Discover Delco’s Hidden Gems

There are many must-see places in the Greater Philadelphia region, but there is something to be said for finding hidden gems and spots off the beaten path. Some of the coolest places in Delaware County can be found tucked within our distinctive towns, municipalities, and boroughs. These hidden gems are often overlooked by travelers, but they are no less fascinating and well worth the detour. 

• Christian C. Sanderson Museum

Step up on the wooden porch of “Chris” Sanderson’s country home and tour eight rooms filled with over 200 years of American history. This incredible personal collection of artifacts includes everything from a book owned by Ben Franklin to a piece of George Washington’s hair.  Located in the heart of “Wyeth Country,” visitors can also view original sketches and paintings by N.C. Wyeth, Andrew Wyeth, and other Wyeth family members.

• Hedgerow Theatre

In 1923, noted New York actor-director, Jasper Deeter, fell in love with an Arts & Crafts Movement-inspired community in Rose Valley and formed the Hedgerow Theatre – soon to become known as one of the nation’s first repertory theaters. Nearly a century later, Hedgerow continues to be the artistic center of a decidedly 21st-century community with a year-round calendar of diverse performances, classes and workshops for community members, and outreach programs to local schools and organizations.

Photo credit:  Mark Garvin

• Lansdowne Folk Club

For 29 years the all-volunteer Lansdowne Folk Club has brought folk, acoustic, and blues music to the heart of Delco.  The music happens in the ballroom of the Twentieth Century Club, an Arts & Crafts style building listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Concertgoers can expect a coffeehouse-like setting with professional sound and lighting as artists from around the region – and the world – grace the stage.

Photo Credit:  John Kelly Green

• GreenHorn Gardens at Arlington Cemetery 

GreenHorn Gardens is a boutique nursery, garden center and urban farm located in Drexel Hill’s Historic Arlington Cemetery.  In addition to specializing in growing high-quality flowers, herbs, and vegetables inside their stunning 14,000 square foot, turn-of-the-century glass greenhouse, GreenHorn Gardens also hosts educational workshops and seasonal Farmers & Craft Markets on Sundays from 11am-3pm  featuring local artists and artisans.

• Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College

This idyllic 425-acre arboretum that makes up the Swarthmore College campus is often named one of the most beautiful in the country. Located just 11 miles from Philadelphia, the rolling hills, flowering trees, and hiking trails offer a natural escape on the edge of a busy metropolis.  Open daily to the public from dawn to dusk and admission is free.

Want to know more about everything Delco? We’re your source for where to stay, what to do and more in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We’re Visit Delco, PA, and we’ve got you covered from Philly to the Brandywine. Contact us at (610) 565-3679, by email, or online.