Things To Do
in Bensalem

Bensalem Township is a suburban community in Bucks County just outside Philadelphia, blending residential neighborhoods with parks and shopping. The Neshaminy Creek and ample green space give the town a relaxed, outdoorsy vibe while easy highway access keeps the city within reach. The area features a mix of family-friendly attractions, casino entertainment, and diverse dining options.

It serves as a convenient base for exploring suburban Philadelphia with plenty of day-trip potential.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Bensalem Historical Society, where you can delve into the rich history of this charming town. Explore artifacts and documents that showcase the evolution of the area from its early days to modern times. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby parks and enjoy the fresh morning air.

afternoon
:

Head over to the Neshaminy State Park for a delightful picnic lunch amidst nature. After eating, you can take advantage of the walking trails or rent a kayak to paddle along the Neshaminy Creek. The afternoon sun creates a perfect backdrop for capturing some picturesque moments.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, make your way to the Parx Casino to experience the vibrant nightlife Bensalem has to offer. Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the casino's upscale restaurants, featuring a variety of cuisines to satisfy any palate. After dinner, try your luck at the gaming tables or catch a live performance to wrap up your day.

day 2
Thrills at Parx Casino
morning
:

Kick off the morning with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, savoring classic American fare. Afterward, head over to Parx Casino to get familiar with the gaming options available. Take some time to explore the various gaming areas and learn about the casino's amenities.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon by participating in a couple of gaming lessons offered at the casino, where you can learn strategies for poker or blackjack. Afterward, indulge in a light lunch at one of the casino's cafes. If you're feeling lucky, spend some time at the slots or try your hand at table games.

evening
:

As the sun sets, dress up for a night out at one of the casino's fine dining restaurants. After dinner, enjoy some entertainment by catching a live show or concert at the venue within the casino. The vibrant atmosphere and energy will keep you buzzing until the late hours.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant$25-40
🛍️Groceries for a week for one person$70-120
🚗Gas (per gallon)$3-4
🏠One-bedroom apartment (monthly)$1,200-1,600

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close access to Philadelphia and Bucks County attractions
  • Strong local parks, outdoor activities, and family-friendly options
  • Variety of dining and casino entertainment nearby
  • Safe, suburban environment with real community feel
  • Overall dependence on car travel; limited high-density walkability outside commercial corridors
  • Rush-hour traffic on major roads and highways can be heavy
  • Public transit options are more limited compared with large cities
  • Weather can influence outdoor plans, especially in winter and summer heat

Places to Visit in Bensalem

Visit one of these nice places.

Neshaminy Creek Overlook

A scenic vantage along the creek with water reflections, especially beautiful at sunrise or golden hour.

Core Creek Park Trail and Lake

Waterfront trails and a calm lake offering ample opportunities for nature and sunset shots.

Parx Casino exterior at night

Colorful exterior lighting and architectural details provide dynamic night photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bensalem

Bensalem sits in a region known for classic Pennsylvania dining alongside diverse modern options—from Italian delis to American comfort food and casual cafes. You’ll find hearty breakfasts, mid-Atlantic favorites, and casual dining that suits families and travelers alike.

Bensalem Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Philly-style cheesesteak

Thinly sliced ribeye on a long roll with melted cheese; widely available at local delis and casual eateries.

Must-Try!

Hoagie (Italian sub)

A generous sub loaded with meats, cheese, lettuce, and veggies on fresh bread—great for a quick lunch.

Soft pretzels

Warm, salted pretzels often enjoyed as a snack or with mustard at bakeries and street-style stands.

Scrapple

Savory pork product commonly served for breakfast in diners and diners’ menus across the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Neshaminy Market

A long-standing market known for deli counters, fresh produce, cheese, meats, and Italian specialties.

Local farmers markets

Seasonal markets offering fresh produce, baked goods, and regional treats—great for a quick bite on the go.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bensalem experiences four seasons with hot summers, cold winters, and mild spring and fall transitions. Humidity can be noticeable in summer, while winter may bring occasional snow and freezing conditions. Overall, expect a temperate climate typical of the mid-Atlantic region.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

General hospitality

Politeness and punctuality are appreciated. A friendly greeting and small talk are common in local shops and restaurants.

Smoking and public spaces

Respect designated smoking areas; many indoor spaces are non-smoking.

Queueing and driving

Be patient in lines and at intersections; allow pedestrians to cross at crosswalks; use turn signals and follow posted traffic signs.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded areas and parking lots. Keep valuables secure, especially in nightlife districts and near casino venues. Road safety is important during winter weather and along busy highways; use designated crosswalks and drive cautiously.

Tipping in Bensalem

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Standard tipping in dining and hospitality is 15-20% of the bill before tax. For excellent service, you may tip more; some high-end venues may include gratuity, so check the bill. Coaches and drivers generally expect tips if applicable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for park walks, photography near creeks, and outdoor dining on patios.

Summer

Warm to hot days with humidity; plan outdoor activities in the early morning or evening and stay hydrated; enjoy seasonal produce at markets.

Autumn

Crisp air, fall colors along trails and parks; perfect for scenic photography and calm park visits.

Winter

Cool to cold with occasional snow; indoor dining and casino venues provide warmth, while some outdoor trails remain accessible for short winter hikes.

Nightlife Guide

Bensalem at Night

Nightlife centers around casino entertainment at Parx, casual bars, and neighborhood lounges along main corridors. Expect late-night dining options, live music at some venues, and a generally relaxed atmosphere with an emphasis on casual, friendly social scenes.

Hiking in Bensalem

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Neshaminy Creek Trail network

Scenic trail segments along the creek suitable for day hikes and easy bike trips.

Pennypack Trail (nearby access)

Spacious multi-use trail with wooded sections and river views, connecting to broader Bucks County paths.

Core Creek Park trails

Pleasant loops and lakeside paths ideal for nature walks and photography.

Airports

How to reach Bensalem by plane.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

Major international airport about 25-40 miles southwest; easy access via I-95 and major highways.

Trenton-Mercer Airport (TTN)

Regional airport in New Jersey about 30-40 miles northeast; convenient for domestic flights.

Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE)

Smaller regional airport offering general aviation and few commercial options; closer but limited.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkability is good in commercial pockets along major corridors and near shopping centers, but the township overall is more car-dependent with longer distances between residential areas and amenities.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Suburban families make up a large portion of residents, with good school systems and safe neighborhoods.

Working professionals

Many commute to Philadelphia and other nearby job centers; convenient highway access supports commuting.

Evolving diversity

Growing diversity with a mix of cultural backgrounds reflected in dining and community events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball/Softball

Popular at youth and high school levels; local leagues and parks host games seasonally.

Basketball

Common recreational and school sport with community center programs.

Football

High school football and local leagues are a seasonal staple in fall.

Soccer and Lacrosse

Growing participation in youth leagues and recreational leagues across parks and schools.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic tends to be heavier on I-95, Route 1, and major arteries during weekday rush hours. Public transit is available but not as extensive as in urban centers; plan for car travel or shorter rides to nearby cities when possible.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bensalem.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer salads, veggie burgers, pasta dishes, and vegetable-centered plates. When in doubt, ask for simple veggie substitutions or seasonal sides; most menus accommodate dairy-free and meat-free options with advance notice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Access to healthcare includes nearby hospitals and urgent care centers in Bucks County; St. Mary Medical Center (Langhorne) and other Philadelphia-area facilities are within a reasonable drive for more specialized care. Local clinics and urgent care centers provide routine and preventive services.

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