Attractions and Places To See around Bala Cynwyd - Top 20

Bala Cynwyd is rich in history. You can visit the Bala Cynwyd Historic District, which features well-preserved homes and buildings from the early 19th century. The Merion Friends Meeting, built in 1695, is the oldest building in Lower Merion Township. Additionally, the Lower Merion Historical Society, located in the ancient Cynwyd Academy building, offers insights into the area's past. For a broader historical experience, the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia, a masterpiece of Victorian architecture, is also nearby.

The Cynwyd Heritage Trail is a popular two-mile linear park and rail-to-trail, perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling. It connects Lower Merion Township to Manayunk via the Manayunk Bridge over the Schuylkill River. The Pencoyd Bridge, an 1899 iron truss bridge, is now part of the Pencoyd Trail and is open to pedestrians and cyclists, offering scenic views along the Schuylkill River. For more options, you can explore various running trails or cycling routes in the area.

Yes, Bala Cynwyd offers several family-friendly options. The Cynwyd Heritage Trail is great for family walks or bike rides. The Bala Cynwyd Park provides beautiful landscapes for outdoor enjoyment. For a unique experience, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps (Rocky Steps) and the Rocky Statue are popular spots where families can recreate iconic movie scenes. The Bala Avenue Commercial District also features a playground and various shops and eateries.

Bala Cynwyd is characterized by its proximity to the Schuylkill River, which offers scenic walking and biking trails. The area also features the Cynwyd Heritage Trail, a linear park built on a former rail line, providing green space and recreational opportunities. West Laurel Hill Cemetery, a 200-acre arboretum, offers serene walking paths amidst historic monuments and diverse tree species.

Absolutely. Bala Cynwyd is well-suited for both running and cycling. You can find numerous routes, including loops along the Schuylkill River Trail and the Cynwyd Heritage Trail. For detailed options, check out the Running Trails around Bala Cynwyd guide or the Cycling around Bala Cynwyd guide, which list routes like the 'Manayunk Bridge Trailhead – Cynwyd Heritage Trail loop'.

The Bala Avenue Commercial District is an extension of the original town center, offering an eclectic collection of retail shops, restaurants, and services. Montgomery Avenue reflects the community's cultural diversity with a mix of global cuisines. For broader shopping needs, the City Avenue Shopping Center (formerly Bala Cynwyd Shopping Center) provides various opportunities, including major outlets.

Beyond the main attractions, you might enjoy exploring the West Laurel Hill Cemetery, which is not just a cemetery but also a beautiful arboretum and a National Register of Historic Places site with notable gravesites. Another interesting spot is Ten Box, a small historic building that was once part of a network of phone stations for park police in the Wissahickon Gorge park.

Bala Cynwyd is home to the Lower Merion Historical Society, dedicated to preserving local history. The Bala Cynwyd Library serves as a popular community hub. The area also has diverse religious institutions, including Saint John's Episcopal Church and Saint Matthias Catholic Church, as well as centers like Aish HaTorah and Philadelphia Community Kollel, which are central to the Haredi Jewish community.

While Bala Cynwyd offers outdoor activities year-round, spring and fall generally provide the most pleasant weather for exploring trails and parks. The mild temperatures and vibrant foliage (in autumn) or blooming nature (in spring) make it ideal for walking, cycling, and enjoying the natural beauty along the Schuylkill River and Cynwyd Heritage Trail.

Yes, the Cynwyd Heritage Trail is generally considered accessible for wheelchairs, offering a paved surface for easy navigation. Additionally, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps (Rocky Steps) are listed as wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to experience this iconic landmark. The Reading Terminal Market is also wheelchair accessible, providing a diverse culinary and shopping experience.

Bala Cynwyd's dining scene, particularly along Montgomery Avenue and in the Bala Avenue Commercial District, reflects its cultural diversity. You can find a mix of global cuisines, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. The nearby Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia also offers a vast array of food options and regional specialties.