Discover the Natural Beauty of Dowlin Forge Park
Explore Dowlin Forge Park, a serene natural retreat in Downingtown, PA, perfect for walking, picnicking, and experiencing local wildlife.
Dowlin Forge Park is a serene oasis in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, offering lush landscapes, picturesque walking trails, and vibrant wildlife, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Unwind and connect with nature in this beautiful park.
A brief summary to Dowlin Forge Park
- Shelmire Rd, Downingtown, Pennsylvania, 19335, US
- Monday 8 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
- Thursday 8 am-7 pm
- Friday 8 am-7 pm
- Saturday 8 am-7 pm
- Sunday 8 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the trails can be uneven in some areas.
- Bring along a camera to capture the stunning natural scenery and wildlife.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many peaceful spots around the park.
- Keep an eye out for seasonal events or programs that may be hosted in the park.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're traveling by car, you can navigate to Dowlin Forge Park located at Shelmire Rd, Downingtown, PA 19335. From the center of Downingtown, head southwest on E Lancaster Ave (US-30) for about 1 mile. Turn right onto N. Brandywine Ave and continue for about 0.5 miles. Then, take a left onto Shelmire Rd. The park entrance will be on your right. There is no parking fee, and ample parking is available on-site.
-
Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can take a SEPTA train from Philadelphia to Downingtown. The train service is available on the Paoli/Thorndale Line. Once you arrive at the Downingtown station, you will need to catch a taxi or rideshare service to get to Dowlin Forge Park. The distance from the train station to the park is approximately 2.5 miles, and taxi fares can vary but typically range around $10-$15.
-
Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous and prefer cycling, you can bike to Dowlin Forge Park. There are bike paths available from various parts of Downingtown. Use local bike routes to connect to Shelmire Rd, which leads directly to the park. Be sure to wear a helmet and follow local biking laws. Parking for bicycles is available at the park entrance.
-
Walking
For those staying nearby or in Downingtown, walking to Dowlin Forge Park is a great option. From the center of Downingtown, take E Lancaster Ave heading southwest, then turn onto N. Brandywine Ave. After about a 30-minute walk (1.5 miles), turn left onto Shelmire Rd, and you will find the park entrance on your right. This is a pleasant walk with sidewalks available, and you can enjoy the local scenery.
Discover more about Dowlin Forge Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Spring House
0.8 km
Discover the charm and history of the Historic Spring House, a must-visit landmark in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, showcasing rich architectural heritage.
Downingtown Area Historical Society
3.8 km
Explore the Downingtown Area Historical Society for a fascinating journey through local history in Pennsylvania, showcasing the stories that shaped this vibrant community.
Uwchlan Meetinghouse
4.2 km
Explore Uwchlan Meetinghouse: A historic landmark in Exton, Pennsylvania, where rich heritage and serene landscapes come together.
Edward Hunter Homestead - Monument
5.2 km
Explore the Edward Hunter Homestead in Glenmoore, PA, where history comes alive amidst beautiful surroundings and rich architectural heritage.
The Mill at Anselma Preservation and Educational Trust, Inc.
6.7 km
Explore The Mill at Anselma, a historic landmark in Chester Springs, PA, showcasing traditional milling processes and rich agricultural heritage.
The White House
8.0 km
Discover the historical significance and stunning architecture of The White House, a must-visit landmark in Exton, Pennsylvania.
Hibernia Mansion
11.6 km
Explore the charm and history of Hibernia Mansion, a Pennsylvania treasure showcasing early 19th-century architecture and beautiful natural landscapes.
Bayard Rustin Historical Marker
12.6 km
Discover the Bayard Rustin Historical Marker in West Chester, PA - a tribute to a civil rights hero and a site of reflection on social justice.
Farmers & Mechanics Building
13.0 km
Discover the historic charm of the Farmers & Mechanics Building in West Chester, PA, a must-visit landmark showcasing the area's rich heritage and architecture.
French Creek Heritage Park
16.7 km
Discover the captivating blend of history and nature at French Creek Heritage Park in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, perfect for family outings and historical exploration.
Historic Sugartown
17.7 km
Explore the enchanting Historic Sugartown in Malvern, PA, where the art of bookbinding meets rich local history in a beautifully preserved setting.
Birmingham Hill Preserve
18.6 km
Explore Birmingham Hill Preserve, a serene park in West Chester, PA, rich in history and natural beauty, perfect for outdoor adventures and peaceful retreats.
Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site Visitor Center
18.7 km
Discover the historical significance of iron production at the Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site Visitor Center in Pennsylvania, a captivating journey into America's industrial past.
Historical Society of the Phoenixville Area
19.0 km
Explore the rich history of Phoenixville at the Historical Society, a captivating museum showcasing local heritage and engaging exhibits.
The Great Valley House of Valley Forge
19.6 km
Discover the historic charm of The Great Valley House in Valley Forge, where comfort meets rich American history in a serene bed and breakfast setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Marsh Creek State Park
2.8 km
Discover the natural beauty and recreational opportunities at Marsh Creek State Park, a serene escape in Pennsylvania for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Bell Tavern Park
3.6 km
Explore Bell Tavern Park: A Scenic Retreat in Downingtown, PA with Trails, Tennis, and Family Fun.
Springton Manor Farm
6.6 km
Discover the beauty of Springton Manor Farm, where nature, agriculture, and family fun come together in a serene Pennsylvania setting.
Lancaster Balloon Rides
8.0 km
Discover breathtaking views of Lancaster County's rolling hills and farmlands with Lancaster Balloon Rides, an unforgettable aerial adventure.
Exton Park
9.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and recreational charm of Exton Park, a perfect getaway for families and nature lovers in Pennsylvania.
Treehouse World
10.8 km
Discover the thrill of adventure and nature at Treehouse World, a unique amusement center in West Chester, Pennsylvania, perfect for families and thrill-seekers.
Natural Lands' Stroud Preserve
11.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Natural Lands' Stroud Preserve, a nature lover's paradise with scenic trails and abundant wildlife in West Chester, Pennsylvania.
Welkinweir
12.3 km
Explore Welkinweir, an enchanting arboretum in Pottstown, PA, showcasing diverse plant life and serene walking trails for a peaceful retreat into nature.
American Helicopter Museum & Education Center
12.5 km
Explore the American Helicopter Museum & Education Center, where aviation history and technology come to life through unique exhibits and engaging experiences.
Chester County History Center
12.7 km
Explore Chester County's rich history at the Chester County History Center, a captivating museum and event venue in West Chester, PA.
West Chester Railroad
13.1 km
Discover the enchanting West Chester Railroad, a heritage railroad offering scenic rides through picturesque Pennsylvania landscapes, perfect for family adventures.
Antique Ice Tool Museum
13.6 km
Explore the Antique Ice Tool Museum in West Chester, PA, and uncover the rich history of ice harvesting and its essential tools.
ChesLen Preserve
13.9 km
Discover the beauty of nature at ChesLen Preserve, a premier destination for hiking and bird watching in Pennsylvania.
Shaw's Bridge Park
14.8 km
Explore the natural beauty of Shaw's Bridge Park in West Chester, PA, offering trails, waterways, and a peaceful retreat for all nature lovers.
Grand Slam USA
15.5 km
Experience endless fun at Grand Slam USA in Malvern, PA, with batting cages, laser tag, and arcade games for all ages.
Essential places to dine
Bloom Southern Kitchen
4.0 km
Experience the essence of American cuisine at Bloom Southern Kitchen in Chester Springs - where comfort meets flavor.
Amish bbq
13.7 km
Experience authentic Amish BBQ in Honey Brook, PA - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Terrain Cafe
24.3 km
Experience fresh flavors and a charming atmosphere at Terrain Cafe in Devon - where farm-to-table meets delightful dining.
The Brass Eagle Restaurant
24.6 km
Experience delightful dining at The Brass Eagle Restaurant in Gap, PA – where delicious meals meet family-friendly hospitality.
The Black Cat Cafe
25.0 km
Discover The Black Cat Cafe in Devon - where delightful dining meets compassionate causes supporting animal rescue.
Autograph Brasserie
26.0 km
Experience fine American cuisine at Autograph Brasserie in Wayne - where elegant dining meets delicious flavors.
Dutch-Way Family Restaurant - Gap
26.1 km
Experience wholesome family dining at Dutch-Way Family Restaurant in Gap, PA - where tradition meets delicious comfort food.
Sullivan's Steakhouse
27.5 km
Experience the ultimate fine dining at Sullivan's Steakhouse in Wilmington—where premium steaks meet elegant ambiance.
The House of William and Merry
28.6 km
Discover culinary excellence at The House of William and Merry in Hockessin - where seasonal ingredients meet exceptional service.
Lettie's Kitchen
28.6 km
Discover delicious American comfort food at Lettie's Kitchen in Hockessin - perfect for family dining and cozy gatherings.
Shady Maple Smorgasbord
28.7 km
Discover authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine at Shady Maple Smorgasbord - where tradition meets flavor in a family-friendly setting.
Krazy Kat's
30.2 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine at Krazy Kat's in Montchanin – where flavor meets elegance in every bite.
Drip Cafe
30.3 km
Discover Drip Cafe in Hockessin – where every cup of coffee is brewed with passion and every meal is crafted with care.
Yoder's Restaurant & Buffet
31.3 km
Discover authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine at Yoder's Restaurant & Buffet, where homestyle meals meet warm hospitality in New Holland.
Samuel and Ruth Lapp House
32.6 km
Experience authentic Amish culture at Samuel and Ruth Lapp House—where family-friendly hospitality meets delicious local cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pennsbury- Chadds Ford Antique Mall
20.4 km
Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures at the Pennsbury-Chadds Ford Antique Mall in charming Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania.
Marche
22.1 km
Explore Marche in Kennett Square, PA, for unique gifts and home decor, blending style and charm in a delightful shopping experience.
Stile by Per Lei
24.5 km
Discover unique fashion and accessories at Stile by Per Lei, a charming boutique in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania.
Eagle Village Shops
26.0 km
Explore the charming Eagle Village Shops in Wayne, PA for a unique shopping experience with boutiques, beauty salons, and delightful outdoor spaces.
Found
26.2 km
Explore Found in Wilmington, Delaware – a unique antique furniture store and art gallery offering vintage treasures and home decor that inspire.
DICK'S Sporting Goods
27.8 km
Discover your sporting spirit at DICK'S Sporting Goods in Wilmington, the ultimate destination for athletes and outdoor lovers.
Old Navy
27.8 km
Shop stylish and affordable clothing for the whole family at Old Navy Wilmington, your ultimate fashion destination.
Brandywine Town Center
27.8 km
Discover the vibrant shopping and dining experiences at Brandywine Town Center in Wilmington, Delaware, where retail therapy meets community fun.
Guitar Center
27.8 km
Explore a vast selection of musical instruments and equipment at Guitar Center in Wilmington, where music lovers unite to find their perfect sound.
Best Buy
28.2 km
Discover cutting-edge technology and unbeatable prices at Best Buy in Wilmington, DE, your ultimate electronics shopping destination.
Sprouts Farmers Market
28.2 km
Explore Wilmington's Sprouts Farmers Market for fresh, organic produce and health foods, perfect for health-conscious travelers seeking local flavors.
Kohl's
28.4 km
Explore diverse offerings at Kohl's in Wilmington, DE, where fashion meets affordability in a convenient shopping destination.
Concord Mall
28.5 km
Explore Concord Mall in Wilmington, DE - a shopping haven featuring diverse stores, dining options, and entertainment for all ages.
Brandywine Creek State Park Nature Center
28.6 km
Discover the serene landscapes and rich wildlife of Brandywine Creek State Park Nature Center, a perfect getaway for nature lovers in Delaware.
Shady Maple Gift Shop
28.7 km
Explore Shady Maple Gift Shop in Pennsylvania for unique Amish furniture, collectibles, and delightful gifts showcasing local craftsmanship.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Round1 Bowling & Arcade
7.5 km
Experience the ultimate fun at Round1 Bowling & Arcade in Exton, PA - a lively destination for bowling, arcade games, karaoke, and more!
The Whip Tavern
18.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of American and British cuisine at The Whip Tavern in Coatesville, PA, where every meal is a delightful experience.
Buckley's Tavern
26.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional and modern American cuisine at Buckley's Tavern in Wilmington, Delaware, a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Dew Point Brewing Company
26.5 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Delaware craft beers at Dew Point Brewing Company, where quality and community come together in a scenic setting.
Throwbacks Sports Lounge
28.0 km
Enjoy the ultimate sports bar experience at Throwbacks Sports Lounge in Hockessin, DE, where great food and exciting games come together.
6 Paupers Tavern & Restaurant
28.5 km
Experience the warmth of American hospitality at 6 Paupers Tavern & Restaurant in Hockessin, where delicious food and a family-friendly atmosphere await.
The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille
28.6 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at The Greene Turtle in Wilmington, where great food meets exciting game day vibes.
TGI Fridays
28.6 km
Discover TGI Fridays in Wilmington, DE, where American cuisine and a lively sports bar ambiance come together for an unforgettable dining experience.
HomeBase Delaware
28.8 km
Discover HomeBase Delaware, the ultimate sports bar and brunch venue in Wilmington, offering live music and a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.
Corner Cove Restaurant & Bar
28.8 km
Experience delightful dining at Corner Cove Restaurant & Bar in Hockessin, DE, where local flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Two Stones Pub Hockessin
30.1 km
Discover the gastronomic delights of Two Stones Pub Hockessin, where fresh ingredients meet innovative dishes in a cozy gastropub setting.
Two Stones Pub Wilmington
30.3 km
Discover the flavorful experience at Two Stones Pub Wilmington, a perfect blend of a traditional pub and modern gastronomy in Delaware.
McLaren's Irish Pub
30.5 km
Enjoy authentic Irish cuisine and lively entertainment at McLaren's Irish Pub, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing in Wilmington.
Stoney's British Pub
30.6 km
Discover the authentic taste of Britain at Stoney's British Pub, a gastropub in Wilmington offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere.
Stanley's Tavern
30.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled delights at Stanley's Tavern in Wilmington, a perfect spot for food lovers and sports enthusiasts.
