Hotels near Swarthmore College
500 College Ave, Swarthmore, PA 19081
Hotels near Swarthmore College
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- 1
Days Inn by Wyndham Springfield / Phil.Intl Airport
- 2
Courtyard Philadelphia Springfield
- 3
Home2 Suites by Hilton Ridley Park Philadelphia Airport South
- 4
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Philadelphia Airport Ridley
- 5
SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Airport Ridley Park
- 6
Best Western Plus Philadelphia Airport S. at Widener Univ.
- 7
Comfort Inn Philadelphia International Airport West
- 8
Clarion Hotel Philadelphia International Airport
- 9
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Philadelphia Airport
- 10
Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Philadelphia Airport
- 11
Travelodge by Wyndham Essington / Philadelphia Airport
- 12
Candlewood Suites Chester - Philadelphia International Airport by IHG
- 13
Holiday Inn & Suites Philadelphia W - Drexel Hill by IHG
- 14
Red Carpet Inn Philadelphia Airport
- 15
Motel 6 Lester PA - Philadelphia Airport
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15 Hotels near Swarthmore College
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Days Inn by Wyndham Springfield
A trusted name when families need straightforward comfort during information-packed campus weekends.
- Accommodate extended family members with rollaway beds added to rooms
- Relax in spacious suite sitting areas after long walking tours
- Rest easy with blackout curtains keeping the room dark and peaceful
Courtyard Philadelphia Springfield
Known for delivering road-tested reliability when campus logistics feel overwhelming.
- Store your car safely with on-site parking options for guests
- Book suites with sleeper sofas to accommodate parents and students
- Recharge in separate bedrooms after full days exploring campus
Home2 Suites Ridley Park Philadelphia Airport
Newer properties deliver the flexible comfort visiting families need between campus events.
- Work through campus materials at communal tables designed for productivity
- Prepare for campus visits with free breakfast featuring waffle station
- Enjoy complimentary parking throughout orientation weekends and campus tours
Microtel Inn & Suites Philadelphia Airport Ridley
Microtel keeps mornings predictable so your family starts each day focused.
- Reach bath amenities easily with wall-mounted dispensers throughout shower area
- Fuel campus visit days with complimentary coffee available around-the-clock
- Connect multiple devices to complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi in rooms
SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Airport Ridley Park
Built around the traveler who needs real fuel before hours on foot.
- Heat satisfying microwavable meals after long prospective student activities
- Charge devices easily with integrated USB ports throughout suite
- Explore West Elm styled common spaces designed for extended family comfort
Best Western Plus Philadelphia Airport S.
Known for serving parents who need steady routines between info sessions.
- Customize golden waffles at the waffle station every single morning
- Arrive and park free in spacious on-site parking areas
- Connect adjacent rooms to create a comfortable multi-room family setup
Booking 9+ rooms? Get group rates.
Comfort Inn Philadelphia Intl Airport West
The reliable pick for guests who measure success by afternoon alertness.
- Fuel family campus days with complimentary hot eggs and meats
- Catch the airport shuttle for easy arrival and departure coordination
- Relax knowing pull-out sofas provide real beds for growing kids
Clarion Hotel Philadelphia International Airport
Straightforward comfort designed for guests juggling long campus days and tight schedules.
- Secure complimentary parking for your car during the entire campus trip
- Relax in suites featuring distinct zones for lounging and resting
- Rest easy with premium mattress selections that deliver real recovery overnight
La Quinta Inn & Suites Philadelphia Airport
Built for families who want reliable comfort without the fuss.
- Spread out campus brochures at spacious communal gathering tables
- Start tour days with complimentary hot breakfast and signature waffles
- Use free self-parking spots during your multi-day admissions visit
Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Philadelphia Airport
This brand delivers value-focused comfort for families exploring campus life together.
- Travel smoothly between highway exits and university grounds
- Unpack into spacious double-bed rooms offering plenty of family breathing room
- Step onto clean wood-like flooring throughout your entire guest room
Travelodge by Wyndham Essington
Smart value for families investing time and attention in a life-changing choice.
- Start game days with complimentary pastries and fresh baked goods
- Bring your motorhome and utilize designated oversized vehicle parking spots
- Secure affordable multi-night rates ideal for prospective student tours
Candlewood Suites Chester
Kitchen-suite living turns high-stakes college tours into manageable family time.
- Rely on 24/7 front desk support for directions to campus buildings
- Choose from hot tea options available free all day long
- Stretch out in distinct living and sleeping areas every evening
Holiday Inn & Suites Philadelphia W
Known for delivering predictable ease when decision fatigue hits after back-to-back admissions presentations.
- Book one room knowing teens stay free through their nineteenth birthday
- Accommodate the whole family with sofa beds in suite configurations
- Adjust room darkness completely using blackout roller shades installed
Red Carpet Inn Philadelphia Airport
Families count on practical comfort and reliable amenities that fuel active campus schedules.
- Contact local restaurants and attractions with complimentary phone access
- Energize with complimentary continental breakfast before college tours and visits
- Drive your RV or oversized vehicle into spacious designated parking
Motel 6 Lester PA - Philadelphia Airport
Smart families choose reliable essentials over extras they will never use.
- Relax with free expanded cable featuring news and sports channels
- Access self-serve coffee station in lobby before departing for campus
- Access truck parking for convenient arrival and departure logistics
Swarthmore College Travel Guide
We built this guide so your team doesn't have to figure it all out from a Google search. Neighborhoods, restaurants, game day logistics, local tips — it's all here.
Swarthmore College is a renowned liberal arts institution nestled in the picturesque borough of Swarthmore, Pennsylvania. This guide is designed for prospective students, visiting families, alumni, and attendees of campus events. Here, you will find essential information to navigate the campus and its surroundings, covering everything from arrival logistics and parking to dining options and local attractions, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit. We aim to provide a comprehensive overview to help you plan your time effectively, whether you are here for a day visit or a multi-day event.
Neighborhood Overview
Swarthmore College is situated in the heart of Swarthmore, a charming and historic suburban borough approximately 11 miles southwest of Philadelphia. The campus itself is known for its arboretum, offering a beautiful natural setting that integrates seamlessly with academic buildings. Access to the college is primarily via Swarthmore Avenue and College Avenue, with major roadways like I-476 (the "Blue Route") and US-1 (West Chester Pike) nearby, providing convenient connections to Philadelphia and surrounding areas. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is the closest major airport, typically a 20-30 minute drive depending on traffic conditions. Public transportation is accessible; the SEPTA Media-Elwyn Line train stops at the Swarthmore station, which is a short walk from campus, offering a direct link to Philadelphia's Center City and the airport. Rideshares and taxis are readily available, though can be more challenging to secure immediately following large campus events. Planning your arrival to account for potential local traffic, especially during peak commute hours or major campus happenings, is advisable.
Where to Stay
Accommodations for visitors to Swarthmore College are concentrated in a few key areas. The borough of Swarthmore itself offers limited hotel options, with most visitors staying in the nearby towns of Springfield, Media, or Upper Darby, which provide a broader selection of lodging. Philadelphia's western suburbs, easily accessible from the college, feature numerous hotels catering to various budgets and preferences. For those prioritizing proximity, hotels along the US-1 corridor or near the Blue Route offer convenient drives to campus. Many visitors opt for accommodations that also provide easy access to Philadelphia's attractions, balancing college visit needs with broader travel interests. Given Swarthmore's popularity for academic visits and events, booking accommodations well in advance is highly recommended, particularly during the fall and spring semesters or around graduation and commencement ceremonies. Utilizing map filters for a 5-10 mile radius can help identify suitable options.
Quick-Plan Overview
Getting There
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is about a 20-30 minute drive away.
Arrival & Parking
Park on campus in designated visitor lots; check event signage for specific recommendations.
Food & Dining
The borough of Swarthmore offers charming local shops and cafes for a relaxed stroll.
Culture & History
Indoor options include exploring the college's Scott Arboretum or nearby museums in Philadelphia.
Team Regroup
The Swarthmore campus itself, with its arboretum, is an ideal place to regroup and relax.
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is about a 20-30 minute drive away.
- Park on campus in designated visitor lots; check event signage for specific recommendations.
- The borough of Swarthmore offers charming local shops and cafes for a relaxed stroll.
- Indoor options include exploring the college's Scott Arboretum or nearby museums in Philadelphia.
- The Swarthmore campus itself, with its arboretum, is an ideal place to regroup and relax.
Campus Visit Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled event or appointment. This buffer allows ample time for parking, navigating campus pathways, and locating your specific building or venue. Check the college’s event website for any specific parking instructions or recommended entry points, as these can vary. Familiarize yourself with the campus map beforehand to minimize wandering and ensure a calm start to your visit. The college's natural beauty provides a pleasant environment for a brief pre-event stroll.
During the Event
Once inside, be aware of the general flow of attendees, especially in larger buildings or auditoriums. Restroom facilities are typically available near main gathering areas. If your event involves multiple sessions or locations, allow a few minutes between them for transit across campus. Water fountains are common, but bringing a reusable water bottle is always a good idea. Keep track of your belongings and be mindful of time if you plan to explore any part of the campus between scheduled activities.
Post-Event & Departure
Exiting Swarthmore College campus after a major event can involve some pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Patience is key. If you parked on campus, allow a few extra minutes for vehicles to clear parking areas. Consider a brief walk around the grounds or a quick stop at a nearby cafe to let the initial rush subside before heading to your vehicle or waiting for rideshare. For those using public transit, the train station is a short, pleasant walk from most central campus locations.
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled event or appointment. This buffer allows ample time for parking, navigating campus pathways, and locating your specific building or venue. Check the college’s event website for any specific parking instructions or recommended entry points, as these can vary. Familiarize yourself with the campus map beforehand to minimize wandering and ensure a calm start to your visit. The college's natural beauty provides a pleasant environment for a brief pre-event stroll.
During the Event
Once inside, be aware of the general flow of attendees, especially in larger buildings or auditoriums. Restroom facilities are typically available near main gathering areas. If your event involves multiple sessions or locations, allow a few minutes between them for transit across campus. Water fountains are common, but bringing a reusable water bottle is always a good idea. Keep track of your belongings and be mindful of time if you plan to explore any part of the campus between scheduled activities.
Post-Event & Departure
Exiting Swarthmore College campus after a major event can involve some pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Patience is key. If you parked on campus, allow a few extra minutes for vehicles to clear parking areas. Consider a brief walk around the grounds or a quick stop at a nearby cafe to let the initial rush subside before heading to your vehicle or waiting for rideshare. For those using public transit, the train station is a short, pleasant walk from most central campus locations.
Things to Do
Walkable
Scott Arboretum
On siteThe Scott Arboretum, encompassing over 42 acres of Swarthmore College’s campus, is a living museum of horticultural collections and natural landscapes. It offers miles of walking paths through diverse gardens, including a rose garden, a children's garden, and a renowned collection of trees and shrubs. Visitors can enjoy its beauty year-round, with different seasonal highlights from spring blooms to fall foliage. The arboretum provides a tranquil escape, perfect for quiet contemplation, photography, or a leisurely stroll amidst stunning botanical displays. Guided tours are sometimes available, offering deeper insights into the plant collections.
Swarthmore Borough Shops & Cafes
On siteThe small, charming business district of Swarthmore Borough, located adjacent to the college campus, provides a pleasant walkable experience. Here you'll find a variety of local businesses, including independent bookstores, artisanal shops, and several cafes. It's an ideal spot to grab a coffee, browse for unique gifts, or enjoy a casual meal. The atmosphere is relaxed and community-oriented, offering a taste of local life just steps away from academic pursuits. This area serves as a convenient and welcoming hub for visitors seeking a break from campus activities.
5–15 Minutes Away
Hedgehog Corner
0.7 miHedgehog Corner is a delightful, locally-owned children's toy and gift shop located just a short walk from campus in the heart of Swarthmore Borough. It's a wonderful stop for families visiting the college, offering a curated selection of high-quality toys, games, and books that encourage creativity and imaginative play. The shop is known for its friendly service and unique finds, making it a charming destination for picking up a souvenir or a special gift. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible for a quick browse during a campus visit.
Haverford College Arboretum
3.1 miJust a short drive from Swarthmore, Haverford College also boasts a beautiful arboretum that rivals its neighbor in scenic appeal. This campus offers a different but equally captivating landscape with extensive tree collections, walking trails, and tranquil ponds. It's a perfect spot for those who enjoy nature walks and wish to explore another prestigious academic institution's grounds. The arboretum provides a peaceful environment for reflection, exercise, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Seasonal events and guided walks are sometimes featured, enhancing the visitor experience.
Walkable
- Scott Arboretum — The Scott Arboretum, encompassing over 42 acres of Swarthmore College’s campus, is a living museum of horticultural collections and natural landscapes. It offers miles of walking paths through diverse gardens, including a rose garden, a children's garden, and a renowned collection of trees and shrubs. Visitors can enjoy its beauty year-round, with different seasonal highlights from spring blooms to fall foliage. The arboretum provides a tranquil escape, perfect for quiet contemplation, photography, or a leisurely stroll amidst stunning botanical displays. Guided tours are sometimes available, offering deeper insights into the plant collections. On site
- Swarthmore Borough Shops & Cafes — The small, charming business district of Swarthmore Borough, located adjacent to the college campus, provides a pleasant walkable experience. Here you'll find a variety of local businesses, including independent bookstores, artisanal shops, and several cafes. It's an ideal spot to grab a coffee, browse for unique gifts, or enjoy a casual meal. The atmosphere is relaxed and community-oriented, offering a taste of local life just steps away from academic pursuits. This area serves as a convenient and welcoming hub for visitors seeking a break from campus activities. On site
5–15 Minutes Away
- Hedgehog Corner — Hedgehog Corner is a delightful, locally-owned children's toy and gift shop located just a short walk from campus in the heart of Swarthmore Borough. It's a wonderful stop for families visiting the college, offering a curated selection of high-quality toys, games, and books that encourage creativity and imaginative play. The shop is known for its friendly service and unique finds, making it a charming destination for picking up a souvenir or a special gift. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible for a quick browse during a campus visit. 0.7 mi
- Haverford College Arboretum — Just a short drive from Swarthmore, Haverford College also boasts a beautiful arboretum that rivals its neighbor in scenic appeal. This campus offers a different but equally captivating landscape with extensive tree collections, walking trails, and tranquil ponds. It's a perfect spot for those who enjoy nature walks and wish to explore another prestigious academic institution's grounds. The arboretum provides a peaceful environment for reflection, exercise, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Seasonal events and guided walks are sometimes featured, enhancing the visitor experience. 3.1 mi
Food & Drink
Inside & Adjacent
Sharples Dining Hall (Swarthmore College)
On siteSharples Dining Hall is the primary all-you-can-eat dining facility for Swarthmore College students and is often accessible to visitors during specific times or for special events. It offers a wide variety of food stations, including international cuisine, classic comfort foods, a salad bar, and dessert options. While primarily serving the student body, it provides a convenient and casual dining experience for campus visitors, especially during the academic year. Check college visitor policies for current access details.
Essays (Swarthmore College)
On siteEssays is a popular campus cafe located within Swarthmore College, serving as a convenient spot for coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and light snacks. It's a favorite among students and faculty for a quick bite between classes or a casual meeting place. Essays offers a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal stop for visitors looking for a refreshment or a light meal without leaving the college grounds. The cafe is a hub of campus activity, reflecting the daily rhythm of academic life.
Nearby Gathering Spots
The Town School
0.4 miThe Town School, located in Swarthmore Borough, offers a casual and welcoming dining experience with a menu featuring American comfort food, sandwiches, salads, and a selection of drinks. It's a popular spot for both students and local residents, known for its friendly atmosphere and consistent quality. The restaurant provides a relaxed setting perfect for a post-campus visit meal or a casual gathering with friends or family. Its proximity to the college makes it a go-to for convenient and satisfying dining.
Ice Cream Reimagined
0.5 miIce Cream Reimagined is a beloved local spot in Swarthmore Borough that specializes in creative and delicious homemade ice cream. Beyond ice cream, they also offer a selection of sandwiches, soups, and baked goods, making it a versatile option for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet treat. The shop has a cheerful, community-focused vibe and is a great place to unwind after a campus tour or event. It’s a perfect casual stop for families and individuals looking for a sweet indulgence.
Local & Elevated Picks
The Depot Restaurant
1.9 miThe Depot Restaurant, located in the nearby town of Media, offers a dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and American cuisine. Housed in a historic train station, it provides a unique and charming ambiance. The menu features a range of well-prepared dishes, from seafood to steaks, complemented by an extensive wine list. It’s an excellent choice for a more refined meal, a special occasion, or for those looking to explore the culinary scene beyond the immediate college vicinity. Reservations are recommended.
320 Market Cafe
2.5 mi320 Market Cafe in Media is a popular gourmet market and cafe known for its high-quality deli sandwiches, salads, soups, and prepared foods. It's an excellent destination for picnic supplies, casual lunches, or picking up delicious meals to go. The cafe features a vibrant atmosphere and a commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. For visitors seeking a more elevated but still casual dining experience or wanting to sample local flavors, 320 Market Cafe is a superb choice, offering both dine-in and takeout options.
Inside & Adjacent
- Sharples Dining Hall (Swarthmore College) — Sharples Dining Hall is the primary all-you-can-eat dining facility for Swarthmore College students and is often accessible to visitors during specific times or for special events. It offers a wide variety of food stations, including international cuisine, classic comfort foods, a salad bar, and dessert options. While primarily serving the student body, it provides a convenient and casual dining experience for campus visitors, especially during the academic year. Check college visitor policies for current access details. On site
- Essays (Swarthmore College) — Essays is a popular campus cafe located within Swarthmore College, serving as a convenient spot for coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and light snacks. It's a favorite among students and faculty for a quick bite between classes or a casual meeting place. Essays offers a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal stop for visitors looking for a refreshment or a light meal without leaving the college grounds. The cafe is a hub of campus activity, reflecting the daily rhythm of academic life. On site
Nearby Gathering Spots
- The Town School — The Town School, located in Swarthmore Borough, offers a casual and welcoming dining experience with a menu featuring American comfort food, sandwiches, salads, and a selection of drinks. It's a popular spot for both students and local residents, known for its friendly atmosphere and consistent quality. The restaurant provides a relaxed setting perfect for a post-campus visit meal or a casual gathering with friends or family. Its proximity to the college makes it a go-to for convenient and satisfying dining. 0.4 mi
- Ice Cream Reimagined — Ice Cream Reimagined is a beloved local spot in Swarthmore Borough that specializes in creative and delicious homemade ice cream. Beyond ice cream, they also offer a selection of sandwiches, soups, and baked goods, making it a versatile option for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet treat. The shop has a cheerful, community-focused vibe and is a great place to unwind after a campus tour or event. It’s a perfect casual stop for families and individuals looking for a sweet indulgence. 0.5 mi
Local & Elevated Picks
- The Depot Restaurant — The Depot Restaurant, located in the nearby town of Media, offers a dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and American cuisine. Housed in a historic train station, it provides a unique and charming ambiance. The menu features a range of well-prepared dishes, from seafood to steaks, complemented by an extensive wine list. It’s an excellent choice for a more refined meal, a special occasion, or for those looking to explore the culinary scene beyond the immediate college vicinity. Reservations are recommended. 1.9 mi
- 320 Market Cafe — 320 Market Cafe in Media is a popular gourmet market and cafe known for its high-quality deli sandwiches, salads, soups, and prepared foods. It's an excellent destination for picnic supplies, casual lunches, or picking up delicious meals to go. The cafe features a vibrant atmosphere and a commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. For visitors seeking a more elevated but still casual dining experience or wanting to sample local flavors, 320 Market Cafe is a superb choice, offering both dine-in and takeout options. 2.5 mi
Local Tips
The Scott Arboretum is a large, integrated part of campus: familiarize yourself with its layout to enhance your walking experience.
Seasonal note: Swarthmore College experiences distinct seasons that influence campus life and visitor experience. Spring and fall are particularly beautiful, with the arboretum bursting with color from blooms or foliage, making them ideal times for campus visits. Summer offers pleasant weather for exploring the grounds, though student activity is lower. Winter can be quite cold and snowy, making indoor campus tours and events more appealing, and outdoor exploration best suited for those prepared for chillier conditions. Major academic events and sports seasons typically occur during the fall and spring, leading to higher visitor numbers.
- Campus event traffic can cause minor delays on College Avenue, so allow extra travel time when heading to or from the college.
- The SEPTA train station is a convenient alternative to driving, especially for trips into Philadelphia or to the airport.
- Weekend visits might encounter fewer commuter traffic issues but could coincide with local sports or community events.
- Many local restaurants in Swarthmore Borough can get busy on Friday and Saturday evenings, so consider reservations or slightly earlier/later dining.
- The Scott Arboretum is a large, integrated part of campus familiarize yourself with its layout to enhance your walking experience.
- Seasonal note: Swarthmore College experiences distinct seasons that influence campus life and visitor experience. Spring and fall are particularly beautiful, with the arboretum bursting with color from blooms or foliage, making them ideal times for campus visits. Summer offers pleasant weather for exploring the grounds, though student activity is lower. Winter can be quite cold and snowy, making indoor campus tours and events more appealing, and outdoor exploration best suited for those prepared for chillier conditions. Major academic events and sports seasons typically occur during the fall and spring, leading to higher visitor numbers.
Weather & Seasons
Winter
Expect cold temperatures, with average highs in the low 40s°F and lows in the 20s°F. Snowfall is possible, though usually not heavy. Visitors should pack warm layers, including a heavy coat, gloves, scarf, and a hat. Footwear suitable for potentially icy or snowy sidewalks is essential for comfortable navigation around campus.
Spring & early summer
This period brings increasingly mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures warming from the 50s°F to the 70s°F. Blooms in the Scott Arboretum are spectacular, making it an ideal time to visit. Light jackets and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Days can be variable, so checking the forecast is always wise.
Mid-summer
Summers are typically warm to hot and can be humid, with average highs in the upper 80s°F. Days are generally sunny and long, perfect for exploring the outdoor campus. Light, breathable clothing is best. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are advisable, and staying hydrated is important during warmer days.
Fall season
Crisp air and stunning fall foliage characterize this season, with temperatures comfortably ranging from the 50s°F to the 70s°F. It's a prime time for enjoying the arboretum's colors. Layers are key, including sweaters or light jackets. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the campus and its many paths.
Rain & snow
Rain is possible throughout the year, with heavier periods often occurring in spring and fall. Winter brings the potential for snow, which can occasionally impact travel and campus conditions. Always check local weather advisories before traveling, and be prepared with appropriate rain gear or waterproof, insulated footwear if snow is expected.
Winter
Expect cold temperatures, with average highs in the low 40s°F and lows in the 20s°F. Snowfall is possible, though usually not heavy. Visitors should pack warm layers, including a heavy coat, gloves, scarf, and a hat. Footwear suitable for potentially icy or snowy sidewalks is essential for comfortable navigation around campus.
Spring & early summer
This period brings increasingly mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures warming from the 50s°F to the 70s°F. Blooms in the Scott Arboretum are spectacular, making it an ideal time to visit. Light jackets and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Days can be variable, so checking the forecast is always wise.
Mid-summer
Summers are typically warm to hot and can be humid, with average highs in the upper 80s°F. Days are generally sunny and long, perfect for exploring the outdoor campus. Light, breathable clothing is best. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are advisable, and staying hydrated is important during warmer days.
Fall season
Crisp air and stunning fall foliage characterize this season, with temperatures comfortably ranging from the 50s°F to the 70s°F. It's a prime time for enjoying the arboretum's colors. Layers are key, including sweaters or light jackets. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the campus and its many paths.
Rain & snow
Rain is possible throughout the year, with heavier periods often occurring in spring and fall. Winter brings the potential for snow, which can occasionally impact travel and campus conditions. Always check local weather advisories before traveling, and be prepared with appropriate rain gear or waterproof, insulated footwear if snow is expected.
Venue Facts
Primary institution
Swarthmore College
Neighborhood
Swarthmore Borough
Nearest airport
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
Parking
On-campus visitor lots (check signage)
Walkable district
Swarthmore Borough and campus grounds
Groceries & supplies
Local markets in Swarthmore Borough
Pharmacy
Available in nearby Springfield or Media
Urgent care
Located in Springfield or Darby
Downtime
Scott Arboretum or campus green spaces
Pro tip
Utilize SEPTA train for easy transit to Philadelphia or airport.
| Primary institution | Swarthmore College |
| Neighborhood | Swarthmore Borough |
| Nearest airport | Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) |
| Parking | On-campus visitor lots (check signage) |
| Walkable district | Swarthmore Borough and campus grounds |
| Groceries & supplies | Local markets in Swarthmore Borough |
| Pharmacy | Available in nearby Springfield or Media |
| Urgent care | Located in Springfield or Darby |
| Downtime | Scott Arboretum or campus green spaces |
| Pro tip | Utilize SEPTA train for easy transit to Philadelphia or airport. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Real questions travelers ask before booking near Swarthmore College — answered with the specifics you actually need.
Questions Travelers Ask What people want to know before booking near Swarthmore College
What are the closest hotels to Swarthmore College?
The closest hotel to Swarthmore College is Days Inn by Wyndham Springfield / Phil.Intl Airport (2.86 mi, from $111/night) — a 6-minute drive. Other nearby options include Courtyard Philadelphia Springfield (3.19 mi, from $366/night) and Home2 Suites by Hilton Ridley Park Philadelphia Airport South (3.9 mi, from $197/night). Days Inn by Wyndham Springfield / Phil.Intl Airport offers free breakfast and a pool. Courtyard Philadelphia Springfield offers free breakfast, a pool, and a fitness center. Home2 Suites by Hilton Ridley Park Philadelphia Airport South offers free breakfast, a pool, and a fitness center.
Which hotels near Swarthmore College are good for families?
Several hotels near Swarthmore College are well-suited for families. Days Inn by Wyndham Springfield / Phil.Intl Airport (2.86 mi, from $111/night), Courtyard Philadelphia Springfield (3.19 mi, from $366/night), and Home2 Suites by Hilton Ridley Park Philadelphia Airport South (3.9 mi, from $197/night) all offer suites, connecting rooms, a pool, complimentary breakfast, and on-site laundry.
Are there budget-friendly hotels near Swarthmore College?
Yes — Days Inn by Wyndham Springfield / Phil.Intl Airport (2.86 mi, from $111/night), Travelodge by Wyndham Essington / Philadelphia Airport (4.83 mi, from $82/night), and Motel 6 Lester PA - Philadelphia Airport (6.43 mi, from $156/night) are budget-friendly options near Swarthmore College, with free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free parking.
Which hotels near Swarthmore College are good for team or group travel?
Several hotels near Swarthmore College accommodate team and group travel. Days Inn by Wyndham Springfield / Phil.Intl Airport (2.86 mi, from $111/night), Courtyard Philadelphia Springfield (3.19 mi, from $366/night), and Home2 Suites by Hilton Ridley Park Philadelphia Airport South (3.9 mi, from $197/night) all offer complimentary breakfast and on-site laundry. Days Inn by Wyndham Springfield / Phil.Intl Airport also has bus or oversized vehicle parking. Courtyard Philadelphia Springfield also has meeting space. Home2 Suites by Hilton Ridley Park Philadelphia Airport South also has meeting space.
Are there extended-stay hotels near Swarthmore College?
Yes — Home2 Suites by Hilton Ridley Park Philadelphia Airport South (3.9 mi, from $197/night) and Candlewood Suites Chester - Philadelphia International Airport by IHG (5.65 mi, from $124/night) are all extended-stay properties near Swarthmore College, with full kitchens and on-site laundry.
Hotel Amenities & Features Pools, breakfast, pet policies, and more
Which hotels near Swarthmore College offer free breakfast?
Days Inn by Wyndham Springfield / Phil.Intl Airport (2.86 mi, from $111/night), Home2 Suites by Hilton Ridley Park Philadelphia Airport South (3.9 mi, from $197/night), and Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Philadelphia Airport Ridley (3.97 mi, from $117/night) include complimentary breakfast.
Which hotels near Swarthmore College offer free parking?
Days Inn by Wyndham Springfield / Phil.Intl Airport (2.86 mi, from $111/night), Home2 Suites by Hilton Ridley Park Philadelphia Airport South (3.9 mi, from $197/night), and Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Philadelphia Airport Ridley (3.97 mi, from $117/night) offer complimentary parking.
Which hotels near Swarthmore College have an outdoor pool?
Travelodge by Wyndham Essington / Philadelphia Airport (4.83 mi, from $82/night), Red Carpet Inn Philadelphia Airport (6.41 mi, from $81/night), and Motel 6 Lester PA - Philadelphia Airport (6.43 mi, from $156/night) have an outdoor pool.
Do hotels near Swarthmore College offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes — Days Inn by Wyndham Springfield / Phil.Intl Airport (2.86 mi, from $111/night), Courtyard Philadelphia Springfield (3.19 mi, from $366/night), and Home2 Suites by Hilton Ridley Park Philadelphia Airport South (3.9 mi, from $197/night) offer complimentary Wi-Fi.
Which hotels near Swarthmore College have accessible rooms?
Days Inn by Wyndham Springfield / Phil.Intl Airport (2.86 mi, from $111/night), Courtyard Philadelphia Springfield (3.19 mi, from $366/night), and Home2 Suites by Hilton Ridley Park Philadelphia Airport South (3.9 mi, from $197/night) offer ADA-accessible rooms.
Other college campuss nearby
Also planning a multi-venue trip? Check these within 50 miles.
Widener University-Main Campus
Swarthmore, PA · 0 mi
Widener University
Chester, PA · 3 mi
Strayer University Delaware County Campus
Springfield, PA · 3 mi
Neumann University
Aston, PA · 5 mi
Delaware County Technical School-Practical Nursing Program
Broomall, PA · 5 mi
Delaware County Community College
Media, PA · 5 mi
Ready to book near Swarthmore College?
15 hotels to choose from. Lowest rate guarantee, flexible cancellation on most rooms, and a support team that gets sports travel.