Classic Towns News

Cultural landscapes allow us to explore our region’s past. While many are being lost to development, others are being revitalized and rediscovered, especially in the Classic Towns of Greater Philadelphia. Here are two ideal destinations for fall outdoor fun.

Manayunk Towpath and Historic Waterways

Essential to Manayunk’s industrial roots, the Schuylkill River and Manayunk Canal and Towpath have evolved into recreational and community centers. Kayak tours, fishing, biking, and hiking are all available along the river and Towpath as well as artifacts and ruins reflecting its past. The Towpath links with the larger Schuylkill River Trail, providing connections to hiking and biking trails that can be followed out to Valley Forge. Plans to extend the trail are in the works. Once fully completed it will cover nearly 130 miles, connecting Pottstown, Phoenixville, Manayunk, and Center City Philadelphia. Accessing the trail is easy in Manayunk. It runs immediately behind Main Street.

Delaware Canal State Park

The Delaware River Canal was originally completed in 1832, hand-dug to serve the growing transportation needs of Greater Philadelphia. Used for nearly 100 years to transport coal and other goods, the Canal immediately became parkland upon its closing in 1931. Today the park comprises a 60-mile towpath running alongside the Delaware River from Bristol north to Easton with access in New Hope. In Bristol, it also connects with the Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park across the river in New Jersey. Both parks serve as destinations for recreational activities and historical and environmental tourism. You can access the trail in both Bristol and New Hope. Look for it along the Delaware River.