Collingswood Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, and local culture of Collingswood with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Collingswood

Nestled in Camden County, in Delaware River Region, lies the charming borough of Collingswood. It is a small town with a big personality and one that is worth exploring. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Collingswood has something for everyone. This travel guide will take you through a comprehensive tour of Collingswood, including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and where to eat.

List of Places to Visit in Collingswood

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Collingswood has a rich history, and there are some museums and historical places that you don’t want to miss. One of the must-visit places in Collingswood is the Collings-Knight Homestead, which is the oldest house in the town and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Another interesting place to visit is the Collingswood Grand Ballroom, which is an Art Deco building that was built in the 1920s and used to host dances. Today, it is a popular venue for weddings and other events.

Natural Attractions of Collingswood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Collingswood is also a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the top outdoor attractions is Cooper River Park, which spans over 376 acres and has a wide range of activities, including walking, biking, fishing, and kayaking. Another natural attraction is the Newton Lake Park, which offers scenic views of the lake and has several hiking trails. Make sure to also visit Knight Park, which has a playground and is an excellent picnic spot.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Collingswood

For those who love to hike or bike, Collingswood has several trails to offer. The Cooper River Trail, the Newton Creek Trail, and the Haddon Lake Trail are some of the most popular trails in the area. These trails offer breathtaking views of nature. You can enjoy a relaxing walk or workout while taking in the beauty of your surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Collingswood: Activities and Tours

Collingswood has a plethora of activities for tourists and locals alike. One of the best things to do is to visit the Collingswood Farmers’ Market, which is open every Saturday and is one of the most popular farmers markets in the region. You can also take a stroll along Haddon Avenue, which is lined with unique shops and restaurants. Be sure to check out the Collingswood Book Festival, which takes place in October and is a must-attend event for book lovers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Collingswood

If you are planning to spend a week in Collingswood, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1 – Visit the Collingswood Farmers’ Market, take a walk along Haddon Avenue and enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants.

Day 2 – Spend the day at Cooper River Park. Rent a bike and explore the trails, or go kayaking on the river.

Day 3 – Take a guided tour of the Collings-Knight Homestead and learn about the history of the town.

Day 4 – Explore the natural beauty of Newton Lake Park, take a hike and have a picnic at the park.

Day 5 – Take a trip to the Camden Waterfront, visit the Adventure Aquarium and the Battleship New Jersey Museum.

Day 6 – Spend the day at Adventureland Amusement Park, which has something for all ages.

Day 7 – Relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Knight Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Collingswood

Collingswood’s food and drink scene is a foodie’s paradise. There are several diverse restaurants that offer a wide range of cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include the pizza at Sapori Trattoria, the empanadas at Tortilla Press, and the Mediterranean fare at Sabrina’s Café.

Local Beverages

Collingswood is also famous for its local beverages. Visit Devil’s Creek Brewery or Tonewood Brewing for some locally crafted beer. If you prefer wine, then head to Sharrott Winery, which offers a wide range of wines, including Merlot, Pinot Grigio, and Chardonnay.

Where to Stay in Collingswood: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Collingswood offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Some of the popular hotels in the area include The Collingswood Grand Ballroom and The Annex at Collingswood. If you are running on a tight budget, the HI Philadelphia Apple Hostel and The LumberYard Condos are excellent options.

What to Buy in Collingswood: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Collingswood is famous for its antiques and vintage shops. Be sure to visit Antique Row on Haddon Avenue, which has several shops selling unique antiques. You can also buy local produce at the farmers’ market, including fresh veggies, fruits, and homemade jams.

Local Culture and Customs of Collingswood

Collingswood is a small town with a friendly community, and the residents are very welcoming to tourists. The locals take pride in their heritage and culture and are happy to share it with visitors. When visiting Collingswood, make sure to be respectful towards the local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Collingswood

The best time to visit Collingswood is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the trees are colorful. The summer months can be humid, and the winter months can be cold, so plan your trip accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Collingswood

Do:

  • Visit the farmers’ market.
  • Take a bike ride along the trails.
  • Support the local businesses.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces.
  • Be disrespectful towards the locals.
  • Overspeed on the roads.

Safety and Health

Safety in Collingswood

Collingswood is a safe town with a low crime rate. However, it is always best to exercise caution when traveling, especially at night. Make sure to keep your valuables safe and secure.

Health in Collingswood

Collingswood has several hospitals and medical centers, including the Virtua Health System and the Cooper University Health Care. In case of an emergency, call 911.

Getting to Collingswood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Collingswood

The closest airport to Collingswood is the Philadelphia International Airport, which is approximately 11 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Collingswood

There are several bus stations in the area, including the Greyhound Bus Station in Philadelphia and the New Jersey Transit.

Other Options

You can also take a train from Philadelphia to the Collingswood station, which is located in the center of town.

How to Get Around in Collingswood

Collingswood is a walkable town, and you can easily explore it on foot. However, if you prefer to drive, there are several car rental options available. You can also use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Collingswood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Collingswood is conveniently located near several other destinations worth exploring. Philadelphia is just a few miles away, and you can visit the historic sites and museums. You can also take a trip to Cape May, where you can enjoy beautiful beaches and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Collingswood is a charming town with a rich history and a vibrant community. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can explore the best places to visit, things to do, and places to stay while in Collingswood. Plan your trip now to experience the natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals of this small town.

Collingswood Commercial Historic District Collingswood Commercial Historic District