Valley Forge National Historical Park: More Than a Landmark

Valley Forge National Historical Park is not only a treasured destination, but also a powerful engine for regional economic growth.

In 2024, the park recorded over 2.6 million trips, reflecting a full rebound to pre-pandemic visitors.

This steady stream of visitors delivers tremendous economic impact to Upper Merion and the surrounding area. A National Park Service report shows that 1.9 million visitors to Valley Forge National Historical Park spent $27.2 million at area businesses in 2023. That spending supported 411 jobs in the area and had a cumulative benefit to the economy of $44.7 million. From hotels and restaurants to retail shops and recreation, the park continues to drive consistent business activity and contributes to the ongoing vibrancy of the local economy.

Repeat visits play a key role in sustaining this impact. According to Placer.ai, nearly 80% of visitors are considered loyal, meaning they visited the park more than twice within the past year.

68% of visitors live within 30 miles of the park, including 38.4% within just 10 miles. These frequent visitors are more likely to return throughout the year, exploring nearby businesses and neighborhoods along the way. At the same time, nearly 15% of visitors travel more than 250 miles to experience the park, bringing new spending and broader visibility to the region.

Whether attracting tourists from across the country or welcoming neighbors for weekend hikes, Valley Forge National Historical Park strengthens both the cultural identity and economic vitality of the region.

Valley Forge National Historical Park Releases Request for Proposals to Lease Kennedy Supplee Mansion

The National Park Service has issued a Request for Proposals to lease the historic Kennedy Supplee Mansion, located at 1050 Old Valley Forge Road in Upper Merion Township. This Victorian mansion, built in 1852 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, sits on 4.55 acres at the eastern edge of Valley Forge National Historical Park. The lease opportunity includes the mansion, its carriage house and surrounding grounds, with potential uses such as a restaurant, retail, professional offices or other light commercial activity. The site is visible from U.S. Route 422 and located just minutes from the commercial center of King of Prussia.

The National Park Service plans to invest $10 million in rehabilitation work funded through the Great American Outdoors Act. This effort will fully restore the interior and exterior of the mansion, upgrade utilities, improve parking and landscaping and rehabilitate the nearby Port Kennedy area. The Request for Proposals opened on July 14^th and initial submissions are due by September 12^nd, with rolling deadlines each Friday until a lessee is selected. For more information, visit go.nps.gov/ks_leasing.