Birds of a Feather Flock to Valley Forge

Day One

Morning - Begin your day at the 3,600-acre Valley Forge National Historical Park.  The Park includes the largest acreage of tall grass meadows in Pennsylvania, making it an ideal habitat for many species.  More than 250 species of birds have been sighted in the Park.

Lunch - Head to Fitzwater Station for a scenic lunch overlooking the historic Schuylkill Canal.  After lunch, take a stroll along the canal and spot some of the 130 species of birds known to inhabit this area.

Afternoon - At the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove, see the landscape that first inspired this renowned wildlife artist to paint the birds of America.  Interpretive demonstrations with Great Horned Owls and Red-Tailed Hawks can be arranged.  Tour the house and see his original works which were the first to realistically show birds in flight and in naturalistic poses.

Day Two

Morning - Visit the Daniel Boone Homestead, and see where he was born and raised.  This 1734 homestead interprets life of early English and German settlers and features a blacksmith shop, log house, sawmill, visitor center and nature trails.

Lunch - “Build Your Own” sandwiches, burgers, ribs or steaks served by a friendly staff at Sheerin’s Pub and Restaurant.

Afternoon - Take a walking tour, experience a living history program, pick apples in season and watch wildlife at Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site.  Begin at the visitor center where you can learn about all there is to see and do.

Day Three

Morning - Spot all 16 species of raptors that migrate on the east coast from the observation deck at Fort Washington State Park.  The deck provides a scenic overlook year-round, and also provides great views of the butterfly garden.

Lunch - Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at Fort Washington State Park.  With over 300 picnic tables and two pavilions there is ample space to enjoy a peaceful lunch in this beautiful, natural setting.

Afternoon - Don’t miss Elmwood Park Zoo’s Eagle Canyon, the largest open-air Bald Eagle exhibit in North America.  Also, keep a look out for Mallard Ducks, a Great Horned Owl, a Crowned Night Heron and a Peregrine Falcon.

Additional Itinerary Suggestions for Birds of a Feather Flock to Valley Forge:

Green Lane Park
Montgomery County, PA. 215.234.4528
www.montcopa.org/parks

Norristown Farm Park
Montgomery County, PA. 610.270.0215
www.montco.org/parks

Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve
Bucks County, PA. 215.862.2924
www.bhwp.org