Chester County Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Chester County, Pennsylvania with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, outdoor adventures, local food and drink, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Chester County

Chester County is a picturesque county located in the Philadelphia Region of Pennsylvania. Known for its lush countryside and idyllic small towns, the county offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions. Whether you are a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, there is something for everyone in Chester County.

List of Places to Visit in Chester County

Here are the top attractions and places to visit in Chester County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Valley Forge National Historical Park: This national park is a must-visit for history buffs. It served as the site of the Continental Army’s winter encampment during the American Revolutionary War and features historic landmarks such as George Washington’s Headquarters and the Soldier’s National Memorial.
  • Brandywine River Museum of Art: The museum showcases American art and features collections of works by famous artists such as Andrew Wyeth and N.C. Wyeth.
  • Chester County Historical Society: This museum features exhibits on local history and the county’s role in shaping the nation’s history.
  • Longwood Gardens: Known for its stunning horticultural displays, Longwood Gardens is a living monument to the beauty of nature.

Natural Attractions of Chester County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Struble Trail: The 2.6-mile trail is perfect for hikers and bikers and offers beautiful views of the surrounding woodlands and wetlands.
  • French Creek State Park: The park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. It also features a swimming pool and picnic areas.
  • Marsh Creek State Park: The park is ideal for kayaking, fishing, and sailing on its 535-acre lake. It also has hiking trails and picnic areas for families to enjoy.
  • Hibernia County Park: The park features over 900 acres of woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and birdwatching in its scenic surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chester County

Chester County offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. Here are some of the top routes in the county:

  • Valley Forge National Historical Park Hiking and Biking Trails: The park offers over 28 miles of trails for hikers and bikers. The trails feature historic landmarks and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Struble Trail: The 2.6-mile trail is perfect for hikers and bikers and offers beautiful views of the surrounding woodlands and wetlands.
  • Chester Valley Trail: The trail is a 13-mile paved path ideal for biking, running, or walking. The trail is also stroller and wheelchair-friendly.
  • Brandywine Creek Greenway: This 20-mile trail runs through Chester County and offers scenic views of the Brandywine Creek. It is perfect for hiking and biking.

Best Things to Do in Chester County: Activities and Tours

Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or solo, Chester County has plenty of activities and tours to offer. Here are some of the best things to do in the county:

  • Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Countryside: Experience the beauty of Chester County from a whole new perspective with a hot air balloon ride. Several tour operators offer hot air balloon rides over the county.
  • Visit Local Vineyards and Wineries: Chester County is home to several vineyards and wineries such as Chaddsford Winery and Penns Woods Winery. Take a tour, sample some wine, and learn about the wine-making process.
  • Explore the County’s Quaint Small Towns: Chester County is home to several charming small towns such as Phoenixville, Kennett Square, and West Chester. Take a stroll through their historic streets, visit local shops and restaurants, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chester County

Here is a week-long itinerary for Chester County:

Day 1: Visit Valley Forge National Historical Park and explore the historic landmarks.

Day 2: Visit Longwood Gardens and enjoy some horticultural beauty.

Day 3: Take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside and enjoy the views.

Day 4: Explore the county’s quaint small towns such as Phoenixville, Kennett Square, and West Chester.

Day 5: Visit the Brandywine River Museum of Art and see the works of American artists.

Day 6: Go on a wine tour of the county’s vineyards and wineries.

Day 7: Spend the day at French Creek State Park and enjoy some outdoor activities.

Food and Drink Scene of Chester County

Chester County has a thriving food and drink scene, with a focus on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Scrapple: A staple of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, scrapple is a savory blend of pork, cornmeal, and spices that is pan-fried until crispy.
  • Kennett Square Mushroom Soup: This soup features locally grown mushrooms from Kennett Square, the mushroom capital of the world.
  • Shoo-Fly Pie: This traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dessert is made with molasses and has a crumbly topping.

Local Beverages

  • Yuengling Beer: America’s oldest brewery, Yuengling, is located in nearby Pottsville and is famous for its Yuengling Lager.
  • Wine: Chester County is home to several vineyards and wineries such as Chaddsford Winery and Penns Woods Winery, producing high-quality wines made from locally grown grapes.

Where to Stay in Chester County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Chester County offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in the county:

  • Hotel Warner, West Chester: Located in the heart of West Chester, this hotel features luxurious rooms and suites, a fitness center, and a rooftop bar.
  • The Desmond Hotel, Malvern: This historic hotel features elegant rooms and suites, a fitness center, and several dining options.
  • Wayne Bed & Breakfast Inn, Wayne: This charming bed and breakfast features cozy rooms, a garden, and a delicious breakfast served daily.

What to Buy in Chester County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Chester County is known for its locally made products and souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy in the county:

  • Cheese from Chester County: Buy locally made cheeses from The Farm at Doe Run or Yellow Springs Farm.
  • Pottery from Brandywine River Antiques Market: Buy handcrafted pottery from local artisans at the Brandywine River Antiques Market.
  • Quilts from Country Quilts by the Lake: Bring home a beautiful handcrafted quilt from Country Quilts by the Lake.

Local Culture and Customs of Chester County

Chester County has a rich cultural heritage, shaped by its Quaker roots and Pennsylvania Dutch traditions. Local customs and etiquette include:

  • Respect local customs and traditions: Chester County’s Quaker and Pennsylvania Dutch heritage is an essential part of the local culture. Be respectful of these traditions and customs when visiting.
  • Tips at Restaurants: It is customary to tip 15-20% at restaurants in Chester County.
  • Mind your manners: Politeness and courteousness are highly valued in Chester County. Make an effort to be kind and courteous to locals, service staff, and fellow travelers.

Best Time to Visit Chester County

The best time to visit Chester County is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the countryside is ablaze with color. Summertime is peak tourist season, and accommodation prices may be higher. Winters tend to be chilly, but the holiday season can be an excellent time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chester County

Here are some do’s and don’ts for visiting Chester County:

Do:

  • Visit local vineyards and wineries: Chester County is known for its delicious wines. Take a tour and sample some of the local specialties.
  • Explore the countryside: Chester County’s lush countryside is full of scenic vistas and outdoor adventures. Make sure to get out into nature and explore.
  • Visit museums and cultural sites: Chester County has a rich history and cultural heritage. Take some time to explore the museums and landmarks.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions: Chester County’s customs and traditions are valued by locals. Be respectful and mindful when visiting.
  • Litter or damage the environment: Chester County’s natural beauty is essential to locals and visitors. Respect the environment and don’t litter or cause damage.

Safety and Health

Chester County is a safe and healthy destination for travelers. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Chester County

  • Be aware of your surroundings: As with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid any potentially dangerous situations.
  • Secure your valuables: Keep your valuables, such as money, passports, and credit cards, secure at all times.
  • Drive safely: If renting a car, be sure to follow local traffic laws and regulations.

Health in Chester County

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in the summertime.
  • Protect yourself from the sun: Use sunscreen, wear hats and sunglasses, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
  • Check for ticks: If spending time outdoors, be sure to check for ticks and wear insect repellent to avoid tick-borne illnesses.

Getting to Chester County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Chester County is located in the Philadelphia region of Pennsylvania and is easily accessible by several transportation options:

Airports Near Chester County

  • Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): The nearest major airport to Chester County, located approximately 45 minutes from the county.

Bus Stations Near Chester County

  • Greyhound Bus Station, Coatesville: Located in Coatesville, which is in the southern part of Chester County.
  • West Chester Transportation Center: This transportation center is located in the heart of downtown West Chester.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Several car rental companies operate in the Philadelphia area, making it easy to rent a car and drive to Chester County.
  • Train: Amtrak trains serve several stations in the region, including Philadelphia, Lancaster, and Paoli.

How to Get Around in Chester County

The best way to get around Chester County is by car, as public transportation is limited. Several rental car companies operate in the Philadelphia area, making it easy to rent a car and explore the county.

Where to Go Next from Chester County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Chester County is located in the heart of the Philadelphia region and is a perfect base for exploring nearby destinations such as:

  • Philadelphia: Located just 45 minutes from Chester County, Philadelphia is a top tourist destination in the region, featuring historical landmarks, museums, and cultural attractions.
  • Lancaster: Head to Lancaster to experience Pennsylvania Dutch culture and traditions firsthand, including traditional Amish communities and markets.
  • Hershey: Located approximately 90 minutes from Chester County, Hershey is famous for its chocolate making heritage and features several chocolate-themed attractions such as Hershey’s Chocolate World.

Conclusion

Chester County is a hidden gem in the Philadelphia region of Pennsylvania. With its scenic countryside, charming small towns, and rich cultural heritage, the county offers visitors a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and local food and drink experiences. Plan your trip today and discover all that Chester County has to offer.



    Downingtown
    Exton
    Malvern
    Oxford
    Phoenixville
    West Chester