Historical Valley Forge Vacation

As a child, I looked forward to our yearly family vacation to Pennsylvania. Of course, my parents probably didn’t enjoy the two hour ride there from Connecticut. Complete with three kids and all the “are we there yet” ‘s and “I have to pee” ‘s you could think of. Now that I am an adult with kids of my own, I look forward to our family vacations to Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania is full of history. Valley Forge is the historical tourist spot for families. Valley Forge National Historical Park was where “General George Washington forged his Continental Army into a fighting force in the winter of 1777-1778.” (Valley Forge Visitors Guide, Spring and Summer 2006) This historical park includes monuments, Washington Memorial Chapel and of course a gift shop, Chapel Cabin Shop. An exciting new feature has been added. Have an adventure from Philadephia to Valley Forge as a spy, then go to the soldiers’ encampment and receive orders from Washington Headquarters. An exciting roll playing event.

While in the Valley Forge area, stop over to the Mill Grove Audobon Center for a bird walk or look for Raptors at Fort Washington State Park. Valley Forge has everything from aquariums to museums, zoo’s to winery’s. Valley Forge will keep you busy!

If there’s a shop-a-holic in the family, make the rounds with seven malls, the Chestnut Hill Farmer’s Market, Renninger’s Antique Center and eleven specialty shops. And let’s not forget the villages. My personal favorite, Ambler Main St. is chock full of shopping, dining, art-house movies, live theater and quite an extensive night life. There are several villages in Valley Forge worth checking out.

Valley Forge has dining for everyone. Whether it’s fine dining for the romantics or a laid back family atmoshere that you’re looking for. You can also find lodging throughout Valley Forge. Everything from the inexpensive to the pricey, bed and breakfasts, inns, hotels and the like. If you want a true family adventure, try out the camping. All campgrounds have the rustic experience with a touch of luxury. Complete with pools, golf and kids activities. When you’re on a family vacation, especially camping, you’ll want to make sure you get some kidless down time. So make sure wherever you go is kid friendly!

I’ve found Valley Forge to be a great family vacation spot! Both educational and entertaining for everyone. For lodging reservations and more go to: http://www.valleyforge.org or call (610) 834-1550 for a brochure.