Swarthmore Travel Guide

Discover all the wonders of Swarthmore! Explore the top tourist attractions, local culture, dining scene, and more with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Swarthmore

Nestled in Delaware County in the Philadelphia Region of Pennsylvania, Swarthmore is a charming borough offering visitors a delightful blend of art, history, and natural beauty. The town is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, numerous historical landmarks, and outdoor recreational opportunities that make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

List of Places to Visit in Swarthmore

The following section features some of the best places to visit in Swarthmore, classified by category.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Swarthmore College Peace Collection: This college museum features an extensive collection of books, periodicals, and archival materials primarily focused on issues of peace, social justice, and nonviolence.
  • Swarthmore Borough Hall: A historic building with beautiful architecture, it houses the mayor’s office, the police station, and the public library. It also frequently hosts community events.
  • The Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College: This 300-acre garden is home to over 4,000 varieties of plants from around the world. Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens, attend gardening workshops and events.

Natural Attractions of Swarthmore: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chester Creek Trail: A 2.8-mile trail running from Swarthmore to Chester, the trail offers a tranquil escape from the bustle of city life and panoramic views of the surrounding forest.
  • Crum Woods: A 220-acre forest featuring over 40 species of trees and diverse wildlife. It is a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Swarthmore

Swarthmore offers breathtaking views and lush forests that make for ideal biking and hiking spots. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Crum Woods Hiking Trail: a 5.1-mile trail offers a peaceful walk through the forest and features many scenic spots for photos and sightseeing.
  • Chester Creek Trail: Meandering through the natural surroundings, the trail is ideal for both biking and hiking enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Swarthmore: Activities and Tours

  • Attend the Swarthmore Farmer’s Market: The farmer’s market features fresh, locally-sourced produce available on Saturdays from 9 am until 1 pm.
  • Take a tour of The Scott Arboretum: Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens, attend gardening workshops and events.
  • Visit the Swarthmore Co-Op: The food co-op offers locally sourced produce and fresh baked goods.

Week-Long Itinerary for Swarthmore

Day 1: Discover the quaint Borough Hall building and explore its beautiful architecture. Afterward, attend a concert at the Swarthmore College Music Organization.

Day 2: Hit the hiking trails in the Crum Woods.

Day 3: Visit the Swarthmore Farmer’s Market.

Day 4: Take a tour of The Scott Arboretum.

Day 5: Dine at one of the many local restaurants and enjoy some of the local cuisine.

Day 6: Visit Swarthmore’s local shops and pick up some souvenirs and locally sourced products.

Day 7: Take a day trip and explore nearby destinations such as Ridley Creek State Park or Philadelphia.

Food and Drink Scene of Swarthmore

Swarthmore offers a diverse range of culinary options, with something for every foodie. The following section highlights the must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pizza: Visit the Renato’s Pizza booth at the Swarthmore Farmer’s Market for their delicious pizza.
  • Soup: Head to Vicky’s Place for a hot bowl of soup.

Local Beverages

  • Swarthmore Bourbon: Enjoy a glass of bourbon produced by local distillery, Dad’s Hat.
  • Swarthmore Wine: Sip on a glass of wine produced by Penns Woods Winery, located just a short drive from Swarthmore.

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

  • The Inn at Swarthmore: A boutique hotel with stylish and comfortable rooms located in the heart of Swarthmore.
  • Airbnbs: Visitors can opt to stay in one of the many Airbnb properties in Swarthmore.

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

  • Locally-sourced produce and baked goods from the Swarthmore Farmer’s Market.
  • Souvenirs from Swarthmore College or The Scott Arboretum.

Local Culture and Customs of Swarthmore

Swarthmore is known for its diverse and welcoming community, with an emphasis on social justice and environmental stewardship. Visitors can expect a friendly and inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and cultural exchange.

Best Time to Visit Swarthmore

The best time to visit Swarthmore is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are abundant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Swarthmore

Do:

  • Respect the local community and its cultural customs.
  • Engage in outdoor activities and explore the natural surroundings.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Behave in an insensitive or disrespectful manner.

Safety and Health

Safety in Swarthmore

Swarthmore is considered a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should take the usual safety precautions such as locking doors and keeping valuables out of sight.

Health in Swarthmore

Swarthmore does not have any major health risks, but visitors should stay hydrated and always carry sunscreen and insect repellant during the summer months.

Getting to Swarthmore: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Swarthmore

  • Philadelphia International Airport
  • Wilmington Airport

Bus Stations Near Swarthmore

  • Swarthmore SEPTA Station

Other Options

  • Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are also available in the city.

How to Get Around in Swarthmore

Swarthmore is easily navigated on foot or by bike. Visitors can also use ride-hailing services such as Uber or Lyft to get around.

Where to Go Next from Swarthmore: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Ridley Creek State Park: A beautiful park featuring a lake and wooded trails, located only a few miles from Swarthmore.
  • Philadelphia: The historic city of Philadelphia is only a short drive from Swarthmore and offers an abundance of museums, historic sites, and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Swarthmore offers a wonderful blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. From hiking the Crum Woods to enjoying locally sourced cuisine, Swarthmore is a charming borough that is sure to delight visitors. With this comprehensive travel guide, you are sure to have a fantastic experience in this beautiful town.

The Borough of Swarthmore is located in Delaware County (Pennsylvania) The Borough of Swarthmore is located in Delaware County (Pennsylvania)