Philadelphia’s Expanded Main Line Highlights
▪ Wide Variety of Architectural Styles and Price Ranges
▪ Beautiful rolling topography with lush vegetation
▪ Easy access to incredible local Community Resources
▪ Express trains available to Center City
▪ Exclusive Private Schools & Renowned Public Schools
▪ Reputable Colleges & Universities
▪ Extensive Recreational Programs
▪ Spacious public parks
▪ Biking and running trails
▪ Wide Variety of Clubs
▪ Expansive Equestrian Farms
▪ Plentiful Athletic Facilities
▪ Extensive variety of fabulous Restaurants
▪ Premier Medical Organizations and Services
The title “Main Line” was derived from the fact that this expanded geographical area was originally built along the main train line heading West out of Center City Philadelphia, at the beginning of the 20th century. Sprawling Historic Estates were also originally built as summer residences for the very wealthy who resided in the city. Because of this, the area is still graced with some of these large estates, built by renowned architects on the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It still offers quick and easy access to many of its own towns as well as to Philadelphia. The Regional Amtrak system connects cross country and to all Eastern Seaboard cities, including a quick 70- minute Acela ride to New York City.
Home to Bryn Mawr College, Rosemont College, Haverford College, and Villanova University among others, and in close proximity to The University of Pennsylvania, Drexel and Temple Universities, these towns are also well known because of the presence of these institutions of higher learning. Locals benefit from the availability of superior continuing education programs that all of these institutions offer.
Residents are drawn to this expanded area because of its value compared to surrounding metropolitan areas, low taxes, its beauty, excellent schools, quality of life and strong re-sale. It offers a wide variety of homes including stately historical estates, stone center-hall colonials, architecturally stunning newly constructed residences including custom contemporary homes, breathtaking horse farms, attractive townhome and condominium complexes and more. The public-schools are some of the most highly respected systems in the country and exist alongside exclusive private schools. Each of the Main Line towns has its own unique business district with a train station, providing the sorts of outlets residents need for daily errands and making commuting to Center City Philadelphia very convenient. Enjoy the best of everything!
Center City Philadelphia
Philadelphia, home to so many firsts in U.S. history, has come into its own as a first-class, high- energy metropolitan area for those seeking affordable living, top-notch cultural activities and easy access in-and-out of the metro area.
William Penn’s original 1683 plan for the city bisected by what is now Broad (running north- south) and Market (east-west) Streets, called for quadrants with a green public space in each. Those park-like spaces still exist today in the form of Rittenhouse, Franklin, Washington and Logan Squares.
In addition, Penn believed it was important for the city to be surrounded by ample open space, and for that reason, residents and visitors today can enjoy Fairmount Park, the largest landscaped park in the United States. It stretches from the heart of city all the way to its outermost northwestern boundaries.
Philadelphia is a very walkable city of neighborhoods, each with its own ambience and amenities. The city has the largest collection of 18th– and 19th-century residences of any major U.S. city. Many narrow streets, lined with picturesque residences, are still paved in cobblestone and just wide enough to accommodate a horse carriage. Behind the preserved and restored facades are elegant, updated highly sought after single-family homes and gracious condominiums. Tucked in between these Colonial- and Federal-era homes are some of the most famous buildings in U.S. history.
For those who prefer more modern living quarters, one look at the skyline shows abundant high- rise-living options, particularly in the Rittenhouse Square, Society Hill, Washington Square and Art Museum neighborhoods, and the city keeps on growing. Concierge, amenity-rich buildings with 24/7 service are quite popular and ease city living, especially for those who are moving in from the suburbs.
Philadelphia’s housing market is very affordable compared to New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Its per-square-foot prices are significantly lower and the city has a thriving employment market dominated by law firms, healthcare organizations, financial services companies, insurance companies, universities and telecommunications companies, including cable giant Comcast. It has a phenomenal restaurants scene, thriving cultural activities, world- renowned hospitals and universities.
Getting Around Center City
People are choosing Philadelphia because it is easy to get in and out for business and pleasure travel. Philadelphia International Airport is about a 20-minute ride from Center City, and Amtrak’s Acela Express train service reaches New York in approximately 72 minutes. It is not uncommon to live in Philadelphia and commute to New York City.
As in most metro areas, parking is a top priority for many home buyers and renters, and most newer buildings have been designed with this need in mind. However, many city residents are content to live without four wheels, particularly with the availability of ride-hailing services. The SEPTA bus, trolley, train and subway mass transit system covers all corners of the city as well as
suburban areas, and the city has made strides in becoming more bicycle friendly with 30 miles of protected bike lanes crisscrossing Center City.
World-Class Arts & Culture
World-class museums, the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, the Academy of Music, the Philadelphia Orchestra, Pennsylvania Ballet, The Franklin Institute, Philadanco, live theater, Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts, Philadelphia Film Festival are just some of the many cultural institutions that are accessible throughout the year.
Recreational Activities
It’s easy to go for a run or a bicycle ride on the Schuylkill River Trail, parts of which take you past some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including Boathouse Row. Or head deeper into Fairmount Park, where there are acres and acres of space for cross-country skiing in winter or lawn games in summer, an impressive collection of public art, plus the Mann Music Center for outdoor concerts. Those who like to get on the water can pursue kayaking or rowing on the Schuylkill River.
Top-Rated Hospitals and Specialists
Philadelphia is likely one of the best places to live for routine and specialty care. Its home to a number of teaching hospitals and its research facilities attract talent from around the world. The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University Hospital, Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Cooper University Hospital just over the bridge in New Jersey and other facilities are noted for excellent care.
Prestigious Universities
Students arrive from around the world to study and top professors are recruited to teach at such institutions as the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University and Drexel University. Both Penn and Drexel have done much for the University City neighborhood surrounding them, enhancing the quality of the housing stock and the amenities available to residents.