Torresdale

Torresdale Philadelphia Historical Sites Visiting Guide: Tickets, Hours, and Tips

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction to Torresdale’s Historical and Cultural Treasures

Located in the far northeastern section of Philadelphia, Torresdale is a neighborhood where the city’s rich history converges with natural beauty and vibrant community life. Bordered by the Delaware River, Torresdale is home to some of Philadelphia’s most notable historic estates, commemorative monuments, and scenic parks. Chief among its attractions are Glen Foerd on the Delaware—a magnificent Gilded Age mansion and public estate—and the John Bartram Monument, which honors one of America’s pioneering botanists.

This comprehensive guide provides essential information for planning your visit, including detailed hours, ticketing options, accessibility, insider tips, and recommendations for nearby parks and dining. For the latest event schedules and travel advisories, visitors should consult the Glen Foerd official website, the John Bartram Association, and public transit updates from SEPTA. By offering a thorough overview of Torresdale’s historic gems and practical travel advice, this guide ensures a rewarding and memorable experience (The Philadelphia Inquirer, Visit Philly).

Introduction to Torresdale’s Historical and Cultural Treasures
Glen Foerd on the Delaware
Parks and Nearby Attractions
Community Events and Local Dining
The John Bartram Monument
Practical Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
References and Further Reading

Glen Foerd on the Delaware

History and Restoration

Glen Foerd, built in the 1850s and expanded in the early 1900s, stands as Philadelphia’s last public Gilded Age estate on the Delaware River. Showcasing Italianate-Classical Revival architecture, the 30,000-square-foot mansion and its 18-acre grounds reflect the opulence of the city’s industrial era. Saved from redevelopment in the 1980s, Glen Foerd is now on the National and Philadelphia Registers of Historic Places and operates as a public park and cultural center. A $3.5 million restoration project initiated in 2025 is preserving the mansion’s architectural integrity for future generations (The Philadelphia Inquirer).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Open: Wednesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Admission: $12 adults; $8 seniors (65+); $6 children (6–17); free under 6
Tickets: Available online via the Glen Foerd official website or on-site (subject to availability)
Guided Tours: Offered at 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM, Wednesday–Sunday, covering the mansion’s architecture, art, and resident families
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible (ramps, elevators). Contact visitor services for specific accommodations.
Pets: Leashed pets allowed on the grounds; not permitted inside the mansion.

Visitor Experience and Activities

Glen Foerd offers a blend of history, art, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore:

Period-furnished rooms and curated art collections
Expansive gardens and riverfront lawns
Birdwatching, picnicking, and photography
Cultural programming such as art exhibits, educational workshops, and seasonal festivals (e.g., RiverFest in July, outdoor movie nights, historical reenactments) (Northeast Times Community Calendar)

Best Photographic Spots

The mansion’s iconic façade and cupola
Riverfront terraces at sunrise or sunset
Seasonal flower gardens and outdoor sculptures

Parks and Nearby Attractions

Delaware River Waterfront

The riverbank, accessible from Glen Foerd and adjacent parks, offers fishing, kayaking, and scenic riverside walks—especially picturesque at dawn and dusk (Visit Philly).

Pennypack Park

Pennypack Park, a short drive or transit ride away, spans 1,600+ acres of woodlands and meadows along Pennypack Creek. It is ideal for hiking, cycling, and nature exploration.

Additional Local Highlights

Historic Bridesburg: A nearby neighborhood with historic sites, shops, and eateries.
Frankford Arsenal Park: Features military history markers and green space.

Community Events and Local Dining

Annual Festivals and Gatherings

Torresdale’s lively calendar includes events such as RiverFest, Wawa Welcome America, and neighborhood celebrations with live music, food vendors, and family activities (Visit Philly Events, Metro Philadelphia).

Dining and Culinary Scene

Local favorites include:

Maggie’s Waterfront Café: American fare with river views
Torresdale Diner: Classic comfort food
Three Monkeys Café: International cuisine and craft beers

Nearby, Northeast Philadelphia offers diverse dining, and citywide food festivals such as Center City District Restaurant Week and Manayunk StrEAT Food Festival are easily accessible.

The John Bartram Monument

Historical Significance

The John Bartram Monument, located in John Bartram Memorial Park, honors the “father of American botany.” Bartram’s legacy includes pioneering plant collections and founding America’s first botanical garden. The monument, near his original homestead, is a testament to Philadelphia’s dedication to preserving natural heritage (John Bartram Association).

Visiting Details and Tours

Location: John Bartram Memorial Park, Frankford Avenue, Torresdale
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–sunset
Admission: Free (donations appreciated)
Tours: Guided tours weekends, April–October; private tours for groups available by arrangement

Accessibility and Getting There

Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly paths and ramps; multilingual brochures and staff assistance available
Transit: SEPTA’s Trenton Line (Torresdale Station) and several bus routes stop nearby (SEPTA)
Parking: Ample free parking at the park
Photographic Highlights: Monument carvings, riverside trails, and the historic Bartram House

Nearby Attractions

Visitors can also enjoy the Torresdale Library, Pleasant Hill Park, and charming local cafes and markets along Frankford Avenue.

Practical Visitor Tips

Getting There: SEPTA Regional Rail (Trenton Line) and bus routes 19, 84, and 66 serve Torresdale; free parking is available at Glen Foerd and John Bartram Memorial Park
SEPTA Passes: The One Day Anywhere FleX Pass ($13) is recommended for unlimited daily travel
Best Seasons: Spring through fall for outdoor events; winter offers quiet tours and peaceful scenery
Safety & Etiquette: Torresdale is community-oriented; observe standard urban safety and respect local customs
Reservations: Recommended for dining, especially on weekends or during events
Check Updates: Always confirm hours, ticket prices, and programming on official sites before visiting

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Glen Foerd’s hours?
A: Wednesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.

Q: How do I get tickets?
A: Purchase online at the Glen Foerd website or on-site.

Q: Is Glen Foerd accessible for wheelchairs?
A: Yes, with ramps and elevators available.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Leashed pets are welcome on Glen Foerd grounds (not inside the mansion); only service animals permitted at the John Bartram Monument.

Q: Are guided tours offered?
A: Yes, at Glen Foerd (Wed–Sun, 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM) and at the John Bartram Monument (weekends, April–October; private tours by arrangement).

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Personal photography is welcomed at both sites; commercial photography requires approval.

Conclusion

Torresdale, Philadelphia, offers a compelling mix of historical grandeur, natural beauty, and welcoming community spirit. Glen Foerd invites visitors to explore opulent architecture, tranquil gardens, and engaging cultural events, while the John Bartram Monument offers both reflection and inspiration for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. With robust transit access, diverse dining, and family-friendly events, Torresdale stands out as one of the city’s most rewarding destinations.

For up-to-date information, consult the Glen Foerd website, John Bartram Association, and SEPTA. Download the Audiala app for interactive maps, personalized recommendations, and real-time updates to enhance your visit.