Things To Do
in Cheltenham
Cheltenham, United States is a quiet suburban township in Montgomery County just outside Philadelphia. It offers tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a friendly, community-focused vibe. The town centers around local parks, cafes, and schools, with easy access to big-city amenities via SEPTA and major highways.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxed pace while staying close to the cultural richness of nearby Philadelphia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Cheltenham Township Library, where you can explore a vast collection of books, engage in community events, or simply enjoy a quiet reading nook. The early hours are perfect for families, as children's story time often takes place in the morning. You might even find a cozy corner to catch up on your favorite novel with a cup of coffee from the library café.
After lunch, take a stroll around the beautiful grounds of the library and the surrounding parks. Enjoy a picnic on the lawn or partake in one of the scheduled workshops or talks hosted at the library. Engage with fellow community members and discover more about local history and culture through the library's resources.
As the sun sets, consider attending a book club meeting or author signing event at the library to close the day on an intellectually stimulating note. The relaxed environment allows for conversations with fellow book lovers and the chance to meet local authors. Enjoy a relaxing evening discussing literary themes over light refreshments provided by the library.
Kick off your day with a scenic walk or bike ride along the Manayunk Canal Towpath, surrounded by the serene sounds of nature and flowing water. The morning light enhances the picturesque views, making it an ideal time for photography or simply enjoying some quiet time outdoors. Bring along a camera to capture the beautiful reflections in the water or the charming architecture of the nearby area.
Post-lunch, take a small detour to explore the unique shops and eateries in the Manayunk area, just a short distance away from the Canal Towpath. The vibrant atmosphere and artistic vibe offer a quirky twist to your afternoon adventure. Sample local artisanal foods or indulge in a refreshing beverage at one of the many cafés along the way.
As evening comes, unwind on the towpath with a peaceful sunset walk, soaking in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Consider joining a local fitness class, such as yoga or pilates, held by the canal for a unique and invigorating experience. Later, dine at one of the outdoor restaurants nearby for a delightful meal with friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (monthly, outside city center) | $1,100-1,800 |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $3.50-4.50 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $50-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Philadelphia with easy access to major attractions
- Quiet suburban charm with walkable neighborhoods and parks
- Strong local communities and family-friendly amenities
- Good mix of casual dining, cafés, and markets nearby
- Limited nightlife directly in Cheltenham; more options require a short trip to the city
- Public transit to some suburban pockets can be intermittent outside peak hours
- Higher suburban parking and traffic during peak times near city access routes
- Smaller urban center relative to a big city—fewer big-city attractions within walking distance
Places to Visit in Cheltenham
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic skyline views, rowers on the river, and early-morning or golden-hour light provide excellent photo opportunities.
Impressive Beaux-Arts architecture; best captured at sunset or blue hour with the city lights coming on.
Lush forest scenes, creek crossings, and rustic bridges ideal for nature photography and tranquil landscapes.
Tree-lined streets, historic homes, and period details offer charming suburban portrait and architectural shots.
Food in Cheltenham
Cheltenham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thin-sliced ribeye on a crusty roll with melted cheese; widely available in and around Philadelphia and easily accessible from Cheltenham.
Must-Try!
Warm, chewy pretzels often served with mustard; a classic Philadelphia-area street treat.
Loaded sandwiches on long rolls with various fillings—great for a hearty lunch after a day of sightseeing.
A regional favorite featuring pan-fried slices of seasoned pork product served with eggs.
Flavorful, refreshing shaved-ice treat, perfect for warm days and easy to find at local cafes and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic indoor market in Philadelphia offering a wide array of prepared foods, fresh produce, and regional specialties—great for tasting diverse options.
Frequent pop-up stalls, food trucks, and seasonal farmers markets in nearby towns—perfect for sampling local snacks and seasonal dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a please/thank you go a long way in casual interactions and shop encounters.
Americans generally queue in an orderly line; avoid cutting in and wait your turn.
Residential areas tend to be quieter on Sundays and evenings; keep noise reasonable and respect private property.
Tipping is customary in service industries as described above.
Safety
Tipping in Cheltenham
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, standard tipping is 15–20% at restaurants, bars, and for service. It’s common to tip at cafes and takeaway counters if there is table service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always welcome. Some smaller shops or food trucks may be card-only, so carrying a bit of cash is handy.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with budding trees; carry a light jacket and an umbrella—flowers and greenery begin to peak.
Warm to hot days with humidity; expect afternoon thunderstorms. Hydration and sun protection are essential during outdoor activities.
Crisp air and vibrant fall foliage; great for photography and outdoor walks. Layered clothing recommended.
Cold with potential snow; plan for shorter daylight hours and indoor activities. Warm outerwear and good footwear are advised.
Cheltenham at Night
Hiking in Cheltenham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-filled trails with overlooks and moderate terrain suitable for a half-day hike.
Extensive network of trails that weave through wooded landscapes along streams and scenic viewpoints.
A linear trail along Pennypack Creek ideal for walking, running, and biking with pleasant natural scenery.
Historic grounds with expansive trails and cultural insights, a short drive from Cheltenham.
Airports
How to reach Cheltenham by plane.
Major international hub about 20–40 minutes from Cheltenham by car, with frequent domestic and international flights and a range of ground transportation options.
Smaller regional airport offering general aviation services and limited commercial options; convenient for very short regional trips.
A regional airport north of Philadelphia offering some domestic flights and a shorter drive for certain destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the suburban population, reflecting historical settlement patterns and current demographics.
A visible and growing community contributing to the region’s diversity.
A smaller but rising share of residents, contributing to cultural and culinary diversity.
A diverse and vibrant community that enriches local culture and events.
A notable presence in suburban townships, influencing local services and community activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at local youth and school levels; regional teams and leagues thrive in the spring and summer.
Common in schools, community centers, and local leagues; friendly rec leagues are plentiful.
A widely played sport among families and communities, with local clubs and recreational leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cheltenham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Cheltenham-area restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for salads, veggie burgers, and pasta dishes. In Philadelphia, you’ll find a wide range of vegetarian and vegan restaurants and clearly labeled menu items.