Visitor's Guide
Planning a campus visit? Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Bryn Mawr
Bryn Mawr gives students the best of both worlds: a close-knit college community with easy access to Philadelphia.
The College is located on the Main Line, a group of suburban towns just outside the city. The area offers local shops, parks, restaurants, and more, all within walking distance or a short train ride to downtown Philadelphia.
Use this guide to plan your visit and explore everything the area has to offer.
At a Glance
Small-Town Charm
Walkable downtown, coffee shops, local events, and a close-knit community
Big-City Access
Museums, restaurants, internships, and sports just a short train ride away
Easy Transportation
A SEPTA station in town and free SEPTA access for students
Plan Your Campus Visit
Schedule a Tour or Interview
Book a campus tour, information session, or admissions interview
Getting Here
Find directions, transportation options, parking, and accessible routes
Interactive Campus Map
Use our interactive map to explore campus
Explore Bryn Mawr's Campus
Explore Bryn Mawr's beautiful campus while you're here. Stop by Uncommon Grounds for a coffee, visit a current art exhibition, or check out a public campus event.
Things To Do Nearby
Main Line Highlights
Hike and Enjoy the Scenery
Explore the nearby Haverford Nature Trail or the Ridley Creek State Park.
Main Line Farmers Markets & Festivals
Browse local produce, handmade goods, and seasonal community events.
Catch a Movie
See an independent film or the latest blockbuster at Bryn Mawr Film Institute.
Shop and Explore
Shop, dine, and explore the ginormous King of Prussia Mall.
Visit a Local Farm
Feed the animals at Harriton House or visit Linvilla to pick seasonal produce.
Philadelphia Highlights
Museums
Explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation.
Arts & Entertainment
Enjoy live music, theater, comedy, and public art (like the Magic Gardens!).
Historic Philadelphia
Visit landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
Philadelphia Sports
Experience the city's passionate fan culture at a professional game.
Rittenhouse & Washington Square
Explore some of the city's most beloved neighborhoods.
Where To Eat and Stay
Just a quick walk or drive away, Bryn Mawr's walkable downtown area is filled with countless great places to eat. In addition, Philadelphia's food scene offers everything from local favorites to cuisines from around the world. We recommend visiting Reading Terminal Market, an iconic indoor food market. If you want to try a Philly cheesesteak, check out this list of some of the city's most famous sandwich shops.
Lodging is plentiful in the surrounding area. Below is a list of a few hotels and inns in the Main Line and Philadelphia areas.
- Bryn Mawr Guest Suites, 29 Morton Rd., Bryn Mawr 610-520-2669
- The Inn at Villanova University, 601 County Line Road, Radnor, 610-519-8000 (Discount: Scroll to the Reservations button, put in dates, and in special codes put: BRYMWR into the Corporate/Promotion box to receive 10% off the Bar Rate.)
- The Inn at Swarthmore, 10 South Chester Road, Swarthmore, PA 19081 610-543-7500
- Wayne Hotel, 139 East Lancaster Avenue, Wayne 610-687-5000
- Best Western and the Inn at King of Prussia, 127 South Gulph Road, King of Prussia 610-265-4500
- Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, 237 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia 215-893-1600
- DoubleTree by Hilton Valley Forge, 301 West Dekalb Pike, King of Prussia 610-337-1200
- Comfort Inn Valley Forge, 550 West Dekalb Pike, King of Prussia 610-962-0700
- Crowne Plaza Philadelphia West, 4010 City Avenue, Philadelphia 215-477-0200
- Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, 1 Logan Square, Philadelphia 215-963-1500
- Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City, 1100 Arch Street, Philadelphia 215-923-0100
- The Radnor Hotel, 591 East Lancaster Avenue, Wayne 1-800-537-3000 (Toll Free); 610-688-5800 (Front Desk)
Hear From Students
Ready to Explore Bryn Mawr?
Frequently Asked Questions
Bryn Mawr is located about 11 miles west of Center City Philadelphia. The city is easily accessible by SEPTA Regional Rail and is about a 20-minute train ride from campus.
Yes! Bryn Mawr students receive free SEPTA access during the academic year, making it easy to travel to Philadelphia and explore the surrounding area.
Students enjoy exploring Bryn Mawr town, attending local events, visiting nearby parks and trails, catching movies at the Bryn Mawr Film Institute, and taking trips into Philadelphia for museums, restaurants, sports, and entertainment.
There are a variety of hotels and lodging options near campus. Visit our Accommodations page for recommendations, discounts, and additional information.
Most visitors arrive by car, train, or plane. Bryn Mawr is conveniently located near major highways, SEPTA Regional Rail, and Philadelphia International Airport. Visit our Maps & Directions page for detailed travel information.