Pennypacker Park
Discover the historic site of the first US dinosaur skeleton discovery, with serene ponds, river trails, and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walks
Pennypacker Park
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the historic site of the first US dinosaur skeleton discovery, with serene ponds, river trails, and abundant wildlife.
"A great place to visit, sit, and take in nature with lovely scenery and wildlife sightings. "
👟 Trail Preparedness
Wear sturdy shoes; trails can be muddy after rain and have uneven sections.
🌿 Watch for Poison Ivy
Stay on marked trails to avoid poison ivy, which is abundant off-path.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Discovery Site
Visit the location of the first near-complete dinosaur skeleton found in the US. A fascinating piece of paleontological history.
Hopkins Pond
A serene pond teeming with turtles and fish, perfect for nature observation and a peaceful picnic spot.
Riverside Trails
Wander along the river, spotting wildlife like herons and osprey. Offers a refreshing natural escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dinosaur Discovery Site
Navigating Trails & Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
TIL the first dinosaur skeleton discovered in the US was in 1858 in Haddonfield, N.J. After excavations were complete the dig was ignored, became a dump, and was lost until 1984 when a local Boy Scout decided his community project to qualify for Eagle Scout would be rediscovering the original site.
👟 Trail Preparedness
Wear sturdy shoes; trails can be muddy after rain and have uneven sections.
🌿 Watch for Poison Ivy
Stay on marked trails to avoid poison ivy, which is abundant off-path.
🔭 Wildlife Spotting
Bring binoculars for a better chance to see herons, osprey, turtles, and various birds.
🚗 Dinosaur Site Access
The dinosaur exhibit isn't on a main trail; you may need to drive to a specific neighborhood to see it.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Trail Preparedness
Wear sturdy shoes; trails can be muddy after rain and have uneven sections.
🌿 Watch for Poison Ivy
Stay on marked trails to avoid poison ivy, which is abundant off-path.
🔭 Wildlife Spotting
Bring binoculars for a better chance to see herons, osprey, turtles, and various birds.
🚗 Dinosaur Site Access
The dinosaur exhibit isn't on a main trail; you may need to drive to a specific neighborhood to see it.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Pennypacker Park for its natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and the unique historical significance of the dinosaur discovery site. It's a great spot for picnics and casual walks, though some trails can be muddy and challenging with strollers. +1
"Great place to visit, sit, and take in nature they have turtles and fish and lovely scenery really enjoy this park."
Fara Yablonsky Resnick
"I visited today and many of the trails were too muddy to continue very far after the recent rain. That said, I really loved this park. In a short time I was able to make some awesome nature sightings (great blue heron, osprey, turtles, birds). If you continue all the past the pond and up the hill, you can cross the street to another park with a pond and even more nature sightings. This whole area is awesome. I'll definitely be back!"
Jessica A
"It's an average park with trails. The riverside is not well maintained and a bit dirty. Good for casual walk and roaming around or if you are interested in fishing, its a place for you. If you are taking your kids and stroller remember, maneuvering a stroller is very challenging as the trail roads are uneven."
Supratim Samanta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pennypacker Park is accessible by car, with parking available at various points, including near Hopkins Pond. Public transport options may be limited, so driving is often the most convenient.
Yes, there are parking areas available, particularly near Hopkins Pond and other trail access points.
Biking is a great way to explore the park's trails. Ensure your bike is suitable for potentially uneven surfaces.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pennypacker Park is generally free to enter, offering a great value for a day out in nature.
Park hours are typically from dawn to dusk, but it's always a good idea to check local listings for any specific seasonal changes or event closures.
No advance booking is required for general park entry. It's a public park open to all visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The riverside trails offer scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities. The trails around Hopkins Pond are also popular for leisurely walks.
Some main paths are relatively flat, but many trails are uneven and can be challenging with strollers, especially after rain.
Yes, fishing is permitted in the park's ponds and river. Ensure you have the necessary licenses and follow local regulations.
Restroom facilities may be limited, so it's advisable to check park maps or inquire locally about their availability.
Visitors often spot great blue herons, osprey, turtles, and various bird species. Keep an eye out during your visit!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The park is ideal for picnics. There are no on-site restaurants, so bring your own food and enjoy the natural setting.
Absolutely! Pennypacker Park is a wonderful spot for picnics. Find a scenic area and enjoy your meal outdoors.
Picnic tables may be available in designated areas, but it's wise to bring a blanket as well, especially during busy times.
📸 📸 Photography
The ponds, riverbanks, and areas with abundant wildlife offer great photographic opportunities. Capture the serene natural beauty.
With patience and a good zoom lens, you can capture images of the local fauna. Early mornings or late afternoons are often best for wildlife activity.
A camera with a telephoto lens is ideal for wildlife photography. For landscapes, a wide-angle lens can capture the park's scenic vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Dinosaur Discovery
The rediscovery of the dinosaur dig site is a testament to local history and the enduring interest in paleontology. It’s a reminder that significant discoveries can be made even in unexpected places. Visitors interested in this aspect should be prepared for a brief excursion to fully appreciate the historical context of the dinosaur find.
Exploring Pennypacker Park's Nature
However, it's important to be prepared for the park's natural conditions. After rainfall, many trails can become quite muddy, making them challenging to navigate, especially with strollers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit