Chestnut Hill/Mt Airy

Welcome to Chestnut Hill/ Mt Airy

Paradise of greenery tucked away from the urban bustle

A duo of northwest Philly suburbs nestled next to Germantown, the popularity of Chestnut Hill and Mt Airy dates back to colonial times — when both served as summer resorts for prominent families in Philadelphia. Built on a history of integration, the area endears many to its flourishing landscape of greenery, draped in a welcoming ambiance and multicultural vibes. Elegant gardens fleck the neighborhood, well-kept houses, and incredible community amenities, as well as an abundance of local businesses. A railroad into the city puts the Chestnut Hill and Mt Airy area at a convenient location to downtown Philly, where you can run back to the peaceful quiet of your neighborhood if the frenzy gets too much.

Here, most homes are single-family residences or row houses, many constructed from native materials like Wissahickon stone. Architectural styles abound, a testament to Chestnut Hill and Mt Airy's legacy of iconic designs. From Italianates to Colonial revivals, it's hard to miss the splendor of this neighborhood's historic mansions. Some of the most desirable parts of the area are where the oldest homes stand, and real estate prices reflect the high value of properties in this coveted enclave.

What To Love

• Small-town character with century-old charm
• Aristocratic aesthetic and lush landscapes
• 92-acre Victorian Garden at Morris Arboretum
• Classy restaurants and family-owned shops
• High-ranking private schools
  
  

Local Lifestyle

A dream haven for nature lovers, locals prize the gorgeous setting upon which their homes are crafted, the serene atmosphere, and their close-knit community. Despite Chestnut Hill and Mt Airy's proximity to the city, it fervently guards its small-town charisma while offering residents a high-quality lifestyle.

Tolerance is a big part of the community's pride, and people gravitate toward this neighborhood for its friendly residents who are known to accept people from all walks of life.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Serving up an impressive array of locally owned boutiques, quaint shops, and classy restaurants — many of which line the thoroughfare of Germantown Ave — your next great meal (or buy!) is only a stroll away from your doorstep.

Start your day at Mica with a bowl of pumpkin soup alongside scallops, and head over to Night Kitchen Bakery for a hearty slice of yellow cake covered in cream cheese. Looking to eat some ice cream on your way to the park? Hop into Bredenbecks, where you can even grab a box of cupcakes for a picnic with friends. The Market at Fareway teems with over a dozen vendors offering up fresh farm produce, sushi, cinnamon buns, coffee, and even Neapolitan-style pizza! Enjoy an old-school draft beer at McNally’s Pub, and finish up your mini food adventure with a stop by Mi Puebla for a plate of chicken nachos or enchiladas.

Things To Do

Whether you want to spend the whole day strolling through gardens of flora or getting lost in a vibrant throng of festival-goers, you’ve come to the right neighborhoods.

Browse through outstanding exhibits in the massive stone mansion of The Woodmere Art Museum, and lose yourself in the grandeur and beauty that surrounds you. Head on over to Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania and take a walk through the dazzling rose garden. Many people have their weddings on these magical grounds, but even if you just want to bring the kids along for a casual evening, there’s no telling the amount of fun the whole family will have!

Hike the Forbidden Drive or catch up with neighbors at the Philadelphia Cricket Club. Holiday on the Hills is a wonderful time to enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride along the cobblestone streets of the garden district and shop late into the night, grabbing more holiday gifts for your kids. Celebrate all things Hogwarts at the Harry Potter Festival, or immerse yourself in spring vibes and various artwork at the Chestnut Hill Home and Garden Festival. There’s so much food, music, face painting, and amusing family games you can partake in!

Schools

The School District of Philadelphia serves residents of Chestnut Hill and Mt. Airy, while both neighborhoods are also notable for their high-performing private schools. Some prestigious institutions include:

• John Story Jenks School, K-8
• Roxborough High School, 9-12
• Springside Chestnut Hill Academy, Pre-K-12
• Eleanor C. Emlen School, K-5
• William Penn Charter School, K-12

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