Happy 230th Fourth of July -- Celebrate in Philadelphia

Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, Rejuvenate Patriotic Soul

Chestnut Hill, in the historic Germantown area of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is about nine miles Northwest of Center City Philadelplhia and rates almost as critical a place in the natiion's history as does Philadelphia center. There Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jeferson and General George Washington, plus a passle of other Founding Fathers, united our nation, beating the British to win our freedom.

Chestnut Hill is an upscale, lovely section, with pricey stores, lovely streets, trees, outdoor patios for dining, and several excellent day spas with extensive services.

The elegant Chestnut Hill Hotel and Silverstone Inn, in a charming old mansion, are two excellent places to stay while sightseeing and enjoying walking tours. Historic Cliveden, site of a pivotal Washington Battle-- a costly loss -- is a delight to tour with knowlegeable guides. The historic Valley Forge National Park is close by, about 20 miles, and boasts a new National Park Valley Forge Visitors Center. A shuttle takes visitors around the winter camping grounds where Washington's bedraggled troops regrouped, trained, and emerged a disciplined Army.

It's easy to get to Philadelphia, Valley Forge Park, and Chestnut Hill. Take Acela, the Amtrak speedy train, along the Northeast Corridor, and from Center City, hop aboard the same-station SEPTA suburban trains to Chestnut Hill and other locales. Rental cars are also availalbe at the lovely 30th Street Amtrak Station. Downtonw, visitors can tour the new Constitution Park, view the Libery Bell, interactive displays, and tour the site where the Declaration of Independece was signed.
Downtonw, guests also enjoy the terrific Philadelphia Art Museum, Zoo, and Benjamin Franklin sites along Market Street. Happy Fourth!