COLLINGSWOOD

BY DANA FIORI

East of the Delaware River and just five miles from Center City Philadelphia lies Collingswood, a hidden gem of a town with old city character. Collingswood was recognized as a borough on May 22, 1888, but the land was inhabited by Lenni-Lenape Native Americans for nearly a century before English and Irish Quakers arrived in the late 17th century. Much of what is now Collingswood was once farmland owned by the Collings family during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Known for the perfect mix of small-town charm and city diversity, Collingswood was voted the “2016 Best Town in South Jersey” by Philly Voice and “One of America’s Top 10 Transformed Neighborhoods” by Forbes in 2011. Haddon Avenue, the main street, is where you can find shops for all tastes and restaurants like Sabrina’s Cafe, a well-known brunch spot that recently opened a location in Collingswood. Restaurants in Collingswood are not only popular with the locals, but have also been recognized by Zagat, a restaurant review company, the James Beard Foundation, a New York-based culinary arts organization, and featured in regional and national food publications. A huge attraction in the town is Cooper River Park, 346 acres of stunning green featuring bike paths, fishing, miniature golf, picnic areas and more—all with a picturesque view of the Philadelphia skyline. Collingswood hosts an array of family-friendly events such as art workshops, live music, and food truck festivals. The town prides itself on hosting events for all ages that incorporate art and culture such as book clubs, restaurant weeks throughout the year, Community Coffee with a Cop, and more.

Preserving the town’s history is high priority to residents. According to Director of Community Development Dawn Bascelli, there is a group called Collingswood Proud Neighbors who work to promote awareness about historic preservation and restoration in the Collingswood community.

“They strive to improve our homes in ways that are sensitive to the environment and history and educate community members about preserving the town’s architectural history,” said Bascelli. “Proud Neighbors host events such as restoration workshops, Brunch Tours, and the Annual Town-Wide Yard Sale. All money raised through events and membership goes toward projects that will improve the town and preserve its character.”

Homes in Collingswood range in style from historic colonials to newly built townhomes. The town is quite popular among commuters because of the short ride to Philadelphia. It also draws in those interested in the suburban feel with citylike walkability to restaurants and shops. According to New Jersey Realtors® August 2020 Monthly Housing Statistics, the median sales price for a single-family home year-to date was $278,950 and homes remained on the market for 35 days. With an easily accessible commute, Collingswood has become a hot spot for young families and first-time home buyers.

From biking and boating in Cooper River Park to window shopping on Haddon Avenue, over the last ten years, Collingswood has flourished and attracted people of all ages—in this town, there is something for everyone.