Suburban Square — Attraction in Lower Merion Township

A lunch with family brought us to Suburban Square, a collection of shops and restaurants spread out like a small town and very pedestrian-friendly.

I was quite surprised to learn that the Square opened in 1931 as it looks completely brand new with not even a hint of the past. A new building was completed though was still waiting to be filled. The mall is nicely landscaped, complete with an artificial lawn area adorned with backyard chairs and bean bag toss games. Umbrella-covered sofas and tables peppered the sidewalks, providing shade from the July heatwave that was occurring.

Parking is spread out along city-like streets, small lots and multi-level parking garage. Most are free but I did see some with meters.

We had lunch at Not Your Average Joe's (reviewed separately). There aren't any department stores, just small businesses, medical offices, a handful of national & worldwide brands, eateries and a farmer's market.

I didn't see any directory signs which would've been helpful at the time, but after further research...

HIGHLIGHTS: Ann Taylor Apple Store Kate Spade Sephora Trader Joe's Urban Outfitters West Elm

OVERALL: The old town...

Suburban Square in Ardmore is one of my favorite shopping destinations on the Main Line. It has a great mix of high-end and everyday stores, making it perfect for a quick errand or a full day of shopping. The layout is spacious and walkable, with a charming mix of indoor and outdoor areas that make it feel more like a small-town shopping district than a typical mall.

The selection of stores is excellent, from well-known brands like Apple and Lululemon to unique local boutiques. Dining options are also fantastic—whether you want a casual bite at Sweetgreen or a sit-down meal at a nice restaurant, there’s something for everyone. The Farmer’s Market is a hidden gem, offering fresh produce, specialty foods, and gourmet treats.

Parking is generally easy, and the area is always clean and well-maintained. It’s a great spot to meet friends, grab a coffee, or just enjoy a leisurely stroll. Highly recommend visiting if you’re...

Ope air shopping and dining with a west coast vibe. Modern and beautifully crafted. A collection of popular upscale shoppes and restaurants with a few originals baked right in. On one end of Suburban Square there is a nicely sized Trader Joe’s with a delightful indoor Farmers Market next door. Farmer Market is definitely worth checking out, especially the bakery with the “ultimate chocolate chip cookies.” The other side of Suburban Square features a lovely grassy area with Adirondack chairs and bench seating. There are plenty of areas to sit including a “living room” with cushy couches outside of Oath Pizza. There is metered street parking as well as free parking at the end of Coulter Ave., and a parking garage behind the Apple Store. The area is very lively with shoppers, diners, families with young children, and swarms of teenagers. Worth...