Elkins Park, PA: A Historic Gem with Timeless Homes and Modern Charm
Elkins Park, located just outside of Philadelphia in Montgomery County, is a hidden treasure for homebuyers and history lovers alike. Known for its historic estates, stunning architecture, and vibrant community, Elkins Park is a prime location for those seeking charm, convenience, and investment potential.
In this article, we’ll dive into:
✔️ The history of Elkins Park
✔️ Famous historic properties and their current status
✔️ Real estate market snapshot for homebuyers
✔️ Current events and attractions
✔️ How I can help you find the perfect home in Elkins Park
A Brief History of Elkins Park
Elkins Park was established as part of Cheltenham Township in the late 17th century, originally settled by the Lenni Lenape people before European settlers arrived. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became a wealthy suburban retreat for Philadelphia’s elite, including business magnates and industrialists like John Wanamaker and Peter A.B. Widener.
With its tree-lined streets, elegant mansions, and grand estates, Elkins Park became a sought-after enclave that still retains its historical charm and prestige today.
Historic Properties of Elkins Park 🏛️
Elkins Park is home to some of the most architecturally significant homes in Pennsylvania, designed by renowned architects such as Horace Trumbauer, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Louis Kahn. Many of these estates have been preserved, restored, or repurposed into event spaces, museums, and private residences.
1️⃣ Lynnewood Hall (The Last of the Gilded Age Mansions)
📍 Location: 920 Spring Ave, Elkins Park, PA
🔹 Built: 1897-1900
🔹 Architect: Horace Trumbauer
🔹 Style: Neoclassical Beaux-Arts
🔹 Current Status: Privately owned, in need of restoration
Lynnewood Hall is one of the largest remaining Gilded Age mansions in America, built for Peter A.B. Widener, a wealthy industrialist and investor in the Titanic. The 110-room estate once housed one of the most valuable private art collections in the world. While it has fallen into disrepair, there are ongoing efforts to restore it, with many preservationists calling it America’s most important lost mansion.
💡 Pro Tip: If you love historic restorations, keep an eye on efforts to save Lynnewood Hall—it could one day become a museum or event space!
🔗 Learn more about Lynnewood Hall
2️⃣ The Elkins Estate (Now a Luxury Event Venue)
📍 Location: 1750 Ashbourne Rd, Elkins Park, PA
🔹 Built: 1898
🔹 Architect: Horace Trumbauer
🔹 Style: Italian Renaissance
🔹 Current Status: Being transformed into a boutique hotel and event space
Once home to William L. Elkins, an oil and transportation tycoon, this 45-acre estate includes multiple mansions with elaborate gilded interiors, grand ballrooms, and ornate gardens. It has been used as a retreat center for the Dominican Sisters for decades, but is now being converted into a luxury boutique hotel, distillery, and wedding venue.
💡 Pro Tip: Looking for a dream wedding venue or an event space with history? The Elkins Estate is set to be one of the most exclusive venues in Pennsylvania!
3️⃣ Beth Sholom Synagogue (A Frank Lloyd Wright Masterpiece)
📍 Location: 8231 Old York Road, Elkins Park, PA
🔹 Built: 1959
🔹 Architect: Frank Lloyd Wright
🔹 Style: Mid-century Modern
🔹 Current Status: Active synagogue & national historic landmark
Beth Sholom Synagogue is one of the most unique historic structures in Elkins Park, designed by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It is the only synagogue Wright ever designed, and its stunning geometric glass exterior is meant to resemble a mountain of light.
💡 Pro Tip: You can take a guided tour of this architectural gem and learn more about its significance!
4️⃣ Curtis Arboretum (A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers)
📍 Location: 1250 Church Rd, Wyncote, PA (Right near Elkins Park)
🔹 Built: 1930s
🔹 Owner: Previously owned by the Curtis Publishing family
🔹 Current Status: Public park & event venue
Curtis Arboretum is a beautiful 45-acre historic estate that has been transformed into a public park. It features scenic walking trails, historic stone structures, and a reflecting pond.
💡 Pro Tip: If you love outdoor weddings, this venue offers a historic mansion backdrop and stunning gardens.
🔗 Learn more about Curtis Arboretum
Real Estate Market Snapshot for Elkins Park 🏡
Elkins Park offers a mix of historic mansions, charming single-family homes, and modern condos.
📊 Current Market Trends:
✔️ Median Home Price: $350,000 - $600,000+
✔️ Average Days on Market: 30-45 days
✔️ Types of Homes Available: Victorian, Tudor, Mid-Century Modern, Colonial
✔️ Great for: Families, history lovers, and commuters to Philadelphia
💡 Thinking about buying or selling in Elkins Park? The market remains competitive, and historic homes tend to hold their value well due to their unique character and prime location.
Current Events & Things to Do in Elkins Park 🎉
Elkins Park is more than just a historic district—it’s a thriving community with great restaurants, cultural events, and outdoor activities.
🏡 Upcoming Events in Elkins Park:
📅 Farmers Markets & Art Shows – Seasonal events featuring local artists and vendors
📅 Walking Tours of Historic Mansions – Check out Lynnewood Hall & The Elkins Estate
📅 Live Music & Dining Experiences – Local spots like Creekside Co-op Café & Goat House Creamery
🔗 See upcoming events in Elkins Park
Thinking About Buying a Home in Elkins Park? Let’s Talk!
Elkins Park is a one-of-a-kind community where history meets modern convenience. Whether you’re looking for:
🏡 A historic mansion with character
🏡 A charming Colonial near the train station
🏡 An investment property in a prime location
…I can help you find the perfect home to fit your needs!
📅 Schedule a free consultation
📩 Or email me at Shaina@MontCoLiving.com
Final Thoughts
Elkins Park is a true hidden gem for homebuyers, history lovers, and investors. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and strong real estate market, it offers a fantastic opportunity to own a piece of Pennsylvania’s past while enjoying modern living.
Let’s explore Elkins Park together—your dream home might be waiting here! 🏡✨
