Welcome to Upper Darby, a bustling township located just west of Philadelphia in southeastern Pennsylvania. Known for its diverse community, rich history, and thriving arts scene, Upper Darby offers a unique blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your visit and make the most of your time in this vibrant area.
Historical Sites and Attractions:
Sellers Hall: Built-in 1684, Sellers Hall is Upper Darby’s oldest building and serves as a living history museum showcasing the early Quaker way of life. Visit this beautifully preserved home and learn about the influential Sellers family who played a significant role in the development of the region.
Aronimink Golf Club: Established in 1896, Aronimink Golf Club is one of the oldest and most prestigious golf clubs in the United States. The course has hosted numerous professional tournaments and is a must-see for golf enthusiasts.
Museums and Cultural Institutions:
Tower Theater: This historic theater, built in 1927, has hosted legendary performers such as David Bowie, Prince, and Bruce Springsteen. Today, it continues to be a popular venue for live music and performing arts events.
Upper Darby Performing Arts Center: Home to a variety of performances, including theater productions, concerts, and dance shows, the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center is a hub for local arts and culture.
Parks and Outdoor Spaces:
Naylor’s Run Park: This spacious park offers walking and jogging trails, picnic areas, and a large playground for families to enjoy.
Bond Avenue Park: A picturesque park featuring a walking path, playground, and basketball courts, providing a perfect setting for outdoor recreation.
Universities and Colleges:
Delaware County Community College: This comprehensive two-year college offers a wide range of academic programs and serves as an important educational resource for the community.
Upper Darby Restaurants and Dining:
Llanerch Diner: This classic American diner, featured in the film “Silver Linings Playbook,” offers a wide variety of comfort food and is open 24 hours a day.
Kabobeesh: A popular Pakistani restaurant, serving up flavorful dishes such as kebabs, biryani, and naan in a casual setting.
Pica’s Restaurant: A local favorite, Pica’s is known for its delicious square pizzas and Italian-American cuisine.
Upper Darby Shopping and Services:
69th Street Shopping District: This vibrant shopping area features a mix of national retail chains, independent boutiques, and dining options.
Drexeline Shopping Center: A local shopping center offering a variety of stores, services, and eateries to cater to your needs.
Upper Darby Outdoor Activities:
Karakung Golf Course: A public golf course, located in nearby Havertown, offering a challenging and enjoyable golf experience for players of all skill levels.
Cobbs Creek Park: A beautiful urban park featuring walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
Upper Darby Fitness and Recreation:
Upper Darby Sports Center: A multi-purpose sports facility offering indoor soccer, basketball, and other recreational activities for all ages.
Laurel Hill CrossFit: A welcoming fitness community offering CrossFit classes, personal training, and nutrition coaching.
Upper Darby Events and Festivals:
Upper Darby Greek Festival: A popular annual event celebrating Greek culture, featuring traditional food, music, and dancing.
Summer Stage: A series of live theater performances and concerts held at the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center throughout the summer months.
Upper Darby Transportation:
Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA): Upper Darby is serviced by SEPTA, with bus routes and trolley lines connecting the township to Philadelphia and the surrounding area.
Taxis and rideshares: Readily available throughout the township.
Upper Darby Accommodations:
The Inn at Swarthmore: A charming boutique hotel located just a short drive from Upper Darby, offering comfortable accommodations and a farm-to-table restaurant.
Airbnb: Upper Darby and its surrounding areas have a variety of Airbnb rental options, ranging from private rooms to entire homes, to suit your preferences and budget.
Wayne Hotel: Located in nearby Wayne, this historic hotel offers elegant rooms and fine dining, providing a relaxing retreat within easy reach of Upper Darby.
Education and Community Resources:
Upper Darby School District: The township’s public school system serves a diverse student population and offers a wide range of academic programs and extracurricular activities.
Upper Darby Township & Sellers Memorial Free Library: This community library provides access to books, digital resources, and educational programs for all ages.
Upper Darby Community Center: This multipurpose center offers recreational activities, classes, and community events for residents and visitors alike.
Nearby Attractions:
Philadelphia: As a neighboring city, Philadelphia’s rich history, diverse culture, and world-class attractions are just a short drive or public transit ride away.
Valley Forge National Historical Park: Located less than an hour’s drive from Upper Darby, this historic park commemorates the site where the Continental Army spent the winter of 1777-1778 during the American Revolutionary War. Explore the park’s trails, historic buildings, and monuments to learn about this pivotal moment in American history.
Longwood Gardens: One of the premier horticultural display gardens in the United States, Longwood Gardens is a beautiful destination for nature lovers and offers breathtaking displays of flowers, trees, and plants across its 1,077-acre property.
Upper Darby’s unique blend of history, culture, and community spirit provides a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and residents alike. With a wide range of attractions, recreational opportunities, and dining options, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this vibrant township.