Chestnut Hill

Chestnut Hill

Type	Neighborhood
Location	Northwest Philadelphia
ZIP code(s)	19118
Established	1854 (consolidated into Philadelphia)
Boundaries	North: Springfield Township, South: Mount Airy, East: Whitemarsh Township, West: Wissahickon Valley Park
Adjacent	Mount Airy, Wissahickon, Andorra
Major streets	Germantown Avenue, Bethlehem Pike, Northwestern Avenue
Transit	SEPTA Regional Rail (Chestnut Hill East, Chestnut Hill West lines)
Landmarks	Chestnut Hill College, Morris Arboretum, Woodmere Art Museum

Chestnut Hill is an affluent neighborhood in the far northwest corner of Philadelphia, known for its upscale shopping along Germantown Avenue, historic architecture, and proximity to Wissahickon Valley Park. Often described as having a "Main Line" character within city limits, Chestnut Hill combines small-town charm with sophisticated amenities, making it one of Philadelphia's most desirable residential areas.

The neighborhood serves as the northern terminus for two SEPTA Regional Rail lines, making it accessible to Center City while maintaining a suburban atmosphere.

History

Colonial Era

The Chestnut Hill area was settled in the late 17th century, initially as part of the larger Germantown settlement. The neighborhood's elevation and distance from the city made it attractive as a summer retreat.

19th Century Development

Chestnut Hill developed significantly after the arrival of the railroad in 1854. Wealthy Philadelphians built grand estates, and the neighborhood became known for its architectural distinction. The Wissahickon Valley's natural beauty enhanced the area's appeal.

Two competing railroad lines—the Reading Railroad (now Chestnut Hill East) and the Pennsylvania Railroad (now Chestnut Hill West)—both built terminals in the neighborhood, a situation that continues today.

20th Century

Unlike many Philadelphia neighborhoods, Chestnut Hill maintained its prosperity throughout the 20th century. Active community organizations, good schools, and careful development preserved the neighborhood's character.

Germantown Avenue

The Germantown Avenue shopping district is Chestnut Hill's commercial heart:

Shopping

• Independent boutiques
• Antique stores
• Art galleries
• Specialty food shops
• National retailers (limited)

The commercial district maintains a carefully cultivated character with restrictions on signage and architecture.

Dining

• McNally's Tavern - Neighborhood bar, famous for "Schmitter" sandwich
• Campbell's Place - Contemporary American
• Mica - Fine dining
• Cake - BYOB
• Various cafes and casual restaurants

Character

Germantown Avenue in Chestnut Hill feels more like a prosperous small town than a city neighborhood:

• Street parking and walkable shopping
• Seasonal decorations
• Community events
• Outdoor dining in warm months

Parks and Nature

Wissahickon Valley Park

Chestnut Hill borders Wissahickon Valley Park, a 2,000-acre urban wilderness:

• Miles of hiking and biking trails
• Historic Valley Green Inn
• Covered bridges and stone ruins
• Scenic creek views
• Access points throughout the neighborhood

Morris Arboretum

The Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania is a 92-acre public garden:

• Extensive plant collections
• Historic Victorian gardens
• Fernery and sculptures
• Educational programs
• Seasonal events

Pastorius Park

A neighborhood park along Germantown Avenue.

Cultural Institutions

Woodmere Art Museum

The Woodmere Art Museum focuses on Philadelphia-area art and artists:

• Permanent collection of regional art
• Changing exhibitions
• Victorian mansion setting
• Community programs

Chestnut Hill College

A Catholic liberal arts college with a historic campus:

• Founded by the Sisters of Saint Joseph
• Beautiful stone buildings
• Public events and lectures

Getting There

SEPTA Regional Rail

Two Regional Rail lines terminate in Chestnut Hill:

• Chestnut Hill East Line - via North Philadelphia
• Chestnut Hill West Line - via 30th Street Station

Both lines provide service to Center City in approximately 30-35 minutes.

Driving

• Germantown Avenue from Germantown/Mount Airy
• Bethlehem Pike from Montgomery County
• Lincoln Drive from East Falls (scenic route)

Parking

Street parking along Germantown Avenue plus several public lots. Easier to find parking than Center City.

Living in Chestnut Hill

Housing

• Historic stone houses
• Victorian-era mansions
• Tudor and Colonial Revival homes
• Some apartments and condos
• High housing prices

Demographics

• Affluent families
• Professionals
• Retirees
• Long-established residents
• Well-educated population

Schools

Chestnut Hill has several highly regarded schools:

• Springside Chestnut Hill Academy (private)
• Norwood-Fontbonne Academy (private)
• Chestnut Hill Academy (private)
• Philadelphia public schools

Character

Chestnut Hill offers:

• Small-town feel within Philadelphia
• Excellent schools and safety
• Access to nature
• Sophisticated shopping and dining
• Strong community identity
• Higher costs than most city neighborhoods

Events

• Harry Potter Festival - Annual celebration
• Chestnut Hill Fall for the Arts - Arts festival
• Holiday Stroll - December shopping event
• Restaurant Week - Seasonal dining promotions
• Farmers Market (seasonal)

See Also

• Mount Airy
• Germantown
• Wissahickon Valley Park
• Northwest Philadelphia
• Morris Arboretum