Visit Delco Combined Evergreen Booklet-Web-Spreads

Welcome to Delco!

Delco invites you to savor the delights of all four seasons, promising endless opportunities for adventure and enjoyment.

Our exquisite restaurants, captivating theaters, and wonderful hotels cater to every taste and preference, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors and locals alike.

Spring beckons with blossoming parks, inviting trails, serene wineries, and vibrant outdoor gardens. Summer evenings come alive with melodious concerts at Rose Tree Park and the enchanting ambiance of Dining Under the Stars in Media.

As autumn arrives, immerse yourself in the splendor of Linvilla Orchards and revel in the kaleidoscope of colors adorning our county parks. Winter casts its magic with the Festival of Lights at Rose Tree Park, and the festive cheer of “Brandywine Christmas” at the Brandywine Museum of Art.

On behalf of Delaware County Council, I urge all residents and visitors to embrace the rich tapestry of history, culture, and special events within all our boroughs, towns, and municipalities.

Whether indulging in delectable cuisine, perusing charming boutiques, immersing oneself in the arts, delving into our storied past, or relishing outdoor pursuits, Delco offers a wealth of experiences right at your fingertips.

We’re Always In Season

No matter what time of year you visit Delco, there’s always fun to be had. Check out our top things to do during each season.

Spring

Philly is an undisputed sports paradise, and Subaru Park – right here in Delco! – is home to Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union. With fast-paced action, a gorgeous stadium with amazing views of the Delaware River, and lots of crowd participation, you’ll fall in love with fútbol—just as the rest of the world has.

Media’s State Street is a popular destination for foodies, but perhaps more so on Wednesday evenings from May through September when the hugely popular Dining Under the Stars event is underway.

As Spring emerges from its slumber, Delco’s parks and gardens burst to life with colorful blooms and local attractions such as Brandywine Battlefield Park, Chanticleer Garden, and Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation open for the season.

Summer

Warm weather has finally arrived and so has the Rose Tree Park Summer Festival From mid-June through August, enjoy top-notch entertainment of all varieties in the park’s amphitheater.

Independence Day is a great time to enjoy burgers and hot dogs on the grill, sunshine, and family and friends. There’s a lot of starspangled spirit in Delco including, parades, fireworks, and fun.

One of the most successful youth theater programs in the country is right here in Delco. Every summer more than 700 tweens and teens eat, sleep, and breathe Upper Darby Summer Stage and the result is a Mainstage Production and six Broadway-caliber, family-friendly shows that are easy on the budget and big on fun.

Fall

As the air cools and the leaves change, Delco is the perfect place to take in the colors of the season with some of the most spectacular foliage in the area.

Delco is home to two of the most popular Halloween attractions in the Greater Philadelphia region: Linvilla Orchards and Bates Motel So, whether your idea of fall fun is apple picking and decorating pumpkins or descending into the terror and mayhem of a world-class haunted hayride, we have you covered!

As the leaves begin to turn and a cool breeze fills the air, it’s evident that autumn has arrived, bringing with it a jam-packed and fantastic festival season featuring live music, delicious food, cultural and historical events, outdoor adventure, and more.

Winter

There are few Delco traditions more cherished than a visit to Rose Tree Park’s Festival of Lights For more than four decades, dozens of lighted trees and festive displays have illuminated the winter evenings creating a magical atmosphere for visitors young and old.

Brandywine Museum of Art’s Brandywine Railroad holiday train display has been delivering awe-inspiring magic for more than 50 years. For decades, families have made a visit to see the extensive model train layout an essential part of their holiday celebrations.

Get ready to immerse yourself in a wonderland of holiday shopping, where the streets are adorned with twinkling lights, store shelves are bursting with possibilities, and the spirit of giving is in the air. From quaint boutiques to bustling markets, Delaware County has something for everyone on your list.

Subaru Park

Rose Tree Park Summer Festival

Linvilla Orchards

Rose Tree Park Festival of Lights

Explore The Outdoors

With nearly 200+ miles of trails, thousands of acres of county park land, a state park, national wildlife refuge, and numerous gardens and arboretums, it’s easy to connect with nature in Delco.

Brandywine Museum of Art Wildflower and Native Plant Gardens

Inspired by the natural landscapes surrounding the Museum, the Wildflower and Native Plant Gardens extend the art outdoors. Wildflowers, trees, and shrubs are carefully selected to provide a succession of bloom from early spring to frost in a setting like their natural habitat.

Chanticleer Gardens

A horticultural masterpiece renowned for its exquisite beauty and innovative design, this enchanting oasis captivates visitors with its diverse collection of themed gardens. From the vibrant colors of the Teacup Garden to the serene tranquility of the Pond Garden, it is a beloved destination for garden enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Chanticleer closes for the season on November 3, 2024.

Glen Providence Park

A picturesque natural retreat cherished by locals and visitors alike. This scenic haven with wooded trails, vibrant wildflowers, tranquil streams, and lush greenery, provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.

Haverford College Arboretum

A verdant oasis brimming with natural beauty and botanical wonders. Offering a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and flowering plants, visitors can wander along scenic pathways, meander through lush gardens bursting with seasonal blooms, or find solace beneath the towering canopies of trees.

Hildacy Preserve

Part of the Natural Lands Trust and tucked away in a hilly section of Delco, this 55-acre gem is home to native woodlands, wetlands, wildflower strewn meadows, and streams.

John Heinz Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum

A haven for wildlife and a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts, this urban oasis along the tidal Darby Creek provides critical habitat for a diverse array of plant and animal species, including migratory birds, waterfowl, and native plants. Visitors can explore a network of trails that wind through a variety of habitats, including marshes, woodlands, and meadows.

Ridley Creek State Park

A sprawling natural oasis spanning over 2,606 acres, this beloved state park offers a diverse array of landscapes, from dense woodlands and rolling hills to serene meadows and picturesque Ridley Creek. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature through a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, picnicking, and horseback riding.

Rose Tree Park

Situated on 120 acres, this picturesque park features grassy rolling hills, mature trees, woodlands, StoryWalk, and an ADA-inclusive playground. Home to the Rose Tree Park Summer Festival – an outdoor concert series from mid-June through mid-August - the Park is a popular destination for cross-country running, photography, dog walking, birdwatching, and more.

The Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College

Nestled within the campus of Swarthmore College is a botanical treasure trove renowned for its stunning gardens and diverse plant collections. Spanning over 300 acres, the arboretum showcases a rich tapestry of plant life, featuring meticulously curated gardens that highlight a wide variety of species, from native wildflowers and trees to exotic blooms from around the globe.

Tyler Arboretum

Established in 1825, this sprawling botanical garden and nature preserve, spanning over 650 acres, is one of the oldest and largest arboreta in the northeastern United States. Visitors can explore a diverse array of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, as well as a wide variety of themed gardens showcasing native plant species.

Ridley Creek State Park

Chanticleer Garden

1

Arts Tour

Delco boasts a vibrant and diverse arts scene. Prepare to be dazzled by Broadway-caliber performances at The Media Theatre and Hedgerow Theatre

Marvel at works from the Wyeth family at Brandywine Museum of Art. Catch an exhibition, performance, or workshop at Community Arts Center, Main Line Art Center, Rockdale Art Center, or Wayne Art Center

Four Ways To Discover Delco

2

History Tour

Delco has a rich history and pioneering spirit with dozens of historic buildings and sites to explore. Tour Brandywine Battlefield, site of the largest engagement of the Revolutionary War. Newlin Grist Mill is part living history museum, part environmental education center, and the perfect combination of Delco’s heritage and beauty. The Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, tucked away within Ridley Creek State Park, is a living history museum, allowing visitors to experience life as it was more than 200 years ago.

3

College Tour

Looking to tour some of the best colleges and universities in the Greater Philadelphia region? Visiting college campuses is a rite of passage for many high school students and their families and Delaware County is the perfect home base to explore many – 75 within 20 miles! – of them. Delco is home to 12 colleges and universities including Villanova University Swarthmore College, and Penn State Brandywine – to name a few.

4

Delco Trail Mix

Connect with nature through the hiking and biking trails of Delaware County. Whether you are an experienced hiker, nature lover, or casual walker, you’ll find many places to explore, walk, bike, hike, and even canoe and kayak. Check out the Visit Delco trail finder to discover local parks and find the perfect spot to begin your outdoor adventure.

Photo: ©Villanova University/John Setron

12

You don’t need a big budget to experience big fun in Delco.

Here are 12 FREE things to do—sure to keep you coming back again and again!

01

Admire Some Art

Delco’s local art centers and studios welcome the public to view exhibitions showcasing local artists, crafters, and artisans free of charge.

02

Attend A Festival

Delco’s festival season is jam-packed with dozens of free festivals that celebrate music, food, and culture.

03

Check Out A Local Library

Think the library is just a place filled with books? Think again. Delco libraries offer free and accessible activities and programming for all ages and interests.

Connect With Nature

04

Ridley Creek State Park offers 2,600 acres of woodlands, meadows, and trails. John Heinz Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum is an urban oasis great for birding, wildlife viewing, and offers a wide variety of nature programs.

05

Dive Into The Past

Delco takes great pride in its rich history and pioneering spirit. Dozens of historic buildings and sites offer free guided tours and demonstrations.

06

Hear Some Music

Enjoy open-air sounds at the Rose Tree Park Summer Festival. Nine weeks of top-notch entertainment - from Classical to Cajun, Motown to Broadway, Doo Wop to Rock & Pop, tribute shows, and everything in between.

07

Honor Local Veterans

Pay homage to Delco’s fallen military heroes at the Delaware County Veterans Memorial – an open-air monument honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

08

Stop And Smell The Roses

Scott Arboretum’s Dean Bond Rose Garden holds over 300 roses, displaying over 170 different types. The Arboretum is free and open to the public from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year.

Take A Hike

09

Whether you are an experienced hiker, nature lover, or a casual walker, Delco has 200+ miles of trails to explore.

10

Visit With Barnyard Animals

Linvilla Orchards barnyard features white-tailed deer, friendly goats, gentle horses, and whimsical sheepeach with their own unique and lovable personalities.

11

Visit A Farmers’ Market

Offering fresh fruit, flowers, veggies, and more, Delco’s Farmers’ Markets are great places to enjoy the outdoors and mingle with locals.

Visit A Museum

12

On the first Sunday of the month, Brandywine Museum of Art offers free admission to the galleries. Delaware County Institute of Science welcomes the public on Thursdays and the Pennsylvania Veterans Museum, and the Sports Legends of Delaware County Museum are both admission-free (but accept donations).

Immerse Yourself in Arts And History

From a Broadway-caliber show or an award-winning local production to local artists showcasing their well-crafted pieces in galleries, Delaware County is rich with opportunities for art enthusiasts alike. Find live theater, music, dance performances, public art displays, artists’ studios, and more. No matter what your interest, Delco’s vibrant arts and culture scene invites you to be inspired and entertained.

Delco takes great pride in its rich history and pioneering spirit and there are dozens of historic buildings and sites and museums sprinkled throughout the region anxious to share their storied pasts. Experience the American ingenuity and perseverance of a rural Pennsylvania farmer or grab your imaginary bayonet and charge across the fields and farms of the largest battle in the American Revolution. In Delco we don’t just learn history, we live it.

Utility Works

Brandywine Museum of Art

Pennsylvania Veterans Museum Community Arts Center

Brandywine Battlefield Park

Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation

Savor All The Flavors Of Delco

If there’s one thing that Delco knows, it’s great food. Whatever the foodie in you craves –comfort foods, a delectable donut, mouthwatering pizza, a steaming cup of coffee, and more – you can find it here.

Farm To Table Fresh

Seasonally driven menus mean there’s always something fresh to discover. Locallysourced ingredients are not only delicious but help restaurants and customers to reduce their carbon footprints. Delco’s farm-to-table restaurants are an ecofriendly and delicious culinary experience.

Wining & Dining Al Fresco

From outdoor courtyards with bold flavors and vibrant cocktails to microbrews and light bites overlooking the golf course, there’s no better place to be than a lively patio with a cool drink and delicious eats in Delco!

Keep It Cool

With summertime staples like Georgeo’s Water Ice and Rosati Ice serving Delco for generations, “wooder” ice lovers can indulge in old favorites and discover new flavors. Delco is also a heavenly destination for ice cream lovers with homemade flavors, mile-high sundaes, and endless toppings.

A Melting Pot Of Ethnic Cuisine

We are fortunate to have the world at our fingertips – well, the tastes of the world anyway. Whether you’re craving the hot, spicy flavors of Asia, or the romantic candlelit atmosphere of an Italian terrace, you don’t have to travel far to experience authentic, exotic cuisine in our restaurants and eateries.

Get Your BBQ On

Something hot off the grill gives us all the feels in the summer, but we’ll let you in on a little secret: We love barbecue all year long! Luckily we’re in Delco, the home of the greatest barbecue joints that also happen to be open year-round.

Delco Knows Pizza

Delco denizens are as fierce about their pizza as they are about their cheesesteaks and beer. In fact, we’ve been known to pair a big slice with a beer and a side of cheesesteaks now and again. Our must-try pizza joints span every style, from good ol’ cheese to a throwback with everything, an upside-down pizza to one made with your own reserved dough.

Cozy Comfort Foods

You know you want them: comfort foods! Maybe that’s because it’s cold outside, or you have a cold, or it’s a family tradition, or just because. We like that last reason… just because they fill your tummy with the comforting foods you grew up loving on in every corner of Delco.

Delco’s Big Burger Bites

You don’t have to look far in Delco to find a fantastic burger. From fast-food-style smash burgers, like Charlie’s and Zac’s, to unexpected gourmet burgers, piled with tasty toppings, you’ll find unique and creative burgers around every corner in Delco!

Delightful Donuts

Donut? Doughnut? Spell it however you’d like — we’re obsessed just the same. There’s something magical about a donut because it conjures up childhood memories, from simple store-bought cake donuts as after-school treats to taped-shut cake boxes bursting with hand-chosen donuts from a favorite bakery. When you’re surrounded by Delco’s best donutproducing bakeries, that magical feeling never ends!

Delco’s wineries and breweries are bustling with guests seeking local-made libations. With some of the most innovative and dedicated brewers and winemakers in the region, happy hour is a true experience here.

Photo: Penns Wood Winery

A Stay For Every Style

Conveniently located along the I-95 corridor, Delaware County offers city sophistication with countryside serenity, hosting a diverse mix of accommodations that make calling it a day as special as the day itself. From world-class hotels to 18th-century B&Bs, explore the one-of-a-kind stays and traditional comforts before you plan your weekend getaway.

AC Hotel by Marriott

Opening Fall 2024

Newtown Square

Airport Waterfront Inn

Essington

Best Western Plus

Concordville

Glen Mills

Best Western Plus

Philadelphia Airport S. at Widener University

Chester

Brandywine River Hotel

Chadds Ford

Brinton Hotel and Suites

West Chester

Candlewood Suites

Chester

Clarion Hotel Philadelphia

International Airport

Essington

Comfort Inn & Suites

Glen Mills

Comfort Inn

Philadelphia Airport W.

Chester

Courtyard by MarriottPhiladelphia

Springfield

Days Inn by Wyndham

Chester

Days Inn by Wyndham

Philadelphia Airport

Springfield

Delta Hotel

Philadelphia Airport

Philadelphia

Fairfield Inn & Suites

Philadelphia/Broomall

Broomall

Hampton Inn & Suites

Glen Mills

Hampton Inn & Suites

Media

Hillside Motel

Glen Mills

Hilton Garden Inn

Radnor

Newtown Square

Holiday Inn & Suites

Philadelphia W.

Drexel Hill

Holiday Inn Express

Philadelphia Airport

Essington

Home2 Suites by Hilton

Glen Mills

Home2 Suites by Hilton

Ridley Park

The Inn at Swarthmore

Swarthmore

The Inn at Villanova

University

Wayne

La Quinta Inn & Suites

Philadelphia Airport

Essington

McIntosh Inn

Media

Media Inn & Suites

Media

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham

Philadelphia Airport

Ridley Park

Motel 6

Philadelphia Airport

Philadelphia

Parkway Inn

Springfield

The Radnor Hotel

Wayne

Red Carpet Inn

Philadelphia Airport

Lester

Red Roof PLUS+

Philadelphia Airport

Essington

Residence Inn by Marriott Philadelphia

Glen Mills

Springhill Suites by Marriott

Philadelphia Airport

Ridley Park

Staybridge Suites

Wilmington/

Brandywine Valley

Glen Mills

Summit Inn Hotel

Upper Darby

Travelodge by Wyndham

Philadelphia Airport

Essington

Trolley Stop Motel

Media

Wayne Hotel

Wayne

Wyndham Garden Hotel

Philadelphia Airport

Essington

Alpenhof

Bed & Breakfast

Media

The Gifford-Risley House

Bed & Breakfast

Media

The Inn at Grace Winery

Bed & Breakfast

Glen Mills