Bryn Athyn PennsylvaniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania.
1. Glencairn Museum
RELIGIOUS ART COLLECTIONS
Glencairn Museum offers visitors an impressive collection of religious art and artifacts from around the world, housed in a castle-like structure originally built as a private home by the Pitcairn family. The museum features themed galleries, including ancient Egyptian, medieval Christian, and Asian religious art, and provides immersive exhibits and seasonal events for all ages.
2. Cairnwood Estate
GILDED AGE MANSION
Cairnwood Estate, a Beaux-Arts mansion built in the late 19th century, showcases the grandeur and refined taste of the Pitcairn family. The estate now hosts tours, weddings, and special events, with beautifully landscaped gardens and stunning period architecture.
3. Bryn Athyn Cathedral
ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
Bryn Athyn Cathedral impresses with its blend of Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles, serving as both a house of worship and a local landmark. Guided tours reveal its stunning stained glass, hand-carved stonework, and the rich history of the New Church congregation.
4. Cairncrest
PITCAIRN FAMILY HOME
Cairncrest is one of the historic residences in the Bryn Athyn Historic District, built for members of the influential Pitcairn family. Visitors can appreciate the unique architectural features and learn about the family's significant role in shaping the borough.
5. Bryn Athyn Historic District
NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK
The Bryn Athyn Historic District encompasses a collection of architecturally significant buildings constructed by the Pitcairn family between 1892 and 1938. This district includes mansions and the cathedral, making it a must-see destination for history and architecture aficionados.
6. JUNGE Pavilion
COMMUNITY EVENT SPACE
JUNGE Pavilion serves as a scenic open-air venue for community gatherings, concerts, and seasonal celebrations. Its peaceful surroundings and frequent local events make it a popular spot for both residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors.
7. Landmarks in Lights
ANNUAL LIGHT FESTIVAL
Landmarks in Lights is a much-anticipated annual event that illuminates Bryn Athyn's historic buildings with vibrant displays and festive cheer. Guests can stroll the grounds to view the spectacular lights and participate in holiday events.
8. Cairnwood Garden
HISTORIC FORMAL GARDENS
The Cairnwood Estate gardens feature formal landscaping with sweeping lawns, elegant pathways, and seasonally blooming flower beds. These gardens provide a picturesque backdrop for strolls, photography, and outdoor gatherings.
9. Glencairn Museum Tower
PANORAMIC OBSERVATION POINT
The Glencairn Museum Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from its unique vantage point. Climbing the tower provides both a bit of exercise and a remarkable photo opportunity.
10. Cathedral Grounds
PEACEFUL NATURAL SETTING
The expansive grounds surrounding Bryn Athyn Cathedral invite visitors to enjoy quiet walks, meditative moments, and scenic views of the historic complex. The landscaped lawns and wooded paths offer a serene escape from busy city life.
11. Cairnwood Tea Events
ELEGANT AFTERNOON TEAS
Cairnwood Estate regularly hosts afternoon tea events in its refined rooms, providing a taste of traditional elegance. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas, pastries, and light fare while soaking in the mansion's historic atmosphere.
12. Glencairn Holiday Exhibits
SEASONAL ART DISPLAYS
The Glencairn Museum's holiday exhibits transform its galleries with festive art installations, nativity scenes, and seasonal concerts. Families and art lovers alike flock to these displays, making them a beloved holiday tradition.
13. Bryn Athyn College
LIBERAL ARTS CAMPUS
Bryn Athyn College offers a peaceful campus setting, historic architecture, and cultural lectures and events for the surrounding community. Visitors can explore its attractive grounds and occasionally attend public lectures or performances.
14. Bryn Athyn Thrift Shop
COMMUNITY SHOPPING SPOT
The Bryn Athyn Thrift Shop is a favorite among locals and visitors looking for unique finds and vintage treasures. This volunteer-run shop also supports local charities and adds to the borough's charm.
15. Pennypack Trailhead (Bryn Athyn)
GATEWAY TO OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
The Pennypack Trailhead in Bryn Athyn provides easy access to miles of scenic walking, biking, and running trails through peaceful woodlands and open meadows. Outdoor enthusiasts use this spot as a starting point for exploring Montgomery County's natural beauty.