Tour Pennsylvania’s Chester County’s Brandywine Valley

Longwood Conservatory in Chester County, PA

CHESTER COUNTY’S BRANDYWINE VALLEY DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1 of Things to Do in Chester County

Home to world-renowned Longwood Gardens, Chester County’s Brandywine Valley is the heart of America’s Garden Capital, with the highest concentration of public gardens in the Greater Philadelphia region’s 30 gardens in 30 miles.

Longwood Gardens is a must-stop on every group itinerary, offering breathtaking seasonal exhibits year-round. A 17-acre sweeping expansion, Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience debuts this Fall, featuring a seemingly floating West Conservatory, Waterlily Court, Bonsai Courtyard and more to inspire your imagination. Revel in rainbow rows of tulips during Spring Blooms, or stroll the grand conservatory and thousand-acre property dressed in holiday décor grandeur during A Longwood Christmas. Group-favorite Festival of Fountains is on view May through October: Longwood boasts the most significant fountain collection in North America. See the thrill of what 1,700 jets can do as they dance to music and soar 175 feet in the air. On Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights throughout the season, the Main Fountain Garden turns technicolor for special Illuminated Fountain Performances, with themes ranging from the soundtracks of David Bowie to Taylor Swift.

Break for lunch at The Café at Longwood Gardens with sandwiches, entrees and their signature Kennett Square Mushroom Soup before a final stroll of the outdoor gardens.

Step back in time for dinner tonight at the Mendenhall Inn Restaurant. Enjoy sophisticated fare in the cozy historic inn, established in 1777 for a taste of Chester County history.

Overnight in a group-friendly Chester County hotels and receive a complimentary welcome gift.

Travelers experiencing a Northbrook Canoe adventure

DAY 2 of Attractions in Chester County, PA 

Amidst gardens galore, groups can embrace the region’s rich history of artistry at the Brandywine Museum of Art, the former estate of the famed artist N.C. Wyeth. Housed in a historic gristmill along the beautiful Brandywine River, the museum boasts a fascinating permanent collection of American artworks and exciting traveling exhibitions. View the locally inspired works of three generations of Wyeth family artists and tour the former studios of N.C. Wyeth and Andrew Wyeth to learn their fascinating life stories. A special exhibit to showcase the youngest Wyeth, Jamie Wyeth: Unsettled is on view this March-June.

As life imitates art, the beautiful landscapes of the Brandywine Valley are Pennsylvania’s masterpiece. Adventurous groups can choose to kayak or canoe down the Brandywine River at Northbrook Canoe Company for an active afternoon.

For groups looking to unwind, Chaddsford Winery is one of more than 10 wineries throughout the region and a favorite for group tastings. Housed in a 17^th century dairy barn, Chaddsford offers a diverse portfolio of award-winning dry, sweet and sparkling wines.

Prefer a brewery tour and tasting? The Brandywine Valley hosts a proud tradition of craft brewing with more than 25 local breweries. Dine and enjoy a pint or two at nationally-known and locally-loved Victory Brewing Company in Downingtown.

For more dining options and shopping, groups can explore the region’s historic main streets; each town offers a unique charm. Sample farm-fresh fare from the local restaurants of the Mushroom Capital of the World, Kennett Square, enjoy unique atmospheres for cocktails in Downtown West Chester, or explore the Borough of Phoenixville’s art scene and eclectic shops.

Nemours Estate Reception Hall in Pennsylvania

DAY 3 of Chester County, Pennsylvania Activities

Check out and step out for breakfast and a morning stroll downtown, but there’s more to explore! Enjoy a tour of a du Pont family mansion for an afternoon with the aristocrats. Green-thumbs, antique-lovers and history buffs alike will be fascinated by a tour of Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library (open March-December), Hagley Museum and Library, or Nemours Estate (open April-December).

For itinerary assistance and information about group welcome gifts with your stay, visit BrandywineValley.com/Groups or contact Courtney Babcock at courtney@brandywinevalley.com.

Pennsylvania still have plenty more attractions and destinations for travel groups to explore, so be sure to Download the February Leisure Group Travel magazine for FREE to get more travel ideas and information.

Request More Information From Chester County