It’s Impossible Not To Love The Most Eccentric Town Near Philadelphia

Philadelphia is surrounded by cool towns, including New Hope, Lambertville, Lancaster, and Doylestown, but have you ever heard of the tiny village of Arden, DE, located just half an hour south of Philadelphia? Click here for directions and get ready to be amazed by this eccentric, unique gem of a town hiding in plain sight.

The Village of Arden was founded in 1900 by the famous architect Will Price and renowned sculptor Frank Stephens as a utopian community.

Price and Stephens' ideals are kept alive today by the Arden residents. Half of the land is preserved space, artwork is the center of the community, and they've even kept up a simplified spelling system - which is why the main center of town is called the "Gild Hall," rather than the "Guild Hall".

The entire village has been placed on the National Registry of Historic Places, and the unique homes each go by "names" instead of addresses.

These names were chosen by their original residents or the architect, and they include The Lodge, Friendly Gables, Green Gate, and the Rest Cottage.

Every September, Arden opens itself up to the public for the Arden Fair.

The village, which normally has only 500 residents, shows off the best of their artisan skills and friendliness during this popular event.

Everyday life in Arden is so unique!

The town revolves around their "Gilds," where many residents spend their time perfecting their favorite crafts and hobbies. You'll find a Shakespeare Gild, a Poetry Gild, a Folk Gild, and more.

You'll frequently stumble upon a performance occurring in the Stephens Theater, right in the middle of the village!

You can find the Shakespear Gild's schedule right here.

Larger performances occur in the Gild Hall, where both local and national acts come to entertain.

The Arden Club keeps a calendar for these bigger performances. Click here to check it, and plan your night out.

One of the quirkiest stores in the entire region is located in Arden: The Oddporium.

Check out our recent article about this spooky oddities store, where you can pick up creepy bouquets or strange finds, like a mortician's makeup set.

You can join the Arden Dinner Gild for a meal if you plan your visit right!

They'll gladly welcome you, even as an "outsider," as they fill each other in on town gossip and talk about recent happenings.

Whether you participate in activities or just wander through Arden, you'll be amazed at what you find.

Find more information about all of the happenings of the Village of Arden on the Arden Club website and visit on a nice fall day for an unforgettable trip.

Have you visited this quirky-cool little village? What was your favorite activity? Let us know in the comments!

For more fun destinations, check out these delightful rural towns near Philadelphia or explore the treasures hiding right in the city in this charming neighborhood with an endless list of awesome activities!