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Borough of Kennett Square
Kennett Square sits in the heart of lush Brandywine Valley. At the center of town, locals gather to shop and dine.
Beyond, surrounding farms produce roughly 60% of the country’s mushrooms, earning the area its well-earned nickname — the Mushroom Capital of the World.
Originally occupied by Lenape tribe members, the area now known as Kennett Square served an important role in the nation’s history.
British soldiers camped here during the Revolutionary War, the town served as a military encampment during the War of 1812 and many prominent Kennett Square citizens aided with the Underground Railroad.
This rich heritage earned Kennett Square a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1999.
In Kennett Square, action centers around State Street. This energetic thoroughfare showcases an array of locally owned businesses, charming shops, farm-fresh eateries and plenty of small-town charm.
Founded by Pierre S. du Pont, Longwood Gardens features 1,077 acres of exquisitely manicured gardens, woodlands, meadows, fountains and exhibits. Horticultural classes, live entertainment and special events throughout the year make this awe-inspiring oasis one of the Philadelphia region’s most visited attractions.
The breathtaking landscapes and exhibits at Longwood Gardens attract visitors to Kennett Square all year round.
Driving the 40 miles from Center City to Kennett Square takes roughly one hour. Metered street parking and municipal lots are available. Public transportation to and from Philadelphia is not easily accessible.
For breakfast and lunch, Talula’s Table draws hungry customers with its farm-to-table sandwiches and salads, fresh pastries, Chester County cheeses and wholesome prepared foods. Dinner, however, takes the dining experience to a whole other level; foodies reserve their seats at the coveted farm table up to one year in advance and look forward to a deliciously memorable, hyperlocal meal.
Patrons of gourmet Mexican ice cream parlor La Michoacana sprinkle cinnamon and chili powder on flavors like corn, avocado, tamarind, rice pudding, guava, passion fruit and other unconventional scoops.
The annual Kennett Square Mushroom Festival takes place each year on the weekend after Labor Day. Music, rides and entertainment attract crowds of all ages to celebrate the many varieties of locally grown edible fungi.
From 6:00–9:00 p.m. on the first Friday of each month, Kennett Square’s Art Stroll showcases local creativity in town galleries, shops and restaurants.
To raise funds to benefit Historic Kennett Square and help preserve the town’s heritage, the Kennett Brewfest and Kennett Winterfest draw beer lovers every October and February, respectively.
From May through Thanksgiving, the Kennett Square Farmers Market pleases food lovers every Friday from 2:00-6:00 p.m., and the summertime Third Thursdays spotlights the arts, shopping and dining in the heart of town.
Portabello's in Kennett Square — Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia
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