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West Chester History

West Chester was settled in the early 18 th century by members of the  Society of Friends. West Chester was originally known as Turk’s Head,   after the Inn that was located in what is now the center of the borough.       The borough has been the seat of government in Chester County since    1786. Today West Chester is part of the rapidly growing suburban     complex surrounding Philadelphia.

West Chester Parks and Recreation  

The mission of the West Chester Recreation Department is to provide a variety of safe, affordable, and enjoyable educational and recreational programs and activities that enhance the quality of life in West Chester now and for the generations to follow. The department works continuously to ensure that residents of West Chester and visitors can enjoy the park areas to their highest potential. 

Click here for the West Chester department of Recreation

Hibernia County Park
Hibernia County Park features 800 acres of woodlands and meadows. Hibernia Mansion is an 18 th century historical ironmaster’s home which overlooks the park. There are miles of multi-use trails, open fields, picnic areas, primitive family camping areas, playground areas, a children’s pond, and Brandywine Creek. From April to November you can even participate in the park’s hayrides! There are also five pavilions throughout the park for use.

Nottingham County Park
Nottingham County Park is the oldest park in the county. It features 651 acres which include an extensive bike trail system, two family camp areas, fishing, multi-use trails, nine pavilions, and sports and playground areas.

Springton Manor Farm
The Springton Manor Farm is a 300 acre demonstration farm that features a petting area, agricultural museum and outbuildings. It is the newest county park and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Struble Trail
Struble Train is a 2 ½ mile nature trail which parallels the east branch of the Brandywine Creek. The trail provides walking, jogging and biking opportunities.

Struble Lake
Struble Lake lies south of Morgantown. The lake covers 146 acres and supports a wide variety of fish. Facilities include picnic tables and a boat-launch ramp.

Warwick County Park
Warwick County Park is a 445 acre park that includes 2 miles of scenic French Creek and is a favorite spot for fisherman. The Horse Shoe Trail, which extends from Valley Forge to Harrisburg, joins the many miles of multi-use trail system in the park.

West Chester Events

West Chester is home to many events that you won’t want to miss! The community comes together several times a year to participate in fun festivals complete with music, food, crafts, entertainment, and more. Bring your family and friends out to create everlasting memories here in West Chester! Here is a sampling of events...

Cyclists pushed to the very limit! The roar of the crowd as they navigate the challenging turns and straight-aways in historic downtown West Chester. Prepare yourself for a final burst of intense excitement as the sun sets and the Men's Professional take command of the streets during the annual Iron Hill Twilight Criterium.

The Annual Chester County Restaurant Festival includes participation from over 50 area restaurants, more than 110 craft vendors, and 10 live bands.

The Annual Turks Head Music Festival features great bands that perform between 12 and 8pm. There are craft vendors, information booths, and food for everyone to enjoy.

Located in Downtown West Chester, Swingin’ Summer Thursdays take place on the first Thursday of each month, June through September. Free for the whole family!

Don't miss the West Chester Rotary Club's Annual Chili Cookoff where roughly 70 teams will compete for the People's Choice Award and the acclaim of having the "Best Darn Chili in Chester County."

Chester County Day is an annual tradition. Sponsored by the Chester County Hospital, this is the oldest house tour in the nation. If you love architecture, artistry and antiques, you won't want to miss this premier house tour always the first Saturday of October. 

Also enjoy Ghost Tours, Gallery Walks, First Fridays, the Halloween Parade and Old Fashioned Christmas and the Christmas Parade.

Click here for a complete list West Chester events

West Chester Attractions

Here in West Chester you’ll find many great attractions and things to do. Come see a performance of the Brandywine Ballet Company or stop by the American Helicopter Museum for a day filled of fun and aviation education. Downtown West Chester also offers a great number of things to do, including restaurants, shops, galleries, and more!

Brandywine Ballet Company

The Brandywine Ballet Company consists of dancers ranging in ages between 11 and 18. Here aspiring students receive the opportunity to develop as dancers with their peers, as well as participate in professional, large-scale performances with the Brandywine Ballet Theatre members and guest artists.

American Helicopter Museum

The American Helicopter Museum features 35 civilian military helicopters, autogiros and convertiplanes. The museum offers a well-rounded collection of impressive machines, including the V-22 Osprey. The museum also features a library with many historic documents and artifacts on display.

Longwood Gardens

Visit Longwood Gardens, which now encompasses 1,077 acres of gardens, woodlands, and meadows. Enjoy over 11,000 types of plants, more fountains than any other garden in the US, educational and visitor programming, and over 400 performances a year visit Longwood Gardens, which now encompasses 1,077 acres of gardens, woodlands, and meadows. Enjoy over 11,000 types of plants, more fountains than any other garden in the US, educational and visitor programming, and over 400 performances a year.

Chester County Historical Society

In the heart of West Chester, the Chester County Historical Society is a fun place to visit with programs, activities, museum, research library with newspapers dating back to Ben Franklin, photos from the beginning of the camera, spell-bounding, interactive exhibits, a History Lab where you can dress in a Civil War officer’s jacket, learn how to construct a Chester County Chippendale-style chair, and events that are amazing – and all relate to the history of Chester County from 1600 to today.

QVC

QVC, the popular home-shopping network, offers studio tours that feature live broadcasts from five studio views.

West Chester Railroad

A tourist railroad along the beautiful Chester Creek Valley in Southeastern Pennsylvania. We offer a variety of nostalgic 90 minute train trips. Throughout the year, West Chester Railroad offers many different special events for our riders. Join in the fun

Baldwins Book Barn 

Step inside and you are transported to another time and place. Today the store is stuffed to the rafters with a treasure trove of 300,000 used and rare books, manuscripts and maps as well as fine paintings, prints and estate antiques and other valued collectables.

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