About the B.I.D. | Current Programs | Construction Updates | Links

Home

Downtown Events

Restaurant Directory

Retail Directory

Professional Services Directory

Slideshow

About the Downtown

Free Brochure

Maps and Directions

E-mail Signup

Contact

West Chester Webcam


Retail Space

Commercial Lots

Office Space

 

Nestled in the heart of the Brandywine Valley, downtown West Chester reflects the small-town charm and cosmopolitan tastes that prompted The Philadelphia Inquirer to call West Chester ". . . one of the world's most perfect small towns" (July 26, 2001).

History
Since 1769, when the Turks Head Inn first offered refreshment to weary travelers, West Chester has been a place of hospitality to visitors from around the world. It became the seat for Chester County in 1788 and incorporated as a borough in 1799.

Stroll along brick sidewalks past the building where Abraham Lincoln began his quest for the presidency; where the great African-American folk artist Horace Pippin lived and painted; where America's preeminent composer Samuel Barber was born and raised (best known for his Adagio for String Orchestra); and actors Claude Raines and Eva Marie Saint spent their days.

Architecture
The entire downtown district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Enjoy the Greek Revival architecture along High Street that gave West Chester the nickname Athens of the West. Within the Borough limits, there are over 3,000 structures dating back to the colonial period.

Restaurants
Downtown West Chester offers a selection of more than 25 restaurants. Whether you're looking for the perfect coffee drink or micro-brew, light lunch or haute cuisine, you will find something for every taste and budget.

Warm summer nights are particularly pleasant as dining moves to the sidewalks. Many restaurants offer entertainment. Friends meet and people relax in the cosmopolitan atmosphere that downtown West Chester offers.

Shopping
Downtown West Chester offers a diverse and unique shopping experience. Apparel, jewelry, art, antiques and gifts can be found in quaint shops dotting the pleasant and walkable main streets.

Galleries
Browse among downtown galleries and discover unique treasures.

Antiques
Step inside any of the antique shops and enjoy a journey back to a special time. Collectibles of every kind may be found.

c 2002 West Chester B.I.D. All rights reserved
Call 610.738.3350 or fax 484.843.2250
Site designed and maintained by Triton Web Studios