You’ve just wrapped up a session at the tables, or maybe the slots didn’t hit the way you hoped. Now you’re standing in the parking lot or your hotel room in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, stomach growling, looking for a way to kill a few hours before your next roll. While Parx is the undisputed king of the local gambling scene, the surrounding Bucks County area offers plenty of distractions if you know where to look. You don’t need to drive into Center City Philadelphia to find top-tier entertainment, food, or outdoor spots to clear your head.
If you’ve spent any time inside the casino, you know the food options range from quick bites at the food court to the upscale Parxgrill. But sometimes you want to step outside the casino atmosphere—maybe to escape the lingering smell of cigarettes or the chiming slot machines. Just minutes down Street Road, the dining scene opens up considerably. For a classic, high-energy steakhouse experience that rivals anything in Atlantic City, Chickie's & Pete's is a staple. It’s not just a sports bar; their crab fries are legendary, and the vibe is perfect for decompressing after a tough beat. If you’re looking for something a bit more refined but still casual, Liberty Bell Tap House offers a massive selection of craft beers and elevated pub fare, ideal for discussing the night’s hands with friends. For Italian-American comfort food that feels like a reward after a long night, Osteria provides a cozy, rustic atmosphere that’s a world away from the flashing lights of the casino floor.
Sports betting is huge at Parx, with their dedicated sportsbook kiosks and lounge drawing massive crowds during NFL Sundays and March Madness. However, watching the game on a giant screen inside a bustling casino isn’t for everyone. A short drive away is Xfinity Live! Philadelphia, a massive dining and entertainment complex located in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex. While it’s technically in the city, it’s a straight shot down I-95 and serves as the ultimate sports fan hub. If you have tickets to see the Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, or Flyers, the stadium venues are right there. Even without a ticket, Xfinity Live! offers a pre or post-game atmosphere that is electric, featuring venues like the PBR Bar & Grill and the first-ever WWE-themed restaurant. It’s the perfect place to keep the competitive spirit alive without risking more of your bankroll.
Gambling can be mentally draining. The constant stimulation, the decision-making, and the swings of variance require a lot of focus. Sometimes the best thing to do near Parx is to simply unplug. Bucks County is known for its scenic beauty, and you don’t have to travel far to find it. Core Creek Park is a local gem just a 15-minute drive from the casino. It offers a massive lake for fishing, plenty of walking trails, and wide-open spaces that are perfect for resetting your mental state. If you prefer a more structured outdoor activity, the area boasts several top-tier golf courses. Philadelphia National Golf Club and Bensalem Country Club offer challenging layouts that will demand your full attention, effectively forcing you to forget about the bad beat you took earlier. Taking a few hours to walk 18 holes can be the perfect palate cleanser before heading back for an evening session.
For those who prefer retail therapy over nature therapy, Neshaminy Mall is practically next door. It’s one of the larger shopping centers in the region and offers a diverse mix of stores, from major department chains to specialty shops. While it’s a standard mall, it serves a practical purpose for visitors: time-killing. If you’re waiting for a specific tournament to start or just need to walk off a buffet dinner, the mall provides a climate-controlled environment to wander. It also houses a movie theater, making it a solid option if you want to catch the latest blockbuster while you wait for the evening crowds to filter into the casino. It might not be the most exotic activity, but it’s convenient and effective.
If you’re traveling with family who aren't interested in the casino floor, or if you have kids who need entertainment while you sneak away for a few hours of poker, Sesame Place is the go-to solution. Located just minutes from Parx in Langhorne, this theme park is entirely themed around Sesame Street. It’s a massive draw for families, featuring water park attractions, dry rides, and parades. Having this world-class family attraction so close to a major casino is a significant perk for players who need to balance their gambling hobby with family obligations. You can drop the family off for a day of fun with Elmo and Big Bird, head to the casino for a few hours of play, and pick them up tired and happy at the end of the day. It creates a compromise that keeps everyone in the travel group satisfied.
For a change of pace that feels distinctly “Pennsylvania,” a trip to Peddler's Village in Lahaska is worth the 25-minute drive. This is a storybook shopping, dining, and lodging destination with over 60 specialty shops and restaurants. Unlike the modern flash of a casino, Peddler’s Village offers a quaint, colonial-style atmosphere with beautiful gardens and brick pathways. It’s a great spot for couples or anyone looking for a romantic or relaxing setting. The Golden Eagle Inn and various bistros offer excellent dining options that feel miles away from the high-stakes environment of Bensalem. If you’ve had a big win and want to celebrate somewhere with character, or if you need to walk off some steam in a peaceful setting, this is the spot.
It’s easy to forget that Parx Casino is physically attached to Philadelphia Park Racing. While most visitors are focused on the slot machines and table games inside the main building, the racetrack is a historic piece of Pennsylvania’s gambling heritage. If you visit during the racing season, watching the live thoroughbred races from the grandstand offers a different kind of thrill compared to digital screens and RNG outcomes. There’s something visceral about watching powerful animals thunder down the stretch. It connects you to the roots of betting—handicapping, odds, and physical performance. Even if you aren't a horse racing aficionado, the atmosphere on race days is charged with an energy that complements the casino experience perfectly.
Deciding how to spend your time outside the casino often comes down to what kind of mood you’re in. Here’s a quick comparison of the top nearby attractions to help you plan your break.
| Venue | Distance from Parx | Best For | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chickie's & Pete's | 5 min drive | Sports, Food, Drinks | $$ |
| Sesame Place | 10 min drive | Family Entertainment | $$$ |
| Core Creek Park | 15 min drive | Nature, Relaxation | Free |
| Xfinity Live! | 25 min drive | Nightlife, Live Sports | $$ |
| Peddler's Village | 25 min drive | Shopping, Dining | $$ |
Absolutely. The Bensalem area is packed with activities. You have high-end dining at places like Parxgrill and Osteria, the family-friendly Sesame Place theme park, and natural retreats like Core Creek Park. If you enjoy shopping, Neshaminy Mall and Peddler's Village are both within a short driving distance.
Parx Casino is located in Bensalem, PA, which is about a 20 to 30-minute drive from Center City Philadelphia, depending on traffic on I-95. It is close enough for a day trip into the city but far enough away to feel like a separate destination.
Yes, there are several hotels in the immediate vicinity. The Parx Casino hotel complex offers luxury accommodations, but there are also plenty of standard options nearby, including Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and Courtyard by Marriott, catering to different budgets.
Yes. Parx Casino is situated next to Philadelphia Park Racing. During the racing season, you can watch live thoroughbred racing. The facility offers simulcast wagering year-round, so you can usually bet on horses even when there isn't a live race happening on the track.
It depends on where you go. Upscale spots like Parxgrill inside the casino typically require smart casual attire—think collared shirts and no athletic wear. Most nearby restaurants like Chickie's & Pete's are very casual, but it's always a good idea to check specific venue policies if you are unsure.