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Favorite Summer Spots in Lower Merion (and nearby)

  • Writer: Carolyn Rhodes
    Carolyn Rhodes
  • Jun 13
  • 4 min read

Updated: Jul 4


Summer is one of my favorite times of year, and I love all things we do do right here in our own backgroud. From farmers markets to outdoor concerts to scenic walking trails to patio dining, there are countless ways to enjoy the season close to home.


Whether you're looking for a relaxing afternoon, a family outing, or a new local favorite, here are a few places worth exploring this summer.



Summer Concerts


Bryn Mawr Twilight Concerts

9 S Bryn Mawr Ave, Bryn Mawr https://www.brynmawrtwilightconcerts.com


Music in the Park (Narberth)


Merion Concert BandVarious Main Line and Lower Merion locations


Parks & Walking Trails

Saunders Woods Preserve — Gladwyne

A peaceful nature preserve with wooded trails, streams, and native plants. It's hard to believe you're still in Lower Merion.

Address: 1020 Waverly Road Gladwyne, PA 19035


Cynwyd Heritage Trail — Bala Cynwyd

A favorite for walking, biking, and strollers. Continue across the Manayunk Bridge for beautiful views of the Schuylkill River.

Barmouth Trailhead:  215 Belmont Ave, Bala, Cynwyd, PA 19004

Bala Cynwyd Park Trailhead:  398 Trevor Ln, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004

Cynwyd Station Park Trailhead:  374 Levering Mill Rd, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004


Haverford College Nature Trail — Haverford

A quiet trail winding through meadows and woodlands on Haverford College's picturesque campus.

370 Lancaster Ave, Haveford PA 19041—Visitor's Lot


Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden — Villanova

One of the Main Line's hidden gems. Explore native gardens, walking paths, and seasonal blooms on this former estate.

1829 County Line Rd, Villanova, PA 19085


Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens—Devon

A peaceful 48-acre public garden featuring native plants, woodland trails, and seasonal blooms. Free admission makes it a perfect spot for a quiet walk, birdwatching, or enjoying nature .

631 Berwyn Baptist Rd, Devon, PA 19333



Haverford College Nature Trail
Haverford College Nature Trail


Al Fresco Dining

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a meal outdoors. Whether you're meeting friends for lunch, grabbing coffee, or enjoying dinner on a patio, the Main Line offers plenty of options. Local favorites:


The Landing Kitchen — Bala Cynwyd

Outdoor dining along the Schuylkill River with great views, coffee, cocktails, and a relaxed waterfront atmosphere.

Address: 617 Righters Ferry Rd, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004


Ripplewood Whiskey & Craft — Ardmore

A stylish neighborhood whiskey bar serving creative cocktails and elevated comfort food with outdoor seating.

Address: 29 E Lancaster Ave, Ardmore, PA 19003


DanDan — Ardmore

Creative Sichuan and Taiwanese dishes with a lively atmosphere and outdoor dining options.

Address: 344 Lancaster Ave, Ardmore, PA 19003


Ryan Christopher's — Narberth

A cozy neighborhood favorite known for its welcoming atmosphere and outdoor dining.

Address: 226 Haverford Ave, Narberth, PA 19072


Terrain Café — Devon

Garden-inspired dining surrounded by lush landscaping and seasonal displays.

Address: 138 W Lancaster Ave, Devon, PA 19333


Happy Hour - Ripplewood Whiskey & Craft
Happy Hour - Ripplewood Whiskey & Craft

Farmers Markets

One of my favorite summer traditions is visiting our local farmers markets. Beyond fresh produce, you'll often find flowers, baked goods, coffee, honey, and foods you won't see at a grocery store.


Bala Cynwyd Farmers Market

Wednesdays • 3:00–6:00 PM


Narberth Farmers Market

Thursdays • 3:00–7:00 PM


Bryn Mawr Farmers Market

Saturdays • 9:00 AM–1:00 PM


Spotlight on Narberth

One of my favorite things about Narberth is that it still feels like a true small town. You can park once, stroll Haverford Avenue, grab a coffee, browse a few shops, and spend an afternoon exploring.


Little Blue Owl Baking Company

Scratch-made French pastries, croissants, cakes, cookies, and excellent coffee. A newer addition to Narberth that's quickly become a local favorite for breakfast, weekend treats, and special occasions.

Address: 207 Haverford Ave, Narberth, PA 19072


Narberth Bookshop

Independent bookstore offering new releases, children's books, gifts, and community events.

Address: 221 Haverford Ave, Narberth, PA 19072


Narberth Cheese Company

Specialty cheese shop featuring artisan cheeses, charcuterie, and gourmet foods.

Address: 217 Haverford Ave, Narberth, PA 19072


Character Development

A thoughtfully curated shop featuring books, toys, gifts, and educational treasures for all ages.

Address: 223 Haverford Ave, Narberth, PA 19072


Sweet Mabel

A charming boutique filled with unique gifts, folk art, and handcrafted items.

Address: 236 Haverford Ave, Narberth, PA 19072


Narberth Reel Cinemas

A historic independent movie theater showing first-run films in a classic small-town setting.

Address: 129 N Narberth Ave, Narberth, PA 19072


Cup of Gold Coffee & Tea

Great place to enjoy handcrafted coffee and tea beverages, stock up on locally roasted coffee beans, and choose from a wall of loose teas and spices. You'll also find fresh pastries, houseplants, and unique gift items.

Address:  733 Montgomery Ave, Narberth, PA 19072



Summer Treats

No Main Line summer guide would be complete without ice cream.


Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams — Ardmore

Popular artisan ice cream featuring inventive flavors and house-made waffle cones.

Address: 49 St James Place, Ardmore, PA 19003


Van Leeuwen Ice Cream — Ardmore

Known for rich French-style ice cream and excellent vegan options in the heart of Suburban Square.

Address: 16 Coulter Ave, Ardmore, PA 19003


Lu & Aug's — Ardmore

A local favorite for handcrafted ice cream, baked goods, and summer treats.

Address: 31 Rittenhouse Place, Ardmore, PA 19003


Handel's Homemade Ice Cream — Berwyn

Classic homemade ice cream with dozens of rotating flavors.

Address: 576 Lancaster Ave, Berwyn, PA 19312




Lessons & Activities


Ice Skating

Stay cool all summer long with camps, clinics, and group lessons at the Philadelphia Skating Club & Humane Society in Ardmore. Programs are available for beginners through advanced skaters.

Address: 220 Holland Ave, Ardmore PA 19003

Website: psch.org


Sports, Arts & Enrichment Programs

One resource many residents overlook is Lower Merion Parks & Recreation. The township offers year-round programming for children and adults, including:

  • Basketball

  • Pickleball

  • Soccer

  • Tennis

  • Yoga, chess,

  • Art classes

  • STEM programs

  • Science workshops

  • and much more.


Summer doesn't have to mean a big trip or a packed itinerary. Some of the best experiences are right here in Lower Merion and along the Main Line. Whether you're discovering a new walking trail, enjoying a concert under the stars, or picking up fresh produce at a local market, I hope this guide helps you enjoy everything our community has to offer this season.













 
 
 

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