Pennsylvania's Historic College Town Outside Philadelphia Is Bursting With Global Flavors And Downtown Shopping

If chugging steam locomotives over scenic bridges and unforgettable views of America's national parks visible from your train window are a familiar and idyllic picture for travelers, a big part of that is thanks to a small college town in Pennsylvania. Today, West Chester is known for its public university and downtown shopping, but back in the 1800s, it was where one of the very first American railroads was born. The West Chester Railroad Company brought freight goods, industry, and subsequently thousands of students to this quaint town surrounded by the mountains. This vital transport link put it on the map, and its importance as a driver of political and economic growth was recognized when it was added to the national list of historic places.

Amble on North High Street in the heart of downtown West Chester today and you'll spot features common to many small towns, from red-brick buildings housing restaurants and cafes to independent shops along the tree-lined boulevard. But look closer, and you'll notice West Chester has more to offer than a typical small town, from a thriving restaurant scene bursting with global flavors to over 100 independent shops that make it a true shopper's delight.

West Chester is just a 35-mile drive away from Philadelphia, its closest big hub. It's also an ideal stop if you're looking for a small, relaxing break after tackling one of Pennsylvania's natural wonders in the Appalachians, or after walking its pristine rail trail teeming with wildlife (which is also one of America's earliest of its kind). Depending on your hiking base, you can expect to drive 80 to 100 miles to West Chester, thanks to its proximity to Pennsylvania's countryside.

Part of West Chester's heritage is centered around its historic college, West Chester University, with its Tudor and Gothic-style buildings and students scuttling across campus with books in hand. To savor the town's vibrant gastronomic landscape, you need to head to the heart of downtown, less than a mile away. Here's where popular establishments and hidden gems alike serve hearty food from all corners of the world. Take La Tartine, a French-inspired small bistro serving Mediterranean flavors in many forms, from croissants and tartines to hummus and shawarma. Its upmarket counterpart, Jolene's restaurant, serves house specialties such as Parisian gnocchi and Hudson Valley foie gras within its stylishly decorated walls.

If you're visiting West Chester in summer, the Gay Street Open-Air Market is a must. Every weekend, May through September, local business owners put up stalls and arrange open-air dining tables over four blocks of the town center, filling the air with delicious aromas and clinking sounds of glasses and forks. Pay a visit to D'Ascenzo's Gelato, an authentic Italian-style gelateria with a prime spot on Gay Street — perfect for people-watching the afternoon away. Try their signature flavors of pumpkin pie and cinnamon bun for a unique, indulgent taste of fall.

Beyond the town's Mediterranean offering, you can find true gems like Mae's, a farm-to-table little bistro serving seasonal delicacies from the region, or Mimi's Tea Cottage for an English-inspired afternoon tea. Whatever global cuisine you're after, chances are you will find it in West Chester, from trendy sushi bars such as Kooma to flavorsome Caribbean bites at Manje's, and from chic oyster bars like Greystone Oyster Bar to fast casual spots Oola Bowls in Lancaster Central Market.

Pennsylvania is famously proud of its culinary history and diversity, the result of centuries of immigrant communities calling it home, and of an agricultural sector growing a wide variety of produce. It's no surprise that outstanding food from all corners of the world is easy to find in West Chester. Alongside its vast array of independent restaurants and bars, locally owned shops contribute greatly to the town's appeal. You don't need to flock to Philadelphia to find great dining and walkable downtown shopping worthy of note. From unique bookstores to women's apparel and delicacies to take home, West Chester has its own distinctive vibe going on, and you're likely to find places you wouldn't encounter anywhere else.

For the book lovers in your life (even if that's you), head to Baldwin's Book Barn, a truly unique bookstore located in a restored 1822 countryside barn, just outside of urban West Chester. Admire dusty bookshelves propped against rustic farm-style walls in this five-story shop like no other. Keep following the quirky vintage locations all the way to Green Eyed Lady, a ladies' clothing shop that sells unique clothing at affordable prices. Finally, a dreamy boutique for cocoa lovers, Éclat Chocolate sells award-winning pralines, chocolates, and all the other sweets your heart might desire.

You could spend a whole day combing through the list of independent shops in West Chester. Luckily, the town's super useful directory is a great tool to narrow down your search so you spend your time browsing, beaming, and buying, rather than scrolling, sulking, and searching.