10 Fun Things To Do Near King of Prussia, Pennsylvania
If you’re planning a trip to
King of Prussia, PA in Montgomery County, you’re in a great spot. This area is packed with history, shopping, food, and outdoor fun — and most of it is just a short drive away.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, here are
10 things to do near King of Prussia that give you a little bit of everything.
1. Explore Valley Forge National Historical Park
Just a few minutes from King of Prussia,
Valley Forge National Historical Park is a must-see. It’s one of the most popular things to do near King of Prussia, and for good reason.
This is where George Washington and the Continental Army camped during the winter of 1777–1778. Today, it’s a beautiful mix of open fields, wooded trails, and historic sites.
- Drive the 10-mile encampment tour loop and stop at key sites.
- Visit the Washington’s Headquarters area and the reconstructed log huts.
- Walk or bike the paved trails along rolling hills.
On a sunny day, it feels more like a giant, peaceful park than a museum. Yet every sign and statue reminds you of the history under your feet.
Tip: Bring comfortable shoes. Even if you plan to drive, you’ll want to hop out and walk around at several stops.
2. Shop (and Eat) Your Way Through King of Prussia Mall
You can’t talk about
King of Prussia without mentioning the
King of Prussia Mall
Hundreds of stores – from budget-friendly to high-end luxury.
Plenty of sit-down restaurants and quick bites.
Seasonal events and pop-up experiences.
Even if you’re not a big shopper, it’s a great rainy-day activity. You can wander, people-watch, grab a coffee, and just take it all in.
Local tip: Parking lots can get busy on weekends and around the holidays. Arrive earlier in the day if you can.
3. Visit the Justice Bell at Washington Memorial Chapel
While you’re in the Valley Forge area, stop by the Washington Memorial Chapel, a stone church tucked inside the park. It looks like something out of a storybook.
Inside the chapel grounds, you’ll find the Justice Bell
Beautiful stained-glass windows
Peaceful gardens and walking paths
A small gift shop and café (often open seasonally)
If you enjoy quiet, reflective spaces, this is a lovely stop near King of Prussia.
4. Hike or Bike the Schuylkill River Trail
Looking for outdoor things to do near King of Prussia that don’t involve driving far? The Schuylkill River Trail is a great choice.
This long, paved trail runs along the river and connects several towns in the region. From the King of Prussia area, you can easily access portions of it around Valley Forge, Norristown, and beyond.
Popular activities include:
- Walking or jogging with beautiful river views
- Biking long stretches of flat, smooth path
- Taking photos of bridges, trains, and wildlife
If you’re traveling with kids, this is an easy place to burn off energy. The trail is mostly flat, so it’s friendly for strollers and beginner cyclists too.
5. Step Back in Time in Downtown Phoenixville
About a 20-minute drive from King of Prussia, Phoenixville is a charming small town with a lively main street.
Here’s what you can do:
- Walk along Bridge Street and pop into local shops.
- Try out local breweries, coffee shops, and bakeries.
- Catch a movie or event at the historic Colonial Theatre.
Phoenixville mixes old brick buildings with trendy spots, giving it a fun, slightly artsy vibe. In the evenings, the streets feel lively without being overwhelming.
If you like small-town charm with good food and drinks, this is an easy side trip from King of Prussia.
6. Take a Day Trip to Historic Philadelphia
One big perk of staying in King of Prussia is how close you are to Philadelphia. Depending on traffic, it’s roughly a 30–40 minute drive into the city.
Once you’re there, you can explore classics like:
- Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
- The Philadelphia Museum of Art and the “Rocky Steps”
- Reading Terminal Market for endless food options
You can easily spend a whole day exploring historic sites, neighborhoods, and waterfront areas, then head back to the quieter comfort of King of Prussia at night.
If you like the idea of visiting a major city without staying in the middle of it, using King of Prussia as your home base works really well.
7. Explore the Morris Arboretum & Gardens
If you enjoy gardens, trees, and peaceful walks, take a short drive to the Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania in nearby Montgomery County.
This beautiful outdoor space offers:
- Well-maintained walking paths
- Seasonal flowers and themed gardens
- Unique features like a canopy walk and miniature train (often seasonal)
It’s a relaxing way to spend a morning or afternoon, especially in spring and fall when colors really pop.
Tip: Check their website before you go. Hours and special events can change with the seasons.
8. Discover Local History at the John James Audubon Center
Another great stop near King of Prussia is the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove, just a short drive away.
This site was once the first American home of famed naturalist and bird artist John James Audubon. Today, it’s a mix of:
- Interactive exhibits about birds and nature
- Historic buildings on a scenic property
- Trails through woods and fields
It’s especially fun if you enjoy birdwatching or you’re traveling with kids who like hands-on exhibits. You’ll walk away seeing local birds in a whole new light.
9. Enjoy Local Flavor in Conshohocken
Just down the road from King of Prussia, Conshohocken (often called “Conshy” by locals) offers a nice mix of neighborhood bars, coffee shops, and restaurants.
Things to do in Conshohocken include:
- Strolling along Fayette Street and trying local eateries.
- Grabbing a drink at one of the many casual bars.
- Walking or biking nearby portions of the Schuylkill River Trail.
If you like checking out where the locals actually hang out, Conshohocken gives you that everyday, small-town feel with good food and a relaxed atmosphere.
10. Catch a Show or Event at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
About 15 minutes from King of Prussia in Oaks, PA, you’ll find the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center. This large indoor venue hosts events throughout the year.
Depending on when you visit, you might find:
- Craft fairs and holiday markets
- Car shows or boat shows
- Comic cons, pet expos, or hobby shows
It’s worth checking their schedule before your trip. You never know what fun or quirky event you might be able to add to your King of Prussia itinerary.
Where to Stay and How to Get Around King of Prussia
Because King of Prussia is a major shopping and business hub, there are plenty of hotels to choose from, often within a short drive of the mall and Valley Forge.
Getting around is easiest by car. Many of the best things to do near King of Prussia are spread out a bit — but usually within 10–30 minutes.
If you don’t want to drive into Philadelphia, you can:
- Use regional rail stations in nearby towns like Norristown.
- Drive to a station, park, and take the train into the city.
This way, you avoid city parking while still enjoying all that Philadelphia has to offer.
Final Thoughts: Make King of Prussia Your Home Base
King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, is more than just a huge mall. It’s a convenient launching point for:
- American history at Valley Forge and Philadelphia
- Outdoor fun on trails, in parks, and at gardens
- Local flavor in nearby towns like Phoenixville and Conshohocken
If you like the idea of mixing shopping, history, nature, and small-town charm, this area delivers.
Have you been to King of Prussia or nearby towns? What did you enjoy most?
Share Your Experience
If this guide to things to do near King of Prussia, PA helped you plan your trip, please:
- Share this post with friends or family who are heading to Pennsylvania.
- Comment below with your own tips, favorite spots, or questions.
Your ideas and experiences can help other travelers make the most of their time in King of Prussia and Montgomery County.
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