Broomall, PA

About the City
Geography
Climate and Weather
Landmarks
Transport
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Museums
Sport and Sporting Legends
Universities and Higher Education
Healthcare Facilities

Broomall is a suburban community located 10 miles west of Philadelphia. It is a census-designated place in Marple Township, known for its excellent schools and convenient access to the city.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Full Official Name: Broomall, Pennsylvania.
Administrative Status: Broomall is a census-designated place (CDP) located within Marple Township . It is not an incorporated municipality on its own.
Country and Region: It is situated in Delaware County, in the southeastern part of the state of Pennsylvania, United States. The region is part of the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington metropolitan area , a major economic and cultural hub on the East Coast.

Date of Foundation and Age

Year of First Mention / Founding: The community grew around a crossroads and was named for a post office established to honor John Martin Broomall . Broomall was a prominent 19th-century U.S. congressman from the area.
Age of the Community: While the area has a longer history, its identity as "Broomall" dates to the latter half of the 19th century, making it well over 100 years old.
Founder: The community was not founded by a single individual but grew around the post office named for John Martin Broomall.

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Geographic Coordinates: The center of Broomall is approximately located at latitude 39.9688 and longitude -75.354 .
Location Relative to Natural Features: Broomall is bordered to the east by Darby Creek . It is located on the Piedmont plateau, a region of rolling hills east of the Appalachian Mountains.
Elevation: The center of the community sits at an elevation of approximately 107 meters (351 feet) above sea level .
Type of Settlement: Broomall is a classic suburban residential community, characterized by single-family homes, schools, and local businesses, serving as a bedroom community for nearby Philadelphia.

City Type and Economic Specialization

Broomall is primarily a residential suburb and an administrative center for local services. Its economy is driven by:

Education: It is home to several public schools within the Marple Newtown School District .
Local Services & Retail: The community provides retail and personal services to its residents, with shopping centers like Broomall Square and Lawrence Park Shopping Center .
Commuter Hub: A significant portion of the workforce commutes to jobs in Philadelphia and other parts of Delaware County . The average commute time is 27.2 minutes .
Biotechnology: Broomall is home to Drummond Scientific Company, a biotechnology firm known for creating the Pipet-Aid laboratory pipette controller in 1972 .

Population and Demographics

Population: As of the 2020 census, the population of Broomall was 11,718 .
Population Class: It is classified as a small town or large census-designated place.
Demographic Features: Broomall has a stable, family-oriented population with a median age of 44.3 years . It is an affluent community with a median household income of $127,646 and high educational attainment, with over 50% of adults holding a college degree .

City's "Calling Card"

Broomall is a quintessential Philadelphia suburb, offering residents a peaceful, family-friendly environment with top-rated schools, tree-lined neighborhoods, and convenient access to the cultural and economic opportunities of a major city . Its strength lies in its strong community spirit, safe streets, and its role as a quiet haven just 10 miles from the heart of Philadelphia.

Geography

Water Bodies

Darby Creek: This creek forms the eastern border of Broomall . It is a tributary of the Delaware River and provides local natural scenery and habitat.

Natural and Regional Parks

While Broomall itself is a developed suburb, there are numerous parks and natural areas nearby:

Tyler Arboretum: Located in nearby Media, PA, this expansive arboretum offers educational walks, hiking trails through diverse habitats, and historic buildings .
John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum: Situated between Philadelphia and the suburbs, this is one of the country's first urban wildlife refuges, protecting the largest remaining freshwater tidal marsh in Pennsylvania . It offers trails, a boardwalk, and wildlife viewing.
Local Parks: Residents enjoy local green spaces like Beatty Park and the Thomas S. Clements Tennis Courts for outdoor recreation .

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Broomall has a humid continental climate (Dfa) , very closely bordering a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) . It is characterized by four distinct seasons with warm to hot, humid summers and cool to cold winters.

Average Monthly Temperatures

The Pennsylvania State Climate Office provides average temperature data for this region .

Coldest Month: January, with an average temperature of 31.9°F (-0.1°C) .
Warmest Month: July, with an average temperature of 77.1°F (25.1°C) .
Extreme Temperatures: Temperature extremes can range from near or below 0°F in winter to the mid-90s°F (above 35°C) in summer.

Precipitation and Humidity

General Precipitation: Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The area does not have a distinct dry season.
Winter Precipitation: Snowfall is common in winter, averaging around 22 inches per season. The local hardiness zone is 7a .

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May): Temperatures gradually warm up, and trees and flowers bloom. It can be rainy but is a beautiful time to see the landscape come to life.
Summer (June-August): This season is warm to hot and often humid. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities at local parks, arboretums, and enjoying community events.
Autumn (September-November): Fall is a spectacular time with crisp, cool air and vibrant foliage. It's perfect for scenic drives and visits to places like Linvilla Orchards .
Winter (December-February): Winters are cold with occasional snow. This season offers a quiet charm and is good for indoor activities or visiting nearby Philadelphia's winter attractions.
Best Time to Visit: The most pleasant times to visit Broomall and the surrounding area are during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak.

Landmarks

The Thomas Massey House

Full Name: Thomas Massey House.
Year of Construction and Architect: This historic house was built in 1696 by Thomas Massey, an English-American Quaker landowner . It is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the area.
Historical Significance: The house is a classic example of early English colonial architecture in Pennsylvania. It served as the home for the Massey family for generations and reflects the life of early Quaker settlers.
Location: It is located within Broomall .
Unique Features: The Thomas Massey House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its national importance .

Local Recreation and Entertainment Venues

Marple Sports Arena: A major local hub for family and children's activities. It offers facilities for roller hockey, flag football, soccer, and field hockey, and is also a popular spot for birthday parties .
Paxon Hollow Golf Club: Located just outside Broomall in Media, this public golf course offers an 18-hole layout for golfers of all skill levels .

Nearby Attractions (within a short drive)

Linvilla Orchards: A beloved destination in Media, PA, this working farm offers pick-your-own fruits and vegetables, a farm market, garden center, and seasonal events like hayrides and pumpkin patches .
Chaddsford Winery: Located in Chadds Ford, PA, this is a popular spot for wine tastings and tours, offering a taste of the local Brandywine Valley wine region .
Longwood Gardens: One of the premier botanical gardens in the United States, located in Kennett Square, PA. It features stunning indoor and outdoor gardens, fountains, and meadows .

Transport

Main Airports

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): This is the primary airport serving the region. It is located approximately 10-15 miles southeast of Broomall and offers numerous domestic and international flights. Travelers can reach it via I-95 or by using taxi and ride-sharing services .
Other Airports: For those seeking alternative options, Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) are within driving distance but are significantly farther away.

Public Transportation

SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority): Broomall is served by SEPTA, which operates bus routes connecting the community to the broader region . A key transit hub is the 69th Street Transportation Center in Upper Darby, a popular destination from Broomall for accessing SEPTA's Market-Frankford Line (subway/elevated) and Trolley Lines into Philadelphia .
Major Train Stations: For Amtrak and regional rail services, the William H. Gray III 30th Street Station in Philadelphia is a major destination, accessible from Broomall by car or a combination of bus and train .

Major Highways and Roads

Pennsylvania Route 3 (West Chester Pike): This major east-west artery runs along the northern border of Broomall, providing a direct route into Philadelphia and to the western suburbs .
Pennsylvania Route 320 (Sproul Road): This is the main north-south road through the heart of Broomall, connecting it to neighboring communities like Springfield and Newtown Square .
Interstate 95: Located a few miles to the east, this interstate highway provides high-speed access to Philadelphia, the Philadelphia International Airport, and other cities along the East Coast.
Interstate 476 (The Blue Route): This freeway is accessible nearby and runs north-south through Delaware County, connecting to the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276) and I-95.

Getting Around Broomall

Car: The area is car-friendly, with accessible roadways and generally available parking. Driving is the most practical way to navigate Broomall and its surrounding areas .
Ride-sharing and Taxis: Services like Uber and Lyft operate extensively in Broomall, offering convenient alternatives to driving, especially for trips to the airport or train stations .
Walking and Biking: Walking and cycling can be pleasant in residential neighborhoods with sidewalks. However, due to the suburban layout with larger distances between destinations and a lack of extensive dedicated biking infrastructure, these are often better suited for local errands or recreation than for primary transportation .

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Broomall, Pennsylvania, offers a delightful taste of classic American comfort food with a strong Italian influence, reflected in its beloved local eateries.

Roz & Rocco's Famous Meatballs

In a modest brick storefront on West Chester Pike, Roz & Rocco‘s has achieved near-mythical status among Italian food enthusiasts for its meatballs . People drive from all over Pennsylvania to taste these delicate yet substantial spheres of meat, which are impossibly tender without falling apart . Served nestled in a rich, slow-simmered tomato sauce, the meatballs are seasoned with a secret combination of herbs and spices . You can enjoy them as an appetizer with crusty bread, atop a mountain of spaghetti, or nestled in a crusty roll as a sandwich . The restaurant is a BYOB, adding to its unpretentious and welcoming atmosphere .

Country Squire Diner's Chicken and Waffles

The Country Squire Diner, a stone-faced landmark in Broomall, is renowned for serving some of the best chicken and waffles in the Keystone State . This classic dish features a golden, substantial waffle with deep pockets that perfectly capture melted butter and maple syrup, paired with chicken that has a crackling crust and juicy, never-greasy meat . The seasoning in the breading achieves a perfect balance, complementing the natural flavor of the chicken . Beyond this signature dish, the diner is a treasured spot for its authentic breakfasts, Greek specialties, and classic American lunches and dinners, all served in a warm, democratic atmosphere that unites the community .

Museums

Thomas Massey House

Broomall is home to the Thomas Massey House, one of the oldest English Quaker homes in Pennsylvania, built in 1696 . This 2-story brick and stone house was constructed by Thomas Massey, a prominent colonial figure and Quaker settler . The house has a rich and unique history; during the Revolutionary War, it served as a hospital for wounded soldiers, and it was later used as a stop on the Underground Railroad .

Today, it operates as a historic house museum . From April through October, visitors can tour the house on Sundays from 1 to 4 PM to see authentic 17th and 18th-century items, including original cabinetry, furniture, cookware, books, and tools . The museum is located on Lawrence Road, near Sproul Road .

Museums and Attractions Near Broomall

For those willing to venture a short drive from Broomall, the Philadelphia region offers a wealth of world-class museums. A popular destination is the Delaware River waterfront in Philadelphia, home to the Independence Seaport Museum, which highlights Philadelphia’s maritime history with interactive exhibits and two historic military vessels: the Cruiser Olympia and Submarine Becuna . The area also features Cherry Street Pier, a hub for artists with maker pop-ups, rotating exhibits, and open studios .

Just across the river in Camden, New Jersey, which is accessible via the seasonal RiverLink Ferry from Penn‘s Landing, you’ll find the Adventure Aquarium and the Battleship New Jersey . Closer to Broomall, in nearby Media, is Ridley Creek State Park, which contains the Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, a living history farm where visitors can experience 18th-century rural life .

Sport and Sporting Legends

While Broomall itself does not have major professional sports stadiums, its location in suburban Philadelphia places it in the heart of one of America's most passionate sports regions. Residents are ardent fans of Philadelphia's major sports teams.

Major Sports Teams in Nearby Philadelphia

The city of Philadelphia, a short drive from Broomall, is home to several iconic franchises. Fans passionately support the Philadelphia Eagles (NFL) , the Philadelphia Phillies (MLB) , the Philadelphia 76ers (NBA) , and the Philadelphia Flyers (NHL) .

Nearby State Parks for Outdoor Recreation

For outdoor and nature enthusiasts, several beautiful state parks near Broomall offer ample opportunities for recreation. Ridley Creek State Park in nearby Media encompasses over 2,600 acres of fields, meadows, woodlands, and 12 miles of hiking and biking trails, with Ridley Creek itself being a popular spot for fly fishing . The park is also home to the Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation .

Another nearby option is the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, located between Southwest Philadelphia and Delaware County . As America's first urban refuge, it protects nearly 1,000 acres of land and water, providing a habitat for over 300 species of birds, as well as mammals, reptiles, and amphibians .

Universities and Higher Education

Broomall serves as a suburban base within a region rich with prestigious institutions of higher education. While there are two colleges located directly in Broomall, the area is defined by its proximity to a vast array of universities .

Local Colleges in Broomall

Broomall is home to the Delaware County Technical School-Practical Nursing Program, which offers specialized vocational training . The area is also close to Delaware County Community College in nearby Media, a public two-year college providing a wide range of associate degrees and certificate programs .

Prestigious Universities Near Broomall

Within a short drive from Broomall, students and academics have access to some of the nation's most respected universities. These include the Ivy League's University of Pennsylvania, as well as Drexel University, Saint Joseph's University, and Villanova University . The area is also renowned for its distinguished liberal arts colleges, such as Swarthmore College, Haverford College, and Bryn Mawr College . Specialized institutions like the Curtis Institute of Music and the University of the Sciences further enrich the region's academic landscape .

Healthcare Facilities

Residents of Broomall have access to comprehensive healthcare services through the Main Line Health system, a not-for-profit health network serving the Philadelphia region .

Main Line Health Center in Broomall

Main Line Health operates a dedicated health center right in Broomall, located at 1991 Sproul Road in the Lawrence Park Shopping Center . This facility provides outpatient services, including primary and specialty care, lab work, and radiology . It is specifically a location for cancer and cardiology genetics services, where patients can check in at the Imaging and Lab department on the lower level .

Major Hospitals of Main Line Health

For acute and specialized hospital care, Broomall is surrounded by the system’s core hospitals. These include Lankenau Medical Center, Bryn Mawr Hospital, Paoli Hospital, and Riddle Hospital . These facilities offer a full range of services, from emergency and trauma care to specialized centers for cancer, heart and vascular health, and orthopaedics. The system also includes Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital, a premier facility for rehabilitative medicine, and the Lankenau Institute for Medical Research . Main Line Health is affiliated with the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for pediatric care and with Jefferson Health for neurosurgery and stroke care .