Pennsylvania's Walkable Philadelphia Main Line Town Is A Charming Suburb With Breweries And Nearby Trails

Pennsylvania's Chester County is a desirable locale bordering Delaware and Maryland, known for rolling farmland, world-class gardens, and urban charm with its position in the suburbs of both Philadelphia and Wilmington. Located in the county is Berwyn, Pennsylvania, a walkable town on Philadelphia's Main Line, attracting young families and professionals looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Community life in Berwyn centers on the great outdoors of Southeast Pennsylvania, intersecting with urban amenities like fantastic breweries, dining, and a buzz-worthy arts scene.

Berwyn has been charming visitors since its founding in 1877. Today, the suburb has fewer than 4,000 residents, but the small population maintains a rich culture that has earned the town a coveted "A+" rating on Niche, heavily influenced by its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to outdoor recreation. Berwyn has two breweries within its borders, as well as a pour house serving an array of regional and international brews. If you're looking to get outside, there are few better places than Southeast Pennsylvania's woodlands. Berwyn has one designated park and about 10 more closely situated outside of town. The nearby parks boast multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and strolling.

Getting to Berwyn from Philadelphia is simple. It typically takes 30 to 45 minutes to drive, depending on city traffic. Alternatively, public transportation across the Philadelphia Main Line is some of the best on the East Coast. The PAO train line from the 30th Street Station in Philly takes roughly 40 minutes to reach Berwyn.

Berwyn's brewery scene includes La Cabra Brewing and Will's + Bill's Brewery and Restaurant. La Cabra serves a rotation of craft beers and Latin-inspired cuisine. The father-and-son duo behind Will's and Bill's is a newer addition to town with comfortable seating, a full menu, and family-owned charm. If you want a wider selection of beer, the menu at Casey's Pour House is another great option. One reviewer says that they've "tried a lot of great spots along the Main Line, but Casey's in Berwyn continues to be my go-to."

The only park in Berwyn is the small Frank Johnson Memorial Park. However, Berwyn boasts a high Walk Score of 73, so even though park options are slim, restaurants, shops, and entertainment can easily be reached on foot. The list of nearby trails around Berwyn is also extensive. Some options include the highly rated 5.2-mile Radnor Trail and the leisurely Willows and Skunk Hollow Loop. The gem for trails and fishing, Ridley Creek State Park, is also nearby and has a range of activities perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Berwyn is positioned near Valley Forge National Historic Park and Longwood Gardens, America's largest botanical garden, which each include a variety of activities beyond their on-site walking trails. Valley Forge has war commemorations, site tours, and a history museum. Alternatively, Longwood Gardens is the exceptionally maintained garden estate of the late Pierre S. DuPont. Open year-round, the garden hosts seasonal exhibitions showcasing local and international flora. 

Being so closely positioned to Philadelphia, it is no surprise that Berwyn has a bustling arts scene. The Footlighters Theater has been open downtown for over 90 years and maintains a packed schedule of shows. At the time of writing, its season includes hits like "Hello, Dolly!" and Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night." Music lovers, rejoice — Berwyn is also home to a stocked record store, Shady Dog Records, filled with physical media across a range of genres from jazz classics to rock 'n' roll.

Down Berwyn's bustling Lancaster Avenue, diners can find restaurant options that feature a diverse range of cuisines, all within walking distance of each other. Nirvana Indian Bistro boasts a 4.6-star rating on Google (as of this writing) and has a large menu of Indian favorites with varying spice levels. Next door is Frankie's Fellini Cafe, which is a classic, BYOB red sauce joint with an intimate dining room and rave reviews. If you're in the mood for sushi, Veeko is a romantic Pan-Asian option with fresh fish, sashimi, maki rolls, and classic Chinese-American staples like General Tso's chicken and crab rangoons.

Lodging in Berwyn is limited — there are a handful of modestly priced hotel chains in town. Beyond that, there are a few charming vacation rentals in Berwyn ranging from private guest rooms to an entire house with a pool and sunset views.