Delaware County Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Delaware County, including places to visit, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, accommodations, local culture, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Delaware County

Delaware County is located in the Philadelphia Region of Pennsylvania, in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. The county is home to over 560,000 people and covers an area of approximately 191 square miles. Delaware County is known for its rich history and natural beauty, with plenty of parks, museums, and outdoor activities to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Delaware County

Whether you are a history buff or a nature lover, Delaware County has plenty to offer. Here are the top places to visit in Delaware County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge: This 1,200-acre wildlife refuge is home to over 300 species of birds and other wildlife in natural habitats. It’s perfect for birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and hikers.
  • The Brandywine Battlefield Park: This historic site is where the Battle of Brandywine took place during the American Revolutionary War. Here, visitors can explore the 52-acre park and learn about the history of the battle.
  • The Tyler Arboretum: This 650-acre arboretum features over 20 miles of hiking trails, gardens, and educational programs. It’s a natural oasis in the heart of the county.
  • The Historical Society of Pennsylvania: This museum and library is a research center for Pennsylvania’s history and culture.

Natural Attractions of Delaware County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Ridley Creek State Park: This 2,606-acre park offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The park also features equestrian trails, disc golf, and a mansion open for tours.
  • The Wissahickon Valley Park: This 1,800-acre park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring hiking trails, fishing spots, and stunning views of the Wissahickon Creek.
  • The Darby Creek Trail: This 2.8-mile trail follows the Darby Creek, passing through woods and meadows along the way. It’s perfect for a sunny day hike or bike ride.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Delaware County

Delaware County has a myriad of hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Here are the top routes to consider:

  • Chester Creek Trail: An 8.4-mile multi-use trail that runs from Westinghouse Plaza in Ridley Park to the Pennsylvania/Delaware state line in Claymont, DE. This paved trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and rollerblading.
  • The Darby Creek Trail: This 3.9-mile trail follows the Darby Creek from Cobbs Creek Park in Philadelphia to the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Delaware County.
  • The Stroud Preserve: This preserve offers over 15 miles of hiking and biking trails with beautiful views.

Best Things to Do in Delaware County: Activities and Tours

Delaware County offers plenty of activities and tours for visitors to explore. Here are some of the best things to do in Delaware County:

  • Rocky Run YMCA: This YMCA offers a wide range of fitness activities, including swimming, basketball, and group classes. It’s a great place to stay active while on vacation.
  • The Chaddsford Winery: This winery offers tastings, tours, and events throughout the year. Visitors can try different wines and learn about the wine-making process.
  • The Longwood Gardens: This world-renowned garden features beautiful plants, flowers, and water displays. Visitors can explore acres of gardens and greenhouses, as well as attend events and programs throughout the year.

Week-Long Itinerary for Delaware County

Day 1: Visit the Historical Society of Pennsylvania and learn about the history of Philadelphia. Day 2: Explore Ridley Creek State Park and go hiking or fishing. Day 3: Visit the Chaddsford Winery for some wine tastings and tours. Day 4: Visit the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge to enjoy the wildlife and go hiking. Day 5: Check out the Longwood Gardens and see the beautiful floral displays. Day 6: Take a hike on the Stroud Preserve for some fresh air and beautiful views. Day 7: Spend the day at the Rocky Run YMCA and participate in some fitness activities.

Food and Drink Scene of Delaware County

Delaware County offers a great local food scene, with plenty of restaurants and local dishes to try. Here are the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Philly Cheesesteak: The classic Philly Cheesesteak is a must-try when visiting Delaware County.
  • Pork roll and egg sandwich: A popular breakfast sandwich in the area, typically served at local diners.
  • Soft Pretzels: A classic Pennsylvania snack, the pretzel is a local favorite.
  • TastyKakes: A local snack cake company, TastyKakes can be found at many convenience stores throughout the area.

Local Beverages

  • Yuengling beer: America’s oldest brewery (located in nearby Pottsville, PA) produces delicious beer for over 190 years.
  • Wawa Iced Tea: Wawa is a popular convenience store chain in the area, and their iced tea is a local favorite.
  • Herr’s chips: Another local snack company, Herr’s chips are a popular local snack.

Where to Stay in Delaware County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Delaware County offers plenty of accommodation options for visitors, whether you’re traveling with family or solo. Here are some of the top places to stay in Delaware County:

  • The Inn at Swarthmore: Located in Swarthmore, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations and an on-site restaurant.
  • The Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia Springfield: This hotel is located in Springfield, with modern amenities and a fitness center.
  • The Holiday Inn Express Philadelphia Airport: This hotel is located near the airport, with comfortable rooms and a free shuttle to and from the airport.

What to Buy in Delaware County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Delaware County, there are plenty of souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some of the top items to consider:

  • Amish-made goods: The area surrounding Delaware County is home to many Amish communities, known for their handmade crafts and products.
  • Wawa merchandise: Wawa is a popular convenience store chain in the area, and they sell branded merchandise such as t-shirts, mugs, and hats.
  • Local honey: Local honey can be found at many farmers’ markets and is a great item to bring home and enjoy.

Local Culture and Customs of Delaware County

Delaware County is a friendly and welcoming community, with a strong sense of local pride. Visitors are encouraged to explore the local culture and enjoy the many offerings of the area. Residents are also proud of their historical heritage and enjoy sharing the county’s stories with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Delaware County

The best time to visit Delaware County is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer can be hot and humid, while the winter can be cold and snowy. Regardless of the season, there are plenty of activities and events to enjoy in Delaware County.

Do’s and Don’ts of Delaware County

Here are some suggestions for visitors to Delaware County:

Do:

  • Do explore the local parks and outdoor activities.
  • Do try the local cuisine and beverage scene.
  • Do visit historical sites and museums.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t be disrespectful to local culture or customs.
  • Don’t forget to leave a tip for good service.

Safety and Health

Safety in Delaware County

Delaware County is a generally safe area for visitors. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. In case of emergency, dial 911.

Health in Delaware County

Delaware County has plenty of hospitals and medical centers to provide quality care to residents and visitors.

Getting to Delaware County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Delaware County

The closest airports to Delaware County are the Philadelphia International Airport and the New Castle Airport in Delaware.

Bus Stations Near Delaware County

Greyhound Bus Lines and Peter Pan Bus Lines operate bus service to Wilmington, DE and Philadelphia, PA.

Other Options

Delaware County is accessible by car via Interstates 476 and 95. Delaware County is also served by the SEPTA regional rail lines, which connect the county with Philadelphia and nearby suburbs.

How to Get Around in Delaware County

Getting around Delaware County is easy, with plenty of transportation options available. Visitors can use SEPTA regional rail lines, buses or taxis and rideshares like Uber or Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Delaware County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Delaware County is located near many popular destinations within the region, making it a great starting point for further exploration. Some popular nearby destinations include:

  • Philadelphia
  • Hershey, PA
  • Valley Forge National Historical Park

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or food and drink, Delaware County has plenty to offer. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region of Pennsylvania.



    Chadds Ford
    Chester
    Glen Mills
    Haverford Township
    Swarthmore
    Upper Darby
    Wayne