How long does it take to walk through the UPenn and Drexel campuses?

A thorough self-guided walk typically takes between 2 to 3 hours. This allows time to admire the Penn Museum, enjoy the views at Cira Green, and explore the historic grounds of The Woodlands at the end of the route.

Is University City worth visiting for architecture?

Yes, it is a premier destination for architecture lovers. You can see Victorian Gothic masterpieces by Frank Furness, modern sustainable designs at Cira Green, and 18th-century Federal-style estates at The Woodlands, all within walking distance.

Where can I see the Philadelphia skyline for free in University City?

Cira Green is the best spot for free skyline views. It is an elevated public park located at 129 S. 30th Street that offers a massive green lawn and panoramic vistas of Center City Philadelphia.

Can I walk through the University of Pennsylvania campus without a student ID?

Yes, the main arteries of the campus, such as Locust Walk, are open to the public. While some academic buildings require ID for entry, the outdoor sculptures, historic facades, and public paths are accessible to everyone.

What is the best time to do a walking route in University City?

Weekdays are great for experiencing the vibrant energy of student life, while weekends offer a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere. Late afternoon is ideal if you want to catch the sunset from the Cira Green rooftop.

Are there public restrooms along the University City walking route?

Public restrooms can be found in the Penn Museum (for visitors) and student hubs like Houston Hall. There are also numerous coffee shops and restaurants along Walnut and Chestnut Streets where you can take a break.

Is the University City walk difficult?

The walk is considered moderate. Most of the terrain is flat, but the total distance is around 2.5 miles. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the gravel paths in The Woodlands.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

2 hr 30 min

Duration

6

Stops

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Tour

Step into a world where historic ivy-covered brick meets cutting-edge urban design. This self-guided walking route invites you to explore University City, the intellectual heart of Philadelphia. Home to the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University, this neighborhood is more than just a collection of classrooms; it is a living museum of architectural evolution and public green spaces. As you navigate these scholarly streets, you will encounter some of the city's most significant cultural landmarks. The journey begins at the world-renowned Penn Museum, where ancient history is preserved in a stunning eclectic building. From there, you will transition into the heart of the Ivy League experience, walking the same paths as Nobel laureates and industry titans. You will witness the bold, red-brick genius of Frank Furness at the Fisher Fine Arts Library and feel the energy of Drexel University near the fierce statue of Mario the Magnificent. This neighborhood stroll also offers a unique perspective on the city skyline. By visiting Cira Green, an elevated 'park in the sky,' you can witness the modern glass towers of Center City from a lush, breezy vantage point. The walk concludes with a shift from the academic to the peaceful, leading you through the historic grounds of The Woodlands. This site serves as a rare example of a colonial-era estate turned Victorian rural cemetery, offering a quiet end to your exploration. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a scenic walking tour Philadelphia offers outside the typical tourist zones, this route provides a deep dive into the city's brainy and beautiful West side. Explore independently and at your own pace, soaking in the atmosphere of one of the most vibrant intellectual hubs in the United States.

Highlights

The massive 12-ton Sphinx at the Penn Museum
Frank Furness's Victorian Gothic Fisher Fine Arts Library
Panoramic skyline views from the elevated Cira Green park
The iconic brick-lined paths of Locust Walk
The historic mansion and arboretum at The Woodlands
The bronze Drexel Dragon, Mario the Magnificent

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Penn Museum

Begin your exploration at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, known locally as the Penn Museum. Established in 1887, this institution is a powerhouse of global history. The building itself is an architectural marvel, featuring a mix of Italianate and Byzantine styles with intricate brickwork and serene courtyards. Inside, the museum houses a staggering collection of artifacts from Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Mesoamerica. The crown jewel is undoubtedly the 12-ton Sphinx of Ramesses II, the largest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. As you stand outside these walls, consider how this site bridges the gap between the ancient world and the modern academic pursuit of knowledge that defines this neighborhood.

2

Fisher Fine Arts Library

Just a short walk away stands the Fisher Fine Arts Library, a masterpiece by the famed Philadelphia architect Frank Furness. Completed in 1891, this building was once the main library for the university. Its bold red sandstone and terracotta exterior, complete with gargoyles and massive windows, was initially controversial but is now celebrated as one of the finest examples of Victorian Gothic architecture in America. Look up at the quotes from Shakespeare and other luminaries carved into the facade. The interior is equally breathtaking, designed to maximize natural light for scholars. It serves as a reminder of the era's belief that architecture should inspire the intellect and reflect the weight of history.

3

Mario the Magnificent

Moving toward the Drexel University side of the district, you will encounter Mario the Magnificent. This bronze dragon is the official mascot of Drexel, named after an alumnus who attended every single home basketball game for 20 years. Unveiled in 2002, the statue captures the fierce and determined spirit of the 'Drexel Dragons.' Drexel was founded by financier Anthony J. Drexel as a technical institute, and today it remains a leader in cooperative education. This spot marks the intersection of the two major universities that define this area, showcasing the transition from Penn's traditional Ivy League aesthetics to Drexel’s more modern, urban industrial feel.

4

Cira Green

For a change of pace, head toward the skyline to visit Cira Green. This is not your typical neighborhood park; it is a 'blue-green' roof situated 95 feet above the street atop a parking garage. This innovative urban space provides stunning, unobstructed views of the Philadelphia skyline and the Schuylkill River. It is a favorite local spot for students and professionals to lounge on the grass or catch a breeze. Beyond the views, Cira Green is a feat of modern engineering, designed to manage millions of gallons of stormwater. It represents the forward-thinking, sustainable design that is increasingly defining the newer developments in University City.

5

Locust Walk

Retrace your steps toward the heart of Penn's campus to stroll down Locust Walk. This pedestrian-only thoroughfare is the central artery of the university. Lined with historic fraternity houses, academic buildings, and towering trees, it offers the quintessential 'Ivy League' atmosphere. As you walk, you will pass the 'Split Button' sculpture and the statue of Ben Franklin sitting on a bench. This path has been the site of countless student protests, celebrations, and daily commutes for over a century. It is the perfect place to observe the rhythm of campus life and appreciate the seamless integration of historic structures with the natural landscape of the urban forest.

6

The Woodlands

The final stop on this walking route is The Woodlands, a 54-acre National Historic Landmark District. Originally the 18th-century estate of botanist William Hamilton, it later became a Victorian-era rural cemetery. The Federal-style mansion on the grounds is considered one of the most architecturally significant residences from the early American period. Today, The Woodlands serves as a peaceful community space where neighbors walk dogs among historic monuments and rare trees. It is a place of quiet reflection, where the history of Philadelphia's elite families is etched into stone amidst a lush arboretum. It provides a serene conclusion to your journey through the intellectual and architectural history of West Philadelphia.

Frequently Asked Questions

University City is widely considered the best area for a stroll, offering a mix of Ivy League prestige, historic architecture like the Fisher Fine Arts Library, and modern green spaces like Cira Green. The route covers approximately 2.5 miles of scenic, pedestrian-friendly paths.