Bryn Mawr Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania? Check out our travel guide for tips on where to stay, what to do, and how to get there.


Are you planning a trip to Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania? Located in Delaware County in the Philadelphia Region, Bryn Mawr offers visitors a mix of cultural landmarks, natural scenery, and local charm. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan a successful trip to Bryn Mawr, including where to stay, what to do, and how to get there.

Introduction to Bryn Mawr

Bryn Mawr is a small suburban community located in Haverford Township, near Philadelphia. The town is home to Bryn Mawr College, a prestigious women’s liberal arts college, as well as several historical landmarks and natural attractions. In recent years, Bryn Mawr has become a popular destination for travelers looking for a quiet escape from the city without straying too far from the hustle and bustle of Philadelphia.

List of Places to Visit in Bryn Mawr

When it comes to things to do in Bryn Mawr, visitors have plenty of options to choose from. From historical landmarks to natural scenery, there’s something for everyone in this charming suburban community. Here are a few of the top attractions in Bryn Mawr:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Bryn Mawr Film Institute: This historic movie theater dates back to 1926 and is now a nonprofit cinema and film education center.
  • Harriton House: This historic house museum dates back to 1704 and was once the home of Pennsylvania statesman Charles Thomson.
  • Bryn Mawr College: This nationally recognized women’s liberal arts college was founded in 1885 and boasts a beautiful campus with several historic buildings.

Natural Attractions of Bryn Mawr: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ardmore Avenue Trail: This 1.3 mile walking and biking trail offers scenic views of the nearby suburbs and easy access to several nearby parks.
  • Saunders Woods Preserve: This nature preserve features hiking trails, a creek, and plenty of opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bryn Mawr

For outdoor enthusiasts, Bryn Mawr offers several hiking and biking trails to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a more challenging hike, there’s a trail for you in Bryn Mawr. Here are a few of the top hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • The Schuylkill River Trail: This 26-mile trail follows the Schuylkill River from Center City Philadelphia to Phoenixville, offering beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscape.
  • The Perkiomen Trail: This 19-mile trail runs from Oaks to Green Lane and offers scenic views of the Perkiomen Creek.

Best Things to Do in Bryn Mawr: Activities and Tours

Looking for something to do in Bryn Mawr? Here are a few of the top activities and tours to consider:

  • Take a campus tour of Bryn Mawr College: Visitors can explore the beautiful campus of this prestigious women’s college with a guided tour.
  • Sample local craft beers at Tired Hands Brewery: This popular brewery in nearby Ardmore offers a variety of unique and flavorful craft beers.
  • Attend a show at the Bryn Mawr Film Institute: This historic movie theater hosts a variety of film screenings, festivals, and special events throughout the year.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bryn Mawr

If you’re planning a longer stay in Bryn Mawr, here’s a sample week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the campus of Bryn Mawr College and attend a live performance at the Goodhart Theater
Day 2 Take a hike or bike ride along the Schuylkill River Trail
Day 3 Visit the Bryn Mawr Film Institute and catch a movie or special event
Day 4 Take a day trip to Valley Forge National Historical Park
Day 5 Sample local craft beer at Tired Hands Brewery
Day 6 Enjoy a picnic lunch at Saunders Woods Preserve
Day 7 Visit Harriton House and learn about local history

Food and Drink Scene of Bryn Mawr

Bryn Mawr offers visitors a variety of local food and drink options to try during their stay. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages to consider:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The “Main Line Pizza” at Lenny’s Italian Deli: This local favorite features a crispy crust, tangy sauce, and plenty of cheese and toppings.
  • The “Bryn Mawr Sandwich” at The Grog Grill: This popular sandwich features grilled chicken, roasted peppers, mozzarella cheese, and pesto sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Tired Hands beer: This popular local brewery is known for its unique and flavorful craft beers.
  • Wawa coffee: Visitors can grab a cup of coffee or a snack at the nearby convenience store chain and try a Pennsylvania staple.

Where to Stay in Bryn Mawr: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

For visitors looking for a place to stay in Bryn Mawr, there are several options to choose from. Here are a few of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the area:

  • The Radnor Hotel: This historic hotel in nearby Wayne offers upscale rooms and suites with modern amenities.
  • Pilgrim’s Rest Bed and Breakfast: This cozy B&B in nearby West Chester offers comfortable rooms and a homemade breakfast.

What to Buy in Bryn Mawr: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for a souvenir to remind you of your trip to Bryn Mawr? Here are a few local products to consider:

  • Locally made crafts and jewelry from the Bryn Mawr College Craft Show: This annual craft show features works by more than 300 artisans from around the country.
  • Pennsylvania Dutch-style baked goods from the Hope’s Cookies location in Bryn Mawr.

Local Culture and Customs of Bryn Mawr

Bryn Mawr has a rich history and local customs that visitors should be aware of during their stay. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Bryn Mawr College is a women’s college, so visitors should be respectful of the school’s policies and traditions.
  • Pennsylvania is known for its traditional Amish communities, and visitors may encounter horse-drawn buggies or farmers markets selling Amish-made goods.

Best Time to Visit Bryn Mawr

The best time to visit Bryn Mawr depends on your travel preferences. If you’re looking for warm weather and outdoor activities, visit during the summer months. For cooler temperatures and fall foliage, plan a trip in the autumn. Winter can be a bit chilly, but visitors can enjoy seasonal activities like ice skating and holiday shopping. Spring is a great time to visit for those looking to catch a glimpse of blooming flowers and trees.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bryn Mawr

To make the most of your trip to Bryn Mawr, here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Pack comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.
  • Try some local craft beer and food.
  • Explore the historic landmarks and natural attractions in the area.

Don’t:

  • Forget to bring a jacket or sweater for cooler temperatures.
  • Expect a bustling city environment – Bryn Mawr is a quiet suburban community.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Bryn Mawr is a safe and healthy community for visitors to explore. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Safety in Bryn Mawr

  • Visitors should take standard safety precautions like locking their doors and avoiding walking alone at night.
  • Traffic can be heavy on the major roads, so drivers should exercise caution when driving or crossing streets.

Health in Bryn Mawr

  • Visitors should pack any necessary medications or first aid supplies they may need during their stay.
  • The area has several hospitals and medical centers in case of emergency.

Getting to Bryn Mawr: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Bryn Mawr is relatively easy, thanks to the town’s proximity to major highways and transportation hubs. Here are a few transportation options to consider:

  • Airports Near Bryn Mawr: The Philadelphia International Airport is the closest major airport to Bryn Mawr, located about 20 miles away.
  • Bus Stations Near Bryn Mawr: The Greyhound Bus Station in Philadelphia is the closest major bus station to Bryn Mawr, located about 14 miles away.
  • Other Options: Visitors can also drive to Bryn Mawr or take the train to one of the nearby stations in Philadelphia.

How to Get Around in Bryn Mawr

Getting around in Bryn Mawr is relatively easy, thanks to its small size and walkable downtown area. Visitors can also take advantage of the hiking and biking trails in the area or take public transportation to nearby attractions and destinations.

Where to Go Next from Bryn Mawr: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Bryn Mawr, visitors may want to venture out and explore some of the nearby attractions and destinations. Here are a few options to consider:

  • Valley Forge National Historical Park: This historic park is located about 20 minutes away and offers visitors a glimpse into the Revolutionary War era.
  • Philadelphia: The City of Brotherly Love is just a short train ride away and offers visitors a wide range of cultural and historical landmarks to explore.

Conclusion

Bryn Mawr may be a small suburban community, but it offers visitors plenty of cultural landmarks, natural scenery, and local charm to explore. Whether you’re looking to take a hike, sample local craft beer, or learn about local history, there’s something for everyone in Bryn Mawr. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip and make the most of your stay in this charming corner of Pennsylvania.

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