Biking & Walking-Friendly Areas in Philadelphia, United States
1. Schuylkill River Trail
A 46-mile paved trail alongside the Schuylkill River, offering stunning city and river views. Ideal for biking or walking.
- Length: One of the longest urban trails in the United States.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers beautiful views of Philadelphia's skyline and the Schuylkill River.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible from various points throughout the city.
2. Kelly Drive
A scenic 5-mile drive with bike lanes running parallel along the Schuylkill River. Perfect for a leisurely bike ride or run.
- Safety: Dedicated bike lanes ensure safety for cyclists.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of Boathouse Row and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
- Fitness Opportunities: Ideal for fitness enthusiasts with various workout stations along the route.
3. Manayunk Canal Towpath
A 2.5-mile paved trail following the Manayunk Canal, offering a unique urban setting with local shops and restaurants nearby.
- Local Attractions: Surrounded by local shops, restaurants, and breweries.
- Scenic Beauty: Features the picturesque Manayunk Canal and Victorian-era architecture.
- Easy Access: Accessible via SEPTA regional rail or numerous bus routes.
4. Delaware River Trail
A multi-use trail stretching over 8 miles along the Delaware River. Perfect for biking or walking with beautiful river views.
- Length: One of the longest paved trails in Philadelphia.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of the Delaware River and the Philadelphia skyline.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible via public transportation or various parking options.
5. Fairmount Park
America's first urban park system spanning over 9,200 acres. Offers numerous biking and walking trails within its lush greenery.
- Size: The largest urban park system in the United States.
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful landscapes, meadows, and waterways.
- Historical Significance: Includes numerous historical sites and architectural landmarks.
6. South Street Bridge Bike Lane
A protected bike lane on the South Street Bridge offers a safe route for cyclists to travel between Center City and South Philadelphia.
- Safety: Protected bike lanes ensure safety for cyclists.
- Connectivity: Connects Center City and South Philadelphia, facilitating easy travel between the two areas.
- Local Attractions: Surrounded by vibrant neighborhoods, shops, and restaurants.
7. Spruce Street Harbor Park
A waterfront park featuring a boardwalk, food vendors, games, and hammocks. Offers a beautiful setting for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of the Delaware River and the Philadelphia skyline.
- Local Attractions: Surrounded by local food vendors, games, and entertainment options.
- Seasonal: Operates seasonally from May to October.
8. East Coast Greenway
A nationwide trail network passing through Philadelphia, offering various biking and walking routes. Ideal for exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods.
- Length: Connects over 3,000 miles of trails from Maine to Florida.
- Diverse Routes: Offers various routes through Philadelphia's diverse neighborhoods.
- Connectivity: Allows for easy travel between different parts of the city and beyond.
9. Fall Zone Art Park
An urban park featuring colorful murals, sculptures, and interactive art installations. Ideal for a unique walking experience.
- Artistic Expression: Showcases vibrant and engaging street art.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers a unique blend of urban and artistic landscapes.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible via public transportation or various parking options.
10. Bartram's Garden
An historic garden founded by John Bartram in the 1700s. Offers walking trails through lush gardens and historic buildings.
- Historical Significance: One of America's oldest botanic gardens.
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful landscapes, meadows, and waterways.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs and workshops on gardening and horticulture.
11. Wissahickon Valley Park
A park encompassing over 1,800 acres of woods, meadows, and streams. Offers numerous biking and walking trails.
- Size: One of the largest urban parks in the United States.
- Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful landscapes, meadows, and waterways.
- Natural Habitats: Provides a home for various plant and animal species.
12. Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk
A boardwalk along the Schuylkill River offering beautiful views of the city skyline. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of the Philadelphia skyline and the Schuylkill River.
- Connectivity: Connects various points along the Schuylkill River.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible via public transportation or various parking options.
13. Manayunk Canal Towpath Extension
An extension of the Manayunk Canal Towpath that connects to the Schuylkill River Trail, offering a longer route for cyclists and walkers.
- Length: Extends the length of the Manayunk Canal Towpath.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of the Manayunk Canal and Victorian-era architecture.
- Connectivity: Connects to the Schuylkill River Trail for a longer biking or walking route.
14. Fairmount Park Horticulture Center
A horticultural center within Fairmount Park offering classes, workshops, and events related to gardening.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs and workshops on gardening and horticulture.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by beautiful gardens and landscapes within Fairmount Park.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible via public transportation or various parking options.
15. Ridgway Connection Trail
A trail connecting the Schuylkill River Trail to the Wissahickon Valley Park, offering a longer biking or walking route.
- Length: Connects the Schuylkill River Trail and the Wissahickon Valley Park.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of the Schuylkill River, Fairmount Park, and Wissahickon Valley.
- Connectivity: Allows for a longer biking or walking route connecting various points within Philadelphia.