Situated Between Philly And Lancaster Is Pennsylvania's Underrated Borough With Charming Arts And Stunning Trails

Philadelphia is known for many things, but one of the most prominent features of the city is its arts scene. It has wonderful museums to get lost in, thousands of murals that make for a giant open-air art gallery, and beautifully curated parks. Nearby boroughs and suburbs are equally blessed with a beautiful arts culture, as well as something you just can't find in the middle of a historic city — nature trails. If you travel just an hour east of Philly, you'll come across the borough of Downingtown. This charming little district is simply packed with fun, including the creativity that overflows from Philadelphia's unique art-filled spaces, plus a sprawling natural haven ready for adventurers.

If you're ready for a relaxing break in this underrated suburb, you can fly into Philadelphia Airport from all over the country, or travel to the Philadelphia Amtrak station (which has plenty of art of its own) from popular cities like New York, Richmond, Boston, and Chicago. Once you're in Philly, it's just a 40-mile drive or taxi ride to Downingtown. Alternatively, you can use Amtrak's Keystone Service or the local transit system's Paoli/Thorndale Line, both of which run to Downingtown until 10 p.m.

One of the best things to do in Downingtown is get out and enjoy the greenery on offer. There are tons of parks to explore with lakes, trails, and fun activities. These include Lloyd Park, where there's a dog park, beach volleyball court, and creek walk, and Kerr Park, where the farmer's market is held every Saturday. Just outside of Downingtown, near West Chester, a historic college town, is the Marsh Creek State Park and lake, which is a hub of activity all year round. Motorized boats aren't allowed on the lake, so it's perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or enjoying moonlight and Fourth of July fireworks tours. Plus, if you've never done these activities before, there are courses available for everything from kayaking to fly fishing and archery. Although you can't swim in the lake, you can swim in the State Park pool, so remember your swimsuit, towel, and some good sun protection. Though lake activities die down in the colder months, there are still guided full-moon walks that lead to stunning hilltop views of the night sky.

Hiking isn't just reserved for the nights in Downingtown, however. The most popular hike in the area is on Harmony Hill, a moderate, 2.7-mile circular trail through stunning natural scenery. Previous hikers have said it's a quiet and peaceful environment despite its popularity, and you could choose to bike, run, or hike it. There are myriad other trails in the area as well, including the popular and easy Struble Trail that runs along the Brandywine Creek, and plenty more around the local parks like Bell Tavern Park and Johnstown Park. 

Downingtown does an amazing job of blending its lovely green spaces with its crafty side. One great example of this is the Fall Arts Fest that takes place every autumn in Kerr Park. There's music, murals, crafts, and family fun, all put on to help local arts organizations. You can also check out the Chrysalis Art Center, a local gallery and studio, to try your hand at a new craft or find a different perspective on one of your favorites. In true Downingtown style, they have an arts and nature workshop, as well as drawing, painting, ceramics, glass and enameling, and more. 

There are also other one-off art workshops in town, like pet portrait workshops. A historic theater in town, the Roosevelt Theater (previously the Downingtown Opera House), is now occupied by a local performing arts school, and if you're hoping to catch a flick, head to the local IMAX cinema, the Regal Downingtown. However you choose to express yourself, Downingtown is sure to provide with its wonderful, artistic community and stunning landscapes.