Visitors Guide
Getting Around
Chestnut Hill is easily accessible by SEPTA’s Chestnut Hill East and West Regional Rail lines, making travel from Center City simple and convenient. Both train stations drop you right into the heart of the neighborhood. There are also several SEPTA bus routes that serve the area.
For those arriving by car, there is ample metered street parking and several public parking lots conveniently located near shopping and dining areas. Once you’re here, you’ll find that the neighborhood is very walkable, with wide sidewalks, benches, and plenty of places to pause and take in the scenery.
Eat & Drink
Chestnut Hill offers a delicious mix of culinary experiences. Start your day with a fresh pastry and coffee at a neighborhood bakery. Enjoy a leisurely lunch on a shaded patio, and treat yourself to gourmet dinners prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Dining options include:
- Cozy coffee shops and brunch spots
- International cuisines (Italian, Thai, French, and more)
- Farm-to-table restaurants
- Ice cream parlors and dessert cafes
- Wine bars and neighborhood pubs
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or grabbing a casual bite, there’s something here for everyone.
Shop Local
Germantown Avenue is lined with more than 200 independent businesses offering unique, handpicked goods.
Visitors can browse:
- Boutique fashion and accessories
- Locally made gifts and artisan goods
- Rare and antique books
- Home and garden decor
- Art galleries and specialty toy stores
You’ll find that the spirit of Chestnut Hill lives in its small businesses, each with its own story and welcoming atmosphere.
Explore the Outdoors
Outdoor experiences are a hallmark of Chestnut Hill. From its tree-lined residential streets to the grand green expanses that surround the neighborhood, nature is always close by.
Top outdoor attractions:
- Wissahickon Valley Park: Explore hiking trails, walk along Forbidden Drive, or enjoy a riverside picnic.
- Morris Arboretum: Discover themed gardens, sculptures, and the famous Tree Adventure canopy walk.
- Pastorius Park: Perfect for family picnics and open-air concerts.
Seasonal flower blooms, fall foliage, and the crisp winter air make each visit unique.
Culture & Community
Art and community go hand in hand in Chestnut Hill. Stop by the Woodmere Art Museum to admire works by Philadelphia-area artists, attend a workshop, or enjoy a sculpture walk.
Don’t miss the area’s year-round events and festivals, including:
- Chestnut Hill Home & Garden Festival
- Chestnut Hill on Ice
- Fall for the Arts Festival
- Holidays on the Hill
These events bring locals and visitors together through music, food, art, and culture.