How to Plan a Perfect Day Trip in Picturesque Chadds Ford

From antiquing to museums to fine dining, here are nine places you won’t want to miss in this quaint village.

AdobeStock/Real Focus

From antiquing to museums to fine dining, here are the hotspots you won’t want to miss in the quaint village of Chadds Ford.

Best known for its history—especially thanks to Brandywine Battlefield—Chadds Ford has plenty to offer, from walking trails to antiquing spots to gourmet cuisine. Spend a day exploring the many museums, historical attractions and shops in this charming village.

9 a.m. – Tuck in at Nudy’s Cafe

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Nudy’s Cafe (@nudyscafe)

With classic breakfast eatery Hank’s Place closed for renovations, check out nearby diner Nudy’s Café. Located right in the heart of town, this comfortable diner will satisfy even the sweetest tooth in your family. Pancakes, French toast and waffles are all specialties, but the carrot cake is a must-try. Don’t worry about long lines or excessive wait times, since Nudy’s has copious seating to accommodate the high demand it receives for breakfast and brunch. Owned and operated by locals, Nudy’s has been a Main Line staple since 1979.

- Advertisement -

240 Painter’s Crossing, Chadds Ford, (610) 459-1200

10 a.m. – Explore the outdoors on the Harvey Run Trail

A five-mile trail leads walkers from the Chadds Ford Township Building to the Brandywine Creek. Enjoy the scenic views on a leisurely stroll along the natural surface path. The trail network spans 300 acres of preserved open space. While there, keep an eye out for birds in the marshes. If you feel particularly active, try taking the Studio Trail, which leads to the homes and studios of N.C. and Andrew Wyeth.

11 a.m. – Watch history come to life at Brandywine Battlefield Park

Tour the site of the Battle of Brandywine at this 52-acre park. The historic battle preceded the British invasion of Philadelphia in 1777. Admission to the park includes an 18-minute video, museum and guided house tour.

- Partner Content -

1491 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, (610) 459-3342

12 p.m. – Explore the historical Sanderson Museum

Dedicated to the life and artifacts of Christian C. Sanderson, the Sanderson museum is a veritable time capsule of the 19th century natural historian and collector. Inside, find Sanderson family treasurers like photographs, autographs, arrowheads, rocks and minerals, plus artifacts from the Revolutionary, Civil, and World Wars. Plan ahead, as the museum is only open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

1755 Creek Road, Chadds Ford, (610) 388-6545

1 p.m. – Dine in style at The Gables at Chadds Ford

This Chadds Ford staple offers sumptuous meals with Southern flair. On warm days, take advantage of the warm weather and dine alfresco on the open patio, surrounded by string lights. Menu favorites include the Gables Burger, topped with smoked bacon, fried onions, lettuce and aged cheddar on a brioche bun, and the Kennett Square Flatbread, made with mozzarella, truffle oil and arugula.

- Advertisement -

423 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, (610) 388-7700

2:15 p.m. – Find lost treasure at the Pennsbury-Chadds Ford Antique Mall

Everything from antique furniture to paintings to books can be found at the Pennsbury-Chadds Ford Antique Mall. Many visitors find themselves lost in this expansive antique mall for hours, combing through old records and examining fine jewelry. The mall boasts Wyeth prints, too.

640 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, (610) 388-1620

3 p.m. – Explore local works at the Brandywine River Museum of Art

The Brandywine River Museum of Art archives and displays the art of Brandywine River and beyond. The work of the Wyeth family is a highlight, with galleries dedicated to Andrew Wyeth, Jamie Wyeth and N.C. Wyeth. The museum itself is architecturally stunning—a converted 19th-century mill with floor-to-ceiling glass windows that look out onto the Brandywine River.

1 Hoffmans Mill Rd, Chadds Ford

4 p.m. Wander the Chadds Ford Barn Shops

Filled with a range of businesses, all nestled in a quaint, historic village, the Chadds Ford Barn Shops is a great place to rest before dinner. Explore local photography at Snapped Studios, take in the scents of flowers at Green Meadows or enjoy a tasty treat at OsoSweet Bakery Café. Then take your snack outside to one of the communal pergolas and unwind.

1609 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford

6 p.m. – Dine at Brandywine Prime

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Brandywine Prime (@brandywine_prime)

Chadds Ford has an abundance of pre-Revolutionary War architecture, and Brandywine Prime is no exception. Built as a tavern in 1703, the Chadds Ford Inn today serves as a top-notch steakhouse. A local favorite, Brandywine Prime delights diners with its Kennett Square mushroom tart, 12-ounce certified Angus beef New York strip and crispy house-made mozzarella. The restaurant is typically packed on weekends, so be sure to make a reservation in advance.

1617 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, (610) 388-8088

9 p.m. – Hunker down at the Brandywine River Hotel

Bed down in an era of finery. The Brandywine River Hotel, an 18th-century Victorian-style building, is within walking distance of the town center. Its fireside suites include jacuzzi baths, fireplaces and all amenities commonplace in modern hotels. The hotel exudes a charm not often found in our modern world. Take advantage of this colonial setting while you’re in the area for a truly memorable ending to your Chadds Ford day trip.

1609 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, (610) 388-1200

Related: 7 Main Line Hiking Trails Made for Sunny Summer Days

Our Best of the Main Line Elimination Ballot is open through February 22!