Chester Travel Guide

Explore the rich culture, natural beauty, and exciting activities that Chester, Pennsylvania has to offer with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Chester

Chester is a city in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, and is located in the Philadelphia Region of the state. It is considered to be a gateway to exploring the natural beauty of Southeast Pennsylvania and is a perfect place for history buffs who want to explore the region’s rich heritage. Chester is situated in the Mid-Atlantic of the United States, and the city is known for its world-famous attractions, such as the Harrah’s Casino, the Talen Energy Stadium, and the Widener University.

List of Places to Visit in Chester

Chester has no shortage of places to visit and things to do for tourists. Here are some of the top destinations you should not miss during your visit to the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge - This wildlife sanctuary located in Tinicum Township is an excellent place for nature lovers to explore the region’s wetlands, woodlands, and marshes.
  • Pennsylvania Veterans Museum - The museum is located in Media and is dedicated to veterans of all wars since the American Civil War. It is home to a vast collection of military history artifacts.
  • Harriet Tubman Museum and Education Center - This museum is dedicated to the life and achievements of Harriet Tubman, a former slave who played a significant role in the abolitionist movement.

Natural Attractions of Chester: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tyler Arboretum - This vast 650-acre arboretum located in Media offers visitors an opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty and its diverse ecosystem.
  • Brandywine Creek State Park - This stunning park is situated in Wilmington, and it is an ideal place for hiking, picnicking, and fishing.
  • Valley Forge National Historical Park - This national park located in King of Prussia is home to one of America’s most important military landmarks, where the Continental Army camped during the Revolutionary War.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chester

The city of Chester and its surrounding areas offer some of the best hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular routes you should consider:

  • Chester Creek Trail - This 2.8-mile trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and jogging.
  • Darlington Trail - This 4.8-mile trail in Middletown is an ideal place for nature walks and bird watching.
  • Schuylkill River Trail - This 76.6-mile path stretches from Philadelphia to Valley Forge National Historical Park and is perfect for biking, hiking, and walking.

Best Things to Do in Chester: Activities and Tours

  • Tour the Harrah’s Casino - This is one of the most popular destinations in Chester, and it is home to a vast array of gaming options and entertainment.
  • Visit the Chaddsford Winery - This winery located in Chadds Ford offers visitors an opportunity to taste some of the best wine the region has to offer.
  • Talen Energy Stadium Tour - This stadium is home to the Philadelphia Union, and visitors can take a tour of the facility while learning about the region’s soccer culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chester

Day 1: Visit John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge and explore the region’s natural beauty.
Day 2: Take a bike ride on the Chester Creek Trail and explore the town.
Day 3: Take a tour of Harrah’s Casino and try your luck at the gaming tables.
Day 4: Visit the Pennsylvania Veterans Museum to learn about the region’s military history.
Day 5: Take a hike along the Darlington Trail, enjoy the nature, and take in the scenic views.
Day 6: Visit Talen Energy Stadium and enjoy a soccer game.
Day 7: Spend the day at Brandywine Creek State Park and have a picnic.

Food and Drink Scene of Chester

Chester is known for its diverse cuisine, and there are many local dishes and beverages that visitors should try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cheesesteak - This classic Philly sandwich is a must-try when in Chester.
  • Soft Pretzels - This Philadelphia snack is a classic, and you can find them all over the city.
  • Scrapple - This breakfast dish is a Pennsylvania Dutch classic made of pork scraps and cornmeal.

Local Beverages

  • Yards Brewing Company - This brewery located in Philadelphia is famous for its craft beer, and it is a perfect place to grab a drink.
  • Wawa - This popular convenience store chain from the Philadelphia area is an excellent place to try local drinks and snacks.

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

  • Clarion Hotel Philadelphia International Airport - This hotel is located in Essington and is close to the Philadelphia International Airport.
  • Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Airport - This hotel is located in Essington and provides quick access to the airport.
  • Best Western Plus Concordville Hotel - This hotel is located in Concordville and offers a great location for exploring the region.

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

  • Philly Pretzel Factory - This famous seller of pretzels is a perfect place to get a snack, and it has locations all over Chester and Philadelphia.
  • Wawa - This popular convenience store chain is a great place to grab a quick bite and a souvenir.
  • Rockvale Outlets - This outlet mall located in Lancaster has many stores where visitors can buy souvenirs and local products.

Local Culture and Customs of Chester

Chester is a diverse city, and locals take pride in their traditions and culture. Visitors should respect the cultural diversity of the city and engage with locals to learn more about their customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Chester

The best time to visit Chester is from March to May and September to November. These months are ideal for hiking and exploring the city’s natural beauty without the heat and humidity of the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chester

Do:

  • Engage with the locals and learn about their culture and traditions.
  • Follow the hiking and biking rules when exploring the natural beauty of Chester.
  • Try local dishes and beverages to get a taste of the area.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public areas.
  • Disrespect the cultural diversity of the city.
  • Leave valuables in your car when exploring the city’s attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chester

While Chester is generally a safe city, visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety:

  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep personal belongings secure.
  • Use designated crosswalks when crossing the street.

Health in Chester

Visitors to Chester should be aware of the following health-related issues:

  • Lyme Disease - Visitors should take precautions against tick bites when exploring the city’s natural beauty.
  • Air Quality - Chester is known for its poor air quality, and visitors with respiratory problems should take necessary precautions.

Getting to Chester: Transportation Options and Logistics

Chester is easily accessible from Philadelphia International Airport, and there are many transportation options available for visitors:

Airports Near Chester

  • Philadelphia International Airport - This airport is located in Philadelphia and provides easy access to Chester.

Bus Stations Near Chester

  • Greyhound Bus Lines - This bus station is located in Philadelphia and provides transportation to many cities, including Chester.

Other Options

  • Amtrak train - Visitors can take the train from Philadelphia to Chester.

How to Get Around in Chester

  • Taxi - There are many taxi services available in Chester.
  • Hiking/Biking - Many of the attractions in Chester can be accessed by hiking or biking.
  • Car Rental - Visitors can rent a car to explore the city and its surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Chester: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Philadelphia - This city is famous for its rich history, art museums, and Philly cheesesteak sandwich.
  • Wilmington - This city is known for its history, gardens, and riverfront attractions.
  • Valley Forge National Historical Park - This national park is home to one of America’s most important military landmarks.

Conclusion

Chester is a destination that offers visitors a taste of both natural beauty and rich history. Visitors can explore the city’s many attractions, hike or bike its scenic trails, and enjoy its diverse cuisine and culture. With our comprehensive guide, visitors can plan an unforgettable trip to experience the best of what Chester has to offer.