Colonial

Enjoy proximity to Downtown Philadelphia just across the Delaware River in Colonial, where distribution centers mix in with the parks and local high school. “There are a lot of commercial buildings around here so we’re a bit of a hub for that between all the industry in the area and being so close to the highways,” says John Rehill, a retiree who lives nearby and volunteers at Harvest Christian Center.

There are about 1,000 total homes in the neighborhood that date between the early 1900s and the 1990s. White picket fences complement brick ranch-style homes, split levels and American foursquare homes. Brightly colored shutters rest above cozy front porches and sidewalks connect small green lawns. Joggers and dog walkers enjoy colorful curb appeal thanks to mature trees and flowering shrubs. There are townhouse options as well, that typically sell for about $300,000. Single-family homes sell for $425,000 to $1,800,000, with homes on more spacious plots falling on the more expensive end of the spectrum. On average, homes in Colonial sell after 69 days on the market which is higher than the national average of 39 days. Homes are typically between 1,350 and 3,850 square feet in size and sit on lots between 0.41 and 4 acres.

Despite the neighborhood’s location right on the river and surrounded by Pennsauken Creek, there aren’t any waterfront homes. “The water access around here sort of mystifies me because I’m used to seeing big expensive homes on the water. I thought all that property would be filled with housing developments but it’s really just a park,” Rehill says. “And there isn’t much going on out on the water unless it’s a ship for the oil refinery pulling into one of their huge docks. The only way people really get out on the water is if they’re going over a bridge.”

Palmyra Nature Cove Trail Bridge gives visitors great views of the Betsy Ross Bridge across the Delaware River. The cove is a converted dredge-dumping site that’s become a popular spot for bird watching and hiking thanks to its network of trails. Stow Road Community Park has multiple sports courts along with a hockey rink, playground and picnic areas. “The neighborhood is very active and they do a good job making sure there’s plenty here for kids,” Rehill says. They built this huge park and every holiday season they have something in the park for the community.” Wesley Gaines Community Park is well-shaded thanks to mature trees and has a paved walking and biking path. On rainy days, Clutch Shot axe throwing is a great way to work up a sweat while challenging friends.

Students in Colonial can attend Delair Elementary School which received a C rating from Niche and has about 300 students in grades K-3 with a student-teacher ratio of 12-to-1. Cinnaminson High School is another option that received an A-minus rating from Niche and has about 820 students in grades 9-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 12-to-1. Pennsauken High School received a B-minus rating from Niche and has about 1,500 students in grades 9-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 15-to-1. The school offers multiple career and technical education programs like automotive technology, carpentry and cosmetology.

There are mostly large chain restaurants in and around Colonial thanks to the network of highways that surrounds the neighborhood, but there are some local options as well. Rocco’s Steaks is a family-owned restaurant known for its classic diner atmosphere and tasty dishes like an American chicken club sandwich paired with home fries. Carollos Restaurant specializes in Italian cuisine and a family-friendly environment. They have everything from beer and wine to pizza and wraps to hot and cold sandwiches and paninis. Locals can choose from options like Nunez Rosado Mini Market or the nearby Fresh Produce and ShopRite of Cinnaminson to pick up their groceries.

Colonial is 10 miles northeast of Downtown Philadelphia, just over the Betsy Ross Bridge. Neighborhood residents enjoy convenient access to the NJ Transit and the Pennsauken Riverline Station.

Written By

Jordan Hamner

Photography Contributed By

Carmen Gerace

Video By

Anthony Pesa