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Washington Square: A Historic Oasis

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Explore a historic Philadelphia park, once a burial ground, now a peaceful oasis with the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier.

Washington Square, one of William Penn's original five squares in Philadelphia, has evolved from a burial ground and pasture to a verdant park. Today, it offers a tranquil escape with historical significance, featuring the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution.

A brief summary to Washington Square

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Washington Square.

  • Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution to pay respects to those who fought for independence.
  • Take a stroll through the park to admire the diverse collection of trees, recognized as a Level One International Arboretum.
  • Bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the lawn, soaking in the history and ambiance of this urban oasis.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    Washington Square is easily accessible on foot from many Center City locations. From Independence Hall, walk one block south. From the Liberty Bell, walk south and then east. The square occupies the block between Walnut, Locust, 6th, and 7th Streets.

  • Public Transport

    Several SEPTA bus routes stop near Washington Square, including routes 17, 21, 409, 47, and 9. The Market-Frankford Line (El) has stops at 8th, 11th, and 13th streets on Market Street, a short walk away. The closest subway stops are 12th-13th & Locust St, 9th-10th & Locust St, and Walnut-Locust. A single ride on SEPTA costs $2.50 when using a SEPTA Key card or mobile payment.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Center City Philadelphia. A short ride from popular areas like Rittenhouse Square or Old City to Washington Square will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.

Discover more about Washington Square

Washington Square, originally Southeast Square, is a 6.4-acre park in the heart of Philadelphia. Designated as one of the five original squares in William Penn's 1682 plan for the city, it has served many purposes throughout its history. Initially, it was used as a potter's field, a burial ground for the poor, strangers, and free and enslaved Africans. During the Revolutionary War, it became a final resting place for American and British soldiers, and later, victims of the yellow fever epidemic.In the early 19th century, the square transitioned into a public park with tree-lined walks and landscaping. In 1825, it was renamed Washington Square in honor of George Washington. Today, visitors can stroll through the park, admire over 30 species of trees, and visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution, a memorial dedicated in 1954. The square also features an 1869 watering trough and two guard houses from the early 20th century.Located just a block from Independence Hall, Washington Square provides a green respite from the city bustle. It's a place where history and nature intertwine, offering a space for reflection and relaxation.

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