Norristown Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Norristown with our comprehensive tour guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Norristown

Norristown is a borough in Montgomery County, located in the Philadelphia Region of Pennsylvania. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic views, and outdoor adventures. Norristown has several historical landmarks, museums, natural attractions, and recreational activities to offer to the visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Norristown

Here is a list of top places to visit in Norristown:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Montgomery County Historical Society: This society has a collection of artifacts and records from the region’s past, including Native American history, early settlers, and the Civil War.

  2. Elmwood Park Zoo: This zoo houses over 100 species of animals, including red pandas, bald eagles, and jaguars.

  3. Selma Mansion: This mansion is a historic house museum that offers guided tours to the public. It is believed to have been a stop on the Underground Railroad.

Natural Attractions of Norristown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Valley Forge National Historical Park: This park is located in nearby King of Prussia and is a site where General George Washington camped during the American Revolutionary War.

  2. Schuylkill River Trail: This trail runs through Norristown and offers scenic views of the Schuylkill River.

  3. Norristown Farm Park: This park has several hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots for visitors to enjoy.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Norristown

Norristown and the surrounding areas have several hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the popular routes include:

  1. Schuylkill River Trail: This trail runs from Philadelphia to Schuylkill County and offers picturesque views of the river.

  2. Norristown Farm Park Trails: This park has several short and long hiking trails, including the 2.3-mile White Trail and the 5.2-mile Blue Trail.

  3. The Perkiomen Trail: This trail runs from Oaks to Green Lane and offers scenic views of Perkiomen Creek.

Best Things to Do in Norristown: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a brewery tour: Norristown has several breweries, including Conshohocken Brewing Company and 2SP Brewing Company, that offer tours and tastings.

  2. Attend a concert at Theatre Horizon: This theatre hosts several concerts, plays, and cultural events throughout the year.

  3. Explore Norristown Arts Hill: This area is home to several galleries, studios, and art-based businesses.

Week-Long Itinerary for Norristown

Day 1: Visit the Montgomery County Historical Society and Elmwood Park Zoo. Day 2: Hike the trails at Norristown Farm Park and have a picnic. Day 3: Explore the nightlife and comedy clubs of Norristown. Day 4: Take a brewery tour at Conshohocken Brewing Company and 2SP Brewing Company. Day 5: Tour Selma Mansion and learn about its role in the Underground Railroad. Day 6: Attend a concert or play at Theatre Horizon. Day 7: Explore natural attractions of Norristown like Schuylkill River Trail and Valley Forge National Historical Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Norristown

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Cheesesteak: Norristown is known for its delicious cheesesteak sandwiches. Try one at Pudge’s, Leeland’s BBQ, or Harold’s Famous Deli.

  2. Pizza: Norristown has several pizzerias, including Pica’s Restaurant and Pizza , where you can enjoy a slice of mouth-watering pizza.

  3. Hoagies: Also known as submarine sandwiches, hoagies are a popular food item in Norristown. Try one at Primo Hoagies.

Local Beverages

  1. Yards Brewing Company: This brewery is located in Philadelphia and offers several types of beer, including India Pale Ale and Love Stout.

  2. Sly Fox Brewing Company: Located in Pottstown, this brewery offers a range of beers and ciders, including Helles Golden Lager and Black Raspberry Reserve.

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

  1. Holiday Inn Express & Suites King of Prussia: This hotel is located in nearby King of Prussia and offers free breakfast, a fitness center, and indoor pool.

  2. Homewood Suites by Hilton Lansdale: This hotel is located in nearby Lansdale and offers spacious suites, free breakfast, and evening socials.

  3. Courtyard Philadelphia Plymouth Meeting: This hotel is located in nearby Plymouth Meeting and offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.

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

  1. Artwork: Norristown Arts Hill has several galleries and studios where you can buy unique artwork made by local artists.

  2. Homemade jams and jellies: Merrymead Farm is known for its homemade jams and jellies, which are made using locally sourced fruits.

Local Culture and Customs of Norristown

Norristown has a diverse population of around 35,000 people. The town has a thriving art scene, and several cultural events and festivals, such as the Norristown Arts Festival, are held throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Norristown

The best time to visit Norristown is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). The weather is mild, and the foliage is beautiful during these seasons. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, and winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Norristown

Do:

  • Explore the outdoors: Norristown has several natural attractions and hiking trails to explore.

  • Try local cuisine: Norristown is known for its cheesesteaks, hoagies, and pizza.

  • Attend cultural events and festivals: Norristown has several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Norristown Arts Festival.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables in your car: Norristown (like any other town) has incidents of car theft and break-ins, so avoid leaving valuables in your car.

  • Litter: Norristown is known for its scenic trails and parks, so help keep them clean by not littering.

Safety and Health

Safety in Norristown

Norristown is a safe borough, but it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially at night.

Health in Norristown

Norristown has several hospitals and medical centers, including Einstein Medical Center Montgomery and Mercy Suburban Hospital.

Getting to Norristown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Norristown is located about 20 miles north of Philadelphia and is easily accessible by car or public transportation.

Airports Near Norristown

  1. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): This airport is located about 30 minutes south of Norristown and offers domestic and international flights.

  2. Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE): This airport is located about 50 miles northwest of Norristown and offers domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Norristown

  1. Norristown Transportation Center: This bus station is located in Norristown and serves the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) routes.

Other Options

  1. Amtrak: The Amtrak station is located in Philadelphia, and once there, you can take SEPTA from downtown Philadelphia to Norristown.

  2. Car rental: Several car rental companies, such as Avis and Hertz, have offices in Philadelphia and offer car rental services.

How to Get Around Norristown

Norristown is best explored on foot or by bike. The town has several bike trails and bike-friendly roads. There are also several car rental services available for visitors who want to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Norristown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Valley Forge National Historical Trail: This trail is located in King of Prussia and offers a glimpse into the history of the American Revolutionary War.

  2. King of Prussia Mall: This mall is located in King of Prussia and is one of the largest malls in the United States.

  3. Philadelphia: This metropolitan city is located about 20 miles south of Norristown and offers several attractions, such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.

Conclusion

Norristown is a picturesque town that offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Pennsylvania. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks and museums, Norristown has something to offer to every type of traveler. Plan your trip to Norristown today and experience the best of Pennsylvania!

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