There are rich and complex stories to tell about the Countryside of Philadelphia.
Visitors enjoy world-class art collections, splendid formal and natural garden landscapes, classic American small towns, and plenty of tax-free shopping (on clothing and shoes) year-round. Take a peek at the many adventures awaiting just outside of Philadelphia.
America's Garden Capital
The greater Philadelphia region abounds in horticultural assets, earning it the moniker “America’s Garden Capital.” World-renowned Longwood Gardens combines the best of Italian, French, and English traditions to create one of America’s most memorable gardens. Longwood encompasses 1,077 acres, offering 20 outdoor gardens and breathtaking conservatories. The West Conservatory, a 32,000-square-foot crystal palace seemingly floating on water, has opened at Longwood Gardens, part of a sweeping 17-acre expansion. The interior contains Mediterranean-inspired gardens set amid pools, canals, and fountains in an exquisite tapestry-like design. Additional elements of this reimagining include the relocated and reconstructed 3,800-squarefoot Cascade Garden; the new outdoor Bonsai Courtyard; and the renewed Waterlily Court. Longwood’s fine dining experience, 1906, has been transformed and relocated to overlook the Main Fountain Garden, with flavors as spectacular as its setting.
Morris Arboretum, the official arboretum of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, is on the National Register of Historic Places. The arboretum has over 12,000 plants from North America, Europe, the Mediterranean, China, Japan, and Korea, with a focus on Asian temperate species. Some species are among the largest of their kind in North America, while others are exceedingly rare.
A Shopping Haven
Bargains are just as plentiful as blooms, as fabulous shopping can be found throughout The Countryside of Philadelphia. The recently expanded King of Prussia Mall — the largest retail destination in the country — features over 400 stores, including Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s, and Macy’s, as well as an impressive collection of luxury retailers such as Cartier, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Williams-Sonoma. An exciting new addition to the mall, Netflix House invites visitors to step inside the worlds of fan-favorite shows. Coming in 2027, DICK’S House of Sport will offer immersive experiences and hands-on attractions designed to redefine the retail experience by bringing sports to life.
Nearby, Philadelphia Premium Outlets offer 150 name-brand outlet stores with 25–65 percent savings every day from brands including Ann Taylor, Brooks Brothers, Coach, Cole Haan, and Nike. Both malls are part of Simon Property Group.
Unique shopping can also be found throughout the small towns and villages that populate The Countryside of Philadelphia. Popular spots include Ambler, Skippack, West Chester, Lansdale, Phoenixville, and “The Mushroom Capital of the World”— Kennett Square. The museums and attractions throughout the Countryside have wonderfully curated gift shops offering one-of-a-kind items.
A Shared History
Both the Brandywine Battlefield and Valley Forge National Historical Park played noteworthy roles in the Revolutionary War: Brandywine, the largest engagement of the war, saw victory go to the British General Howe, while Valley Forge was the site of the 1777–1778 winter encampment of General George Washington and the Continental Army. The newly renovated visitor center and museum exhibition tells that story with first-ever displays including many objects from the George C. Neumann and John F. Reed Collections of Revolutionary War artifacts. Today these sites welcome visitors to experience stories brought to life in lively and informative ways, including historical interpreters, hands-on demonstrations, and historical reenactments. The Museum of the American Revolution in nearby Philadelphia highlights the stories of both Brandywine and Valley Forge within the entire story of America’s birth.
World-Class Museums and Attractions
We have museums and attractions to appeal to all tastes, from high art to adrenaline-packed adventures. The Brandywine Museum of Art displays an unparalleled collection of illustrations, still-lifes, and landscapes by three generations of the Wyeth family. The Wharton Esherick Museum celebrates the “Dean of American Craftsmen” and his unique and fanciful woodcarvings. The John James Audubon Center offers an 18,000-square-foot museum, nature-based facility, and art.
At the other end of the spectrum, iFLY King of Prussia offers a skydiving experience that is unique for being wholly indoors, but no less thrilling. Family fun is easy to find at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, the high-tech, family-friendly Topgolf now open in King of Prussia, and the newly renovated Elmwood Park Zoo. Don’t miss the Zoo’s Trail of the Jaguar, a 5,000-square-foot big cat exhibit designed by architects from Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Coming in 2029: New Building and Complex Expansion at the Brandywine Museum of Art
Delicious Dining
Tempting palates is a specialty in The Countryside of Philadelphia. A crew of expert chefs can satisfy every craving with the freshest local ingredients, including the mighty mushroom! The region produces over 60% of the nation’s mushrooms, earning it the title of Mushroom Capital of the World. Savor Italian flavors at Eataly, new to the King of Prussia Mall: a vibrant Italian emporium offering authentic cuisine, imported delicacies, and immersive culinary experiences, from pasta making to wine tastings.
The Countryside is home to a vibrant collection of wineries. Experience beautiful estate vineyards, charming tasting rooms, and barrel-aging cellars with premium wines that showcase a unique terroir. Craft brewers are even more plentiful with 70 plus throughout The Countryside. For craft cocktails to sip and savor, look no further than our local distilleries — Cheers!
2027 Events
Brandywine Battlefield: Camping with the Continentals | May 15 & 16, 2027
The Brandywine Battlefield will offer revolutionary history experiences, including overnights in soldiers’ tents.
Battle of Brandywine 2027 Reenactment | September 11 & 12, 2027
The premier reenactment in the nation with living history actors from the United States and England.
Special Exhibition: Brandywine’s Battle: 1777 and After | September 2027–January 2028
The Brandywine Museum of Art will hold a special exhibition to honor the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Brandywine.
Valley Forge National Historical Park 250th Anniversary Commemoration
Throughout the anniversary period, the park will host special programming, commemorative events, historical demonstrations, educational experiences, and community celebrations honoring the resilience and legacy of the Continental Army.