Visit Delco Visitors Guide Fall Winter 2023

OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE FOR DELAWARE COUNTY, PA

FALL/WINTER 2023-2024

As temperatures drop and the leaves begin to

change colors, Delaware County transforms into

a picturesque landscape and the perfect place to enjoy the beauty and serenity of Mother Nature.

This issue showcases some great places in Delco to enjoy the fall and winter seasons. Many of the destinations featured are places that I enjoy with my family and friends each fall.

Linvilla Orchards is perfect for a hayride, a walk through a corn maze, picking pumpkins, and apple cider. Chadds Ford’s annual pumpkin carve offers an incredible display of over 70 giant hand-carved pumpkins by local artists. And if you’re more of a thrill seeker- check out the Bates Motel for some spooky fun.

Scranton, PA

There is also no shortage of places to take in the breathtaking fall sites in Delco. Residents and visitors can hike, bike, run, or stroll the County’s Darby Creek and Chester Creek Trails, enjoy one of our 12 county parks, or take in a round of golf at Clayton Park Golf Course. Our newest playground at Rose Tree Park is a perfect place to create memories with family.

2 Hours Away

New York, NY 2 Hours Away

Delaware County

As the leaves begin to fall and the temperatures drop even lower, I invite residents and visitors to enjoy the County’s annual Festival of Lights at Rose Tree Park, the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center’s Shooting Stars Holiday Spectacular, shows at the Media Theatre, and the Brandywine Museum of Art’s “Brandywine Christmas” this winter.

Philadelphia, PA 30 Minutes Away

Lancaster, PA

Atlantic City, NJ

1 Hour Away

1.5 Hours Away

Baltimore, MD

On behalf of Delaware County Council, I encourage all residents and visitors to take advantage of the wide range of history, culture, and special events in our county this season.

You don’t need to go far to enjoy a great meal, shop, enjoy the arts, learn about history, hike, or bike, and celebrate the fall and winter seasons. It’s all right here in Delco.

1.5 Hours Away

Washington, D.C. 2 Hours Away

Sincerely,

Dr. Monica Taylor Chair, Delaware County Council

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Glen Providence Park

Most

Scenic Spots for Fall Foliage

As the days turn colder, Delco’s tree canopy puts on a spectacular display.

Here’s a rundown of the best spots for fall-color fans.

stunning display, along with more than

The Delaware Valley’s native flora is on

and weave through 33 acres. Located

4,000 kinds of ornamental plants. In the

on prime real estate at the end of State Street in Media, it’s a picture-perfect location for an outdoor stroll.

Tucked away in a hilly section of Delco is wetlands, meadows, and streams. Part of the Natural Lands Trust, Hildacy has

3.5 miles of unpaved hiking trails that are just waiting to be explored.

Ridley Creek State Park With more than 2,600 acres of meadows and woodlands, there’s plenty of fall

landscape to explore. If you don’t feel like hiking, marvel at the leaves while

catching trout in Ridley Creek. In winter,

Ridley Creek State Park is a great spot for cross-country skiing, and a large grassy slope is popular with sledders.

Haverford College Arboretum Encompassing the entire collegiate campus which, in addition to the

scholastic buildings, includes 216 acres of mature oaks and maples, specimen trees, and natural woodland areas.

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fall, crabapples and hollies add pops of vibrant color to the leafy canopy.

Brandywine Battlefield Park

John Heinz Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum

The largest battle of the American

This refuge for both animals and people

artifacts taken from the battlefield,

more so than when the leaves change.

tour Washington and Lafayette’s

Hildacy Preserve

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Park has two miles of trails that climb

and Upper Providence, Glen Providence

Revolution was fought here. View

this 55-acre gem of native woodlands,

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Nestled in a steep valley between Media

The Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College

quarters, or just hike through the grounds as you envision the battle taking place around you.

Brandywine Museum of Art Wildflower and Native Plant Gardens Inspired by the natural landscape that surrounds the Museum, the Wildflower

and Native Plant Gardens extend the art outdoors. Wildflowers, trees, and shrubs

invites exploration year-round, but never Bring a kayak or canoe to get a front-

row seat to the riot of fall colors as you paddle down Darby Creek.

Tyler Arboretum Tyler Arboretum’s diverse tree population includes giant sequoias, ginkgo trees,

bald cypresses, American linden, sugar

maples, white oaks, tulip trees, and many more, making for a stunning canopy each fall.

are carefully selected to provide a

succession of bloom from early spring to frost in a setting like their natural habitat.

Rose Tree Park Situated on 120 acres, this picturesque

park features grassy rolling hills, mature trees, woodlands, and a brand-new,

ADA-inclusive playground. The Park is a popular destination for cross-country running, photography, dog walking, birdwatching, and more.

Wingyi Kung/USFWS

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Friends of Ridley Creek State Park

Outdoor

Adventures

With over 2,600 captivating acres of scenic trails and outdoor spaces, century-old family farms and orchards, and so much more, we’ll help you choose the setting that satisfies your personal sense of outdoor adventure.

Ridley Creek State Park

Ridley Creek State Park is a local fan favorite, thanks to endless acres of

woodlands and meadows to explore and

play. The creek is always stocked for fishing, while both paved and unpaved trails let you choose your outdoor adventure.

Rose Tree Park

At the heart of every great American town is a

beloved neighborhood park whose outdoor spaces in Delaware County, the largest – and perhaps the

John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge At Tinicum

allow plenty of space for all kinds of outdoor activities

more appealing by the stark contrast of its surroundings,

brand new, ADA-inclusive playground.

though it is surrounded by the everyday trappings of

offer a place to play, relax, and enjoy nature. Here

busiest – is Rose Tree Park. Its expansive 120 acres

Delaware County’s real-life oasis. A lush haven made

including birdwatching, sledding, StoryWalk, and a

tucked snugly into the county’s eastern corner. Even

modern life, guests can explore a labyrinth of trails—

either through guided nature walks or on their own—and explore a rich diversity of native fish, wildlife, and plants.

Linvilla Orchards Devon Anne Photography

Fall into fun at Delaware County’s favorite

Delco Trail Mix

family-friendly farm! This 100+-year-old farm is a seasonal mecca for locals. You can buy

Connect with nature through the hiking and biking

fresh produce or go out in the fields and pick

trails of Delaware County. Whether you are an

it yourself; climb, swing and jump through the

experienced hiker, nature lover, or a casual walker,

giant playground; get up close and personal

you’ll find many places to explore, walk, bike, hike,

with farm animals; go for a hayride or pick the

and even canoe and kayak. Check out the Visit

perfect pumpkin; catch a trout in their pond or

Delco trail finder to discover local parks and find

cut your own Christmas tree.

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the perfect spot to begin your outdoor adventure.

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Fantastic

Festivals

Mark your calendars, grab your family and friends, and get ready for a fall season filled with festivals, live music, cultural and historical events, community celebrations, and more in Delco.

Philly Fall Nature Fest (September 23) J. Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum hosts this free event for people of all ages to discover great natural and community resources. Festival activities include archery, live animal demonstrations, guided walks, trolley tours, music, kid’s crafts, and more!

South Wayne Porchfest (September 23) Neighbors, friends, musicians, and fans are invited to experience a day of friendship, fun, and free music played on the porches of private homes in South Wayne.

Derby at the Vineyard (September 23 & 24) Penns Woods Winery hosts a spectacular horse jumping event in the vineyard with wine, local beer & cider, live music, food trucks, artisan vendors plus a chance for the kids to get up close to the stars of the show at the meet & greet station!

Linvilla Orchards’ Pumpkinland (September 16 – November 5) An annual trip to Pumpkinland has been a family tradition for generations of Delaware County residents and visitors. Largerthan-life figures and scarecrows illustrate the legends and lore of the harvest season, featuring local history and some of the many stories of pumpkins and apples.

Marcus Hook Pirate Festival (September 16) Head to The Marcus Hook Preservation Society’s Annual Pirate Festival to experience a full pirate encampment with period tents, live pirate music, crafts, pony rides, and more.

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Historic Chadds Ford Days (September 16 & 17) Join the Chadds Ford Historical Society for a historical journey back to September 11th, 1777, with two timed skirmishes and a firing demo each day.

Reenactors, demonstrators, and other historians will be on site with live music, food, and beverages.

Radnor Fall Festival (September 17) Celebrating 30 years of family fun! The day includes live music and dance performances, face painters, kids’ rides, and fun for all ages! Along the street, you will find an array of local vendors as well as delicious offerings from local restaurants.

Swarthmore Town Center Food Truck-A-Thon (September 22) The Swarthmore Co-Op holds one of the most beloved events of the year. A variety of food trucks and vendors will be on hand for patrons to enjoy amazing food and drinks, live music, and more during this town takeover.

Fine Arts and Crafts Festival (September 23) Presented by the Community Arts Center, this free event features artists and crafters lining Swarthmore Town Center’s Park Avenue. Festivalgoers can delight in the open, friendly atmosphere, and the opportunity to meet and speak with artists.

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Linvilla Orchards Arts & Crafts Festival (September 23 & 24) This annual event features live musical performances and an opportunity to shop for that unique find by browsing a variety of handmade wood crafts, jewelry, photography, candles, and more! Bring the family for a fun-filled day that everyone will enjoy.

Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation: Fall Fest (September 30) Celebrate the fall season with the Plantation’s first annual fall fest! Enjoy colonial brewing demonstrations, cider pressing, pottery, music, and more.

Linvilla Orchards Apple Festival (September 30) Taste all the delicious varieties of Linvilla apples with apple samplings, apple pie-eating

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contests, fresh Farm Market treats, and Pick Your Own apples. Corn Maze, Straw bale Maze, Hayrides, Train rides, Pony rides, face painting, and more!

2 Stages - 20 bands and performers. FREE Admission, Live Music, Beer Garden, Food, Vendors, Crafter Village, Kids Fun Zone.

Upper Darby International Festival (September 30) Celebrate Upper Darby’s rich cultural diversity through food, live performances, and activities for the whole family. Featuring a main stage for a roster of cultural performances, including dancing, martial arts, and music.

The Great Pumpkin Carve (October 19, 20 & 21) A three-day ‘Chadds Ford tradition’ where over 70 giant pumpkins are carved by local artists on Thursday and will be lit and displayed on Friday & Saturday. All three nights enjoy a ‘kid friendly’ Haunted Trail, raffle prizes, live music, food local craft beer, wine, and more!

Delco Arts Week (September 30 – October 8) Enjoy a week-long festival that celebrates and showcases the creative artists and vibrant cultural institutions of Delaware County. Visitors and residents alike will have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of events as Delco artists and performers share their talents and love of the arts.

Lansdowne Arts on the Avenue Festival (October 1) Showcasing Lansdowne’s ongoing commitment to the arts, the Lansdowne Arts on the Avenue Festival features 70+ juried artists, live music, performances, demonstrations, activities for the kids, food trucks and a beer garden.

DELCO Nite Market (October 10) Inspired by Africa’s and Asia’s lively outdoor markets, these monthly, roving festivals celebrate up-and-coming neighborhoods and showcase Delco’s diverse entrepreneurial and culinary landscapes and vibrant arts and culture scene.

Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation: 17th Century Day (November 4) The Americas have been mapped and explored for more than a century and the great Continental powers have staked their claims to the new territory. Witness a period of our history that shows the expanding horizons of both Europe and America.

Swarthmore Fall Makers Market (November 5) An open-air market featuring 90+ local artisans and makers and their handmade creations.

The market also features live music, food vendors and trucks, kids’ crafts courtesy of local shops, and more.

Find More Festivals Here:

Haverford First Fest Music Festival & Crafter Village (October 14) Honoring Firefighters, Police, Military, Medical, EMS, and all who are on the front lines.

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Celebrate

The Season

in Delaware County

Christmas in Wayne Sierra Clark Photography

Delaware County is filled with magic

during the holiday season. From cutting down your own tree and dazzling light displays, to outdoor ice-skating rinks

Media’s Santa Parade and Fun/Run Walk

and live holiday performances. Get

in the spirit with some of our favorite seasonal offerings.

Brandywine Museum of Art: Brandywine Christmas

Historic Grange Estate Christmas

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Hedgerow Theatre Company: A Christmas Carol Mark Garvin

Rose Tree Park Festival of Lights & Holiday Village

Linvilla Orchards: Christmas Around the Farm

Flight on Ice Edgmont

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Cozy Up in Delco’s Romantic Restaurants There’s nothing quite like a night out with your spouse,

partner or crush to add some spark and excitement to your week! Whether you prefer posh and polished, or comfy and casual, there are plenty of restaurants perfect for treating your special someone to a lovely dining experience.

Farm To Table Fresh

Seasonally driven menus mean there’s always something

fresh to discover. Locally-sourced ingredients are not only

delicious but help restaurants and customers to reduce their carbon footprints. Delco’s farm-to-table restaurants are an

Savor All the of Delco

eco-friendly and delicious culinary experience.

Flavors

Delco’s Big Burger Bites

If there’s one thing that Delaware County

You don’t have to look far in Delco to find a fantastic burger.

knows, it’s great food. Whatever the

From fast-food-style smash burgers, like Charlie’s and

Zac’s, to unexpected gourmet burgers, piled with tasty

foodie in you craves – comfort foods, a

toppings, you’ll find unique and creative burgers around

delectable donut, pizza, a steaming cup

every corner in Delco!

of coffee, and more – Delco has it.

Soups & Stews

If you’re looking for a spot of warmth, perhaps a cup of

steamy soup or a bowl of hearty stew is just the ticket. From sit-down restaurants to lively pubs to grab-and-go delis,

Delco is full of places ladling up delicious chowder, bisque,

chili, and any other kind of soup and stew you can think of!

Drink Up & Wine Down

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.

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Joe Grasso

Sandi Johnson

Immerse Yourself in

Arts and History

From a Broadway-caliber show or

Delco takes great pride in its rich

an award-winning local production

history and pioneering spirit and

to local artists showcasing their

there are dozens of historic buildings

well-crafted pieces in galleries,

and sites and museums sprinkled

Delaware County is rich with

throughout the region anxious to

opportunities for arts enthusiasts

share their storied pasts. Experience

alike. Find live theater, music, dance

the American ingenuity and

performances, public art displays,

perseverance of a rural Pennsylvania

artists’ studios, and more. No matter

farmer or grab your imaginary

what your interest, Delco’s vibrant

bayonet and charge across the fields

arts and culture scene invites you

and farms of the largest battle in the

to be inspired and entertained.

American Revolution. In Delco we don’t just learn history, we live it.

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Airport Waterfront Inn

Hampton Inn & Suites

Radnor Hotel, The

Best Western Plus

Hillside Motel

Red Carpet Inn

Essington

Concordville Glen Mills

Best Western Plus

Philadelphia Airport S at Widener University

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.

West Chester

Philadelphia W

Holiday Inn Express

Philadelphia Airport Essington

Candlewood Suites

Home2 Suites by Hilton

Clarion Hotel Philadelphia

Home2 Suites by Hilton

Chester

International Airport Essington

Comfort Inn & Suites Glen Mills

Comfort Inn

Philadelphia Airport W Chester

Courtyard by Marriott -

Days Inn by Wyndham Chester

Days Inn by Wyndham Philadelphia Airport

Glen Mills

Ridley Park

Inn at Swarthmore, The Swarthmore

Inn at Villanova University, The Wayne

La Quinta Inn & Suites Philadelphia Airport Essington

McIntosh Inn Media

Media Inn & Suites Media

Springfield

Microtel Inn & Suites

Delta Hotel

Philadelphia Airport

Philadelphia Airport Philadelphia

Fairfield Inn & Suites

Philadelphia/Broomall Broomall

Hampton Inn & Suites Glen Mills

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Newtown Square

Drexel Hill

Springfield

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Radnor

Brandywine River Hotel

Philadelphia

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Hilton Garden Inn

Holiday Inn & Suites

Brinton Hotel and Suites

Every Style

Glen Mills

Chester

Chadds Ford

A Stay for

Media

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by Wyndham Ridley Park Motel 6

Philadelphia Airport Philadelphia Parkway Inn Springfield

Wayne

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

Gifford-Risley House, The Bed & Breakfast Media

Inn at Grace Winery, The Bed & Breakfast Glen Mills

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Something for All

Seasons

WINTER

SPRING

SUMMER

FALL

With a flurry of holiday activities from dazzling tree lightings to elaborate train displays and Broadway-caliber shows.

Bundle up and make some warm memories in Delco.

Nothing says springtime like an outdoor adventure on a rocky trail, a wine tasting in the vineyard, or a stroll through the beautiful gardens and arboreta while Delco is in full bloom.

No matter how hot it gets in PA, the coolest summer getaway is here in Delco. Discover all of our exciting events and fun ways to beat the heat.

From spooktacular festivals and huge pumpkin patches to trails illuminated in vibrant foliage, experience the magic of autumn in Delaware County.

Brandywine Museum of Art’s Brandywine Christmas

Brandywine Museum of Art Studio Tours

Christmas at Historic Grange Estate

Delaware County Juneteenth Celebration

Hedgerow Theatre’s A Christmas Carol

Delco Day

Ice skating at Flight on Ice’s Rinks in Edgmont John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum’s Groundhog Day Festival Rose Tree Park Festival of Lights & Holiday Village

Dining Under the Stars Live Harness Racing at Harrah’s Philadelphia Linvilla Orchards’ Bunnyland Philadelphia Union Games at Subaru Park

Community Arts Center Tie Dye Music Festival

Army/Navy Soccer Cup

Haverford Concert in the Park Series

Brandywine Battlefield Park’s Patriots Day

Kayaking through John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum Linvilla Orchards Pick-Your-Own Rose Tree Park Summer Festival Tyler Arboretum’s Butterfly House & Pollinator Preserve Upper Darby Summer Stage

Wayne Art Center Plein Air Festival

Bates Motel

Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation’s Lantern Ghost Tours Delco Arts Week Great Pumpkin Carve Linvilla Orchards’ Pumpkinland Marcus Hook Pirate Festival Media Restaurant Week Upper Darby International Festival

Wayne Music Festival 18

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(610) 565-3679 contact@visitdelcopa.com