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

First Friday

Old City

Old City's monthly First Friday event showcases the local arts scene from art exhibits to live music. Take the Market-Frankford Line to 2nd Street or 5th Street/Independence Hall Station or take Bus Routes 5, 9, 17, 21, 33, 42, 44, 48, or 57.

Plan Your Trip

Christ Church Farmers Market

Christ Church

Get ready to stock up on fresh - locally grown produce and more because the Christ Church Farmers Market at 20 N. American Street is back! Starting 5/29 on every Wednesday from 3PM - 6PM. Hop the Market-Frankford Line to 2nd Street or Routes 5, 17, 33, or 57.

Plan Your Trip

First Friday

Cherry Street Pier

Cherry Street Pier is a perfect haven for artists and art lovers. If you're looking for some First Friday fun, visit the pier the first friday of every month until December 6th. Watch the resident artists as they work in their studios, shop for local goods in the artist and artisan market, enjoy live music, and savor delicious snacks from the Garden Restaurant by the riverside. You can easily get here on SEPTA; simply hop on the Market-Frankford Line to 2nd Street or take Bus Routes 17, 21, 25, 33, or 42.

Plan Your Trip

Spring Art Craft Bazaar

Cherry Street Pier

On Saturday (5/11) and Sunday (5/12) - the celebration of Philly's maker scene features over 120 arts and craft vendors that will fill the Great Plaza at Cherry Street Pier during the Art Star Craft Bazaar. Hop the Market-Frankford Line to 2nd Street or Bus Routes 12, 21, 25, 33, or 42.