Valley Forge

24

Apr

I love living in a city and there are a surprising number of parks in Philadelphia (which is definitely one of my favorite things about living in Philadelphia), but sometimes it’s nice to escape the city and get some fresh air. Valley Forge is surprisingly close to Philadelphia (only about a 20 minute drive), and it’s the perfect combination of nature and history (you’ve probably seen how much I love history!). Valley Forge was the military camp where George Washington stayed the winter of 1777-78, and the military faced many hardships during that winter so there are a few monuments spread throughout the park dedicated to the soldiers. There are museums and historic buildings in park where you can learn more about the history of the area (they even have the house that George Washington stayed in!), or you can simply visit for a nice hike (you can get more information and view the hours here). And best of all, it’s free! 

I’ve been to Valley Forge twice already (I featured one trip in my Four Days in Philadelphia post), and I’m hoping to visit more this spring! It’s a beautiful area, and since it’s so large, it isn’t crowded at all. There are lots of different hiking trails to choose from, so you can try a different trail every time you go. And it’s dog friendly, so Annika can tag along 🙂 

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

This is the house that George Washington stayed in, and you can go in for a little tour

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

This banister has never been removed or renovated, so it’s the same one that George Washington used. I thought it was pretty neat because it’s so rare to be able to touch historical artifacts in museums 🙂

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

There’s a beautiful variety of plants and animals!

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Annika did lots of hiking and needed a rest!

Valley Forge

This is the National Memorial Arch

Valley Forge

I loved all the creeks and bridges!

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

Valley Forge

If you want an escape from being in the city while you’re visiting Philadelphia, I definitely suggest going to Valley Forge! 🙂 

Blog, Historical Philadelphia, North America, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Photography

  1. Pooja Krishna says:

    Incredible pics and I particularly enjoyed the tit-bits of history you shared. next on my visit list.

  2. Stacey says:

    Valley Forge is such a great place for running too! Thanks for these insights and beautiful photos

  3. I’ve never been before! How do they keep the banister in such great condition?? Also Annika is beautiful <3 -Audrey | Brunch at Audrey’s

  4. Julia says:

    That is such a strange-looking bridge haha! I’d never seen one like that before. The park looks beautiful, and so peaceful. Plus you can get a little bit of History and go for a nice day out at the same time!

    Julia x
    Last Post: Spring in Warwick, England | http://juliaspeaksbeauty.blogspot.co.uk/2017/04/spring-day-in-warwick.html

  5. Amanda says:

    Before this, I’d never seen many photos of Valley Forge, but I’ve always wanted to visit. It looks so beautiful and I, too, am a history buff. Also, Annika is precious!

  6. Tonya says:

    Wow, Valley Forge looks amazing! I will have to make a trip out there this summer.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

embed your form here

 Pellentesque rutrum maximus leo vitae blandit. Vestibulum vel est eu sem laoreet dapibus. Pellentesque cursus semper purus, a gravida tortor. Ut ac urna magna. 

Grab Your Guide