Philadelphia, PA - Philadelphia has much to offer the 42,9 million visitors who pass through yearly. There are the “soon to be great” theater shows that come to town, a soft pretzel or cheese steak spot on every corner, Fairmount Park for leisurely walks, and the Liberty Bell to give you the obligatory (and very entertaining) dose of local history. If you’re at a loose end for a day and feel like you'd love to get out of the city, you're in luck.
Why Philly?
There are day drips in all directions around Philadelphia, which is excellent, and there's a wide range of trips to choose from, so everyone at the party can find at least one that tickles their fancy. If you enjoy getting pampered at fancy Las Vegas spas, love to wear heels or a slick suit, go clubbing at the hottest nightlife spots, or only dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, you have excellent taste! You must also take it easy and try something more laid back occasionally. What follows is a selection of three of the most wholesome and generally wonderful day trips you should consider next time you're in the area.
1. Linvilla Orchards
What it is: A 300-plus-acre family farm dedicated to excellent agriculture, education, and entertainment.
Where it is: 598 Linvill Road, Media, PA 19063
Whether you’re in town with family or friends or alone for solo travel fun, Linvilla Orchards is the place to get a little break from the city. After only a 30-minute drive, you’ll find yourself in a quaint countryside escape where you can connect to nature inside the safe and sheltering arms of the orchard and farm. This is one of Delaware's last completely working farms, so it's a pretty special place to explore.
There’s a lot on the go at Linvilla, starting with the fact that you can pick your fresh fruit and veggies right out of the ground and off the tree, so this might be a good time to plan to cook something delicious! If that sounds like too much effort for a fun day out, don't worry- the farm market can offer everything from cider (the perfect choice in October) to dairy and eggs, fresh produce, donuts, and other baked goods. There are well-cared-for farm animals to see and pets, face painting for the kids, and even train and pony rides.
Depending on the time of year you visit (Linvilla is open all year), you’ll likely catch at least one of the many festivals that go on throughout the year. These are themes around the produce highlight of the season (apples, pumpkins, and blueberries) and always include fun food trucks, seasonal offerings, costumes, and fun festival games. In the warm parts of the year, the barn becomes the Ship Bottom Brewery Beer Garden and serves up a variety of beers made using ingredients grown right there on the farm.
2. Peddler’s Village
What it is: A charming village just one hour outside the city.
Where it is: 41 Peddler’s Village Road, Lahaska, PA 18931
Embrace the small-town life, at least for a day, when you visit Peddler’s Village. This storybook village, populated entirely with colonial-style buildings and some of the most stunning gardens you’ll see anywhere in America, is a truly special place. Everything about the tiny town is stamped with a distinctive trademark and has been for more than 60 years. Each year, come snow or shine, visitors pour into the village (so be advised, it's best to go on weekdays and arrive as early as you can) to enjoy the best shopping, fairs and festivals, food, and family fun available in Bucks County.
The dining options at Peddler’s Village range across various tastes and preferences. Indulge in a relaxing, three-course dinner with all the sides and cocktails, grab a juicy and delicious burger and beer combo, snack on some freshly iced cupcakes, and grab a coffee or a bottle of wine to take home. You’ll never go hungry or thirsty, no matter the time of day or year! Did we mention that the shopping in the village is second to none? Choose the brick path you like the look of best and begin to explore the stores that offer fine art, locally made furniture, vintage and new clothing, trinkets, and jewelry. There are more than 60 stores, so you’re guaranteed to find something you love!
3. Ridley Creek State Park
What it is: A woodland haven perfect for exploring with kids or adults and a great place to reconnect to the outdoors.
Where it is: 1023 Sycamore Mills Road, Media, PA 19063
16 miles outside of the city, in the tunning Delaware County Park, you’ll find Ridley Creek State Park. The stunningly green (or golden, depending on the time of year — and yes, we highly recommend visiting as the leaves begin to turn!) the rolling hills of this publicly accessible park have a lot to offer outdoor enthusiasts or city slickers looking to take a likely nature break at different skill and fitness levels. There's a guided horseback riding trail, excellent trout fishing since Ridley Creek is always overflowing with fish, cross-country ski trails all paved and ready for the first snows, and a beloved collection of hiking trails for those who just want to tackle a little walk in the woods.
In total, Ridley Creek Park has 12 miles of biking and hiking trails and 2,600 acres of gorgeous woodlands and meadows, perfect for working up a sweat or picnicking on whatever delicious snacks you brought along. If reclining on a blanket is out for you, there are picnic tables in 14 different places across the park. If hunting is more your speed, the park is available for archery deer hunting during the right season, and the park offers a hands-on environmental education program most of the year.
Treat Yourself to an Escape
Visiting Philly provides an opportunity to explore city life in a wonderfully historic location. Taking a day trip out of the city to somewhere in the countryside offers the chance to relax and reconnect with yourself, your friends, and the natural world around you, and you deserve that.
