Montco is everything beautiful you can think of in our great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. As locals, we know the great spots for a day outing with the family. The same goes for places to hang out with friends, stop for a scrumptious meal, or even hit a sense-warming hiking trail. But what about a first-timer?
Most visitors will probably make a beeline for the iconic Valley Forge and skip the town after a few hours. That's a good place to start, but there's plenty to see, do, and experience. We have put together this guide to help first-timers get the most out of their Montco trip.
Titbits about Montgomery County
Montgomery County is located northwest of Philadelphia. There's a lot to like about Monto (as we locals call it), but if anything, you should come for a little bit of American history. It'll also charm you with rolling hills, old sites, and lively towns. You get busy shopping in the centers and quiet nature trails. For lack of a better description, Montco gives you a real Pennsylvania without big, messy city crowds.
When is the best time to visit Montgomery County?
You cannot do better than Spring or fall, but Montco is nice to visit year-round. Who can say no to a Spring with mild temperatures and cool sights? It's a nice time to hit the many trails or stroll through historic sites. Fall gives you crisp air and turns the county into a painter's palette of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Summer can get hot and a little muggy, but that's also when you'll find the most family-friendly events and outdoor festivals. Winter has its charm with holiday lights and cozy indoor spots. Some outdoor activities close down, though.
How long should you plan to stay in Montco?
A long weekend gives you enough time to hit the major attractions without feeling rushed. Plan for three to four days if you want to experience both historical sites and outdoor activities.
History buffs might want to dedicate a full day to Valley Forge alone, while families with kids will need the extra time for places like Elmwood Park Zoo and Legoland. A week works well if you choose Montco as a base to visit Philadelphia or other nearby areas.
Getting in and around Montgomery County
Philadelphia International Airport is only 30 minutes south of most Montco spots. That's your best bet for flying in. Once you're here, having a car makes everything a cinch, as the county spreads quite a lot.
Major highways like Route 422 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike cut through the area, so it’s easy to drive in and between towns. Parking is rarely an issue except during peak times at popular spots like King of Prussia Mall. If you're staying near Valley Forge, many hotels offer shuttle services.
Top 10 things to do and see in Montco: How to experience Montgomery County
Montco is where America’s day-tripping magic happens, and there’s plenty to see and do.
Valley Forge National Historical Park tops every visitor's list for good reason. This is where George Washington's Continental Army endured the brutal winter of 1777-78, and the park does a bang-up job bringing that history to life. You can travel by a car, bike, or on foot.
King of Prussia Mall makes its claim as one of the largest shopping malls in America. Even if shopping isn't your thing, its sheer size (slightly less than three million square feet) makes it worth a quick visit. The food court alone might keep you busy for hours.
Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown gives you a chance to see giraffes, bison, and other animals without the crowds of bigger zoos. Legoland Discovery Center in Plymouth Meeting brings out the kid in everyone.
Schuylkill River Trail was named the USA Today’s Best Urban Trail, and it is easy to see why. The paved path follows the river for miles. What more could you ask for with over 30 miles across Montco communities?
Peter Wentz Farmstead shows you how colonial families lived before the Revolution. George Washington actually stayed here in 1777, and the restored buildings give you a real image of 18th-century farm life.
John James Audubon Historical Center at Mill Grove celebrates the famous naturalist and bird painter. Meanwhile, Pottsgrove Manor shows off some of the best colonial architecture of the region.
Green Lane Park offers year-round outdoor fun with fishing, boating, and camping during warmer months, plus cross-country skiing, and ice fishing when winter arrives. Skippack Village gives you a taste of small-town America with its tree-lined streets and local shops.
Best places to dine
Montco's food scene mixes history with modern tastes. King of Prussia has everything from chain restaurants to fancy dining, including Cheesecake Factory, P.F. Chang, and The Capital Grille.
Head to one of the smaller towns for a taste of a local flavor. Skippack has several farm-to-table restaurants that use ingredients from nearby farms. The area's German heritage shows up in places serving hearty Pennsylvania Dutch specialties.
Wrapping up: do your homework before you pack
It pays to do your research before you commit to anything worth your time and money, especially with so many options out there. Visitors looking for great spots to eat may head over to Yelp or ask for recommendations from locals, while smart players often read reviews or try free casino games in demo mode before going after the real thing. The same is true about your trip to Montgomery County.
The last thing you want is to pack without doing some homework. After reading our guide, check TripAdvisor and other travel blogs to understand what the weather, culture, and vibe will be like when you come. A quick search on YouTube and social media will be especially handy in getting that authentic local perspective before you make the trip.
