Glen Mills Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally stunning Glen Mills of Pennsylvania with our ultimate travel guide. Find the top things to do, eat, and visit along with useful travel tips and safety measures.


Introduction to Glen Mills

Located in Delaware County, in the Philadelphia region of Pennsylvania, Glen Mills is a charming small town with historic roots and scenic beauty. Founded in the early 18th century, Glen Mills has a rich history that is preserved in its museums, monuments, and buildings. The verdant landscapes and outdoor adventure opportunities in the neighboring Brandywine Valley make it a popular tourist destination throughout the year. Our comprehensive travel guide to Glen Mills will help you plan a memorable trip to this bustling town of the Mid-Atlantic region.

List of Places to Visit in Glen Mills

Here’s a rundown of top tourist attractions in Glen Mills that should be on your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Newlin Grist Mill: A fully functional 18th-century water-powered grist mill that showcases colonial-era technology and milling process.
  • Chadds Ford Historical Society: A fascinating museum that details the history and culture of Southeastern Pennsylvania and the Brandywine Valley.
  • Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation: A working farm that brings the life of an 18th-century settler to life with its traditional agriculture practices, homesteads, and artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Glen Mills: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tyler Arboretum: A 650-acre botanical garden and woodland preserve with walking trails, garden collections, and nature programs.
  • Brandywine Creek State Park: An expansive state park located along the Brandywine River with recreational activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.
  • Longwood Gardens: A world-renowned horticultural showplace with exotic gardens, greenhouses, and fountains that hosts seasonal events and performances.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Glen Mills

Glen Mills has several scenic trails and bike routes that offer stunning vistas of the Brandywine Valley and its natural surroundings. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Stroud Preserve Trail: A 571-acre preserve with rolling meadows, lush forests, and native wildlife that offers hiking and horseback riding trails.
  • Ridley Creek State Park: A vast and diverse state park with hiking and biking trails that wind through forests and streams dotted with historical buildings and landmarks.
  • Chester Creek Trail: A well-maintained trail that spans 2.8 miles from Route 1 to Lenni Road, with scenic views of the picturesque Chester Creek.

Best Things to Do in Glen Mills: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for fun and exciting things to do in Glen Mills, here are some options to consider:

  • Take a ride on the West Chester Railroad: A nostalgic ride on a vintage steam train through the scenic landscapes of Chester County.
  • Go on a hot air balloon ride: An unforgettable adventure that offers a bird’s-eye view of the rolling hills and countryside of the Brandywine Valley.
  • Visit the Penns Woods Winery: A family-owned winery that offers tastings and tours of their vineyards, and is nestled amid the stunning landscapes of Chadds Ford.

Week-Long Itinerary for Glen Mills

Here’s a week-long itinerary for exploring Glen Mills and its surrounding areas:

Day Activity
1 Visit Longwood Gardens and its seasonal events and exhibits
2 Explore the Chadds Ford Historic District and Brandywine River Museum
3 Hike the Ridley Creek State Park trails, and camp overnight on-site
4 Take a hot air balloon ride over the Brandywine Valley
5 Experience the colonial era at the Newlin Grist Mill and Pennsylvania Plantation
6 Go on a historic West Chester Railroad ride, and enjoy a picnic lunch at the Stroud Preserve
7 Visit nearby Philadelphia for a city and museum tour, and enjoy a meal at the Reading Terminal Market

Food and Drink Scene of Glen Mills

Glen Mills is known for its local cuisine and farm-to-table dining experience. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pennsylvania Dutch Pot Pie: A hearty stew with tender chicken, carrots, potatoes, and homemade noodles.
  • Scrapple: A traditional breakfast dish made of pork scraps, cornmeal, and spices that is pan-fried until golden brown.
  • Soft pretzels: A ubiquitous snack in the region, soft pretzels are often served warm with mustard or cheese dip.

Local Beverages

  • Yuengling beer: A locally brewed beer that is considered America’s oldest brewery, with a range of flavors and styles to choose from.
  • Birch beer: A non-alcoholic, carbonated beverage made from the bark of birch trees that has subtle flavors of vanilla and cloves.
  • Apple cider: A refreshing and nutritious beverage made from freshly pressed apples, that is often served warm with cinnamon and spices.

Where to Stay in Glen Mills: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Glen Mills offers a range of accommodation options for travelers, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels and inns. Here are some popular choices:

  • The Inn at Grace Winery: A charming and elegant inn located on a historic vineyard that offers wine tasting tours and farm-to-table dinners.
  • Best Western Plus: A comfortable and affordable hotel close to many popular attractions of Glen Mills.
  • Graystone Bed and Breakfast: A cozy and welcoming guesthouse with beautifully decorated rooms and a friendly staff.

What to Buy in Glen Mills: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Glen Mills has a thriving artisan culture with unique and locally made products. Here are some items that are worth buying and bringing home:

  • Hand-made pottery and glassware from local artisans.
  • Locally sourced and produced jams, honey, and pickles.
  • Hand-crafted furniture, quilts, and needlework.

Local Culture and Customs of Glen Mills

The people of Glen Mills are known for their hospitable nature and welcoming attitude towards visitors. The region has a rich colonial history and is proud of its heritage, as evidenced by the many museums, festivals, and events that celebrate the culture and traditions of the area. Visitors are advised to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to embrace the local way of life.

Best Time to Visit Glen Mills

Glen Mills can be visited any time of the year, depending on your interests and preferences. However, the most popular times to visit are in the spring and fall when the gardens and natural landscapes are at their peak. Summer is also a great time to visit for outdoor activities and events, while winter provides a unique and snow-covered landscape for visitors to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Glen Mills

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Glen Mills:

Do:

  • Take a leisurely walk along the scenic country roads and byways.
  • Experience the traditional farming methods and participate in farm-to-table events.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather, and bring comfortable shoes for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural habitats or historic landmarks.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions, or make fun of regional accents or colloquialisms.
  • Leave valuables unattended or become unaware of your surroundings.

Safety and Health

While Glen Mills is a safe and secure town, visitors should take certain precautions and ensure that they are aware of regional health risks and precautions:

Safety in Glen Mills

  • Avoid traveling alone at night or in poorly lit areas.
  • Keep your car locked and secure, and avoid leaving valuables visible on the car seats.
  • Follow standard safety precautions while participating in outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, or biking.

Health in Glen Mills

  • Apply sunscreen and insect repellent as needed, particularly during outdoor activities and events.
  • Drink sufficient water and stay hydrated during your travel.
  • Be aware of local health risks, such as Lyme disease, tick-borne illnesses, and allergies.

Getting to Glen Mills: Transportation Options and Logistics

Glen Mills is well-connected by road, rail, and air, with easy access to major highways, airports, and bus routes.

Airports Near Glen Mills

  • Philadelphia International Airport: The nearest major airport, located just over twenty miles south of Glen Mills.

Bus Stations Near Glen Mills

  • Greyhound Bus: Located in downtown Philadelphia, with service to many regional destinations.
  • SEPTA Bus: A regional public bus service that offers transport within Delaware County and Chester County.

Other Options

  • Train Service: AMTRAK, SEPTA, and NJ Transit offer train service to nearby Philadelphia stations.
  • Car Rentals: Multiple car rental agencies are available at Philadelphia International Airport and near Glen Mills.

How to Get Around in Glen Mills

The best way to get around Glen Mills is by car, either by renting a car or by using a ride-sharing app. Alternatively, visitors can also use local taxi services or bike rentals to explore the town and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Glen Mills: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Glen Mills is located near several popular tourist destinations and attractions that are well worth a visit. Here are some options to consider:

  • Longwood Gardens: Located just a few miles south of Glen Mills, Longwood Gardens is a world-famous horticultural center that features exotic gardens, stunning fountains, and breathtaking natural vistas.
  • Philadelphia: The bustling metropolis of Philadelphia is just twenty miles north of Glen Mills, and offers a plethora of historical landmarks, museums, and cultural events.
  • Valley Forge National Historic Park: Located to the west of Glen Mills, the Valley Forge National Park is the site of the famous Continental Army encampment during the Revolutionary War, and features many monuments, trails, and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Glen Mills is a perfect destination for travelers looking for a quaint and historic town with plenty of natural beauty and fun activities. With its cultural attractions, scenic vistas, and culinary delights, Glen Mills has something to offer for everyone. Our comprehensive travel guide should help you plan a memorable and enjoyable trip to this charming part of Pennsylvania.

Glen Mills train station (now Thornbury Historical Society) Glen Mills train station (now Thornbury Historical Society)