Walking Tour Of Philadelphia's Chestnut Hill Neighborhood
Chestnut Hill is a culturally rich, historical Philadelphia-area neighborhood known for its lively atmosphere. While it lies only minutes from downtown Philadelphia, this picturesque bedroom community -- both quaint and avant garde at the same time -- is best explored on foot. Walking tours through this vibrant neighborhood offer an abundance of attractions, shopping, parks, restaurants and galleries – many of which are destinations in and of themselves. Eco-conscious visitors to this green neighborhood will revel in the number of local eateries and shops that embrace sustainable business practices and sell locally grown and eco-friendly products.
The Chestnut Hill Cheese Shop
8509 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 242-2211
www.chcheeseshop.com
Whether you fancy yourself a hardcore foodie or need to pick up a thoughtful gift, The Chestnut Hill Cheese Shop will delight the senses with its abundant selection of domestic and imported cheeses. Ask to sample the Asiago or taste the Teleme, and don't hesitate to inquire about the perfect wine to pair with them. You'll discover other treasures in this lovely little shop, including premium coffees, jams, caviar and bottles of imported vinegars and olive oils. Savor the sweeter side of life at this venue as well -- can you say chocolate? The patrons at the Chestnut Hill Cheese Shop can! Wander in to sample the wares, indulge your senses or treat someone you care about (or want to impress) with the heavenly gift of indulgence -- a gift basket from Chestnut Hill Cheese Shop.
Related: A Day in Chestnut Hill
Chestnut Hill Sports
8628 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 242-6167
www.facebook.com
Find your favorite Philadelphia team apparel at the Chestnut Hill Sports shop on Germantown Avenue. Most any item can be specially customized here, where silk-screening and embroidery are available to create a custom look for any item in the store. Are you a seasoned athlete or weekend warrior? The uber-helpful staff in this shop is up on all the local spots for hiking, biking and running, so don't be shy to ask for suggestions. Whether hoping to find that perfect gift for the sports fanatic on your shopping list or picking up a few special souvenirs, Chestnut Hill Sports is a stop you'll want to mark on your list.
The Night Kitchen Bakery And Cafe
7725 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 248-9235
www.nightkitchenbakery.com
This iconic bakery is the perfect spot to meet friends before heading off on your tour of Chestnut Hill. For the past 30 years, The Night Kitchen Bakery and Cafe has been the go-to for many a local (and quite a few not-so-locals) for artisan breads, designer cakes and other baked treats. John Millard and Amy Beth Edelman, the husband-wife chef/owners of The Night Kitchen Bakery, have cultivated a close-knit relationship with the community, personally interacting with patrons and the community through their efforts and activities to adopt sustainable practices and raise awareness of environmental issues in Chestnut Hill.
Paris Bistro and Jazz Cafe
8229 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 242-6200
www.parisbistro.net
Stop by this Parisian bistro for some live jazz, conveniently located right next door to the historic Chestnut Hill Hotel. You'll think you've stepped back in time to a 1930s French bistro when you experience the red leather and velvet chairs and sample the classic fare on this easily navigated menu. New to the Chestnut Hill neighborhood, this venue only recently opened its doors in early 2014. Now a hot spot with locals and first-time visitors alike, you won't want to miss out on the experience. Crab cakes, escargot and trout are on the menu, as is a vegetarian ratatouille, and did we mention that you'll want to sample a cheese plate paired with a glass of wine? Weekends from Thursday through Sunday are music to the ears at this venue, where you need only head downstairs to enjoy the live jazz.
Tavern on the Hill
8636 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 247-9948
www.tavernonthehill.biz
This tiny village pub is the perfect spot for a cozy lunch or dinner to kick off or finish up your walking tour. The popular eatery always has an updated menu of pub food and unique soups and sandwiches. You can't go wrong with the blackboard specials, and if you can't decide, go for the wings or pork sandwich with a side of portabella fries. Lively music is sure to lift the spirits during the dinner hours on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at Tavern on the Hill, as are the half-priced drafts and $4 house wines during happy hour Monday through Thursday. Getting hungry as you find yourself strolling along Germantown Avenue after the dinner hour? No worries, as this lively little venue welcomes patrons with late-night suppers for just $9 after 9 p.m.
Christy Ayala covers sports, recreation, the outdoors, and leisure activities in the Philadelphia area. She earned a masters degree in recreation administration from George Williams College and managed programs in the Midwest, Hawaii, and Pennsylvania. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.