Lower merion
Lower Merion is a suburban township located in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, just outside of Philadelphia. It covers an area of approximately 23 square miles and is home to around 58,000 residents.
The township is known for its highly rated schools, beautiful parks and open spaces, and historic architecture. It includes several distinct communities, including the towns of Ardmore, Bryn Mawr, Gladwyne, Haverford, and Narberth. Each of these towns has its own unique character and amenities, ranging from boutique shopping and dining to cultural attractions and outdoor recreation.
Lower Merion is also home to several prestigious colleges and universities, including Bryn Mawr College, Haverford College, and Rosemont College. The township is well-connected to Philadelphia and other nearby towns via major highways, including the Schuylkill Expressway and the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Additionally, Lower Merion has several SEPTA Regional Rail stations, providing easy access to Philadelphia's bustling city center.
Overall, Lower Merion is a highly desirable place to live for those seeking a mix of suburban tranquility and urban amenities.
Living in Lower Merion
Living in Lower Merion offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban amenities. With highly rated schools, beautiful parks and open spaces, historic architecture, and a thriving local culture, Lower Merion is a highly desirable place to call home.
Residents of Lower Merion enjoy a wide range of cultural attractions, from boutique shopping and dining to art galleries and museums. The township is also home to several prestigious colleges and universities, including Bryn Mawr College, Haverford College, and Rosemont College.
In terms of outdoor recreation, Lower Merion has a variety of beautiful parks and trails, including the Cynwyd Heritage Trail, which offers scenic views of the Schuylkill River. Other popular parks include the 100-acre Lower Merion Nature Center and the expansive Merion Botanical Park.
The township is well-connected to Philadelphia and other nearby towns via major highways, including the Schuylkill Expressway and the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Additionally, Lower Merion has several SEPTA Regional Rail stations, providing easy access to Philadelphia's bustling city center.
1. Highly rated schools: Lower Merion has a strong reputation for its excellent schools, which consistently rank among the best in the state. Families are drawn to the township for its high-quality education system, which includes both public and private schools.
2. Beautiful parks and open spaces: Lower Merion is home to several parks and open spaces, including the expansive Merion Botanical Park and the Lower Merion Nature Center. These areas offer residents a chance to enjoy nature, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation.
3. Historic architecture: Lower Merion has a rich history and is home to many well-preserved examples of historic architecture. The township has a mix of historic homes and newer construction, offering a variety of housing options.
4. Cultural attractions: Lower Merion has a vibrant local culture, with art galleries, museums, and other cultural attractions. The township is also home to several prestigious colleges and universities, which contribute to its intellectual and cultural life.
5. Convenient location: Lower Merion is located just outside of Philadelphia, offering easy access to the city's many amenities and job opportunities. The township is also well-connected to other nearby towns and cities via major highways and public transportation.
Overall, Lower Merion offers a high quality of life, with excellent schools, beautiful parks and open spaces, historic architecture, and a vibrant local culture. It is an attractive place to live for families, professionals, and anyone seeking a mix of suburban tranquility and urban amenities.
Things to do in Lower Merion
Lower Merion offers a variety of fun things to do for people of all ages and interests. Here are a few ideas:
1. Visit the historic General Wayne Inn: This iconic inn, which dates back to the 1700s, has played host to numerous famous guests over the years, including George Washington and Edgar Allan Poe. Today, it is a popular destination for food and drinks, with a cozy, historic atmosphere.
2. Explore the Merion Botanical Park: This 11-acre park is home to a wide variety of plant life, including a collection of rare and exotic species. Visitors can take a guided tour or simply wander through the gardens on their own.
3. Enjoy outdoor recreation at the Lower Merion Nature Center: This nature center offers hiking trails, wildlife exhibits, and educational programs for all ages. Visitors can learn about local flora and fauna, participate in guided hikes, or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll through the woods.
4. Check out the local art scene: Lower Merion has a vibrant arts community, with numerous galleries, museums, and performance venues. The Barnes Foundation, which houses a renowned collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, is a must-visit for art lovers.
5. Attend a concert or show: The Ardmore Music Hall is a popular venue for live music, with a wide variety of acts performing throughout the year. The Bryn Mawr Film Institute, a historic movie theater, also hosts a variety of films, concerts, and other cultural events.
6. Shop and dine in local neighborhoods: Lower Merion has several charming neighborhoods with unique shops, restaurants, and cafes. Bryn Mawr, Ardmore, and Narberth are all popular destinations for shopping and dining.
Overall, Lower Merion offers a wealth of fun and interesting things to do, whether you're interested in history, nature, the arts, or simply enjoying the local culture.
Lower Merion Real estate Market
As of writing this, the real estate market in Lower Merion has shown steady growth over the years, with a current average home price of around $800,000. The market has been strong in recent years, with an increase of around 4% in home prices over the last year alone. The demand for homes in Lower Merion is also high, with properties selling quickly and often receiving multiple offers. Overall, Lower Merion is considered to be a desirable and affluent area with a robust real estate market.
The real estate market in Lower Merion is currently experiencing a trend of increasing home prices. Demand for homes in the area is high, with limited supply contributing to the rising prices. The market also appears to be largely dominated by single-family homes, with few multi-family or commercial properties available. Lower Merion has a mix of historic homes and newer construction. The township also has a number of luxury homes and estates, particularly in the affluent communities of Gladwyne and Bryn Mawr. Overall, the real estate market in Lower Merion is competitive and can be considered a seller's market.
One interesting insight from the data is that the demand for larger homes with more living space has increased significantly. This may be due to the increasing number of remote workers and the need for a comfortable work-from-home environment.
Another important factor impacting the real estate market in Lower Merion is the availability of quality schools. The top-rated schools in the area have a significant impact on property values and the overall desirability of the neighborhood.
Overall, the real estate market in Lower Merion is stable and showing promising signs of growth in the future. These insights can be used by home buyers and sellers but it is best to contact Shaina McAndrews directly for the most up to date housing market report for Lower Merion.
General Wayne Inn, Lower Merion
Lower Merion Schools
Lower Merion is home to a highly regarded public school district, as well as several private schools. Here is an overview of the schools located in Lower Merion:
1. Lower Merion School District: The Lower Merion School District serves students in Lower Merion Township and Narberth Borough. It includes six elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school, Lower Merion High School. The district is known for its high academic standards and strong extracurricular programs.
2. Private Schools: There are several private schools located in Lower Merion, including Friends' Central School, a Quaker school serving students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade; the Waldorf School of Philadelphia, a private school offering a holistic education to students in pre-kindergarten through 8th grade; and the Shipley School, a coeducational private school serving students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.
3. Colleges and Universities: Lower Merion is also home to several colleges and universities, including Bryn Mawr College, a highly-regarded women's college offering undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts and sciences; Haverford College, a small liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics; and Harcum College, a two-year community college offering a range of vocational and technical programs.
Overall, the schools located in Lower Merion are known for their high academic standards and strong extracurricular programs, making the area an attractive choice for families with school-age children.
Lower Merion HISTORY
Lower Merion has a rich history dating back to the colonial era. The township was originally settled by Quaker farmers in the late 17th century, and was named for the Merionethshire region of Wales, where many of the early settlers originated.
During the Revolutionary War, Lower Merion played an important role as a staging ground for the Continental Army. General George Washington is said to have spent several nights in the township at the historic General Wayne Inn.
In the 19th century, Lower Merion experienced significant growth and development, particularly in the areas of transportation and industry. The opening of the Pennsylvania Railroad in the mid-1800s made it easier for people and goods to travel between Lower Merion and Philadelphia, leading to an influx of new residents.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many wealthy families built large estates in Lower Merion, particularly in the communities of Bryn Mawr and Gladwyne. These estates helped to shape the township's landscape and architecture, and many of them are still standing today.
In the mid-20th century, Lower Merion experienced continued growth and development, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare. The township is now home to several prestigious colleges and universities, as well as world-renowned medical institutions like the Bryn Mawr Hospital.
Overall, Lower Merion's history is one of growth, development, and adaptation to changing times. From its early days as a farming community to its current status as a thriving suburban township, Lower Merion has a rich and fascinating history that continues to shape its identity and character today.
Noteable Lower Merion Businesses
Lower Merion is home to many businesses, from small independent shops to large corporations. Here are a few notable examples:
1. SAP America: This global technology company has its North American headquarters in Lower Merion.
2. Main Line Health: This healthcare system has several hospitals and medical centers throughout Lower Merion and the surrounding area.
3. QVC: This popular television shopping network has its corporate headquarters and broadcast studio in nearby West Chester, but has a large distribution center in Lower Merion.
4. Bryn Mawr College: This prestigious liberal arts college is located in Lower Merion and has been educating students since 1885.
5. Suburban Square: This outdoor shopping center in Ardmore offers a variety of high-end retailers, including J.Crew, Lululemon, and Williams-Sonoma.
6. Ardmore Music Hall: This live music venue has been a staple of the Lower Merion music scene for decades and hosts many well-known bands and musicians.
7. Ludington Library: This public library, located in Bryn Mawr, has been serving the Lower Merion community since 1928 and offers a wide variety of books, films, and other resources.
These are just a few examples of the many notable businesses in Lower Merion. The area is home to many other successful companies, as well as a thriving small business community.
Notable people from Lower Merion:
Lower Merion has been home to many notable residents over the years. Here are a few examples:
1. Kobe Bryant: The late basketball legend lived in Lower Merion for much of his childhood and attended Lower Merion High School, where he led the basketball team to multiple championships.
2. Brian Dawkins: The former Philadelphia Eagles football player lived in Lower Merion during his time with the team and remains an active member of the local community.
3. David Copperfield: The famous illusionist has a home in Gladwyne, one of Lower Merion's most affluent communities.
4. Terrence Howard: The actor, best known for his roles in films like "Hustle & Flow" and "Iron Man," grew up in Lower Merion and attended the local high school.
5. Josh and Chuck from "Stuff You Should Know": The hosts of the popular podcast "Stuff You Should Know" both grew up in Lower Merion.
6. Richard Gere: The actor and humanitarian, known for his roles in films like "Pretty Woman" and "Chicago," was born in Philadelphia and spent part of his childhood in Lower Merion.
7. Judd Apatow: This famous Hollywood producer, director, and writer grew up in Syosset, New York, but spent summers in Lower Merion, where his grandparents lived.
8. Isaac Asimov: The prolific science fiction writer lived in Lower Merion for several years in the 1940s.
9. Theodore Dreiser: This famous author, known for works like "An American Tragedy" and "Sister Carrie," spent his final years living in Upper Merion, just a few miles from Lower Merion.
10. Alex Scott: This young girl, who passed away in 2004 at the age of eight, was the founder of Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation, a non-profit organization that raises funds for pediatric cancer research. Alex lived in Wynnewood, a neighborhood in Lower Merion, and her legacy continues to inspire people around the world.
11. Paul F. Gorman: The former head of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) lived in Lower Merion.
12. Michael Nutter: The former mayor of Philadelphia grew up in Lower Merion and attended Lower Merion High School.
These are just a few examples of the many notable people who have called Lower Merion home over the years. The township has a rich and diverse community, with residents from all walks of life and professions.
Lower Merion Restaurants
There are many great restaurants in Lower Merion, Pennsylvania that offer a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences. Here are some highly recommended options:
1. The Ardmore Q - This BBQ spot in Ardmore offers some of the best smoked meats in the area, along with sides like mac and cheese, cornbread, and collard greens.
2. B2 Bluefin - This sushi restaurant in Bala Cynwyd is known for its fresh fish and creative rolls, along with Japanese specialties like ramen and yakitori.
3. The Grog Grill - This casual gastropub in Bryn Mawr offers a wide range of craft beers, along with classic pub fare like burgers, wings, and nachos.
4. Autograph Brasserie: Located in Wayne, this stylish restaurant offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative cocktails.
5. Tredici Enoteca - This Italian restaurant in Bryn Mawr features a chic, modern atmosphere and a menu of handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and other classic dishes.
6. White Dog Cafe - This cozy restaurant in Haverford is known for its locally-sourced ingredients and commitment to sustainability, with a menu that includes everything from brunch classics to steak frites.
These are just a few examples of the many highly recommended restaurants in Lower Merion. Whether you're in the mood for a fine-dining experience or a casual meal with friends, you're sure to find something that suits your tastes in this vibrant community.
Lower Merion RESOURCES
Here are some online resources for residents of Lower Merion:
1. Lower Merion Township official website - https://www.lowermerion.org/: This website provides information on township services, departments, events, and more.
2. Lower Merion School District official website - https://www.lmsd.org/: This website provides information on the district's schools, programs, policies, and more.
3. Lower Merion Library System - https://www.lmls.org/: This website provides access to the library system's online catalog, digital resources, events, and more.
4. Lower Merion Conservancy - https://lmconservancy.org/: This website provides information on the conservancy's efforts to preserve and protect Lower Merion's natural and cultural resources.
5. Lower Merion Historical Society - https://lowermerionhistory.org/: This website provides information on the history of Lower Merion, including photographs, maps, and historical documents.
6. Lower Merion Community Network - https://www.lmtn.net/: This website provides information on local news, events, businesses, and more.
7. Lower Merion Township Police Department - https://www.lowermerion.org/services/police-department: This website provides information on the police department's services, programs, and resources for residents.
These are just a few examples of the many online resources available to residents of Lower Merion.
Ask me about buying, selling, and renting property in Lower Merion, PA.
Shaina McAndrews is an experienced and knowledgeable Realtor who has a deep understanding of the Lower Merion real estate market. Here are some reasons why she should be the chosen Realtor for someone looking to buy or sell in Lower Merion:
1. Local expertise: Shaina has an intimate knowledge of the area's neighborhoods, schools, and amenities.
2. Proven track record: Shaina has a proven track record of success in the Lower Merion real estate market, with many satisfied clients who have praised her professionalism, communication, and attention to detail.
3. Personalized service: Shaina takes a client-focused approach to real estate, working closely with buyers and sellers to understand their unique needs and goals, and tailoring her services to meet those needs.
4. Strong negotiation skills: Shaina has strong negotiation skills and a deep understanding of the local market, which allows her to achieve the best possible outcomes for her clients.
5. Extensive network: Shaina has an extensive network of industry professionals, including mortgage brokers, home inspectors, and contractors, which allows her to provide her clients with a wide range of resources and services.
Overall, Shaina's local expertise, track record of success, personalized service, strong negotiation skills, and extensive network make her an excellent choice for anyone looking to buy or sell in Lower Merion.
