goods from clothing brands, little decorations for your home, to junk jewellery, everything that creates a wonderful collection for you and your home. You can find all the special things that are sold on TV, so you can be assured of the quality while you buy them.
QVC Studio Park
Address: 1200 Wilson Dr, West Chester, PA 19380, United States
Website: QVC Studio Park
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10:30am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
29. Learn how snacks are made at Herr’s Snack Factory Tour
We all love our chips, tortilla chips, and pretzels, and enjoy them on a regular basis. But if you have ever wondered how they are prepared, and what goes into creating that perfectly flavourful bag of chips that you can get so cheap at the grocery store, then head on over to Herr’s Snack Factory, where you can take an in-depth tour of the premises and check out the production of potato chips. Through a guided tour along with audiovisual content, you can learn about how each packet of chips is created, packed and shipped to the stores near you. You can also take home souvenirs for your family!
Herr’s Snack Factory Tour
Address: 271 Old Baltimore Pike, Nottingham, PA 19362, United States
Website: Herr’s Snack Factory Tour
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 3pm; Fri: 9am - 11am (closed on Sat & Sun)
30. Sip local wine at Chaddsford Winery
If you consider yourself a proud wine connoisseur or enthusiast, there is no better place for you to be than Chaddsford Winery. Here, you can explore how wine is prepared, and sample some freshly fermented wine that you can buy for your trip back home. In addition, you can learn about the history of this winery that dates back as far as 1982. The area is so picturesque and charming that you are sure to fall in love with it, and the wine is truly irresistible!
Chaddsford Winery
Address: 632 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, PA 19317, United States
Website: Chaddsford Winery
Opening hours: Mon – Thu: 12pm – 5pm; Fri: 12pm – 6pm; Sat: 12pm – 7pm; Sun: 12pm – 6pm
31. Check out local art at Brandywine River Museum of Art
If you are an art enthusiast, this should be a great treat for you. The Brandywine River Museum of Art is a well-established, old museum that houses incredible local and national art installations and exhibits created by the Wyeth family. N.C. Wyeth, Andrew Wyeth, and Jamie Wyeth’s realist paintings captured the hearts of Americans everywhere, and you are sure to feel like you are transported right into the paintings! This is a unique way to witness what historical Chester County must have been like, as the paintings resemble real life.
Brandywine River Museum of Art
Address: 1 Hoffmans Mill Rd, Chadds Ford, PA 19317, United States
Website: Brandywine River Museum of Art
Opening hours: Fri - Wed: 9:30am - 4pm (closed on Thu)
Enjoy a little bit of everything in Chesco
Brimming with memories of its rich colonial past, fully embracing the new big-city opportunities coming its way, Chester County represents the best of both worlds that travellers of all interests can enjoy. So whether you are a history buff, an adventure enthusiast, a foodie or a nature lover, Chester County is sure to offer you exciting activities to engage in.
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