Welcome to Chestnut Hill
An upscale, historic neighborhood in northwest Philadelphia.
Bounded on the northwest by Northwestern Avenue, the west by Wissahickon Gorge, and the northeast by Stenton Avenue, Chestnut Hill is nestled in a quaint, foliaged part of northwestern Philadelphia. Almost entirely a zipcode unto itself, the old-world charm of Chestnut Hill makes it the ideal destination for any young professional, family, or retiree.
Originally the gateway between Philadelphia and farmlands, Chestnut Hill quickly became a summer destination for many of Revolutionary-era America’s more affluent, as the elevated geography made for cooler, more stunning surroundings. Incorporated by Philadelphia in 1854, the railroads built to connect the affluent suburb helped the area grow into the bustling neighborhood we know today.
Designated a Historic District in 1985, Chestnut Hill is resplendent with 19th and 20th-century architecture. Aristocratic estates and historic mansions stand alongside quaint rowhomes throughout the area. The ambiance already present is built upon by the Italian Villa, Italianate, Gothic Revival, and other mid-Victorian styles threaded throughout the neighborhood, giving the whole community an elegant yet small-town atmosphere.
Things to Love
- Connection to Philadelphia via SEPTA
- Surrounded by excellent green spaces
- Sterling school systems are perfect for setting your kids up for success
People and Lifestyle
Humming with sophistication and elegance, the historically affluent town of Chestnut Hill is renowned for its small-town vibe in addition to its big-city amenities. Though the area is thought of as upscale, people from all walks of life are thrilled to call the neighborhood home. With a population of over 12,000, the close-knit community is known for its events and opportunities, not to mention friendliness. With a fair mix of homeowners and renters, the environment of Chestnut Hill is nothing short of charming.
Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment
Only a 25-minute drive from downtown Philadelphia, Chestnut Hill is nonetheless poised to provide a top-tier experience right in town. From hundred-year-old mainstays to contemporary choices, the town aims to provide.
Cutting through the heart of town, Germantown Avenue is the spot to congregate for a day of shopping, snacking, or more. Update your wardrobe for the season at the stylish
Greene Street Consignment, or elevate your music-listening experiences by stopping at
Hideaway Music for some vinyl records. Thinking about remodeling or looking to spruce up your home? You’ll want to visit the family-owned, century-old
Kilian Hardware for all your needs.
Celebrate happy hour with warm company and an inviting ambiance at Chestnut Hill hotspot,
McNally’s Tavern, known for its signature sandwich, The Schmitter®️, but it also features other great sandwiches & soups and solid draft beers on 13 taps. Or, explore international cuisine by reserving a table at the elegant
Hokka Hokka, a Japanese restaurant and cocktail bar.
Mica, a compact eatery complete with remodeled interiors, is a great way to unwind with a delicious meal after a long day, or relax on the patio over a pitcher of margaritas at
El Poquito, a delightful collision between an artisanal taco truck and an old-school cantina.
Things to Do
Surrounded on three sides by dozens of acres of green spaces, plus a local commitment to community means that Chestnut Hill never lacks in things to do.
Embed yourself in the community by partaking in the top-tier local farmers market,
Market at the Fareway. Fresh produce, baked goods, and locally sourced honey are just a few of the offerings present at this gem of the neighborhood. Pencil in some excellent live musicians by checking out the
Pastorius Park Summer Concert Series, which boasts a whole host of options. The wildly popular, annual Harry Potter-themed festival,
Witches and Wizards, is another event that can’t be missed.
Take to the outdoors through the elevated option of the
Philadelphia Cricket Club, a prestigious country club offering a cricket ground, golf course, tennis and squash courts, and a pool. Or, for a more natural green space, plan for an afternoon at the 1,800-acre
Wissahickon Gorge or even the bordering area of
Fairmount Park, the largest park in Philadelphia.
Schools
Chestnut Hill is known for its excellent educational opportunities, both private and public. Top choices include:
- Springside Chestnut Hill Academy (K-12)
- Central High School
- Norwood-Fontbonne Academy
