Page 15 - Visit Delco - Spring/Summer 2021

SCOTT ARBORETUM AT SWARTHMORE COLLEGE
Strolling in Swarthmore
warthmore was originally part of Springfield Township and became known as the home of Benjamin West, America’s first internationally famous artist. After the founding of Swarthmore College in the 1860s, the town grew around it and eventually incorporated as the Borough of Swarthmore in 1893. The establishment of a train station in town was another major factor contributing to its growth, and
the Swarthmore SEPTA station is still an excellent entry point for a stroll through the town and college.
ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
The Swarthmore Historical Society has published
an official walking tour of the borough, with detailed explanations of each of the 32 stops. You can find it at www.swarthmore.edu/library/friends/SHS_New/ tour-only.html. Printable maps of Swarthmore community trails are at www.swarthmorepa. org/2260/Downloadable-and-Printable-Maps. Details on the trails can also be found on the AllTrails hiking app. Instructions for downloading the app are at www.swarthmorepa.org/2259/AllTrails-App.
If you have a shorter stroll in mind, the
Scott Arboretum at Swarthmore College, with
its more than 4,000 plant varieties, is a wonderful destination. At the edge of the campus is the Benjamin West House, Swarthmore’s oldest building and one-time home of the famous painter. At the time of writing, the grounds of Swarthmore College, including the arboretum, were closed to visitors. For updates, check www.swarthmore.edu/ coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-information/ campus-visitor-policy.
SHOPPING
WaR3House 3 is your essential stop for antiques and collectibles. It’s also a great venue to experience local musicians, and the store’s open mic nights are being continued via Zoom. When you get back from your stroll, check www.facebook.com/WaR3house3 for details on upcoming performances.
If you’re walking with kids, we recommend spending some time at Kandy Kids, with its selection of fun, educational toys and gifts. Check out Harvey Oak Mercantile for casual women’s fashion and locally made crafts, or Gallery on Park to get to know the works of local artists.
DINING
No tour of Swarthmore is complete without a look at
The Swarthmore CO-OP, a beloved food market and community hub that offers both fresh and prepared foods, including sandwiches. Another great option for fresh produce is the Swarthmore Farmers Market, which is open Saturdays. The 2021 season begins on May 8.
If you’re looking for sit-down dining, try Broad Table Tavern at The Inn at Swarthmore, whose burgers and cheese steak provide a solid foundation for more strolling. (They have great desserts too!)
In summer, stop by one of Swarthmore’s parklets. They’re appealing little green spaces that local restau- rants will be setting up for outdoor dining. Participating venues include Hobbs Coffee, Village Vine, Renato Pizza, Occasionally Yours, Vicky’s Place and Aria.
Need More IPlaces to Stroll?
f you prefer strolling in the woods or through a beautifully landscaped park, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered.
Delco has miles and miles of scenic hiking trails, including at the Wawa Preserve, the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, Glen Providence Park and
many others. For a list that’s searchable by distance
and amenities, go to www.visitdelcopa.com/trails.
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