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Schuylkill Banks: Philadelphia's Riverfront Oasis

Explore Philadelphia's Schuylkill Banks: a revitalized riverfront offering trails, parks, recreation, and stunning city views.

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Schuylkill Banks is a vibrant riverfront area in Philadelphia, offering parks, trails, and recreational activities along the Schuylkill River. Once an industrial corridor, it has been transformed into a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with stunning skyline views and a variety of outdoor events.

A brief summary to Schuylkill Banks

  • Monday 6 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 6 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 6 am-12 am
  • Thursday 6 am-12 am
  • Friday 6 am-12 am
  • Saturday 6 am-12 am
  • Sunday 6 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Check the Schuylkill Banks website for upcoming events, including outdoor movie nights, yoga classes, and riverboat tours.
  • Walk or bike the Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk for the best skyline views, especially during sunset.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the park's many green spaces.
  • Consider taking public transportation or using Indego bike share, as parking near Schuylkill Banks can be limited.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From 30th Street Station, walk east on Market Street, then turn right onto Schuylkill Avenue. Continue south until you reach Walnut Street. Turn left and walk east on Walnut Street until you see the entrance to Schuylkill Banks on your right. This walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the SEPTA Market-Frankford Line to 30th Street Station. Exit the station and walk across the Schuylkill River using the southern sidewalk of either the Market Street Bridge (accessible by ramp) or the JFK Boulevard Bridge (accessible by stairs) to access Schuylkill Banks. A single ride on SEPTA is $2.50 if paying with a SEPTA Key card.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From Center City, a taxi or ride-share to Schuylkill Banks at Walnut Street will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and the specific location within Center City. Note that there is no designated parking at this trailhead.

Unlock the Best of Schuylkill Banks

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Discover more about Schuylkill Banks

Schuylkill Banks, located along the southernmost eight miles of the Schuylkill River, is a dynamic and evolving public space in Philadelphia. This revitalized area features 29 acres of neighborhood parks and four miles of recreational trails, providing a green oasis in the heart of the city. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Philadelphia skyline, relax in open spaces, and participate in various outdoor activities. Historically, the Schuylkill River, originally called Manayunk by the Lenape tribe, played a vital role in the region's development. However, by the 19th and early 20th centuries, industrialization led to significant pollution, transforming the river into a waste-ridden corridor. In the late 20th century, efforts began to reclaim the riverfront, culminating in the creation of Schuylkill Banks. Today, Schuylkill Banks is a popular destination for recreation and relaxation, drawing an average of 33,000 visitors each week. The Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk, a 2,000-foot-long pathway extending from Locust Street to South Street, allows pedestrians, runners, and cyclists to traverse over the river, providing access to exceptional skyline views. The area also hosts outdoor movie screenings, yoga classes, and riverboat tours, making it a lively hub for community events.

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