Elkins Park Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Elkins Park with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, hiking trails, food and drink scene, accommodation options, and more.


Introduction to Elkins Park

Located in Montgomery County, in the Philadelphia region, in Pennsylvania, in Mid-Atlantic, in the United States of America, Elkins Park is a charming neighborhood with a rich cultural and historical heritage. This vibrant suburb is home to a diverse community, with green spaces and attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for museums, scenic views, outdoor adventures, or delicious food, Elkins Park has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the top places to visit, the best activities to enjoy, the food and drink scene, accommodation options, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Elkins Park

Elkins Park boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage and is home to some of the top attractions in Montgomery County. Here are some must-see places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Beth Sholom Synagogue: Designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, this synagogue is an architectural masterpiece. The striking building resembles a mountain, with its angular planes and flowing lines.
  • Elkins Estate: A historic mansion dating back to the 19th century, the Elkins Estate boasts over 40 acres of land and gardens.
  • Abington Art Center: This art center features a rotating collection of contemporary art exhibitions and offers workshops and classes.

Natural Attractions of Elkins Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Curtis Arboretum: This 45-acre arboretum combines natural and designed landscapes, with walking trails, gardens, and recreational facilities.
  • Valley Creek Park: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this park features trails for hiking and biking, fishing in the creek, and a playground for kids.
  • Fox Chase Farm: A working farm that offers tours, workshops, and events throughout the year. Visitors can explore the barn, meet the animals, and learn about sustainable agriculture.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Elkins Park

Elkins Park is surrounded by natural beauty, and there are several hiking and biking trails to explore in the area. Here are some of the top routes:

  • Curtis Arboretum Trail: This 1.3-mile trail is easy and scenic, with stunning views of the arboretum and the surrounding area.
  • Pennypack Trail: This popular 10-mile trail runs through scenic woodlands, parks, and wetlands, connecting several neighborhoods in the area.
  • Wissahickon Valley Park Trail: This 9.5-mile trail runs through the beautiful Wissahickon Valley, with stunning views of the creek, the forest, and the surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do in Elkins Park: Activities and Tours

From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, Elkins Park offers many activities and tours to suit all interests. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

  • Take a walking tour of the historic Elkins Park neighborhood: Explore the beautiful architecture, history, and culture of this charming suburb. Guided tours are available throughout the year.
  • Visit Abington Art Center: This art center offers regular workshops, classes, and exhibitions for art lovers of all ages.
  • Attend a concert or event at Keswick Theatre: This historic theater offers a wide variety of concerts, shows, and performances throughout the year.

Week-Long Itinerary for Elkins Park

If you’re visiting Elkins Park for a week, here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Visit Beth Sholom Synagogue and take a walking tour of Elkins Park
2 Explore the Curtis Arboretum and Valley Creek Park
3 Visit Abington Art Center and take an art class or workshop
4 Discover the local food and drink scene, and try some must-try dishes
5 Take a walk or hike along the Wissahickon Valley Park Trail
6 Attend a concert or show at Keswick Theatre
7 Relax and enjoy a leisurely day at the Elkins Estate, taking in the views

Food and Drink Scene of Elkins Park

Elkins Park is known for its diverse food and drink scene, with something for every palate. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to add to your list:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Philadelphia Cheesesteak: This classic sandwich consists of thinly sliced grilled steak, melted cheese, and onions, served on a hoagie roll.
  • Kugel: A traditional Jewish dish made with egg noodles, sour cream, and sweet raisins.
  • Soft Pretzels: This iconic snack is a Philadelphia favorite, soft and chewy with a sprinkle of salt.

Local Beverages

  • Yards Brawler: A classic English-style beer, with notes of caramel, chocolate, and toasted bread.
  • La Colombe Coffee: This local coffee roaster has been serving delicious coffee for over 25 years.

Where to Stay in Elkins Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Elkins Park offers several accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some top choices:

  • Chubb Hotel & Conference Center: A historic hotel located on 300 acres of beautiful countryside.
  • Airbnb: There are several cozy and comfortable Airbnb options in the area, ranging from private rooms to entire homes.
  • Cheltenham Township Homestay: This guesthouse offers a comfortable and affordable stay in the heart of Elkins Park.

What to Buy in Elkins Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Elkins Park offers several unique souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some ideas:

  • Handmade jewelry from local artisans: Explore the local jewelry shops to find unique and beautiful pieces.
  • Books and music from the Keswick Theatre: Browse the gift shop at the Keswick Theatre for books, music, and other souvenirs.
  • Local honey and preserves from the farmers’ market: Visit the farmers’ market to sample and purchase locally made honey and preserves.

Local Culture and Customs of Elkins Park

Elkins Park is a diverse and inclusive community, with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, such as observing dietary restrictions during visits to religious sites. Visitors should also be aware of the local traffic laws and safety regulations.

Best Time to Visit Elkins Park

The best time to visit Elkins Park is between April and October when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing. July and August can be hot and humid, but there are several indoor attractions to explore during these months. The winter months can be cold and snowy, but there are still plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Elkins Park

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Explore the natural beauty of the area
  • Try the local food and drink

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural or historic sites
  • Ignore traffic laws and safety regulations
  • Disrespect local culture or customs

Safety and Health

Safety in Elkins Park

Elkins Park is generally a safe and welcoming community, with low crime rates. Visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Elkins Park

Elkins Park offers several health and wellness facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and fitness centers. Visitors should ensure that they have adequate health insurance coverage and take any necessary precautions, such as vaccinations, before traveling.

Getting to Elkins Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Elkins Park is easily accessible by several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Elkins Park

  • Philadelphia International Airport: Located 14 miles from Elkins Park.

Bus Stations Near Elkins Park

  • Greyhound: Located in Philadelphia, 10 miles from Elkins Park.

Other Options

  • Car: Elkins Park is easily accessible by car, with several major highways and roads leading to the area.
  • Train: The SEPTA regional rail service connects Elkins Park to Philadelphia and other surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Elkins Park

Elkins Park is a walkable neighborhood, with several amenities and attractions located within walking distance. Visitors can also use a car, taxi, or public transportation to get around the area.

Where to Go Next from Elkins Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Elkins Park is located in a beautiful and historic region, with several nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Here are some ideas:

  • Philadelphia: The City of Brotherly Love is only a short drive or train ride away, with its many museums, historic sites, and cultural attractions.
  • Valley Forge National Historical Park: This 3,500-acre park features historic sites, hiking trails, and recreational facilities.
  • New Hope: A charming town located on the Delaware River, with art galleries, antique shops, and outdoor adventures.

Conclusion

Elkins Park is a beautiful and culturally rich suburb, with something for visitors of all interests. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or food, Elkins Park offers many attractions and experiences to explore. Plan your next trip to this charming neighborhood and discover the best that Montgomery County, Pennsylvania has to offer.