Dog walking in Swarthmore

Crum Woods

If you and your pooch are looking to get back to nature, Swarthmore’s Crum Woods are a pawfect place to do so! Part of the grounds of Swarthmore College but open to the public, this bucolic preserve is one of the last remaining natural forested areas in Delaware County, containing over 3.5 miles of beautiful scenic trails running along the babbling Crum Creek. Your pooch will need to be leashed, of course, and remember to bring your own bags and water! There’s plenty of parking by Scott’s Amphitheatre, but you might find it a little difficult to squeeze in during the college semester.

East Springfield

Kent Dog Park in Springfield is the closest place you can let your furry friend run free. Like many dog runs in the area, the park is members-only, but the fee isn’t too steep -- it’s twenty dollars for the year, and your pooch is sure to appreciate it! There’s a separate area for large and small dogs, and water, bags, and toys are all provided, so all you need bring is your furbaby and your enthusiasm! After your workout, you and your pup can chill out at The Icery, a fantastic locally owned ice cream joint that caters to canine companions at its outdoor tables.

North Havertown

Havertown Reserve Dog Park is just over a fifteen-minute drive from Swarthmore, but it’d be a huge faux-paws not to visit! Make no bones about it, your pooch will love this wide open space -- the dog run is one of the biggest in the area. There’s a doggy agility course, and as an added bonus, the surface is chipped bark, so you don’t need to worry about your buddy getting muddy after it rains! After you two have worked up an appetite, consider stopping in at The Cross Bar. This hole-in-the-wall serves up the best in pub grub, and welcomes wagging tails outside.

Schuylkill

Schuykill River Dog Park might be sixteen miles from Swarthmore, but you’d need to be barking mad not to take the trip! This furrific park is paws down one of the best in the area. The park is well-shaded, and there’s a separate small dog area so your pooch can socialize no matter their size. Owners will certainly appreciate the ample seating and the views over the Schuykill River. Bags, water and toys are provided, and there’s a kiddie pool for your pup to cool down in during the summer. The people side of the park is also well worth a wander, with excellent views of stately Philadelphia architecture.

Downtown Philadelphia

If you and your dog are looking for something different to do, why not consider taking a tour of downtown Philadelphia? Free and Friendly Tours offer daily guided walking tours of the city’s historic landmarks, and welcome wagging tails as long as they stay on-leash! Afterwards, you and your pup can check out Amelie’s Bark Shop on E Passynuk Ave. This independent pet boutique stocks a huge range of treats that are sure to make your furry friend sit up and beg, from healthy, daily delights to more occasional indulgences, like doggy cupcakes and cookies!