Homes for Sale In Downingtown PA
Downingtown, a picturesque borough located in Chester County, Pennsylvania, is known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and small-town ambiance. Situated along the Brandywine Creek, just 33 miles west of Philadelphia, Downingtown offers residents a perfect blend of suburban comfort and easy access to outdoor recreation.
Downingtown’s history dates back to the early 18th century when English and Welsh Quakers settled in the area. The town was officially established in 1709 and named after Thomas Downing, a prominent local miller. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Downingtown grew as a center for agriculture, paper mills, and machine shops. The town played a significant role during the American Revolutionary War, serving as a temporary headquarters for General George Washington and his troops.
Local Landmarks:
- Downingtown Log House: Built in 1705, this well-preserved log cabin is one of the oldest buildings in Chester County and serves as a museum showcasing colonial life.
- Kerr Park: This scenic park along the Brandywine Creek features walking trails, fishing spots, and a historic grist mill.
- Downingtown Country Club: Founded in 1967, this private club features a challenging 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, and a swimming pool.
Downingtown is served by the Downingtown Area School District, which includes:
- Downingtown High School East Campus
- Downingtown High School West Campus
- Downingtown Middle School
- Downingtown STEM Academy
- Beaver Creek Elementary School
- Bradford Heights Elementary School
- East Ward Elementary School
- Lionville Elementary School
- Pickering Valley Elementary School
- Shamona Creek Elementary School
- Springton Manor Elementary School
- Uwchlan Hills Elementary School
- West Bradford Elementary School
Nearby Colleges:
- Immaculata University (6 miles)
- West Chester University (9 miles)
- Penn State Great Valley (10 miles)
- Delaware County Community College (12 miles)
- Villanova University (18 miles)
Downingtown’s main shopping district is located along East Lancaster Avenue, which features a mix of local boutiques, specialty shops, and dining options. The Shoppes at Townside Square offer a variety of retailers and services, while the nearby Exton Square Mall and Main Street at Exton provide additional shopping options with a mix of national retailers and dining establishments.
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy several nearby courses, including the Downingtown Country Club, which features a challenging 18-hole course. Other options include the Ingleside Golf Club and the Whitford Country Club.
For those who are often traveling, you’ll have about a 46 minute drive to Philadelphia International Airport or about 42 minutes to William H. Gray III 30th Street. For those who like to visit the mountains or the beach, the Pocono Mountains are only 1 hour 47 minutes away and Ocean City, NJ is only 1 hour 44 minutes from the area.
Downingtown offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Some local favorites include the Station Taproom for craft beer and gastropub fare, Amani’s BYOB for Mediterranean cuisine, and the Farmhouse Coffee & Espresso Bar for specialty coffee drinks. The town also features several bars and pubs, such as the Victory Brewing Company and the East Branch Brewing Company.
Downingtown is surrounded by beautiful parks and nature preserves, offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Kerr Park features walking trails, fishing spots, and a historic grist mill, while Struble Trail offers a scenic route for walking, jogging, or biking. The nearby Marsh Creek State Park provides boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities, and many of these outdoor spaces are dog-friendly.
Annual Events in Downington
- Downingtown Fall Fest: Held each September, this event features live entertainment, craft vendors, food trucks, and a beer garden showcasing local breweries.
- Good Neighbor Day: This annual event, held in July, includes a parade, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities celebrating the community spirit of Downingtown.
- Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: This festive event, held in December, includes caroling, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa Claus.