Things To Do
in Upper Darby
Upper Darby Township sits just west of Philadelphia in Delaware County, offering a mix of residential neighborhoods, parks, and a lively retail corridor along 69th Street. The 69th Street Corridor is the heart of the township, with diverse eateries, local shops, and strong community events. The area is well connected to downtown Philadelphia by SEPTA transit, making city-day trips easy.
With affordable housing, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to city culture, Upper Darby makes a convenient base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Upper Darby Historical Society Museum, where you can dive into the local history and explore artifacts from the area. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, admiring the historic architecture that tells the story of the town's past. Don't forget to grab a coffee at a local café to fuel your morning adventure.
In the afternoon, head over to the nearby Darby Creek Trail for a scenic hike or bike ride through nature. The trail offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a picnic lunch surrounded by the sounds of nature. After your outdoor excursion, visit the local shops and boutiques for some unique finds.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant known for its diverse cuisine, perhaps trying some traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dishes. After your meal, catch a live performance at the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, where you can enjoy a variety of shows ranging from theater to music. Wind down your day with a relaxing walk in a nearby park, reflecting on your experiences.
Begin your day with a visit to the Upper Darby Arts and Education Center, where you can explore local art exhibits and participate in workshops. Engage with local artists and learn about their creative processes while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Following your artistic immersion, take a moment to appreciate the outdoor sculptures and installations around the center.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Philadelphia Museum of Art for a deeper dive into the world of art, just a short drive away. Spend a few hours wandering through the galleries, including the famous Rocky Steps, where you can snap a photo to commemorate your visit. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a café within the museum with stunning views of the city skyline.
In the evening, return to Upper Darby and explore local theaters showcasing independent films or community plays. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant known for its fusion cuisine, allowing you to taste flavors from around the world. End your night with a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood, soaking in the local vibe and ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🚇Public transit fare (SEPTA) | $2.50 per ride / $25-30 weekly pass |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment rent (monthly) | $1,100-1,400 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to central Philadelphia for day trips
- Affordable lodging and dining options
- Diverse dining and cultural experiences
- Transparent transit connections for city access
- Nightlife may be limited compared to central Philadelphia
- Some parts are primarily car-oriented with limited parking
- Variable neighborhood safety experiences across blocks
- Seasonal weather can affect outdoor plans
Places to Visit in Upper Darby
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant street life, storefront signage, and neon lights create compelling urban compositions after sunset.
Bridge views and natural scenery along the Darby Creek provide tranquil landscape shots and wildlife glimpses.
Winding paths, woodlands, and creekside scenery offer great nature photography opportunities in nearby acres.
Food in Upper Darby
Upper Darby Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Philly favorite featuring thin-sliced beef, melted cheese, and a toasted roll; widely available in casual delis and eateries around Upper Darby and the city.
Must-Try!
A hearty sandwich loaded with meats, cheeses, veggies, and oil/vinegar, available at many delis along the 69th Street corridor.
A warm, salted pretzel, widely available at bakeries and snack shops in the area.
A traditional breakfast meat that pairs well with eggs in many diners across the region.
A regional favorite featuring sliced roast pork and sharp provolone; often served with broccoli rabe and marinara in nearby city spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic indoor market offering a wide range of fresh produce, ethnic foods, and ready-to-eat treats, a short drive from Upper Darby.
Local markets and vendor stalls along the 69th Street corridor offer fresh produce, snacks, and quick bites—great for a casual stroll and tasting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting goes a long way; modest small talk is common in casual settings.
Respect queues in shops and markets; avoid cutting in lines.
In casual eateries, conversation is normal; keep noise at a comfortable level for others.
Safety
Tipping in Upper Darby
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, tip 15-20% of the total bill before tax for good service; for delivery or takeout, $2-5 depending on order size and effort.
Most places accept cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile wallets; some cash-only vendors may be found in older or smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; expect occasional rain showers and plenty of outdoor photo walks.
Warm to hot days with high humidity; stay hydrated and plan visits for early mornings or evenings.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for walks, street photography, and festival atmosphere along the 69th Street corridor.
Cold with potential nor'easters; occasional snow; layer up and plan indoor activities as backup.
Upper Darby at Night
Hiking in Upper Darby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wooded paths and creekside trails suitable for easy to moderate hikes.
Parks with walking paths and access to the Darby Creek corridor.
Airports
How to reach Upper Darby by plane.
Major international airport located about 20–30 minutes from Upper Darby by car, with multiple domestic and international flights.
Smaller regional airport in Philadelphia area; serves general aviation and limited commercial flights; accessible by car.
Airport in New Jersey within a convenient drive for regional trips; check flight options and ground transportation.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Upper Darby features a mix of families from various backgrounds, including African American, Asian, Latinx, and European-descended residents.
A steady flow of commuters and students traveling to and from Philadelphia and surrounding neighborhoods.
Many family-oriented neighborhoods with schools, parks, and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Philadelphia-area pride around the Phillies and youth leagues; easy to catch a game in season if visiting Philadelphia.
Local rec leagues, and college/high school matches; easy to participate in or watch nearby.
Popular youth and adult leagues with local parks and fields across the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Upper Darby.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ph Philly-area eateries frequently offer meat-free options: look for veggie sandwiches, falafel, hummus bowls, and cheese-based dishes; many places can modify dishes to be vegetarian.