Benjamin Franklin Bridge Walkway
Walk across the iconic Benjamin Franklin Bridge for unparalleled Philadelphia skyline views and a unique state-to-state experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Benjamin Franklin Bridge Walkway
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk across the iconic Benjamin Franklin Bridge for unparalleled Philadelphia skyline views and a unique state-to-state experience.
"The best view of the skyline in the entire city, worth it!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walkway is about 1.47 miles, with surprising elevation gain. Comfortable footwear is a must for walking or running!
🚴 Watch for Cyclists
The pedestrian walkway is shared with bikes. Be aware of your surroundings and give cyclists plenty of space.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Philadelphia Skyline Views
Apex of the bridge
Breathtaking panoramic views of the Philadelphia skyline, especially magical at sunrise and sunset.
Walking Between States
Entire span of the bridge
Experience the unique thrill of walking from Pennsylvania to New Jersey and back.
Delaware River Scenery
Mid-span
Enjoy scenic vistas of the Delaware River and the surrounding urban landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Walk
Navigating the Bridge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walkway is about 1.47 miles, with surprising elevation gain. Comfortable footwear is a must for walking or running!
🚴 Watch for Cyclists
The pedestrian walkway is shared with bikes. Be aware of your surroundings and give cyclists plenty of space.
📸 Capture the Views
The skyline views are incredible! Don't forget your phone or camera to snap some epic shots.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially if you're running or walking during warmer months, bring water. The walk can be longer than expected!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walkway is about 1.47 miles, with surprising elevation gain. Comfortable footwear is a must for walking or running!
🚴 Watch for Cyclists
The pedestrian walkway is shared with bikes. Be aware of your surroundings and give cyclists plenty of space.
📸 Capture the Views
The skyline views are incredible! Don't forget your phone or camera to snap some epic shots.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially if you're running or walking during warmer months, bring water. The walk can be longer than expected!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking Philadelphia skyline views and the unique experience of walking between states. The bridge is praised for being safe, clean, and a great spot for running, walking, or biking. Some note the surprising elevation gain and the need to be mindful of cyclists.
"My mom and I decided to walk to the bridge for the first time today! I decided to run back. Tough ~1.47 mile run back to Camden haha. The elevation gain surprised me. Now that I’m familiar with the run I’ll adjust my pace accordingly. Looking forward to incorporating this run into my weekly schedule.
Safe, people were respectful of each other, very clean."
Noelle Scott
"Great opportunity for a walkabout! just look out for the cyclist! It's about 2 miles end to end and the scenery is breathtaking especially when over the Delaware River."
Ezequiel “Zeke” Barragan
"the Ben Franklin Bridge the "2016 Best Urban Hike" in Philadelphia —
This is one of those Philly activities you always mean to do but never actually get around to doing. It’s worth it: Once you reach the apex of the near-two-mile span, you’ll be treated to the best view of the skyline in the entire city"
Thomas Marino
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access the walkway from the Philadelphia side near 5th and Race Streets. There are also access points closer to the Art Museum if you're coming from that direction via bike paths.
Parking can be challenging in the area. It's often recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to get to the bridge access points.
Yes, the bridge has a dedicated lane for cyclists. Be sure to follow the posted rules and be courteous to other users.
From the Art Museum, you can take bike paths towards Spring Garden Street and then head towards the bridge access. Some suggest using SRT to get closer.
Yes, SEPTA buses and PATCO trains can get you close to the bridge access points on both the Philadelphia and Camden sides.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Benjamin Franklin Bridge walkway is free to access for pedestrians and cyclists.
The walkway is generally open 24/7, but it's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures or maintenance schedules.
There is no admission fee to walk or bike across the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. It's a public thoroughfare.
Yes, the walkway is typically open at night, offering illuminated views of the city. However, visibility might be reduced, so exercise caution.
Standard public space regulations apply. Avoid bringing large items that could obstruct traffic or pose a safety hazard.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the Philadelphia skyline. Golden hour provides a warm, beautiful glow.
Capture the full Philadelphia skyline from the apex, the intricate bridge architecture, and the views of the Delaware River.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and over bridges due to safety and security regulations. It's best to assume they are not permitted.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive skyline. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions at sunrise or sunset.
Absolutely! The suspension cables and art deco elements of the bridge make for striking architectural photos.
🎫 🏃♀️ Running & Walking
Yes, it's a popular spot for runners! It's about 1.47 miles one way, making it ideal for a 3-mile round trip run.
The elevation gain can be surprising, especially on the return trip. Be prepared for some inclines.
A leisurely walk across the bridge takes about 30-45 minutes one way, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos.
The walkway is generally considered safe, with people often present. However, always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
The walkway on the NJ side ends near the Rutgers-Camden campus, which is a pleasant area to explore briefly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Bring snacks and water, as there are no facilities on the bridge. Keep a close eye on children, as the walkway is shared with cyclists. Consider walking only one way and using public transport to return, or vice versa, to make the journey less strenuous for little legs. The Philadelphia skyline views are a great reward for their effort!
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Recommendations for fitness buffs: Wear your best running shoes or cycling gear. Plan your route to include the full span for maximum benefit. Remember to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, and be aware of shared space with other users. The benjamin franklin bridge walkway is a popular spot for those looking to combine exercise with breathtaking views.
📸 Photography Buffs
Photography tips: Aim for golden hour for the best light. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive skyline and consider a tripod for low-light conditions. Be patient and mindful of other visitors and cyclists while composing your shots. The benjamin franklin bridge walkway offers a unique vantage point for urban photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Benjamin Franklin Bridge: An Iconic Landmark
Walking or cycling across the bridge provides an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate its scale and design up close. The benjamin franklin bridge walkway is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a free and accessible way to experience stunning views and a bit of urban adventure. The approximately 1.47-mile span provides a good workout and a memorable experience.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the bridge serves as a vital connection between Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Camden, New Jersey. This connection facilitates daily commutes and offers a unique chance for visitors to literally walk from one state to another, adding an extra layer of novelty to the experience.
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography on the Bridge
When planning your photo session, consider the time of day. Early mornings offer a quieter experience with soft, diffused light, while evenings provide dramatic colors as the city lights begin to twinkle. Don't forget to also capture the intricate details of the bridge's architecture – the massive suspension cables and the art deco towers are incredibly photogenic.
Many visitors find that a wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the full scope of the skyline. For those interested in long exposures or capturing the city lights at dusk, a tripod can be very beneficial. Remember to be mindful of cyclists and other pedestrians while you're framing your shots.
Fitness and Fun: Running and Biking the Bridge
Cyclists will find a dedicated lane on the bridge, making it a safe and efficient way to travel between Philadelphia and Camden. The experience of crossing state lines on two wheels is a unique thrill. For runners, a round trip can easily create a 3-mile workout, and the chance to say you've 'run into a new state' is a fun bonus.
When planning your active adventure, remember to wear appropriate footwear and stay aware of cyclists if you're walking. The bridge is a popular spot, so visiting during off-peak hours can lead to a more enjoyable and less crowded experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit