Cheap Trips: Revolutionary War History, a Victorian Christmas and Nature

Valley Forge National Historical Park

Address: 1400 North Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia
How Far From Salisbury Patch? 51 miles.
Admission: Free
Hours:

• Park Grounds are open daily from 7a.m.-Dark
• Visitor Center: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (Closed Christmas, and New Year’s Day)
• Washington's Headquarters and Train Station: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (Closed Christmas, and New Year’s Day)
• Washington Memorial Chapel: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Monday through Saturday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday

Summary: Valley Forge National Historical Park is among the most famous and significant landmarks of the American Revolution. Valley Forge is where Gen. George Washington and his Continental Army, made up of shopkeepers, citizen soldiers and men from all over the colonies, weathered the brutal winter of 1777-78. Outmanned and outgunned by the British, Washington and the American revolutionary troops spent the winter encamped 20 miles from Philadelphia. Washington chose the location to remain far enough away from Philadelphia to prevent a surprise attack, but close enough to keep pressure on British troops. The park offers not only beautiful countryside, but historic perspective and educational opportunities for visitors to learn about Army life in the days of the American Revolution and also about the strategy Washington used to ultimately defeat a far superior fighting force.
Knox Covered Bridge is located inside the park and is an integral part of Tredyffrin Township's history and logo.
Links:

• Patch Place Listing
• Park Website

Malvern Victorian Christmas

Address:

• E King St & Channing Ave, Malvern (Friday, Dec. 2)
• W King St & N Warren Ave, Malvern (Saturday, Dec. 3)

How Far From Salisbury Patch? 59 miles.
Admission: Free
Hours:

• 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2.
• 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 3

Summary: Step back in time and enjoy a free weekend of music and holiday events at the Malvern Victorian Christmas. The two-day event kicks off with the Lighting of the Town’s Tree at 6 p.m. on Friday and the arrival of Santa, who will be around both days. Activities include hayrides, carolers, live music, arts and crafts and two performances by The Philadelphia Boys Choir. Children will also get a chance to make a gingerbread house while adults can tour shops along King Street. All events are free, but some require free tickets (check the website for information).
Links:

• Dec. 2 (Friday) Event Listing
• Dec. 3 (Saturday) Event Listing
• Event Website
• Dec. 2 (Friday) Schedule
• Dec. 3 (Saturday) Schedule

Briar Bush Nature Center

Address: 1212 Edge Hill Road, Abington 19001
Distance From Salibury Patch: 41 miles.
Admission: Free
Hours:
Museum, pond and bird observatory

• Monday through Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.

Nature trails are open daily from dawn to dusk.
Summary: Briar Bush Nature Center sits on 12 acres in Abington Township and comprises a nature museum, walking trails, a bird observatory and even a butterfly house (which is open June through October). The center holds nature-based programs for children ages 2 through sixth grade, and holds free programs on Saturdays. The nonprofit nature center sits on the former land of Everett and Florence Griscom, a Quaker couple who moved to Abington in 1908. According to the website, the couple shared their knowledge of nature with children, school groups. According to its website, the nature center’s mission is to “provide environmental education to individuals and groups of all ages through on-site and outreach experiences, protect and nurture a natural wildlife habitat and promote conservation of natural resources by increasing awareness and understanding of the environment.”
Links:

• Patch Place listing
• Briar Bush Website