Benjamin Franklin Parkway - Please follow me on instagram! @chrishenry
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Benjamin Franklin Parkway

4.6
·69 reviews·Philadelphia, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Benjamin Franklin Parkway - Please follow me on instagram! @chrishenry

Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(69 reviews)

"Arguably the most beautiful Parkway of Philadelphia. A wonderful drive from the Commercial Center to the Museum of Arts."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Philadelphia Museum of Art

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

Sister Cities Park

Mid-Parkway

A family-friendly oasis with a splash pad, playground, and beautiful views. Perfect for a relaxing break.

Franklin Institute

Franklin Institute

Mid-Parkway

Engaging science museum with interactive exhibits for all ages. A must-visit for curious minds.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Walkability

The Benjamin Franklin Parkway is designed for strolling, connecting major attractions. Wear comfortable shoes to explore its museums, parks, and monuments. Consider public transport or ride-sharing to reach the Parkway itself, as parking can be challenging.

Event Awareness is Key

This iconic stretch hosts major events like the Wawa Welcome America concert and fireworks. Check event schedules to plan your visit and avoid potential closures or large crowds, especially around holidays.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Concerts & fireworks
Crowd
High
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Pleasant weather, autumn colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Stay off of Lincoln Drive if you don’t know how to drive on it #philly #phillytiktok #phillytok
@ralph_unfiltered
21.4K likes • 191.4K views

👟 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:

On this episode of "Hey babe, I’m going for a quick bike ride" This is how my Sunday afternoon went. Some good some bad but overall memorable.🤳🚴🙏🏻 #philadelphia #bikeride #philly #insta360x3 #lostandfound #bikelife
@johnfkaiser
4K likes • 51.1K views
Did you know Philly’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway was designed to feel like Paris? 🇫🇷🦅 Jacques Gréber brought French flair to Philly in 1917 — giving us art, culture, and a straight shot to the Rocky steps.
briggsauction
134 likes • 4.4K views

🚗 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:

#HiddenGem Alert: Philly’s cultural heart along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Park Towne Place is where art comes alive—literally! With over 150 artworks from 110+ artists in its permanent collection, plus award-winning exhibits, artist talks, and workshops, it’s a treasure trove for art lovers. Right now, don’t miss “Brilliance in the Mundane" was curated and installed by @inliquidart. These ex...
craftnowphl
51 likes • 1.2K views

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

4.6
(69 reviews)

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

Beautiful architecture
Cultural attractions
Scenic drive

What People Dislike

Parking difficulties
Event crowds

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

🎫 🏛️ 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

The Parkway was designed to emulate Parisian boulevards, featuring grand architecture, wide promenades, and monumental buildings, giving it a distinctly European feel. Instagram

📸 📸 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. TikTok

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Benjamin Franklin Parkway is a playground for curious minds and active bodies! Sister Cities Park is a must-visit, featuring a fantastic splash pad and playground that kids adore. Instagram For educational fun, The Franklin Institute offers hands-on science exhibits that will keep children engaged for hours. Many museums along the Parkway also have dedicated family programs and activities. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as enjoying the green spaces with a picnic is a great way to break up a day of exploring. Instagram

🚲 Cycling Enthusiasts

For cyclists, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway offers a scenic and relatively smooth ride. It's a popular route for both casual riders and those looking for a longer cycling excursion. You can easily connect to other bike-friendly areas of the city from here. TikTok Remember to be aware of vehicle traffic and pedestrian activity, and always follow local cycling laws. Many visitors enjoy biking from the Parkway towards the Benjamin Franklin Bridge for impressive city views. TikTok+1

🎨 Art & Culture Aficionados

This is your ultimate destination! The Parkway is Philadelphia's cultural heart, boasting institutions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation, and the Rodin Museum. Instagram+1 Take your time to explore the diverse collections, from classical masterpieces to modern marvels. Don't miss the chance to experience the unique atmosphere of the Parkway itself, designed as a grand civic promenade. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Parkway's Parisian Inspiration

The Benjamin Franklin Parkway wasn't just randomly laid out; it was meticulously designed to evoke the grandeur of Parisian boulevards, most notably the Champs-Élysées. Landscape architect Jacques Gréber, along with architects Paul Philippe Cret and George B. Ford, envisioned a grand civic axis for Philadelphia. This design aimed to create a majestic approach to the Art Museum and connect the city's cultural institutions in a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing manner. The result is a mile-long stretch of tree-lined promenades, fountains, and monumental buildings that offer a distinctly European flair within the heart of Philadelphia. Instagram

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. Reddit

Navigating the Parkway: Transport & Accessibility

Getting around the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is a key part of the visitor experience. While the Parkway itself is a beautiful place to walk, covering its full length can be tiring. Fortunately, it's well-served by public transportation. SEPTA buses frequently run along the Parkway, and the Broad Street Line subway provides access to stations near its eastern end. For those arriving from New Jersey, the PATCO train offers a scenic ride across the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, with a connection to the Parkway. TikTok

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. Reddit

Family Fun on the Parkway

The Benjamin Franklin Parkway is a fantastic destination for families. Sister Cities Park, located centrally on the Parkway, is a major draw with its engaging sprayground and playground, making it a perfect spot for kids to cool off and burn energy, especially during warmer months. Instagram

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. Instagram

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