3 of the Best Historic Sites In and Around Ardmore, PA

October 20, 2016 · 3 min read

Philadelphia is one of the most historically rich cities in the United States, from its founding in 1682, to its central role in the American Revolution and the Declaration of Independence, to its activity in 20th century labor movements, and beyond. However, the area's historical significance doesn't stop at the Philadelphia city limits — surrounding towns such as Ardmore, Haverford, and Bryn Mawr are also home to historic sites dating back to the country's founding. Here are three of the best historic sites to be found in Ardmore and nearby towns.

Harriton House

A visit to Bryn Mawr's Harriton House is a trip back in time. This home dates back more than 300 years, to 1704, when it was constructed by Welsh Quakers. The house's claim to fame, however, is as the home of Charles Thomson, the Secretary of the Continental Congress, which was the country's acting government during the American Revolution. Today, it is a National Register of Historic Places site, a museum, and a park. Visitors can learn about the site's history in the Education Center and explore the beautifully curated grounds that feature gardens, an apiary, an orchard, and livestock. The Harriton House also hosts a number of educational and social events throughout the year, such as the Harriton Farmstead Fair, blacksmithing classes, and a summer camp for children.

Pont Reading House

Ardmore's Pont Reading House is considered one of the most well-preserved examples of an early American home in the United States, and when you visit the home you'll quickly understand why. The home stands today in the same form as it did in 1813, having passed through ownership of only two families in that time. Its interior is finely crafted with curly maple woodwork, veined black marble mantles, and high ceilings. From the exterior, visitors will enjoy the ivy clinging to the home's white walls, large hemlock, ash, and swamp maple trees, and beautifully landscaped flower gardens. The appeal of the Pont Reading House goes beyond its age and architecture — this historic site was also the home of Joshua Humphreys, the "Father of the American Navy." Humphreys was a Philadelphia shipyard owner and marine architect who designed several ships for the early U.S. Navy, including ships used in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.

Federal School

On Darby Road in Haverford stands one of the earliest schools in the area, the Federal School. Originally constructed in 1797, this one-room fieldstone building served as a Haverford Township school until 1872, after which it functioned as a residence for some time before being relegated to a storage shed until its restoration in 1976. Since 1991, the schoolhouse has served as an educational site for the Haverford Historical Society and local schools, hosting "One-Room School Experiences" where local schoolchildren can experience what school was like in the late 18th and 19th century. The historic site is also open to the public by appointment. Next time you're in Philadelphia, don't neglect to wander outside of the city to explore the deep heritage of the surrounding region. Image via Pixabay

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Mar 02, 2017 in On the Road

Four Tips To Travel With Your Dog

They're your best friend, your fur-child, and your constant companion, so it makes sense that when it's time to travel, your dog will join you on your adventures. Traveling with your dog can be fun, but it requires a little planning. Before your pup climbs into your vehicle, make sure you check out these four tips for safe canine cruising. 1. Plan for the Unexpected We never want to think about our dogs becoming separated from us, but a little planning can reduce stress in case something happens. Before you depart, make sure your pooch is current on immunizations, including rabies. Fasten your dog's identification tag securely to its collar to guarantee a swift return in case of separation. A microchip can also be a lifesaver should your dog become lost; installing a chip is a quick, inexpensive, and relatively painless procedure that can be done at your local veterinary office. more 2. Let Them Have a Seat Pets need a place to rest their bones inside your vehicle, but that place should never be in your lap or untethered in a seat. In the event of a crash, simple physics indicates that your dog could continue in motion after the point of collision, resulting in serious injury or worse. A crash-tested crate sized appropriately for your dog is the best way to transport Fido. Durable materials such as aluminum, plastic, and fiberglass are best, and crates with internal crash bags add an extra layer of protection in a crash. 3. Treat Them Like a Child Everywhere you go, you see pet owners making common mistakes with their pets, but you can avoid these mistakes if you think of your animal as a child. You would never dream of setting off on a trip with no nourishment for your child, nor would you let them hang out of the windows or remain locked alone inside your vehicle. Likewise for your pet. Provide plenty of fresh water and treats, keep them secured in their crate, and always let them out for fresh air and exercise whenever you depart the vehicle. You'll also want to pack leashes, toys, and other comfort items your dog enjoys. 4. Know Before You Go If your travels take you to a hotel or aboard an airplane, be sure to call ahead to learn the hotel or airline's policies on pets. You may need to take along proof of vaccinations and an airline-approved crate. Ask hotel owners where you can exercise your pet, and be sure to contain your dog to avoid disturbing other guests. If staying with friends and family, make sure pets in the home get along well with your furry friend. Research pet accommodations for any attractions or venues you wish to visit while traveling. Whether traveling across Pennsylvania or across the nation, Ardmore Toyota is your destination for quality new Toyotas and a vast selection of pre-owned vehicles. With hundreds of vehicles available, you're sure to find the perfect ride for you and your pet. Image via Pixabay

Aug 04, 2016 in On the Road

4 Fun Day Trips to Take From Ardmore, PA

When you live in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, you are within driving distance of a number of amazing cities and sights. Instead of sticking around Ardmore this weekend, pack a suitcase and take a day trip to one of these fun destinations. Crystal Springs Resort Located in Hamburg, New Jersey, the Crystal Springs Resort is the perfect spot for a romantic couple's retreat. Here you can find a dozen different restaurants within walking distance, six golf courses, and two spas that offer relaxing treatments for your skin. The Grand Cascades Lodge is within the Crystal Springs Resort and houses a world-class restaurant with its own wine cellar. Be sure to take a dip in the Biosphere, an indoor, heated, and tropical-themed pool complex that includes a Jacuzzi. Even during the winter you can catch some rays because the complex allows sunlight in throughout the year. Get there in about 2 ½ hours from Ardmore. more Phoenixville Any resident of Ardmore who identifies with the hippie or hipster cultures will enjoy spending some time in Phoenixville. This city is about a half-hour drive from Ardmore but has an entirely different feel from other nearby cities. It's very laid-back and charming with streets lined with shops that you can stroll along to pick up souvenirs and other goodies. Phoenixville is also home to several wineries so you can sample local flavors in the tasting rooms. If you try a kind of wine that you just can't live without, pick up a bottle or two to take home. After you finish your wine tasting experience, head back to town to catch a live music show or indie film in one of the local theaters. Be sure to grab a cup of coffee and a freshly-made pastry at Artisans Gallery. Lewes, Delaware Road trippers who are after a relaxing and quaint beach vacation should head southeast to Lewes, Delaware. A few years ago, a local brewer bought the local inn and transformed it into an oasis for beer lovers who want to vacation with their dogs. When you stay at the Dogfish Inn, be sure to head to the campfire each night for s'mores and adult beverages. You can also wade at Lewes Beach, an area protected by the bay so it's perfect for kids and dogs. Kayaking, hiking, and biking are favorite activities of visitors. The trip takes about two hours. Brandywine Creek State Park If you're seeking a summertime getaway, check out Brandywine Creek State Park. Here you can take a tube down the creek and cool off during the hot months of June, July, and August. It's in Wilmington, Delaware, which is less than an hour from Ardmore. Bring your fishing gear and hiking boots since opportunities for both activities are plentiful. The park also has picnic tables so pack a lunch and enjoy a relaxing day within nature. A road trip is a fun way to see the sights around you and enjoy time together with loved ones, so pack up the car and get out of Ardmore for the weekend. Image via Pixabay

A smiling couple enjoys a drive in a modern car with a panoramic sunroof

May 08, 2026 in Ardmore Toyota Dealer

Pennsylvania Vehicle Laws Every Driver in Ardmore Should Know

Drivers in Ardmore, PA must understand state regulations to remain compliant and safe on the road. Ardmore Toyota provides this guide to help residents follow Pennsylvania vehicle laws. Title 75 covers various rules that include car registration and stop sign procedures. Staying current with these laws helps drivers avoid fines and maintain a valid license. more What Pennsylvania Vehicle Laws Cover Under Title 75 Pennsylvania vehicle laws are listed under Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. This legal framework covers all motor vehicle operations in the state. It addresses registration, licensing, traffic rules, and vehicle equipment standards. New drivers and longtime Pennsylvania residents should know that Title 75 changes regularly. Staying informed helps people avoid issues during traffic stops or vehicle inspections. Registration and Title Requirements Pennsylvania law requires all vehicles on public roads to have a registration with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, or PennDOT. Drivers must renew registration every 1 year. The registration card must stay in the vehicle at all times. Title 75 also lists requirements for transferring car ownership. When a person buys or sells a car, the title must be transferred within a specific time. Failing to follow these steps can result in penalties for the buyer and the seller. Rules of the Road and Driving Behavior Pennsylvania vehicle laws regulate how drivers behave on public roads. Title 75 addresses speed limits, right-of-way, and seat belt requirements. Pennsylvania has a hands-free driving law that stops the use of handheld devices while driving. Violations result in fines, and repeat offenses lead to serious consequences. All front-seat occupants must wear seat belts. Children must use safety seats based on their age and size. Vehicle Equipment Standards Title 75 sets standards for vehicle equipment. This includes rules for headlights, brake lights, turn signals, windshield wipers, and mirrors. Vehicles that do not meet these standards will fail the state safety inspection. Pennsylvania requires safety inspections every 1 year for all registered vehicles. Drivers with expired stickers may face fines. Keeping a vehicle in good condition is a legal duty and improves safety for everyone. Emissions Inspection Program Pennsylvania vehicle laws require emissions testing in specific counties. This program aims to reduce air pollution and ensure cars meet environmental standards. Under Title 75, vehicles that fail an emissions test must be repaired and retested. Some counties do not require this test. Drivers can check PennDOT guidelines to see the rules for their area. Penalties and Points Pennsylvania uses a point system for driving violations. Title 75 gives different point values to different violations. Too many points can lead to a license suspension or driver training. Serious violations like driving under the influence or reckless driving have heavy penalties. These include mandatory license suspension and criminal charges. Knowing these rules helps drivers make better decisions. Stay Road-Ready in Ardmore, PA Pennsylvania vehicle laws create safer roads for everyone. Title 75 is the foundation for these rules. Drivers shopping for a new vehicle should ensure their car meets legal standards. At Ardmore Toyota, drivers can find vehicles that meet all state requirements. Visit Ardmore Toyota to see vehicles built for Pennsylvania roads.