Summer in Delaware County is one of the best times of the year. Between outdoor concerts, farmers markets, parks, ice cream shops, splash pads, patios, festivals, and easy day trips, there is always something to do close to home.
Whether you live in Delco, recently moved here, are thinking about moving here, or just want a few new ideas for summer fun, this guide is meant to be your one-stop resource for making the most of the season.
Here are some of the best things to do in Delaware County this summer.
Free Summer Concerts at Rose Tree Park
If you only put one thing on your Delaware County summer calendar, make it the Rose Tree Summer Festival.
The 2026 Rose Tree Summer Festival runs from June 17 through August 16 at Rose Tree Park in Media. These free outdoor concerts take place in the park’s amphitheater and feature everything from Motown and Broadway to country, classical, rock, pop, tribute bands, and children’s performances.
Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, pack snacks or dinner, and enjoy a summer night under the stars.
Location: Rose Tree Park, 1671 N. Providence Road, Media, PA
Cost: Free admission and free parking
2026 Schedule: https://www.delcopa.gov/parks/summer-festival
This is one of those classic Delco traditions that is easy, affordable, and fun for all ages.
Dining Under the Stars in Media
Media’s Dining Under the Stars is one of the best summer traditions in Delaware County.
Every Wednesday evening from May through September, State Street closes to traffic and becomes an outdoor dining experience. Restaurants set up tables in the street, shops stay open, and the whole downtown feels lively and walkable.
It is perfect for date night, dinner with friends, or a family night out.
Location: State Street, Media, PA
When: Wednesdays, May through September
More Info: https://visitmediapa.com/dining-under-the-stars/
A few places to check out in Media include:
- Brick & Brew
- Ariano
- La Catrina
- Iron Hill Brewery
- Fellini Cafe
- Bittersweet Kitchen
- 320 Market Cafe
- State Street Pub
- Off the Rail
Reservations are a good idea, especially on beautiful summer nights.
Delaware County Farmers Markets
Farmers markets are such an easy way to support local businesses while picking up fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, coffee, honey, candles, and locally made products.
Media Farmers Market
The Media Farmers Market is a great Sunday stop and is located on Edgmont Street between
Media Elementary and Barrall Field.
When: Sundays, May through November
Location: Edgmont Street, Media, PA
More Info: https://mediafarmersmarket.com/
Swarthmore Farmers Market
The Swarthmore Farmers Market runs Saturday mornings and includes local food vendors, produce, flowers, artists, and live music.
When: Saturdays, 9 AM to 12 PM, May 9 through November 21, 2026
Location: 121 Park Avenue, Swarthmore, PA
More Info: https://swarthmoretowncenter.com/swarthmore-farmers-market
Lansdowne Farmers Market
The Lansdowne Farmers Market is another local favorite with produce, baked goods, specialty foods, music, artists, and community events.
When: Saturdays, 9 AM to 1 PM, May through October
Location: 30 N. Lansdowne Avenue, Lansdowne, PA
More Info: https://www.lansdownefarmersmarket.com/
Newtown Square Farmers Market
The Newtown Square Farmers Market is a great Friday option for produce, local makers, and food vendors.
When: Fridays, May through September
Location: 3625 Chapel Road, Newtown Square, PA
More Info: https://www.facebook.com/NewtownSquareFoodandMakersMarket/
Splash Pads, Pools, and Water Fun
When it gets hot, parents need easy places to cool off with the kids.
Freedom Playground at Haverford Reserve
Freedom Playground at Haverford Reserve is a great spot for families. It is an all-abilities playground with a soft surface, swings, slides, climbing areas, and water misters during the warmer months.
Location: 9000 Parkview Drive, Haverford, PA
More Info: https://www.havtwp.org/Parks_and_Recreation.html
This is a great option because kids can play and cool off without needing a full pool day.
Local Swim Clubs and Community Pools
Delaware County also has many swim clubs and community pools. A few to look into include:
- Springfield Swim Club
- Rose Valley Swim Club
- Ridley Area YMCA outdoor pool
- Lansdowne YMCA
- Haverford Township pools and recreation programs
Memberships, guest passes, and hours vary, so check directly with each location before going.
Best Parks and Outdoor Spaces in Delaware County
One of the best parts of living in Delaware County is having so many parks, trails, and outdoor spaces nearby.
Rose Tree Park
Rose Tree Park is more than just the summer concert series. The park has open fields, walking areas, picnic spots, a playground, a gazebo, and beautiful scenery.
Location: 1671 N. Providence Road, Media, PA
More Info: https://delcopa.gov/parks/rose-tree
Ridley Creek State Park
Ridley Creek State Park is one of the best places in the area for hiking, walking, biking, fishing, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
Location: 1023 Sycamore Mills Road, Media, PA
More Info: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/ridley-creek-state-park
Tyler Arboretum
Tyler Arboretum is perfect for families, nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who wants a peaceful outdoor day. You will find trails, gardens, historic trees, seasonal blooms, and family programming.
Location: 515 Painter Road, Media, PA
More Info: https://tylerarboretum.org/
Smedley Park
Smedley Park is a great shaded park with trails, creek views, picnic areas, and easy access from Springfield and Media.
Location: Springfield, PA
More Info: https://delcopa.gov/parks/smedley
John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge
Technically just outside Delaware County, but close enough to be worth including. This is a beautiful spot for walking, birdwatching, biking, and enjoying the marsh views.
Location: 8601 Lindbergh Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA
More Info: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/john-heinz-tinicum
Ice Cream and Frozen Treats in Delaware County
Summer and ice cream belong together. Here are a few Delco spots to add to your list.
Scooped Ice Cream & Gelato — Media
Scooped is a favorite stop in downtown Media. It is perfect after dinner, after Dining Under the Stars, or after a walk around State Street.
Location: Media, PA
More Info: https://www.scoopedicecream.com/
The Icebox Frozen Treats — Clifton Heights
The Icebox Frozen Treats in Clifton Heights is a great local stop for ice cream, water ice, milkshakes, sundaes, and classic summer treats.
Location: Clifton Heights, PA
More Info: https://www.facebook.com/theiceboxfrozentreats/
The Salty Cow — Glen Mills
The Salty Cow in Glen Mills is a fun stop because you can grab food and homemade ice cream in one place. They serve burgers, salads, brick oven pizza, homemade ice cream, sundaes, floats, and more.
Location: 45 W. Baltimore Pike, Glen Mills, PA
More Info: https://www.saltycowrestaurant.com/
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream — Media
Bruster’s is always a reliable summer stop with rotating flavors, waffle cones, sundaes, milkshakes, and outdoor seating.
Location: Media, PA
More Info: https://brusters.com/
Rita’s Italian Ice
Rita’s is a Delco staple with multiple locations throughout the area. It is easy, quick, kid-friendly, and perfect on a hot night.
Locations: Multiple Delaware County locations
More Info: https://www.ritasice.com/
Outdoor Dining in Delaware County
Summer is patio season, and Delaware County has plenty of places to enjoy dinner or drinks outside.
Terrain Cafe — Glen Mills
Terrain is one of the prettiest outdoor dining spots in the area. It is a great choice for brunch, lunch, dinner, or a girls’ day out.
Location: Glen Mills, PA
More Info: https://www.terraincafe.com/
White Dog Cafe — Glen Mills
White Dog Cafe in Glen Mills has a large outdoor patio with a built-in bar and a beautiful setting for summer dining.
Location: Glen Mills, PA
More Info: https://www.whitedog.com/glenmills/
Testa Rossa — Glen Mills
Testa Rossa is another Glen Mills spot with a stylish outdoor dining setup and a fun summer atmosphere.
Location: Glen Mills, PA
More Info: https://www.testarossaglenmills.com/
Tavola Restaurant + Bar — Springfield
Tavola is a great option for outdoor dining with golf course views, fire pits, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Location: Springfield, PA
More Info: https://www.tavolas.com/
Brick & Brew — Media
Brick & Brew is a popular Media option for craft cocktails, flatbreads, and casual outdoor dining.
Location: Media, PA
More Info: https://www.bricknbrewpub.com/
Off the Rail — Media
Off the Rail has a fun rooftop patio right in Media, making it a great summer night option.
Location: Media, PA
More Info: https://offtherailmedia.com/
La Catrina — Media
La Catrina is a great choice for tacos, margaritas, and outdoor dining in downtown Media.
Location: Media, PA
More Info: https://www.lacatrinarestaurant.com/
Ariano — Media
Ariano is a favorite for Italian food, pizza, and a lively Media atmosphere.
Location: Media, PA
More Info: https://www.arianorestaurant.com/
Family-Friendly Summer Activities
If you are looking for easy family fun, these are great options throughout the summer.
Linvilla Orchards
Linvilla is a classic Delaware County destination. In the summer, you can pick fruit, visit the farm market, grab treats, visit the playground, and enjoy seasonal events.
Location: Media, PA
More Info: https://www.linvilla.com/
Tyler Arboretum
Tyler is great for kids who like exploring trails, nature, gardens, and outdoor spaces.
Location: Media, PA
More Info: https://tylerarboretum.org/
Oasis Family Fun Center
Oasis is a good indoor option for hot or rainy days, especially for younger kids.
Location: Glen Mills, PA
More Info: https://www.oasisfamilyfun.com/
Urban Air Adventure Park
Urban Air is another rainy day or extreme heat option when kids need to burn energy indoors.
Location: Multiple nearby locations
More Info: https://www.urbanair.com/
Brandywine Museum of Art
Just outside Delaware County, the Brandywine Museum is a beautiful day trip with art, history, and scenic views along the Brandywine River.
Location: Chadds Ford, PA
More Info: https://www.brandywine.org/museum
Fireworks and Fourth of July Events
Delaware County always has plenty of Fourth of July celebrations, parades, and fireworks.
Some towns that typically host Independence Day celebrations include:
- Media
- Clifton Heights
- Aston
- Marple Newtown
- Glenolden
- Upper Darby
- Lansdowne
- Ridley Park
Since dates and times can change, always confirm the latest details with the township or borough before heading out.
A helpful place to check for 2026 events is America250PA Delco:
More Info: https://www.america250padelco.org/find-your-freedom-in-delco/celebrate
Easy Summer Day Trips from Delaware County
One of the best things about living in Delaware County is how easy it is to get almost anywhere.
Longwood Gardens
Perfect for flowers, fountains, evening strolls, and special events.
Location: Kennett Square, PA
More Info: https://longwoodgardens.org/
Cape May
A beautiful shore day trip with beaches, shopping, restaurants, Victorian homes, and a slower pace.
Location: Cape May, NJ
More Info: https://www.capemay.com/
Ocean City, New Jersey
A family-friendly shore town with beaches, boardwalk rides, mini golf, shopping, and plenty of food options.
Location: Ocean City, NJ
More Info: https://oceancityvacation.com/
North Wildwood
North Wildwood is a favorite for beach days, boardwalk fun, restaurants, and summer memories.
Location: North Wildwood, NJ
More Info: https://northwildwood.com/
New Hope
New Hope is a great day trip for shopping, restaurants, river views, and a totally different feel without going too far.
Location: New Hope, PA
More Info: https://www.visitnewhope.com/
Valley Forge National Historical Park
A great option for walking, biking, history, and wide-open space.
Location: King of Prussia, PA
More Info: https://www.nps.gov/vafo/index.htm
Rainy Day Ideas
Summer weather does not always cooperate. Here are a few ideas for rainy days or extreme heat:
- Oasis Family Fun Center
- Urban Air
- Movie Tavern
- Brandywine Museum of Art
- Local libraries
- Bowling
- Indoor trampoline parks
- Coffee and bookstore day in Media or Wayne
- Lunch and shopping at Terrain in Glen Mills
Sometimes the best summer days are the unplanned ones.
Why Summer in Delaware County Is So Special
What I love about Delaware County is that there is always something close by.
You can listen to live music at Rose Tree Park, grab dinner outside in Media, spend the morning at a farmers market, walk the trails at Ridley Creek, take the kids to a playground, stop for ice cream, or be at the shore in a little over an hour.
As a local Realtor, I always say that buying a home is about more than the house itself. It is also about the community, the lifestyle, and the memories you create there.
Delaware County has so much to offer, especially in the summer.
Whether you are already local or thinking about making Delco home, I hope this guide helps you enjoy the season and discover something new.
Have a favorite summer spot in Delaware County that should be added to this list? I would love to hear it.