The heavy lifting Boeing CH-47 Chinook helicopters used by American troops is produced in the borough of Ridley Park, Pennsylvania. At just over a square mile, it packs plenty into the area which is also home to Pennsylvania's oldest community theater, the Barnstormers Theater.
Determining the exact age of the Ridley Park community is difficult because it served as home to Native Americans long before the official founding and naming of Ridley Park in 1871
The heavy lifting Boeing CH-47 Chinook helicopters used by American troops is produced in the borough of Ridley Park, Pennsylvania. At just over a square mile, it packs plenty into the area which is also home to Pennsylvania's oldest community theater, the Barnstormers Theater.
Determining the exact age of the Ridley Park community is difficult because it served as home to Native Americans long before the official founding and naming of Ridley Park in 1871. The Native American pathways were utilized as the guidelines for the first roads of the area. These roads that are now used by commuters, Sunday drivers, and freshly licensed teenagers, have been traveled by famous historical figures. Chester Pike is the most infamous road of Ridley Park, having once been traveled by George Washington and his troops. Famous roads are only one facet of the transportation focused town. It was planned as a railroad suburb, as much of Pennsylvania's popular small towns were. In 1872 the first railcar loaded with passengers made a memorable first stop in Ridley Park. Well over two centuries later, people getting on and off trains in this bustling borough is no longer an anomaly, as many use the train to commute to the cities of Philadelphia and DC daily. The City of Brotherly Love is only 13 miles away, but at the end of the 1800s, this area was the summer scene for Philly's year-round residents. The stately Victorian homes that the summering city folk built still stand, but the town itself has become a year-round community for those who prefer living the small town life while keeping the city close by.
Delaware County's Ridley Park continues to attract interested renters who enjoy historical small towns that provide enough entertainment and activities within the area itself, but also are only a train ride away from the hum of the city. This area was originally a planned community by its founder, Isaac Hinckley, who knew that the right amenities plus a prime location on the rail line would entice residents. He was particularly concerned with the physical appearance since people almost always judge a book by its cover. This is not a strip of McMansions surrounded by big box stores and suburban stereotypes. The lake is man-made but really adds to the area and it certainly seems to be a natural part of Ridley Park. Landscaped parks and streets were another aspect to Hinckley's community planning, and it continues to be a town rich in foliage, flowers and shady streets.
When moving here, potential renters will find that they get history, charm and a well-designed community. It's so move-in ready that you may think that all you need is your toothbrush. However, those on the search for apartments or homes for rent will need the typical proof of income, first month's rent, and a deposit. Some landlords allow pets, but be prepared to pay a pet deposit. Apartment complex rental policies usually require a credit check, which the hopeful tenant pays for and some rental home owners also use this policy.
When looking for the ideal places for rent in Ridley Park, know what you're preferences are upfront to narrow down the search. Rental homes in this region should have central heat, but if you love cozying up to the fireplace, don't wait for the first snowfall to realize that a fire log image on the TV is the only fireplace you have. Also see if the rent includes water, heat, or electricity, which will help your monthly budget. Basements are typical in rental homes so decide if you need a finished basement or if an unfinished basement is your preferred excuse for not having long-term house guests.
Trains are a staple of this town, but it also receives bus service for those needing a Philly cheesesteak or wanting a spontaneous visit to the White House. Though the public transportation adds to the ease of commuting and gives Ridley Park residents more options, most still find that a car is important in getting out and about.
Ridley Park is smaller than many neighborhoods, so to try and break it down any smaller would be akin to trying to split a fun-sized candy bar in half. It is much easier to understand the real estate offerings of the area as a whole. Plus, there is no bad part of town to shy away from, as the borough is known for its safety and low crime rates.
Four-bedroom homes to studio apartments for rent pretty much show the gamut of options in terms of size. Apartments, townhomes and rental homes in Ridley Park have low vacancy rates because who doesn't want to live in a tiny town that George Washington rode through and where modern military's helicopters are constructed? Planning for four weeks to find a place to live should be sufficient.
Renting a single residence home also comes with options. Historical homes, especially Victorian style homes, have a strong presence in this community and those looking for a historical home can look for the Century Home Plaques. Those bronze plaques denote homes older than 100 years, and are a program run by the Ridley Park Historical Society.
Top Apartment Communities
This area is known for its great transportation options, and the apartment communities especially tend to be clustered around the bus and train stops to make it appealing to renters. Apartment communities have a strong presence here, so those looking for an apartment should consider the different features to be found.
Parkwoode Towers: Parkwoode Towers has one- or two-bedroom units, but with several floor plans of vary sizes. Also, some units feature patios or balconies to add some private outdoor living space.
Stonewood Village: Stonewood Village also has one- and two-bedroom apartments, along with townhomes. This property is known for being pet friendly, but you must confirm that your breed is accepted.
Stewart Lane Apartments / Arbor Place: Stewart Lane Apartments and Arbor Place brag about the free gas powered heat and water for residents.
The name Ridley Park is certainly fitting as the number of parks found in this piece of PA is rather surprising given the area's size The are several small parks such as the Spirit of America Park, Hetzel Park, and Bonnes Park. The Catania Brothers Park has baseball fields and serves as the location of the Ridley Park Police Station, the same group of officers depicted in the movie "Silver Linings Playbook." Recreation Park has shady trees perfect for picnickers, basketball courts, and baseball fields. East Pike Park is the park in Ridley Park as it is home to trails, a dock for fishing, and serves as the stage for the annual 4th of July fireworks show.
Recreation opportunities continue with the Ridley Marina, swim clubs, and YMCA. The Ridley Swim Club Grounds serve as the site of the Ridley Park Paintball in the off season. There are three courses to take out your aggression with paint-filled pellets.
Plays, musical concerts, and a variety of events are staged at Ridley Park's Barnstormers Theater. Other big events in the borough include the 4th of July Parade and fireworks, September's Victorian Fair at the Lake, and the area wide yard sale in May. No joke, the community yard sale is an anticipated annual event.
Getting involved with the historical society is another favorite pastime in Ridley Park, as is soaking up the scenery at the lake. Residents of this small town have the option to stay calm in Ridley Park or liven it up by making a quick trip into the neighboring cities. The diversity and charm is what Ridley Park is all about.
