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Known as the Mushroom Capital of the World and infused with a deeply Quaker sensibility, Kennett Square’s quaint streets and thriving commercial scene were built on economic and agricultural ingenuity.
The picturesque borough was officially incorporated in 1855, though the area served as a waypoint for soldiers during the Revolutionary War. The Quaker community that settled here remained largely neutral during the fight between the British and the colonies, but generations later, locals took a strong stance in favor of abolition, facilitating the Underground Railroad during the Civil War.
In the 19th century, the advancement of mushroom cultivation techniques resulted in a boom that continues to this day, with area mushroom farms producing the majority of the nation’s crop. Mushrooms fuel the economic engine of the town and enhance its cultural life, with the annual Mushroom Festival drawing 100,000 attendees every year.
For most visitors, Kennett Square acts as the natural jumping-off point for Longwood Gardens, a renowned horticultural wonderland. Spend a day or two there but leave time to explore the town itself, which will charm you even if you don’t appreciate fungi.
Here are a few ideas to help you shape your trip to Kennett Square.
You can believe the hype: Longwood Gardens thrills at every turn with its magnificent displays of plants, trees and flowers across six thematic “districts.”
Visit during the day for awe-inspiring colors, shapes and textures, but stay after dark to appreciate live music and fountain shows. Or plan for a visit during the holidays to take in the million-light spectacle illuminating the entire 200 acres.
Longwood Gardens — Photo courtesy Longwood Gardens
Intimate in size and focused in scope, the Brandywine Museum of Art collection spans three generations of Wyeth artists (N.C., Andrew and Jamie Wyeth, in addition to other family members) and focuses on regional paintings, drawings and prints in its galleries and permanent and rotating sculptures on its grounds.
The museum, a modernized 19th-century mill set on the Brandywine River, also hosts traveling exhibitions of contemporary and 20th-century works.
Brandwine Museum of Art — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
True mushroom lovers take note: September brings the Kennett Square Mushroom Festival, replete with a mushroom parade, a mushroom mascot (Fun Gus!), an antique car show, and vendors serving up mushroom soup and other shroomy delicacies. Even better, the Festival donates proceeds to fund local nonprofits all year long.
Any other time of year, you can get your fill of portabellos and shiitakes by visiting the Woodlands at Phillips Museum, which offers a self-guided tour and a store loaded with fresh and dried varieties.
Find the perfect gift or a little something to treat yourself along the main drag in Kennett Square, where the independent shops proffer beautiful displays of one-of-a-kind goods.
The on-theme Mushroom Cap carries an unbelievable number of fungi-related items: artisan crafts, grow-your-own kits, cookbooks, and, of course, all manner of fresh and dried mushrooms.
The chic looks at clothing-and-accessory boutique Freda Head hit the sweet spot between trendy and accessible. The equally fashion-forward Shoppe Marché also carries apparel, in addition to furniture, art and lifestyle wares.
Shop with purpose at the Clean Slate Goods gift store, which carries artisan, local and social enterprise finds like throw blankets, honey flights and acacia salad bowls. Plus, get ready for your outdoor adventures at locally owned Trail Creek Outfitters, which stocks apparel and camping gear.
Take your pick from a variety of great eateries around town.
The family-owned Michoacana Grill serves quick Mexican fare like tinga tacos, while La Michoacana — its sister sweet shop — churns out memorable flavors like sweet corn, tamarind and seasonal mushroom (!) ice creams.
A one-time food truck, Mezzaluna placed sixth in the world at the International Pizza Expo and now operates out of a brick-and-mortar space, serving New York, Detroit and tavern-style pies.
The Creamery reclaimed a milk plant to become a rustic gathering hub with a beer garden and family-friendly eats, while Braeloch Brewing pours house beers alongside grilled bratwurst and Belgian-style frites.
And reserve well in advance for the award-winning seasonal tasting menu at the BYOB Talula’s Table, or just stop by during the day for coffee, pastries and refined picnic supplies.
You need go no further than downtown Kennett for stylish accommodations like the story-themed Bookhouse Hotel (housed in a former rare bookshop) or Artelo, a visually dynamic “art hotel” with a mission of supporting local artists and businesses.
Ready to experience the town firsthand? Here are some tips to get you started:
Philadelphia is a city of vibrant neighborhoods bordered by a region of charming towns, with each area owning a distinctive personality. Explore the neighborhoods and towns in and around Philadelphia — their storied streets, interesting attractions, buzzed-about restaurants and year-round happenings.
Use the menu above to explore Philadelphia Neighborhoods
Contributing Writer
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