As summer draws to a close, Glen Foerd is steering into the final month of its 2025 boating season with a slate of programs designed to get more people out on the water. From first-time paddlers learning the basics, to birdwatchers scanning the shoreline and families eager for a free afternoon on the creek, the estate is offering something for everyone before the season wraps up.
The season’s final events include:
Kayaking 101 Workshop
Sept. 10, 5 to 7 p.m.
Environmental educators Rob and Colleen will lead an introduction to kayak types, paddle strokes, and on-water safety. Designed for ages 12 and up, the workshop allows participants to practice on the creek. Boats, paddles, and life vests are provided. A pay-what-you-wish fee of $20, $25, or $30 is requested.
Guided Birdwatch Kayak Tour
Sept. 20, noon to 2 p.m.
Bria, Senior Coordinator with Audubon Mid-Atlantic at the Discovery Center, will guide participants in identifying local bird species by sight and sound during a tandem kayak excursion. Ages 12 and up are welcome; minors must be accompanied by an adult. Guests are encouraged to bring binoculars or borrow birding backpacks from the Free Library of Philadelphia. A pay-what-you-wish fee of $5, $10, or $15 is requested.
Open Boating Day
Sept. 21, 1 to 4 p.m.
Families and individuals can cap off the season with free access to canoes, kayaks, and rowboats. The program is first-come, first-served and open to all ages, with minors required to attend with an adult.
Programs may be canceled due to weather or river conditions. Registrants will be notified by email, and updates will be posted at glenfoerd.org and on Glen Foerd’s social media.
For details or to register, visit the website or contact Environmental Program Manager Robert DiTomasso at rditomasso@glenfoerd.org or 215-632-5330, ext. 14.
Glen Foerd’s grounds are open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The mansion is open to the public free of charge Fridays through Sundays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with access to all four floors and exhibits from the historic collection as well as works by Artists in Residence.
