Destination

Old City

Old City is the the area near the Delaware River where William Penn and the Quakers first settled. Located next to Independence Mall, where the country’s Founding Fathers declared liberty and built a free nation, Old City still boasts charming cobblestone streets and plenty of 18th-century charm — along with an independent streak that’s evident in everything from its owner-operated shops to its edgy art scene. Its proximity to the Liberty Bell, Penn’s Landing and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge makes Old City, which runs from Vine Street to Walnut Street north to south and from 6th Street to Front Street east to west, a favorite for out-of-towners as much as for the residents who call it home. People love the neighborhood for its fashionable boutiques, great restaurants, eclectic galleries and theaters and vibrant nightlife. Especially popular are First Fridays, when art lovers fill the streets and hop from gallery to gallery.

How to get there

Take the Market-Frankford Line to 2nd Street Station or 5th Street/Independence Hall Station. You can also take Bus Routes 5, 9, 17, 21, 33, 42, 44, 48 or 57.

Fare

There are many ways to get here on SEPTA, there are also many ways to pay. Click here to learn which fare is best for you.

Connecting Services

The Philly PHLASH, stopping at major locations around Philadelphia, is FREE with your SEPTA Key card.

Other Amenities

SEPTA's Independence Hall/5th Street Station is located in the heart of one of nation’s most important historic districts. From this station you can easily access Independence National Historical Park, home of the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the National Constitution Center, President’s House, Independence Visitor Center and other national historic and cultural treasures.

Things To Do

The birthplace of the nation, the historic heart of Philadelphia resides along Independence Mall. Home to Independence Hall and The Liberty Bell Center, the Mall also boasts a number of cultural institutions including the National Museum of Jewish American History, the National Constitution Center and the Philadelphia History Museum. Be sure to stop by the Independence Visitor Center for tickets to city attractions and helpful information.

The Delaware River Waterfront hosts family-friendly attractions and events all year long. With scenic views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Penn’s Landing is a popular seasonal destination with attractions like Spruce Street Harbor Park and the Blue Cross RiverRink.

Stroll along 2nd Street in Old City and you’ll find a wide variety of attractions, restaurants and activities. The popular street is home to number of art galleries, independent boutiques and renowned restaurants. Within a two block stretch you can wander through the hallowed space of Christ Church and take in a show at the Arden Theatre.

Old City is home to the oldest continually inhabited street in America, Elfreth's Alley, Home to more than 3,000 people since 1702, the street today holds 32 houses built between 1728 and 1836.

Upcoming Local Happenings

Old City Eats

Old City

More than 20 participating bars, restaurants and eateries in Old City offer small plate and drink specials from 4PM to 7PM every Thursday beginning June 1 thru August 31.It's SO easy to get to Old City on SEPTA! Hop the Market-Frankford Line to 2nd Street or Routes 5, 9, 17, 21, 33, 42, 44, 48, or 57.

Plan Your Trip

Farmers Market at Christ Church

Old City

Located one block away from the site of Philadelphia’s original 18th-century farmers market on High (now Market) Street - The Farmers Market at Christ Church runs every Wednesday from 3PM-6PM until Thanksgiving. Get here on SEPTA! Hop the Market-Frankford Line to 2nd Street or Routes 5, 17, 33, or 57.

Plan Your Trip

Memorial Day Weekend

Museum of the American Revolution

In addition to the Museum of American Revolution’s permanent exhibits and the ongoing Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia exhibition, special programming for Memorial Day Weekend [from 5/26 thru 5/29] includes pop-up discovery carts highlighting the daily lives of Revolutionary War soldiers, sailors and privateers. In addition, kiddos can participate in hands-on activities by making memorial-themed ribbons and creating revolutionary-themed thank you cards for members of the American Legion. Admission is free for all veterans, active military members and Blue Star Families all weekend long. Get there on SEPTA. Short walk from Jefferson Station or ride SEPTA's Market-Frankford Line to 5th Street/Independence Hall Station. Bus Routes 5, 9, 17, 21, 33, 38, 42, 44, 48, 57, and 121 also stop near the museum. Get $2 off admission when you flash your SEPTA Key card!

Plan Your Trip

Jewish American Heritage Month

Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History

Every May is Jewish American Heritage Month by President Proclamation. The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History brings to life the 360+ year history of Jews in America through the use of evocative objects, telling moments, and state-of-the-art interactive technologies. Visit Fridays - Sundays, 10AM-5PM. Admission is FREE. While you’re there - snap a picture of the cheeky OY/YO installation on display outside of the museum through May 2023. So easy to get here on SEPTA. Hop the Market-Frankford Line to 5th Street/Independence Hall Station or Routes 17, 33, 38, 44, or 57.

Plan Your Trip

Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest

Delaware River Waterfront

There's roller skating, boardwalk rides and games, mini golf, great food and drinks, and more at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest. Get there on SEPTA. Hop the Market-Frankford Line to 2nd Street or Bus Routes 12, 21, 25, 42, 17, or 33.

Plan Your Trip

Spruce Street Harbor Park

Delaware River Waterfront

Enthusiasts of riverside can now enjoy hammocks, patio and arcade games, musical performances, and tasty treats from local purveyors while strolling the boardwalk at this warm-weather attraction now thru 9/24. The riverside Spruce Street Harbor Park is the perfect escape for visitors looking to relax and locals hoping to unwind. Get here on SEPTA. Short walk from 2nd Street Station on the Market-Frankford Line or ride Bus Routes 12, 21, 33, 42 or 25.

Plan Your Trip

Liberty Flea

Cherry Street Pier

Discover your next unique find from a host of vintage and artisan vendors at Liberty Flea at Cherry Street Pier on 5/27 & 5/28. Get there on SEPTA! Hop the Market-Frankford Line to 2nd Street or Bus Routes 12, 21, 25, 33, or 42.

Plan Your Trip

Free Admission for Memorial Day Weekend

National Constitution Center

In addition to free admission all weekend long [from 5/26 thru 5/29], the National Constitution Center marks the Memorial Day holiday with special programming, including daily shows exploring some of the most famous memorials in the U.S. and the history of the American flag. In the grand hall lobby, visitors can learn the history behind the poppy as a symbol of Memorial Day before creating their own poppy pin or wreath in honor of fallen service members. So easy to get here on SEPTA. Hop the Market-Frankford Line to 5th Street/Independence Hall or Routes 17, 33, 38, 44, 48 or 57.

Plan Your Trip

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Wellness on the Waterfront

Race Street Pier

Bring a friend and a yoga mat, and get ready for a scenic workout on Mondays and Thursdays at 6PM, and Sundays at 10AM featuring stunning views of the Ben Franklin Bridge - beginning 6/1. So easy to get here on SEPTA. Hop the Market-Frankford Line to 2nd Street or Bus Routes 17, 21, 25, 33, or 42.