Things To Do
in Haverford
Haverford is a suburban township on Philadelphia’s Main Line, known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and the collegiate campus of Haverford College. The area blends quiet residential neighborhoods with small commercial strips in Ardmore and nearby Bryn Mawr, offering easy rail access to downtown Philadelphia. Parks, creeks, and the college arboretum give the community a green, outdoorsy feel while preserving a strong sense of local history.
It’s a convenient base for exploring greater Philadelphia while enjoying a calmer suburban pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Haverford, soaking in the beautiful architecture of the historic buildings. Stop by a local café to enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee paired with delicious pastries. As you wander, take time to appreciate the serene atmosphere and the well-maintained gardens that adorn the area.
After lunch, visit the Haverford College campus, renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich history. Explore the impressive art galleries and the impressive library, where you can find unique exhibits and resources. Conclude your afternoon with a walk along the scenic nature trails that wind through the college grounds, offering picturesque views.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to savor traditional American cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy the warm ambiance and perhaps indulge in a craft beer or a glass of wine while chatting with locals. After dinner, consider attending a live music performance at a nearby venue to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Start your day with a visit to the nearby Haverford Reserve, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk among the lush greenery. The morning light filters through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for birdwatching. Bring your binoculars to spot various species and take delight in the sounds of nature around you.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the scenic clearings within the reserve, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. After your meal, continue exploring the trails, perhaps venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden gems. Don't forget your camera to capture the diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
Return to Haverford and enjoy a casual dinner at a family-owned diner that serves hearty comfort food. Share stories with fellow diners and soak in the friendly atmosphere. Afterward, take a relaxing evening walk in a nearby park, watching the stars emerge in the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🚖Short taxi / rideshare | $8-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $120-200 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries (per person) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, leafy suburban environment with easy access to Philadelphia
- Strong campus atmosphere and green spaces (arboretum, parks)
- Good regional-rail connections for day trips into the city
- High-quality local dining options and farmers markets
- Less nightlife and fewer big-city amenities within town limits
- Car-dependent in parts — some areas are not highly walkable
- Can be pricey for housing and dining compared with other suburbs
Places to Visit in Haverford
Visit one of these nice places.
Mature trees, winding paths, historic buildings and serene green spaces offer excellent shots for architecture, nature and seasonal foliage.
A historic Quaker meetinghouse with simple, photogenic architecture and a tranquil graveyard — great for atmospheric historical photos.
Streams, woodlands, open fields and bridges provide scenic landscapes and wildlife opportunities in every season.
Picturesque storefronts, mature trees and classic Main Line architecture — good for lifestyle and street photography.
Food in Haverford
Haverford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional staple: long roll filled with deli meats, cheeses, lettuce, tomato and oil/vinegar — find excellent versions at local delis in Ardmore and Bryn Mawr.
Must-Try!
Thinly sliced beef on a long roll with melted cheese (whiz, provolone or American); try local variations in nearby Philadelphia or at popular regional sandwich shops.
A grab-and-go street or market snack; available at bakeries and markets around town.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with local produce, baked goods, artisanal products and food stalls — perfect for picnic supplies and tasting regional specialties.
Nearby market held on weekends (seasonal) offering fresh produce, prepared foods, cheeses and specialty vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents value polite, friendly behavior — say please and thank you, wait your turn, and respect personal space in queues and public transit.
Many residential streets are quiet and family-oriented; avoid loud noise late at night and follow local parking rules.
If visiting Haverford College, respect campus signs and closures, avoid walking on lawns that are restricted, and be mindful of student activities.
Safety
Tipping in Haverford
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in the U.S. — expect to tip around 15–20% of the pre-tax bill at full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars or 15–20% for bar tabs, $2–5 for coffee or counter service if desired, and 15–20% for taxi or rideshare drivers. Tip hotel staff (bellhop, housekeeping) modestly for service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Cash is still useful for small vendors or tips, but most shops and restaurants accept cards. ATMs are readily available in town and at nearby stations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming plants make spring ideal for walks in the arboretum and farmers markets. Expect occasional showers — bring a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes for muddy trails.
Warm to hot and humid weather; parks and outdoor patios are lively. Plan outdoor activities for mornings/evenings to avoid midday heat and pack sunscreen and water.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage make fall one of the most attractive times to visit — great for hiking, scenic drives and college-campus photography.
Cold temperatures with periodic snow and ice; some trails can be slippery and local events slow down between holidays. Dress warmly and check transit in advance when snow is forecast.
Haverford at Night
Hiking in Haverford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Large state park with multiple trails through woodlands and along a creek — good for hikes of varying length, picnics and wildlife viewing.
Historic park with rolling trails, open fields and monuments; combines outdoor recreation with American Revolutionary War history and is a short drive away.
Paved multi-use trail ideal for walking and cycling; connects to local parks and offers scenic river views.
A larger urban-natural area with rugged trails, creek crossings and dramatic wooded scenery — accessible by short transit or drive for a more adventurous hike.
Airports
How to reach Haverford by plane.
Primary airport serving the region, about 20–30 minutes by car from Haverford (depending on traffic) and easily accessible by rideshare or connecting transit. Offers domestic and international flights.
Smaller airport in Wilmington, DE (~25–35 minutes by car) offering limited commercial flights and general aviation services; useful for charter or regional connections.
Regional airport in New Jersey (~45–60 minutes by car) with a handful of domestic carriers; occasionally convenient for budget domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many established families and long-term homeowners attracted by good schools, quiet neighborhoods and community amenities.
Haverford College brings a small but active student population and academic staff to the area, contributing cultural events and a youthful presence.
A sizable group of residents commute to jobs in Philadelphia or nearby business hubs — professionals seeking suburban living with city access.
While historically less diverse than the city, the suburbs have been becoming more ethnically and culturally varied in recent years.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Haverford College fields NCAA Division III teams (including baseball, soccer and track) and local interest centers on college sports events and intramural activities.
Golf is popular in the Main Line area, with several historic and high-quality courses nearby; the Merion Golf Club has national recognition.
Many residents follow nearby Philadelphia teams — Eagles (NFL), Phillies (MLB), 76ers (NBA), and Flyers (NHL) — and attend games via short transit or car rides into the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haverford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common at cafés and farm-to-table restaurants, with salads, grain bowls and pasta available; many places will accommodate requests if notified. Specialty vegetarian/vegan dishes are more common in nearby larger towns and Philadelphia.
Vegan and gluten-free choices exist but can be limited in smaller suburban venues — call ahead or check menus online. Farmers markets and delis often offer naturally gluten-free produce and vegan-friendly items.
Restaurants generally understand common food allergies (nuts, shellfish). Be explicit about cross-contamination concerns and ask staff for ingredient lists when needed.