Fodor's Expert Review Historic RittenhouseTown
North America's first paper mill was built here in 1690 by Mennonite minister William Rittenhouse. Over the next 150 years, 10 generations of his family lived on the site and operated the mill. His most famous offspring, born in 1732, was David Rittenhouse, astronomer, statesman, and first president of the U.S. Mint. You can stroll any time through these 30 picturesque acres along the Wissahickon; on summer weekends, the one-hour guided tour of the seven outbuildings gives insight into this self-sufficient industrial village, which is now a National Historic District. Special events include papermaking workshops, cooking demonstrations, and an annual 5K race.