Nestled in the north-east of Philadelphia, Bensalem is a historic township founded back in 1682. It was originally settled by Dutch, Swedish and English immigrants and remained a farming community until the 1950s. Today, Bensalem encompasses several communities that include Eddington, Flushing and Andalusia, which is home to the Greek Revival-style estate of Nicholas Biddle.
Things to do in Bensalem Township
History buffs shouldn’t miss Growden Mansion, which was once home to the 18th-century American attorney, Joseph Galloway. Coincide your visit with a guided tour to learn about his life and legacy, as well as his links to Benjamin Franklin and George Washington. On the property is a small stone building known as “The Vault” where county records were once stored. Bullet holes from the American Revolution are still visible in its walls today.
For a retail fix, head to the Neshaminy Mall, which was one of the first shopping malls constructed in Pennsylvania in 1968. It’s home to around 65 retail stores that include Foot Locker and Barnes & Noble, as well as plenty of fast-food eateries. The latest Hollywood blockbusters are screened at the AMC Neshaminy 24 Theater.
On the western edge of Bensalem is Benjamin Rush State Park, where you’ll find sprawling community gardens and walking trails. It’s not far from the Firefighters' Field Community Park, a family-friendly recreational destination with a children’s playground, a picnic pavilion and several memorials. Local firefighting efforts are detailed at the Bensalem Fire Museum.
Getting around Bensalem Township
Bensalem is around 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of Philadelphia and 40 minutes from Philadelphia International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Croydon and Neshaminy railway stations while buses travel throughout the township.