Many notable personalities spent formative years enjoying the city's quiet elegance before moving on to national prominence. Notable former Drexel Hill and Upper Darby residents include Dick Clark, of American Bandstand fame, as well as former late-night television personality Ed McMahon before he went on to work with Johnny Carson. Folk-rock star Jim Croce also hailed from Drexel Hill.
If you want to stay local and are in search of some fresh air, explore the shady paved creekside paths of the park at Merry Place. You can also play a match on the tennis or volleyball courts. Families love the playground equipment, including a sandbox, jungle gym, and swings. For a romantic date, pack a picnic lunch to be enjoyed in the park gazebo.
Those visiting Philadelphia and staying in Drexel Hill are advised to carve out some time to drive around and see or tour lesser-known historic sites and structures in the area, many of which date to the country's earliest colonial days.
Start at the Lower Swedish Cabin, which dates between 1638 and 1655 and is the earliest known log cabin to be built in North America. Then, check out the Collen Brook Farmhouse and barn, each built around 1710. Thornfield is also located in Drexel Hill and is famed as the home of the Quaker abolitionist Thomas Garrett, who was a stationmaster on the Underground Railroad. Garrett Road was named for him and his family.
The Thomas Massey House in Broomall, Pennsylvania, is a historic Quaker house that dates to 1696. Much of the original house remains untouched from the original. The Old Chester Courthouse stands in Brookhaven. It was built in 1724 to serve Chester County, one of the three Pennsylvania counties established by William Penn. The 1797 Federal School was Haverford Township's first one-room school, one of the few such schools still standing in the country. Tours are available by appointment.
Many visitors also make their way to Drexel Hill to visit Arlington Cemetery. This is not the famed cemetery near Washington, D.C. It is a beautiful private cemetery full of winding bike paths. Walking in contemplation, you can admire the stately markers, even one honoring the memory of a Titanic survivor.
Whether you find yourself in Drexel Hill as a gateway to Philadelphia or you're looking for a gateway to the past, you'll find that this elegant enclave offers elegant suburban lodgings with convenient city access just minutes away.
What is the best time to visit Drexel Hill, PA?
Drexel Hill experiences four distinct seasons, from cold and often rainy or snowy winters to hot and humid summers. Spring and fall are typically cool to mild, which makes the perfect weather for sightseeing. Since Drexel Hill is a suburb of Philadelphia, the community does not experience any noticeable peak season in terms of tourist traffic, so you could expect group and individual hotel rates to remain stable year-round.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Drexel Hill, PA:
Drexel Hill, PA: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. price patterns by star rating class in Drexel Hill, PA. Browse these line graphs to evaluate the best months to make a reservation in Drexel Hill for your upcoming travels.
What are the top hotels in Drexel Hill, PA for luxury lovers?
4 Star Average Prices: $176.86
The Rittenhouse Philadelphia exudes luxury, from the spacious, well-decorated rooms and excellent Center City location to the five-star service. You'll enjoy views overlooking Rittenhouse Square and can also walk to the Reading Terminal Market and Liberty Bell Center. Each room features a minibar, flat-screen television, and premium bedding. Children and guests can also crash on the upscale sofa bed, and throughout your stay, you can stay connected thanks to complimentary wired and wireless internet access.
If you desire some pampering after a long day of meetings or touring the city, a visit to the spa will rejuvenate you. The spa offers facials, body treatments, and soothing massages. There's no need to even step foot outside the property because the Rittenhouse Philadelphia offers a full slate of amenities and services, including a health club, indoor pool, sauna, hair salon, concierge, wedding services, and two on-site restaurants.
Visit The Inn at Penn, a Hilton Hotel, if you're looking for a four-star hotel downtown. You can walk to the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University as well as Rittenhouse Square and other Philadelphia attractions. Guest rooms come with personal fridges, which are perfect for stowing chilled waters, champagne, or light snacks and meals.
You'll never want to leave your pillowtop bed and premium bedding, but if you have to rise for a day of work, you can wake up with a jog in the fitness center and then cool down with a refreshing shower under a rainfall showerhead, cleaning up in luxury thanks to free designer toiletries. Then, enjoy room service or a tasty meal at the hotel restaurant.
What options are in Drexel Hill, PA for budget hotels?
3 Star Average Prices: $161.68
Check-in to Hampton Inn & Suites Philadelphia / Media if you're seeking an affordable hotel within driving distance of area schools like the University of Pennsylvania, St. Joseph's University, Widener University, and Swarthmore College. Each guest room packs in the value with handy extras like microwaves and LCD televisions, sofa beds, free local calls, and complimentary wireless internet access. You'll feel like a million bucks after a swim in the indoor pool, working out at the fitness center, or dining at the complimentary breakfast buffet, but thankfully, these amenities are all included in your low hotel rate.
