Things To Do Near Deshler-Morris House
In 2009, the National Park Service officially changed the Deshler-Morris House's name to the Germantown White House. However, many still refer to it as the Deshler-Morris House. Having been restored to look similar to its appearance when George Washington stayed there, it's now a historic landmark and museum. During a tour, you can learn exciting facts about how Washington oversaw a divided cabinet while living in the house. This house is the oldest home in America that a president used as a White House.
Hiking Trails
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Germantown Hike
This hike starts at the Germantown Historical Society and runs in front of 10 historical buildings along or near Germantown Avenue. You can read signs along the way to find out why these sites are essential. There are also QR codes placed at many locations so that you can learn more information.
Location
5501 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19144
Length
1.5 miles
Intensity
Easy
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Trolly Trail
Start this trail to the left of the Chamonix Mansion in Fairmont Park. It follows a stream throughout most of its length, but it offers some unique twists and turns that help keep it interesting. It also runs through open meadows that are beautiful when the wildflowers are blooming.
Location
Chamonix Mansion, Fairmont Park, 3250 Chamonix Drive, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19131
Length
5 miles
Intensity
Moderate
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Schuylkill River Trail
While the Schuylkill River Trail runs 71 miles in all, one of its best parts is the section running from near Bartram’s Garden to Valley Forge. This trail that follows the river runs through the old industrial area called Grays Ferry Crescent, which is now a beautiful park. This trail includes a boardwalk running out over the Schuylkill River.
Location
Bartram’s Garden, 5400 Lindbergh Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19143
Length
29 miles
Intensity
Difficult
Sightseeing
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Bartram’s Garden
Bartram’s Garden was started around 1728, making it one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States. Until 1850, it was the premier location for the collection of seeds in the U.S. The garden opened to the public in 1891.
Location
5400 Lindbergh Boulevard., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19143
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Cliveden of the National Trust
Seven generations of the Benjamin Chew family lived in this Germantown home initially built as a country estate in 1767. Take note of the bullet holes near the home’s front doors when visiting this location as they are from the American Revolutionary War. Then, tour the home to gain a deeper understanding of American history, both its inspiring and its very flawed parts.
Location
6401 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19144
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Fort Mifflin
Construction of Fort Mifflin began in 1771, and Benjamin Franklin led troops who finished building this site in 1776. It fell to the British in late 1777 during one of the most significant battles of the American Revolutionary War. Throughout the Civil War, POWs were housed at this location, and it was used as an ammunition warehouse during World War II.
Location
6400 Hog Island Road, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19153
Museums
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Rosenbach Museum and Library
Once the home of Philip Rosenbach and his brother Dr. A. S. W. Rosenbach, who were rare book salesmen, you can see many rare books at this museum, including ones signed by George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. They also have the oldest known copy of Poor Richard’s Almanac. This museum often provides hands-on programming, allowing you to touch many of their rare items.
Location
2008-2010 Delancey Place Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103
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Washington Crossing Historic Park
Learn the truth behind the painting of George Washington Crossing the Delaware by visiting the 500-acre Washington Crossing Historic Park where the actual crossing took place. Start your visit in the Lower Part where you can see 13 historic buildings. Then, explore the Upper Part that was used as a military hospital during the American Revolutionary War and is located about 5 miles away.
Location
1112 River Road, Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania 18977
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The Declaration House
While the original house was demolished, the Declaration House was re-constructed in 1975. It's designed to look the same way it did when Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence there. The home contains a theater on the first floor that shows a short film about Jefferson's drafting process.
Location
4 South 7th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Len Scherock Museum Store
Located within The Center for Art in Wood, the Len Scherock Museum Store offers toys, jewelry, artwork, and home décor made from wood. Each object is made by hand by woodworkers from around the world.
Location
141 North 3rd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106
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Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books
This independent bookstore offers outstanding books in the Germantown neighborhood. Stop for a cup of their coffee and browse their vast selection. This store also frequently offers children’s storytime and author talks.
Location
5445 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19144
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Masa Asia
If you have a sweet tooth, you need to try the piña colada rolls topped with coconut shrimp, guacamole, and piña colada sauce at Masa Asia. This is a fantastic place to get sushi.
Location
2111 West Main Street, Norristown, Pennsylvania 19403
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Malelini Café
The smoked salmon and chicken platters are delicious at Malelini Café. They are each served with creamy hummus and other delicious sides.
Location
6734 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19119