As a hobby photographer, I am always on the lookout for small towns. I’ve often felt the need to travel outside of my local area to capture breathtaking landscapes and enjoy tasty locally-sourced food, but I’ve since realized that Chester County has some of the best-kept secrets when it comes to small town experiences and picturesque opportunities.

With it’s boulder-filled creek, serene waterfalls, and the famous St. Peter’s Inn, St. Peter’s Village in Warwick Township is at the top of my list for Chester County Staycations or day trips.

This historical 19^th-Century industrial village is located in the Hopewell Big Woods at the falls of the French Creek.

A hidden gem off of Route 23, St. Peter’s Village offers a handful of restaurants, boutique shops, and family-friendly activities.

And the directions are easy. From West Chester and Exton, take Route 100 North to Route 23 West (about a forty-minute and thirty-minute drive, respectively). And from Phoenixville, jump on Route 23 West for a twenty-five minute drive into town.

In need of a place to relax and unwind, I first visited St. Peter’s Village four years ago. I have since been back numerous times.

I’ve enjoyed hiking through the woods both during the summer and winter months, dining at the Inn, and watching families play along the creek. And I never leave the town without a visit to the Village Scoop Ice Cream Shop, St. Pete’s Sweets and Treats, St. Peter’s Bakery, or West Hanover winery.

My favorite part about the town is the Village Arcade, which showcases dozens of pinball machines from the 1960’s through today, entertaining singles, couples, and families alike.

And I always bring a pocketful of cash and my credit card, because the antique store, photography shop, and Olive Oil Company are some of the best stores around.

A few weeks ago, I visited with the owner of Kaleidoscope Angels, a gift shop and wellness center, featuring beautiful healing stones, aromatherapy candles, and handcrafted jewelry. He mentioned that visitors come all days of the week to walk along the creek and hike, but those looking for a weekend, or daylong experience visit on weekends, as most stores are closed Monday through Wednesday.

Kaleidoscope Angels offers yoga and mediation workshops on weekday evenings, offering locals and out-of-town guests a relaxing and unique experience.

For those interested in a weekend getaway, the Bed and Breakfast is available Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights with restaurant dining overlooking the creek.

On most weekends, the Inn entertains guests with local music on its large outdoor deck.  And throughout the year, the town hosts seasonal festivals, including their famous Fall Festival in October.

If you haven’t had a chance to unlock the treasures of St. Peter’s Village, make sure to put it on your bucket list.