Sittin’ Pretty In Steel City

By Sarah Alderman

Spring has draped the ever-evolving face of Phoenixville in more beauty, making it a great destination. Even before its recentfacelift, Phoenixville and its surrounding areas have been teeming with quaint, lesser-known pockets of awesomeness.

Looking for some entertainment this summer? After a delicious brunch at the always-on-point Kimberton Inn, check out The Locktender’s House and enjoying a brisk walk along the trails in the Schuylkill Canal Park. The house will be open for visitors to come and learn about the history of the Schuylkill and its industrial heritage. It’s free, but donations are accepted. Visit www.schuylkillcanal.org for details.

Looking for a new, out-of-the way spot to become your favorite haunt? Check out Station Bistro (www.stationbistro.com). Their Annual Crawfish Boil and Cajun Feast on May 23 would be a great first time to check out this local fave.

Mother Nature’s best flanks Steel City on all sides.  Take a stroll through Valley Forge Park, a sprawling expanse criss-crossed with paved trails for the stroller, or unbeaten paths for the adventurous. Feeling hardcore? Bike the Schuylkill Trail, starting in the park and ending in Center City.  In warm weather, take to the water with a kayak rental from USS Port Providence Fleet, located behind Fitzwater Station on the Canal. A family-run restaurant, The Fitz has an outdoor summer concert series on Sundays from 4 to 8 p.m., and it’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day of paddling. Stop at Steel City Coffeehouse while you plan your night for a mid-day caffeine blast.

If music is your thing, spend a Friday or Saturday night at Chaplin’s Music Café in Spring City. It’s the perfect venue to catch a set by your favorite local band. If you prefer to stay in downtown Phoenixville, the Colonial Theater offers screenings of vintage classics, children’s hits and independent releases.

Before a night at the theater, stop in for a taste of the downtown’s finest at BYOB, Majolica. Did you know sweet breads are not, in fact, miniature sugared breads? I didn’t either … And I won’t tell you what they actually are, but I will tell you Majolica does them right!

And remember, every event is special with a Sly Fox Helles Golden Lager in your hand. A trip to the Ville is never complete without a visit to this hometown micro-brewery.

Get to it, Villians!