Getting Back to Swarthmore

alumni weekend

A Note About Campus Construction

There are a number of ongoing construction projects on campus that are part of a large-scale campus renewal program designed to help modernize our facilities, fulfill our commitment to reach carbon neutrality by 2035, and ensure that our buildings and infrastructure effectively support our exceptional liberal arts educational experience. Visit our campus construction highlights site to learn more about key projects.

Given this work, campus looks quite different than it usually does. If you haven’t been on campus recently, it may feel disconcerting to see the active construction zones, and it may take a little time to get used to the various pathway closures, temporary fences, and other inconveniences.

There is robust signage across campus to help you find your way, but we encourage you to use the College’s online campus map for an overview of current construction areas as well as accessible paths through campus before you arrive.

Getting to Swarthmore

TRAIN

Amtrak trains arrive at Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station. From there, take the SEPTA Media/Wawa line to Swarthmore station (approximately 30-minute trip). Visit septa.org for the latest schedule.

RIDE-HAILING SERVICES

Uber and Lyft both operate in and around Swarthmore — you may even be able to schedule a ride in advance. We recommend using Benjamin West parking lot as your destination or pick-up point when using ride-hailing services. Public Safety is located in Benjamin West House and open 24 hours a day if you need assistance or a place to wait for your ride.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS

Visit swarthmore.edu/visitors for driving directions. If you need assistance, call the Alumni Weekend hotline at 610-328-7332.

PARKING

Parking is available on Field House Lane, in the Cunningham lot (on College Avenue across Route 320), Benjamin West lot, Whittier lot, and DuPont lot (near the water tower).

Accessible parking spaces are available throughout campus in all parking areas. Only vehicles with state-issued accessible parking placards and/or license plates can park in these spaces; all others will be towed.

Getting to Swarthmore from the Airport

TRAIN

From Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), take the SEPTA Airport line to Penn Medicine station in Philadelphia, then transfer to the outbound Media/Wawa line. Visit septa.org for schedules.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS

By car from the airport, take I-95 south to exit 7, I-476 north/Plymouth Meeting. Take I-476 to exit 3, Media/Swarthmore. Turn right at the base of the exit ramp onto Baltimore Pike. After about one-half mile, turn right onto Route 320 south. Follow signs to visitor parking.

TAXI AND RIDE-HAILING SERVICES

Philadelphia International Airport offers helpful information to travelers about taxis and ride-hailing services at the airport. A typical ride to Swarthmore is about $30 and takes about 20 minutes.

Leaving Swarthmore

Sunday airport shuttle

The College runs shuttle buses from campus to the Philadelphia International Airport on Sunday at the top of every hour, 6 a.m.–2 p.m. Space is limited, so please plan to arrive early.

TAXI

County Cab of Philadelphia (610-622-8000) provides taxi service between the airport and campus. The cost is about $30 and takes about 20 minutes. You must reserve a cab in advance.

TRAINS TO CENTER CITY

Take an inbound train on the SEPTA Media/Wawa line from Swarthmore station to 30th Street, Suburban, or Jefferson Station (approximately 30-minute trip). Visit septa.org for the latest schedule.

TRAINS TO THE AIRPORT

Ride the Media/Wawa line from Swarthmore station to Penn Medicine station, then transfer to the Airport line, which departs every 30 minutes. Visit septa.org for schedules and additional information.