Your family’s guide to summer parks and activities in Collegeville, PA

Collegeville makes it easy for families to enjoy a fun-filled summer. The splash pad is five minutes from home, the farmers market is packed by 9 AM, and your kid’s day camp is probably just a short bike ride away. It’s easy to have a full day without ever filling your gas tank—and for families thinking about relocating to this vibrant town, that’s yet another everyday perk to look forward to.

From local parks and trails to camps, food truck nights, and ice cream outings, Collegeville’s parks and recreation are built into daily life. If you’re looking at homes for sale in Collegeville, PA, summer is a good time to experience how the community truly comes to life.

SUMMER TRADITIONS AND COMMUNITY PROGRAMMING IN COLLEGEVILLE

Collegeville’s summer calendar fills up quickly with camps, food trucks, farmers markets, and fireworks, most of it just a short drive or walk from home. It’s an easy rhythm to fall into and one that makes it simple to feel like you belong.

Community events and traditions

Collegeville keeps a steady lineup of seasonal events that bring neighbors together in a relaxed, no-fuss way. The community follows a familiar annual rhythm, and residents plan their days around these gatherings:

• PV Art & Food Truck Festival: Hosted by the Perkiomen Valley School District (PVSD), this one-day festival features local artists, food trucks, live music, and family activities.

• Food truck nights: Organized by the Borough and Urinus College, these Friday evening events bring rotating vendors, music, and lawn games to the Berman Lawn. Past events have featured everything from lobster rolls to ice cream trucks and live acoustic sets.

• Movies on the Lawn: Held at Ursinus College, this event pairs a family-friendly film with pre-show activities and entertainment. Past evenings have included face painting, food trucks, and live music before the movie starts at sunset.

• Fourth of July celebrations: Just a short drive from Collegeville, Skippack Village hosts a full day of Fourth festivities. Events like the morning parade, afternoon BBQ at Parc Bistro, and fireworks near Palmer Park are local staples.

Ursinus College community camps and events

During the summer, Ursinus College anchors community life, offering a variety of sports, academic, and arts programs that are open to local families.

Athletic camps are highly anticipated, with options like soccer, basketball, baseball, field hockey, and lacrosse. Many are led by Ursinus coaches and student-athletes, with sessions held on campus fields and in the field house. Academic and arts programs round things out, with STEM day camps, creative writing workshops, and theater intensives offered by a mix of campus departments and outside partners.

These programs are a strong complement to Collegeville parks and recreation, giving kids a chance to stay active and engaged during their time away from school.

PVSD camps and local school programs

Perkiomen Valley School District’s summer programs are designed to keep kids curious, motivated, and inspired, without overwhelming them. The school district offers familiar campuses, trusted instructors, and weekly options that fit the needs of working families.

Here are a few types of programs typically offered through PV LIFT (the district’s summer enrichment program) and related school-based camps:

• STEM and robotics camps: These usually run in short weekday sessions, focusing on hands-on activities like coding, engineering, and problem-solving challenges.

• Academic enrichment: Many sessions support creative writing, science exploration, or math skills through games, group projects, and themed lessons.

• Creative and tech-based workshops: Options often include visual arts, digital design, or maker-style activities using tools like 3D printers or crafting materials.

• Theater and sports clinics: Performing arts and athletic programs help kids build confidence and teamwork, with programs designed for various age levels.

Most camps are offered in short, flexible sessions to work with family schedules. For new residents, they’re a good introduction to how the district blends learning with fun activities, keeping things running smoothly outside the school year.

Browse Current PV LIFT Offerings

YMCA and local rec centers

For families looking for flexible summer options beyond school or college-based programs, the local YMCA and nearby fitness centers offer plenty of alternatives. The North Penn YMCA, which serves the Collegeville area, runs a full slate of day camps with weekly themes, structured activities, and extended care options. Programs typically include swimming, crafts, games, and field trips, making them a popular choice for working parents who need a safe, engaging place for their kids during the workday

In addition to the YMCA, several private gyms and rec-focused clubs in and around Collegeville offer seasonal programs. These include martial arts intensives, dance camps, swim lessons, and sport-specific clinics, many of which are open to non-members during the summer. They offer an easy way to test out local facilities before committing to year-round memberships.

If you’re considering Collegeville, PA, real estate, you’ll be happy to know these programs are especially helpful for families who need variety, flexible hours, or specialized instruction, contributing to a high quality of life.

WHERE TO PLAY: THE BEST COLLEGEVILLE PARKS AND TRAILS

Spending time outside in Collegeville doesn’t take much planning. The community’s parks and recreation centers are easily accessible, offering activities that are simple to work into your day. Some are great for quick playground breaks for the little ones, while others are perfect for longer walks, weekend games, or winding down after dinner.

Waterworks Park

Tucked off West First Avenue, Waterworks Park is a go-to for families looking for outdoor relaxation. Whether you’re dropping by for a quick breather, going for an early morning run, or spending the afternoon playing catch with the kids, it’s an easy place to unwind.

• Location: Off West First Avenue, in the Borough of Trappe, co-owned and maintained by both Collegeville and Trappe. The park offers on-site restrooms and plenty of parking.

• What you’ll find: Two playgrounds, a paved walking loop, baseball and soccer fields, a play system, trails, and a pavilion tucked in a wooded stream area.

• What it’s like: Open and active, but easy to manage. Parents can see most of the park from one spot, and the loop is great for strollers or bikes.

• When it shines: During big events like the Memorial Day parade or the Colossal Yard Sale.

Collegeville Community Park

Collegeville Community Park feels a little more tucked away, which makes it a good choice when you want a quieter outing. With surrounding mature trees, it offers a slower pace compared to some of the bigger parks nearby.

• Location: Behind Borough Hall on Park Avenue (between Third and Fourth Avenues) with parking near the municipal lot and walkable access for nearby residents.

• What you’ll find: A shaded playground with two play systems and a toddler swing set, a full-size basketball court, a roller hockey court, a baseball field with renovated dugouts, and a picnic pavilion.

• What it’s like: Compact and peaceful. It’s less of a “run wild” space and more of a low-key playdate spot or a place to hang out while the kids explore the playground.

• When it shines: On quiet afternoons or in the early evening when the trees throw some good shade and the playground isn’t packed.

Perkiomen Trail

The Perkiomen Trail cuts right through the heart of Collegeville, offering an easy way to connect with nature without leaving town. It’s popular with runners, walkers, bikers, and families out for a casual ride. The trail is long enough to go the distance, but it’s just as useful for quick loops or stroller walks.

• Location: The trail runs alongside the Perkiomen Creek and crosses through Collegeville near the intersection of 2nd Avenue and Park Avenue, with access points at several public parks and bridges.

• What you’ll find: A 20-mile multi-use trail that links Montgomery County parks and towns. Most of the surface is paved or cinder-covered, and it follows the former rail bed of the Reading Railroad’s Perkiomen Line.

• What it’s like: Calm, tree-lined, and well-maintained. The terrain is mostly flat and friendly for strollers, bikes, and casual walks. Scenery includes creek views, shaded woods, and small town backdrops.

• When it shines: In the early morning before the heat sets in, or on weekends when families take the trail for a ride and grab ice cream or lunch in town.

Hunsberger Woods

In contrast to manicured neighborhood parks, Hunsberger Woods offers a more rugged experience. With unpaved trails and quiet forest cover, it’s the spot locals turn to when they want to take a real break from the suburbs. It’s less structured, but part of what makes Collegeville parks and recreation special is how even the quiet spots invite small discoveries.

• Location: Access points are at Ninth Avenue and Route 29, with parking for cars and bicycles available at both entrances.

• What you’ll find: Unpaved trails, shaded wooded areas, bird habitat, and creekside views across 27 acres of protected natural land.

• What it’s like: Quiet and immersive, with tree cover that keeps it cool in summer and paths that suit walking, running, or nature observation. Maintained in partnership with Ursinus College, it feels wild without being overgrown.

• When it shines: Early mornings or late afternoons when the sun filters through the trees. It’s a quiet walk, especially appealing for older kids who want to get off the pavement for a bit.

Heebner Park (Worcester Township)

Close to many homes for sale in Collegeville, PA, Heebner Park boasts bigger facilities and well-kept sports fields. It’s ideal for team sports, group meetups, or just getting the kids out somewhere with space to run.

• Location: Just south of Collegeville in Worcester Township, off Valley Forge Road. It’s about a 10-minute drive from the borough.

• What you’ll find: 84 acres of open space with 2.25 miles of walking trails, a playground, two outdoor basketball courts, three tennis courts, five multi-use soccer fields, four baseball fields, picnic tables, a gazebo, and two covered pavilions with restrooms and water fountains.

• What it’s like: Spacious and organized, with dedicated zones for sports, playgrounds, and laid-back walks. The sports fields are excellently maintained, and the park sees regular use from local youth leagues and rec programs.

• When it shines: During spring and summer sports seasons or on weekends when the pavilions are booked for parties and community events.

Elmwood Park Zoo (Norristown)

Elmwood Park Zoo is a favorite among locals. It’s smaller than major city zoos, but that’s part of the appeal — you can tour the entire area in a few hours without feeling rushed.

• Location: 1661 Harding Blvd, Norristown, PA. It’s about a 15-minute drive east of Collegeville.

• What you’ll find: Over 100 species, including giraffes, jaguars, red pandas, zebras, bald eagles, and American bison. There’s also a petting barn, playground, zipline course, and indoor and outdoor dining. Many animals are part of international Species Survival Plans (SSPs) focused on conservation.

• What it’s like: Walkable and manageable for families with young kids. It’s clean, well-staffed, and easy to revisit throughout the year, which is one of the many family perks that make Collegeville, PA, real estate especially appealing.

• When it shines: During seasonal events like Boo at the Zoo, Wild Lights, or the summer giraffe feedings. These draw big crowds and often sell out, so booking early is recommended.

LOCAL FARMS AND U-PICK SPOTS FOR SUMMER WEEKENDS

Just outside Collegeville, you’ll find working farms that double as weekend destinations. They’re close enough for a quick stop and offer ample activities to fill an afternoon. Many families return each season for the simple summer rituals like picking berries, feeding animals, or grabbing a cone of freshly made ice cream.

Maple Acres Farm Market (Plymouth Meeting)

Maple Acres in Plymouth Meeting is a short drive from Collegeville and a go-to for fresh flowers, produce, and u-pick experiences. The farm grows everything from strawberries to sunflowers and has a low-key, family-friendly setup that makes it easy to stop by on a weekend.

• What it’s known for: Cut-your-own flower fields, seasonal u-pick fruit, and a well-stocked farmstand with fresh produce, eggs, and local meats and dairy.

• When to go: Summer brings sunflowers and zinnias; fall kicks off hayrides and pumpkin picking.

• Need to know: Open Monday through Saturday. Their Facebook page posts regular crop updates and hours.

Merrymead Farm (Lansdale)

Merrymead in Lansdale is a working dairy farm known for its year-round events and homemade ice cream. Families from Collegeville and surrounding towns often make a day out of it, especially during the summer and fall when there’s more happening beyond the farm store.

• What it’s known for: Homemade ice cream, seasonal festivals, and a small animal barn that’s a hit with younger kids.

• When to go: Summer brings sunflower walks and ice cream nights. Fall is peak season, with Harvest Days, a corn maze, hayrides, and pumpkin picking.

• Need to know: Open daily. Event calendars and seasonal details are posted on their website and Facebook page.

Sugartown Strawberries (Malvern)

Located just 25 minutes from Collegeville, Sugartown Strawberries offers classic summer and fall experiences with a family-friendly vibe and a long local history.

• What it’s known for: U-pick strawberries in early summer, sunflower fields in late summer, and pumpkins in the fall. The on-site farm store sells seasonal produce, local honey, and handmade goods.

• When to go: Late May through June for strawberries, August for sunflowers, and September through October for pumpkins and fall harvest activities.

• Need to know: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Picking is weather-dependent, so check their website before heading out.

TIPS FOR SUMMER EXPLORING IN COLLEGEVILLE

Summer in the borough is easy to enjoy, but it pays to think one step ahead. A little prep can turn a good outing into a great one, especially with the variety Collegeville parks and recreation offers.

What to bring

Even if you’re just heading to the playground, a few small items can make the outing easier for everyone:

• Sunscreen and bug spray: Shade varies by park, and mosquitoes show up fast near the creek and woods.

• Water bottles: Most parks don’t have fountains, and it’s easy to get dehydrated after just an hour outside.

• Hats and light layers: Mornings are cool, but midday sun hits hard.

• Change of clothes: Between playground mulch, creeks, and trails, someone’s bound to end up messy.

• Folding chairs or picnic blankets: Useful for concerts, food truck nights, or a shady break at the park.

Best apps, maps, and tools

A little prep goes a long way. These tools can help you get the most out of a summer day in Collegeville:

• Google Maps: Most parks, farms, and trailheads are mapped correctly, including walking trails and satellite views for a better lay of the land.

• Perkiomen Trail map (PDF): A full overview of the 20-mile trail from Green Lane to Oaks, showing all parking areas, restrooms, water stations, and access points.

• AllTrails: Great for Hunsberger Woods or any unpaved trail. You can read recent reviews, check for muddy areas, and preview elevation changes.

• Weather apps: Summer storms roll in fast. Radar-based apps like MyRadar or AccuWeather can help you dodge the worst of it.

Parent pro tips

If you’re heading out with kids in tow, here are a few things worth knowing upfront:

• Restroom access: Waterworks Park and Heebner Park have seasonal restrooms. Elmwood Park Zoo and most farms have permanent facilities. For trails like Hunsberger Woods, plan ahead since there are no bathrooms on site.

• Shaded play areas: Collegeville Community Park has good natural shade over the play structures. Hunsberger Woods is tree-covered but unstructured, better suited for older kids.

• Parking and walkability: Most Collegeville parks and recreation have on-site lots, but trailheads like Hunsberger’s can fill up quickly. Community Park is walkable from the borough center if you live nearby.

• Playground trips: For toddlers, stick to Community Park or Waterworks. Bigger kids tend to roam more at Heebner or along the Perkiomen Trail.

READY TO MAKE COLLEGEVILLE HOME?

Collegeville makes summer living easy and enjoyable. With parks, trails, farms, and family events close by, it’s the kind of place where everyday outings turn into lasting memories.

If you’re ready to take the next step in making Collegeville, PA home, the team at DeZarate Real Estate can make the transition easy for you. As top real estate agents in the area, the team knows the ins and outs of the market and where to find the home that’s perfect for you and your family.

Reach out to the DeZerate Real Estate team at 484.881.2397 or via email to schedule a free consultation.