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Neighborhood in a Nutshell: Villanova
General Vibe
Villanova is home to Villanova University, so there is a large student population and a section of this town that caters to that crowd. There are several restaurants and shops right on Lancaster Ave. by the university. This town has a very different side, too, though. Villanova boasts some of the most expensive and exclusive properties on the Main Line. The result is a University town feeling (right by the school) against a backdrop of a private, residential and somewhat staid vibe.
Housing
A substantial number of estate properties dot the landscape in both the Lower Merion and Radnor Township sections of Villanova. Many of these have significant acreage and offer a peaceful lifestyle away from traffic and prying eyes. Some of these properties are elegant old stone mansions but there are also many newer homes as well. Properties tend to be very well cared for, including the grounds.
There are also more affordable homes in the area, including Colonials and Capes, and while some streets have sidewalks, the majority of the area has fairly windy, narrow, tree-lined streets more conducive to driving on than strolling on.
Fan Favorite
Anyone who follows college basketball knows that Villanova University is a powerhouse in that arena and will enjoy attending games. For those looking for an outdoor experience, visit Skunk Hollow Park, which is nearly 100 acres and offers streams and trails for a nice walk in the woods.
Don’t Miss
Stoneleigh. This “natural garden” (meaning not overly manicured) was the pride and joy of the Haas family who lived here for many years. Upon their death, their heirs chose to donate the property to the Conservancy. It is a lovely place to walk through with a wide variety of different kinds of trees and plants and many outdoor “rooms”. Free to the public as well!
Best Kept Secret
Appleford. This country estate and arboretum is a wonderful wedding venue, but the grounds are open to the public to enjoy. There are formal gardens as well as less formal spaces and an incredible array of specimen trees.
Fun Fact
Villanova University sits on land originally purchased by William Penn from the Lenni Lenape native Americans. This land was a no-man’s land during the Revolutionary War and divided the encampments of the two warring sides.
Read more about Villanova here, and for a more in-depth summary with pictures, click here. You might also want to see what Wikipedia has to say.
If you are curious about other Main Line towns and neighborhoods, please take a look at my Main Line Neighborhood Guide.
Please contact me for more information at 610 308-5973 or jen@jenniferlebow.com.
If you are relocating to the Philadelphia/Main Line area, please go to my blog page and search for posts using the relocation tag. Contact me to discuss your Philadelphia area relocation! jen@jenniferlebow.com/610 308-5973
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