
Glenside, PA: Brimming with History and Minutes from Philly
Just six miles from Philadelphia, Glenside is a walkable town of roughly 8,000 residents and full of cafés, shops, and historic charm. From the iconic Keswick Theatre to annual events like Fall Fest and the Glenside Arts Festival, the community buzzes with local pride. Glenside’s train station is just a mile from campus, offering students a 25-minute ride to Center City and easy access to museums, internships, cultural events, and professional opportunities in Philadelphia.
Explore Beyond the Classroom
Step outside and discover what makes Glenside vibrant and the perfect college town:
- Walkable local life: A short stroll from campus brings you to Keswick Village – a historic hub nestled with boutiques, cozy cafés, and the renowned Keswick Theatre, a Tudor-Revival landmark built in 1928 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Perks for students: Arcadia’s KnightCard isn’t just for campus – it unlocks discounts at a variety of Glenside businesses, giving students an affordable way to shop, dine, and explore their college town.
- Community energy through events:
- Fall Fest – Celebrate the season with food, fun, and local vendors.
- Rock the Knight Food Truck Festival – A student-favorite tradition where students march down from campus to enjoy food and entertainment, organized in partnership between the University and the local community.
- Glenside Arts Festival – An annual downtown showcase uniting regional and student artists in a celebration of creativity! Students can submit their work to be displayed at this event.
- Safe and welcoming: Glenside’s tree-lined streets, historic neighborhoods, and strong sense of community create a secure and inviting environment where students quickly feel at home.
See It For Yourself
Get to know Glenside and Arcadia University in a style that works for you. Whether you're planning a visit or exploring from afar, you can:
Community Headlines

