If you’re traveling to the Chester County area this summer for the Philly Balloon & Music Festival, the fun doesn’t have to end there. Make a weekend of the event and plan a few days in beautiful Chester County. With outdoor activities, shopping, delicious food, and more, there are endless attractions to add to your travel itinerary.
We’re sharing 10 of our favorite things to do in the area for those who aren’t sure where to start. Whether you’re a tourist or local to the southeastern PA area, these are places you will not want to miss visiting soon.
Sip on a drink at 322 Taproom
In June of 2021, Suburban Brewing Company debuted their new space, 322 Taproom, in Honey Brook, PA. This is the perfect place to hang out outdoors with friends, relax inside at the bar, or head up to the 2nd-floor lounge for an extra cozy space. 322 Taproom is a 10-barrel brewhouse serving craft beer, spirits, and food galore. Enjoy burgers, nachos, egg rolls, and a great selection of vegan meals. Yum!
Find this at: 3041 Horseshoe Pike, Honey Brook, Pennsylvania 19344
Wander through Longwood Gardens
Longwood Gardens is an ideal place to enjoy the day in Chester County. With walking paths, multiple gazebos, woodlands, and beautifully manicured gardens, there is much to see at Longwood Gardens, and the sprawling 1077 acres are easy to wander off in.
These gardens are a special treat if you are interested in gardening or horticulture, as they are filled with unique and exciting species of plants, herbs, shrubs, and trees. The gardens are also sprinkled with attractive fountains, lending them beautiful views and a charming aesthetic.
Find this at: 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348
Hit the shops at Historic Kennett Square
Kennett Square is one of the must-see destinations you cannot miss when you visit Chester County. An extended, sprawling open marketplace filled with local vendors selling anything and everything, it is the city’s hub. With shops including beautiful antique stores, fine-dining luxury restaurants, home decor and craft stores, hobby workshops, and art shows, you will never be bored at this incredible marketplace.
Find this at: 106 W. State Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348
Explore Valley Forge National Historical Park
If you have a love for the outdoors and history, Valley Forge National Historical Park is a must-visit site in Chester County. As a nationally significant site of the 1777-78 winter encampment of the Continental Army under General George Washington, you can feel the history and pride when you visit this property.
Visiting Valley Forge National Historical Park will immediately evoke the spirit of patriotism and independence. In addition, the historic landscapes, structures, objects, and archeological and natural resources at Valley Forge are tangible links to one of the most defining events in our nation’s history.
Find this at: 1400 N Outer Line Dr, King of Prussia, PA 19406
Sample brews at Levante Brewing Company
Levante Brewing Company has you covered if you are interested in beers and brewing or wish to visit a fun place to relax with your friends or family. It is considered one of the best breweries in the area and is a great place to relax and sample some craft beers made right there in the restaurant. Levante Brewing Company is an excellent stop for any beer-loving connoisseurs with a laid-back atmosphere and drinks for all different tastes.
Find this at: 208 Carter Drive, West Chester, PA 19382
Get on the water with Brandywine Outfitters, Inc.
For an adrenaline junkie, Brandywine Outfitters Inc. has quite the treat. Groups of all sizes can go canoeing or kayak out to the picturesque and beautiful Brandywine River with an expert guide. Lunch is also included in the tour, and you can stop for lunch around noon, then continue paddling along the river back to your destination.
Add this stop to your list for anyone interested in aquatic activities, the outdoors, and local nature.
Find this at: 2096 Strasburg Rd, Coatesville, PA 19320
Watch a film at The Colonial Theatre
One of the region’s premiere independent arts destinations, The Colonial Theatre is situated in the heart of downtown Phoenixville. The iconic theatre operates three distinct venues and multiple event spaces in two adjoining historic buildings, a member-supported nonprofit.
The Colonial Theatre is also known internationally as the mother of Blobfest, celebrating the theatre’s role in the 1958 sci-fi classic, The Blog. The theatre brings in more than 70,000 patrons annually with its eclectic showings of popular movies, beloved films, live music, and more.
Find this at: 227 Bridge St, Phoenixville, PA 19460
Take in the views of Jenkins Arboretum & Garden
In the heart of Philadelphia’s Main Line, Jenkins Arboretum & Garden is one of eastern Pennsylvania’s significant horticultural and environmental assets. This space is a botanical garden that works to preserve and nurture the forty-six acres of Chester County’s rapidly disappearing natural environments. The grounds are open to the public daily with free admission and a fantastic activity to bring kids along for.
Find this at: 631 Berwyn Baptist Rd, Devon, PA 19333
Visit The Brandywine River Museum of Art
Discover an outstanding collection of American art housed in a unique and beautiful 19th-century mill. The building features a dramatic steel and glass addition overlooking the banks of the Brandywine River. Talk about amazing views! Renowned for its holdings of the Wyeth family of artists, the museum features galleries dedicated to the work of N.C., Andrew, and Jamie Wyeth.
Find this at: 1 Hoffmans Mill Rd, Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Savor the region’s best ice cream at Chester Springs Creamery
Known as one of the region’s best ice cream shops, Chester Springs Creamery has unique and traditional ice cream flavors, perfect for any pallet. In addition, customers can choose from ice cream sundaes, combinations of flavors, and other special treats. The creamery has been an extension of Milky Way Farm dairy operation since 2001, and we promise you can taste the fresh difference in every ice cream scoop.
Find this at: 521 E Uwchlan Ave, Chester Springs, PA 19425
More Things To Do In Chester County
If you’re looking for additional attractions and things to do in Chester County, be sure to check out Chester County’s Brandywine Valley. Explore more things to do, places to stay, food to eat, and so much more.