Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia's grand boulevard, inspired by Paris, connecting world-class museums, parks, and monuments.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Philadelphia's grand boulevard, inspired by Paris, connecting world-class museums, parks, and monuments.
"Arguably the most beautiful Parkway of Philadelphia. A wonderful drive from the Commercial Center to the Museum of Arts."
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the sights along the Parkway. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Event Schedules
Major events can impact access and crowds. Plan around them or embrace the festive atmosphere! :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Philadelphia Museum of Art
Western end of the Parkway
Iconic steps, world-class art collections, and stunning city views. Don't miss the 'Rocky Steps'!

Sister Cities Park
Mid-Parkway
A family-friendly oasis with a splash pad, playground, and beautiful views. Perfect for a relaxing break.

Franklin Institute
Mid-Parkway
Engaging science museum with interactive exhibits for all ages. A must-visit for curious minds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Walkability
Event Awareness is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the sights along the Parkway. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Event Schedules
Major events can impact access and crowds. Plan around them or embrace the festive atmosphere! :calendar:
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be tough. Consider public transport or ride-sharing to reach the Parkway. :car:
📸 Capture the Views
The Parkway offers stunning vistas, especially from the Art Museum steps. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the sights along the Parkway. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Event Schedules
Major events can impact access and crowds. Plan around them or embrace the festive atmosphere! :calendar:
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be tough. Consider public transport or ride-sharing to reach the Parkway. :car:
📸 Capture the Views
The Parkway offers stunning vistas, especially from the Art Museum steps. :camerawithflash:
🚲 Bike-Friendly Route
Great for cycling! Enjoy a scenic ride, but be mindful of traffic. :bike:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Benjamin Franklin Parkway's beauty and its role as Philadelphia's cultural hub, calling it 'arguably the most beautiful Parkway.' It's praised as a wonderful drive and a good way to access popular city spots, especially for its grand architecture and green spaces. However, some find parking challenging and note that major events can lead to significant crowds.
"Arguably the most beautiful Parkway of Philadelphia. A wonderful drive from the Commercial Center to the Museum of Arts. Dotted with several famous buildings and architecture, lined with promenade and parks, this is a very enjoyable and memorable drive at the heart of the city."
Prosun Roy
"July 4th 2025, Concert and Fireworks Benjamin Franklin Parkway
The Fourth of July celebrations in Philadelphia will conclude on the evening of July 4 with the Wawa Welcome America July 4th Concert and Fireworks.
we are so lucky to have such a great opportunity to watch the Concert and Fireworks for celebrating Independence Day, The Fourth of July in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States 🇺🇸."
C T
"Good way to get around Philadelphia and to access the city popular spots"
Dara Carey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Benjamin Franklin Parkway is easily accessible by public transportation, including SEPTA buses and the Broad Street Line subway. Many visitors also arrive via ride-sharing services or taxis. Driving and parking can be challenging, especially during events.
Yes, the Parkway is designed to be walkable, stretching about a mile and connecting many key attractions. It's ideal for exploring on foot, especially if you plan to visit multiple museums.
Absolutely! The Parkway is a popular route for cyclists, offering scenic views and access to attractions. Be aware of traffic and follow all cycling safety guidelines.
Walking is highly recommended for a leisurely experience. For longer distances or to save time, consider using ride-sharing services or the local bus routes that run along the Parkway.
Some locals advise caution on connecting roads like Lincoln Drive if you're unfamiliar with them, especially during peak traffic. Stick to the main Parkway for a smoother experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Parkway itself is a public space and does not require tickets for access. However, individual museums and attractions along the Parkway, such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Franklin Institute, will have their own admission fees and ticketing requirements.
Operating hours vary significantly by institution. It's best to check the official websites of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Franklin Institute, and other specific attractions for their current hours of operation.
While many museums have admission fees, exploring the grounds, enjoying the public art, and visiting Sister Cities Park (which has a splash pad) are free activities. The Parkway itself is a free public space to enjoy.
For popular attractions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and The Franklin Institute, purchasing tickets in advance online is highly recommended to save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak seasons.
This is an annual celebration held on and around the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, culminating in a large concert and fireworks display on July 4th. It's a major event that draws large crowds.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the Philadelphia Museum of Art (and its 'Rocky Steps'), The Franklin Institute, Rodin Museum, Barnes Foundation, and the beautiful Sister Cities Park. The Parkway itself is a work of art.
Yes, it's very family-friendly! Sister Cities Park offers a fantastic splash pad and playground, and The Franklin Institute is highly engaging for children. Many museums also have family programs.
The Parkway is Philadelphia's cultural corridor, featuring world-class art museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation. Park Towne Place also showcases local art.
Yes, there are several green spaces and parks along the Parkway, including Sister Cities Park, which are perfect for resting, picnicking, and enjoying the scenery.
The Parkway was designed to emulate Parisian boulevards, featuring grand architecture, wide promenades, and monumental buildings, giving it a distinctly European feel.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Rocky Steps' at the Philadelphia Museum of Art offer an iconic shot with the city skyline. The Parkway itself, with its fountains, monuments, and grand buildings, provides numerous picturesque opportunities.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around major attractions due to safety and privacy regulations. Always check local FAA guidelines and specific venue rules before flying a drone.
Beyond the Art Museum, consider the Swann Memorial Fountain, the LOVE sculpture (nearby), and the various monuments and the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide vistas and architectural details. A wide-angle lens is excellent for the grand scale of the Parkway.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚲 Cycling Enthusiasts
🎨 Art & Culture Aficionados
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Parkway's Parisian Inspiration
This vision transformed the area into a cultural corridor, intended to be a place for both grand civic events and leisurely strolls. The layout facilitates a sense of arrival and discovery, guiding visitors from the city center towards the cultural institutions at its western end. The integration of art, architecture, and green space makes the Parkway a unique urban landscape, reflecting a deliberate effort to create a beautiful and functional public realm.
Navigating the Parkway: Transport & Accessibility
For visitors prioritizing convenience, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and can drop you off directly at your desired museum or park. Parking is available in garages and lots along the Parkway, but it can be expensive and fill up quickly, especially on event days. Many visitors find that combining public transport with walking or short ride-share trips offers the most flexible and enjoyable way to explore the Parkway and its surrounding attractions.
Family Fun on the Parkway
Beyond the park, The Franklin Institute offers a world-class science museum experience with interactive exhibits that captivate children and adults alike. Many of the other museums along the Parkway also offer family-friendly programming and exhibits. The open spaces and wide promenades also make it a pleasant environment for a family stroll or a leisurely bike ride.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit