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Neighborhood

Chestnut Hill

Because sometimes you just feel fancy

Germantown Avenue Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
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Overview

Loaded with photo-worthy charm, Chestnut Hill is tucked in the northwest section of Philadelphia, just 25 minutes from Center City.

And thanks to its location near Wissahickon and Cresheim creeks and Fairmount Park, this National Register Historic District enjoys an abundance of greenery and open spaces.

Once a suburb where well-to-do Philadelphians escaped the city’s summer heat, Chestnut Hill saw an influx of year-round residents with the arrival of railroads in the 19th century.

Since then, it remains a relatively affluent community with an array of historic mansions and Victorian twin and row houses.

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Essential Information

Chestnut Hill’s main street, Germantown Avenue, is a treasure trove of shops, galleries, boutiques, home furnishings stores and restaurants.

Cobblestone streets and historic facades along Germantown Avenue add to Chestnut Hill's picturesque charm.

Stretching almost 10 blocks, the avenue boasts cobblestone streets and historic facades on many shops and businesses — all adding to the picturesque charm.

One must-see spot is the iconic William A. Kilian Hardware Co., an owner-operated hardware store that has been a fixture for decades.

Evergreen Cheese stocks gourmet foods and hard-to-find cheeses.

Thrifty fashionistas snap up trendy threads at several upscale consignment shops, including Greene Street.

Note: Individual shop hours may vary by season. It’s always a good idea to call ahead or check store hours online before planning your trip.

Getting Here

Chestnut Hill West regional rail line stops at the top of the Hill on Germantown Avenue. The Chestnut Hill East station is at 101 E. Chestnut Hill Avenue.

SEPTA bus routes 23, 77, 94, 134 and L also service the neighborhood.

By car, take Wissahickon Drive to Allen’s Lane to Germantown Avenue. Metered street parking is available as well as six lots.

In The Neighborhood

Unexpected delights pepper Chestnut Hill. Skyspace, in the Chestnut Hill Friends Quaker meetinghouse, a permanent light installation by renowned artist James Turrell, is open to people of all faith backgrounds who reserve their space for sunrise and sunset viewings.

The Stagecrafters Theater, a tradition since 1929, presents professional stage productions in an intimate setting.

Hockey and freestyle skaters of all ages and abilities lace up at Wissahickon Skating Club.

Morris Arboretum and Wissahickon Valley Park captivate visitors with hidden trails, rippling waters and stunning natural treasures.

Shoppers in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia Shoppers in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia

  — Photo courtesy Chestnut Hill

Major Annual Events

Germantown Avenue serves as festival central in season.

The Home & Garden Festival takes place in May, while the Fall for the Arts Festival dots the calendar in October. Both take over several blocks, hosting merchants, live entertainment, artisans and food vendors.

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