Bryn Mawr Pennsylvania Map Travel Guide
Introduction
Bryn Mawr is a charming town located in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, USA. The town is known for its beautiful architecture, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. It offers visitors a unique blend of historical landmarks, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant nightlife. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more. Whether you are a solo traveler, a family on vacation, or a group of friends, Bryn Mawr has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, and let’s start our adventure!
Top Attractions
Bryn Mawr College
Bryn Mawr College is a private women’s liberal arts college that was founded in 1885. The college is known for its beautiful campus, which features Gothic-style buildings, lush greenery, and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the campus, visit the art museum, and attend cultural events throughout the year.
Bryn Mawr Film Institute
The Bryn Mawr Film Institute is a non-profit, community-based movie theater that shows independent, foreign, and classic films. The theater is located in a historic building and offers a unique movie-going experience. Visitors can enjoy a film, grab a snack from the concession stand, and explore the art gallery on the second floor.
Hidden Gems
Harriton House
Harriton House is a historic house museum that was built in 1704. The house is located on a beautiful estate and offers visitors a glimpse into colonial life in Pennsylvania. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and grounds, attend special events, and explore the nearby walking trails.
Haverford College Arboretum
The Haverford College Arboretum is a 216-acre campus that features a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and gardens. The arboretum is home to over 4000 species of plants and is a popular destination for nature lovers. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the arboretum, attend educational programs, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Food Scene
The Grog Grill
The Grog Grill is a popular restaurant that offers a casual dining experience. The restaurant serves American cuisine and features an extensive beer and wine list. Visitors can enjoy a meal on the outdoor patio, watch a game on the TVs, and listen to live music on the weekends.
Tango Restaurant
Tango Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant that serves Argentine cuisine. The restaurant features a cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and delicious food. Visitors can enjoy empanadas, grilled meats, and homemade desserts.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Walking Tour
The Bryn Mawr Business Association offers a free walking tour of the town. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide and covers the history and architecture of the area. Visitors can learn about the town’s past and present and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the streets.
Visit the Farmers Market
The Bryn Mawr Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm. The market features local vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and more. Visitors can sample the products, meet the farmers, and enjoy live music and entertainment.
Outdoor Adventures
The Schuylkill River Trail
The Schuylkill River Trail is a 130-mile multi-use trail that follows the Schuylkill River from Philadelphia to Pottsville. The trail passes through Bryn Mawr and offers visitors a scenic route for walking, biking, and running. Visitors can enjoy the views of the river, the city, and the surrounding nature.
The Wissahickon Trail
The Wissahickon Trail is a 50-mile trail that runs through the Wissahickon Valley in Philadelphia. The trail offers visitors a peaceful escape from the city and features beautiful views of the forest, the creek, and the wildlife. Visitors can hike, bike, and horseback ride on the trail.
Family-Friendly Activities
Elmwood Park Zoo
The Elmwood Park Zoo is a small zoo that features over 300 animals from around the world. The zoo offers visitors a chance to see rare and endangered species, learn about conservation, and enjoy interactive exhibits. Visitors can also take a ride on the zoo’s train and carousel.
The Crayola Experience
The Crayola Experience is a family-friendly attraction that offers hands-on activities and exhibits related to art and creativity. Visitors can make their own crayons, create art with digital tools, and explore the world of color. The attraction is located in nearby Easton, Pennsylvania.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Skunk Hollow Trail
The Skunk Hollow Trail is a hidden gem located in nearby Radnor, Pennsylvania. The trail offers visitors a secluded route for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Visitors can enjoy the views of the forest, the creek, and the wildflowers.
The Haverford College Nature Trail
The Haverford College Nature Trail is a 2-mile trail that runs through the woods and fields of the college campus. The trail offers visitors a chance to see the local flora and fauna, including birds, deer, and turtles. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic on the trail.
Natural Wonders
The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge
The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge is a 1000-acre nature reserve located in nearby Philadelphia. The refuge is home to over 300 species of birds, as well as other wildlife such as deer, foxes, and turtles. Visitors can hike, bike, and kayak on the trails and waterways.
The Valley Forge National Historical Park
The Valley Forge National Historical Park is a 3500-acre park that was the site of the Continental Army’s winter encampment during the American Revolution. The park offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of the area, hike on the trails, and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Grog Grill
The Grog Grill is a popular spot for nightlife in Bryn Mawr. The restaurant features live music on the weekends, karaoke nights, and trivia nights. Visitors can enjoy a drink from the bar, play pool, and socialize with locals.
The Great American Pub
The Great American Pub is a family-friendly restaurant that transforms into a lively bar at night. The pub offers a wide selection of beers and cocktails, as well as pub food and live music. Visitors can watch sports on the TVs, play the jukebox, and dance on the dance floor.
Local Markets
The Bryn Mawr Farmers Market
The Bryn Mawr Farmers Market is a weekly market that features local vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and more. Visitors can sample the products, meet the farmers, and enjoy live music and entertainment. The market is open every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm.
The Ardmore Farmers Market
The Ardmore Farmers Market is a year-round indoor market that features over 20 vendors selling fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, and more. Visitors can also find crafts, gifts, and prepared foods at the market. The market is located in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, which is a short drive from Bryn Mawr.
Beaches and Mountains
The Pocono Mountains
The Pocono Mountains are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The mountains offer visitors a chance to hike, bike, ski, and snowboard on the trails. Visitors can also enjoy the natural beauty of the area, including waterfalls, lakes, and wildlife. The Poconos are located about 2 hours from Bryn Mawr.
The Jersey Shore
The Jersey Shore is a popular destination for beach lovers. The shore offers visitors a chance to swim, sunbathe, and surf on the beaches. Visitors can also enjoy the boardwalks, the amusement parks, and the seafood restaurants. The Jersey Shore is located about 2 hours from Bryn Mawr.
Cultural Immersion
The Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the country. The museum features over 240,000 objects from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Visitors can also enjoy the museum’s special exhibitions, educational programs, and events.
The Barnes Foundation
The Barnes Foundation is a museum that features a collection of impressionist, post-impressionist, and modernist art. The museum is located in a beautiful building in downtown Philadelphia and offers visitors a chance to see works by artists such as