Great Escape: Historic Sites

Philadelphia is an incredibly historic city and its northwest corner is full of some of the most interesting and beautiful remnants of our nation’s beginnings. But have you seen them all? Now’s the time--check out your own slice of history today.

Awbury Arboretum – The Awbury Arboretum is a great place to enjoy the scenery and to picnic, but it is also home to some incredible history. The Francis Cope House, where the main office of the property resides, was built by a ship owner who wanted a country home in which to raise his family. The 40-acre estate was named after a village and England, and the buildings throughout the property link today with the Quaker family’s heritage. The property houses dozens of varieties of native and exotic trees that were planted and have flourished since the property’s inception.
Location: One Awbury Road, 19138

The Johnson House– Head down Germantown Ave. for a
day at the Johnson House, an historic mansion that was the prominent Philadelphia stop on the Underground Railroad. Three generations of abolitionist Quakers fought for freedom within these walls, and the current museum offers insights to those looking from the perspective of the refugee slaves as well as the law-defying families. Since its historic service, this property has been helped along the way by several philanthropies, and in 1997 the house was dedicated as a National Historic Landmark.
Location: 6306 Germantown Ave., 19144

Manayunk Canal– If you don’t live in a neighborhood that affords you daily access to the Manayunk Towpath along the Manayunk Canaland all the beauty, history and accessibility that comes with it, you don’t know what you’re missing. The Friends of the Manayunk Canal offer environmental and historical walks along the premises, and regular clean ups help bring a sense of enthusiasm and respect to the area.
Location: Manayunk

Cliveden – Once upon a time (let’s say circa 1767), attorney Benjamin Chew built himself a manor in Germantown. Cliveden is now owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, but at one point it housed nine generations of Chews. Cliveden still serves as a dark reminder of slavery, houses all the furnishings of a revolutionary age, and its location marks the battleground of the 1977 Battle of Germantown.
Location: 6401 Germantown Ave., 19144

Grumblethorpe – Grumblethorpe; Its name alone gives cause for pause. Grumblethorpe was one of the many summer getaways scattered throughout Germantown, and this one was built by the Wister family. Now there’s a name you’ve heard before. The Wisters also used the home as a refuge during the yellow fever epidemic in the heart of the city. With beautiful gardens tucked in the back and a world of history inside, Grumblethorpe is a great place to visit for just $5 general admission. You can also rent the outdoor space for cocktail parties or weddings.
Location: 5267 Germantown Ave., 19144