A Day In Chestnut Hill

Philadelphia's Chestnut Hill area is a vibrant, highly livable neighborhood on the outskirts of Philadelphia. More than just a desirable bedroom community, Chestnut Hill is known for its shops and restaurants, and is home to a number of galleries and museums, including the Woodmere Art Museum. Tree-lined streets with historic homes and buildings make up walkable, multi-generational, family-friendly neighborhoods that are connected by the community's cobblestone-paved main road, Germantown Avenue, a former trolley route. This green neighborhood epitomizes the definition of a sustainable community, with local groups and businesses embracing sustainable practices. Chestnut Hill hosts a Home and Garden Show each year, along with an open market and festivals coordinated by Green in Chestnut Hill (GRINCH) and/or the Chestnut Hill Business Association. A number of Chestnut Hill restaurants and bakeries support local farms by buying local fresh produce, green spaces include the not-for-profit Morris Arboretum, and bordering the community is Fairmount Park, the largest city park in the nation.

The Chestnut Hill Cheese Shop
8509 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 242-2211
www.chcheeseshop.com

For the hardcore foodie, The Chestnut Hill Cheese Shop offers up an abundant selection of domestic and imported cheese from Asiago to Teleme. Other delicacies include premium coffees, caviar, jams and the ever-popular bottles of imported vinegars and olive oils. And did we mention chocolates? Stop in to sample the wares or take them to go – you can't go wrong with a gift basket from Chestnut Hill Cheese Shop.

Related: Profile: A Philadelphia Green Business Owner

Chestnut Hill Hotel
8229 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 242-5905
www.chestnuthillhotel.com

The Chestnut Hill Hotel is an icon in the Philadelphia area. Whether you visit for the day or spend the night at this easy-going, family-friendly yet elegant hotel in the heart of Chestnut Hill, you'll find yourself wishing you could stay longer. Did we mention this hotel is pet-friendly? Not only will it welcome your pet (though fees apply), but it can recommend a number of nearby eateries and shops that will also welcome your furry friend.

Chestnut Hill Sports
8628 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 242-6167
www.facebook.com/pages/Chestnut-HILL-Sports

For sportswear and your favorite Philadelphia team apparel, Chestnut Hill Sports is the place to shop. Customized silk-screening and embroidery are offered to customize any item, making this venue the ideal stop for finding that perfect gift for the sports lover in your life.

CinCin
7838 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 242-8800
www.cincinrestaurant.com

Enjoy lunch or dinner at this Pan-Asian restaurant that dishes up Chinese fare with French flair. Known for its light, tasty spring rolls, CinCin is popular with visitors as well locals, and those in the know will advise reservations. Order the chef's special if you're not sure what to choose, and if you are on the run, CinCin can be ordered to go, with delivery service available to nearby homes and hotels.

The Night Kitchen Bakery And Cafe
7725 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 248-9235
www.nightkitchenbakery.com

For breakfast or lunch, head for The Night Kitchen Bakery and Café. This eatery has been providing Philadelphia-area residents with breads, designer cakes and other baked goods for the past three decades. Once a dedicated bakery, the venue has expanded to include a café that serves breakfast, lunch and brunch, seven days a week. Regulars rave about the artisan pizzas and specialty drinks.

The Tangled Web
7709 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 242-1271
www.tangledweb.com

Are you a crafter or just love being surrounded by yarn and fabric? If so, you'll feel at home in this shop, which draws in knitters, crafters and crocheting enthusiasts. You'll find a wide selection of yarn, needles and accessories from Cascade, Ella Rae, Noro, Malbrigo and Be Sweet. The shop also hosts monthly special projects and classes for both children and adults.

Tavern on the Hill
8636 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 247-9948
www.tavernonthehill.biz

This tiny pub is the perfect spot for a cozy lunch or dinner. The popular eatery always has an updated menu of pub food and unique soups and sandwiches. You can't go wrong with the blackboard specials, and if you can't decide, go for the wings or pork sandwich with a side of portabella fries.

Related:  Top Spots To Eat in Chestnut Hill

Christy Ayala covers sports, recreation, the outdoors, and leisure activities in the Philadelphia area. She earned a masters degree in recreation administration from George Williams College and managed programs in the Midwest, Hawaii, and Pennsylvania. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.