Upper Darby Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Upper Darby with this comprehensive tour guide that covers everything from where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.


Introduction to Upper Darby

Located in Delaware County in the Philadelphia region of Pennsylvania, Upper Darby is a vibrant and cultural community with plenty of attractions for locals and visitors alike. The area is known for its diverse population, beautiful outdoor scenery, and rich history.

List of Places to Visit in Upper Darby

Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun day out, Upper Darby has plenty of attractions to suit all travelers. Here is a list of some of the must-visit places in the area:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Tower Theater: This historic theater has hosted some of the biggest names in show business, from The Rolling Stones to Prince. Today, it hosts a variety of concerts, comedians, and theatrical performances.

  • The Upper Darby Performing Arts Center: This state-of-the-art facility hosts a variety of cultural events, from community theater productions to professional dance performances.

  • The Ludington Library: This beautiful library is a great place to learn about the history of Upper Darby. It houses a variety of historical artifacts, documents, and photographs.

Natural Attractions of Upper Darby: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Darby Creek Trail: This 2.7-mile trail winds through the beautiful Darby Creek Valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

  • The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge: This 1000-acre refuge is home to a variety of bird and animal species. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities.

  • The Tinicum Marsh: This wetland area is a popular spot for bird watching and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Upper Darby

Upper Darby is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, with several hiking and biking trails to enjoy. Some of the most popular routes in the area include:

  • The Darby Creek Trail: This 2.7-mile trail winds through the Darby Creek Valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

  • The Cobbs Creek Trail: This 4.5-mile trail runs through the Cobbs Creek Park and offers a scenic route for hiking and biking.

  • The Radnor Trail: This 2.1-mile paved trail runs along an abandoned railroad line and offers scenic views of the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Upper Darby: Activities and Tours

Upper Darby has plenty of fun activities and tours for all ages. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

  • Visit the Tower Theater: Catch a concert or show at this historic theater, which has hosted some of the biggest names in show business.

  • Explore the Darby Creek Valley: Hike or bike the Darby Creek Trail and explore the beautiful valley scenery.

  • Take a Brewery Tour: Visit the 2SP Brewing Company and learn about the brewing process while enjoying a tasty beer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Upper Darby

Day 1: Visit the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center and catch a show. Day 2: Explore the historic Ludington Library and learn about the history of Upper Darby. Day 3: Take a hike on the Darby Creek Trail and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Day 4: Visit the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge and go bird watching. Day 5: Take a brewery tour at the 2SP Brewing Company. Day 6: Enjoy a day at the Tinicum Marsh and go fishing. Day 7: Spend the day at the Tower Theater and catch a concert or show.

Food and Drink Scene of Upper Darby

Upper Darby offers plenty of delicious food and drink options, from local favorites to international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cheesesteak: This classic Philly dish can be found at several local restaurants in Upper Darby.

  • Pretzel: Another iconic Philly food, soft pretzels are a delicious snack that can be found at many local bakeries.

  • Bagel and Cream Cheese: Upper Darby has several delicious bagel shops where you can enjoy a fresh bagel with cream cheese and other toppings.

Local Beverages

  • Yuengling Beer: This Pennsylvania-based beer has been a local favorite for over 190 years.

  • Wine from Chaddsford Winery: Located just a short drive from Upper Darby, Chaddsford Winery offers a variety of locally-made wines.

Where to Stay in Upper Darby: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Upper Darby has plenty of great accommodation options for travelers of all budgets, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels.

Some of the best options include:

  • The Clarion Hotel Philadelphia International Airport: This hotel offers a free airport shuttle and is located just a short drive from Upper Darby.

  • The Sheraton Suites Philadelphia Airport: This modern hotel is located just a few miles from Upper Darby and offers spacious suites and a variety of amenities.

  • The Loft District Hostel: Located in nearby Philadelphia, this budget-friendly hostel offers clean and comfortable dorm rooms and private suites.

What to Buy in Upper Darby: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir or local product to bring home from Upper Darby, here are some great options:

  • Cheesesteaks: Bring home some frozen or canned cheesesteaks from local shops and enjoy a taste of Philly at home.

  • Amish Goods: Upper Darby is located near several Amish communities, where you can find handmade crafts, quilts, and other unique products.

Local Culture and Customs of Upper Darby

Upper Darby is known for its diverse population and rich history. The area has a strong Irish Catholic heritage, and you can find several Irish pubs and restaurants throughout the region.

Best Time to Visit Upper Darby

The best time to visit Upper Darby is in the late spring or early fall, when the weather is mild and the outdoor scenery is at its best. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Upper Darby

Do:

  • Do explore the outdoor scenery: Upper Darby offers plenty of beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore.

  • Do visit local theaters and cultural attractions: Upper Darby has a rich cultural history, and there are several local theaters and museums to explore.

Don’t:

  • Don’t ignore the region’s history: Upper Darby has a rich history dating back to colonial times. Take some time to learn about the area’s heritage.

  • Don’t make assumptions about the local culture: Upper Darby is a diverse community, and it’s important to be respectful of all cultures and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Upper Darby

Upper Darby is a generally safe community, but like any urban area, it’s important to take precautions to stay safe. Avoid walking alone at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Health in Upper Darby

There are several hospitals and medical clinics located in and around Upper Darby, so visitors can rest assured that they’ll have access to quality medical care if needed.

Getting to Upper Darby: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Upper Darby

  • Philadelphia International Airport: Located just a few miles from Upper Darby, PHL is the closest airport to the area and offers a variety of domestic and international flights.

  • Newark Liberty International Airport: Located about 80 miles from Upper Darby, Newark Liberty is another viable option for visitors flying into the region.

Bus Stations Near Upper Darby

  • 30th Street Station: This Amtrak station is located in nearby Philadelphia and offers several bus connections to Upper Darby.

  • Greyhound Bus Station: This bus station is located in downtown Philadelphia and offers several routes to Upper Darby.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car from one of several major rental car companies located at Philadelphia International Airport.

How to Get Around in Upper Darby

Public transportation options in Upper Darby include the SEPTA bus and trolley lines. Taxis and rideshare services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Upper Darby: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Upper Darby is located in a prime location for exploring the Philadelphia region, with several nearby attractions and excursions to consider:

  • Philadelphia: Just a short drive or train ride from Upper Darby, Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for history buffs and foodies alike.

  • Valley Forge National Historical Park: Located about 15 miles from Upper Darby, this historic park offers a glimpse into the Revolutionary War era.

  • Longwood Gardens: Located about 25 miles from Upper Darby, this breathtaking botanical garden is a must-see for nature lovers.

Conclusion

From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions and delicious food, Upper Darby has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience all that this vibrant community has to offer!