If you are fascinated by ruins like I am, the stone ruins just off of Cresheim Valley Drive are a worthwhile stop while you are visiting Philly. This place is easily accessed via a short trail from a parking lot on Cresheim Valley Drive and is on public park land so you don't have to worry about trespassing!
The ruins consist of the remnants of an old stone barn with a giant chimney, iron portal doors, and stone steps, much of it covered in graffiti. Trees grow up out its middle now, and during the summer vines overtake the walls.
The barn was once a part of a summer retreat for young women called Buttercup Cottage. During the hot summers, girls came here to relax and enjoy nature. In the mid-20th century the cottage itself was torn down, and then in 1982 the barn was destroyed in a fire except for its stone and iron parts, which is what you can explore today.
Park in the small lot on Cresheim Valley Drive between Germantown Avenue and Allens Lane. From the rear of the parking lot, follow the trail to the left for 5 minutes to the ruins. The trails here connect to the large network of trails through Wissahickon Valley Park if you want to wander some more.
You can easily see the ruins from the road if you miss the parking lot.
Cresheim Valley Drive
USD
free
Find your way with 156 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"The Percy Street Project" is a public art installation in Philadelphia planned to span the entire 1300 block. Come at night to see 'The Electric Street'.
by
"Nunu" is an Asian fusion bar/restaurant in Philadelphia. I love it best on a cold day when I'm craving a cocktail and warm snacks. Perfect for dates!
by
My favorite thing about the "Philadelphia Insectarium & Butterfly Pavilion" by far is that it's very community-focused: I was toured by a local 4th grader!
by
"Vault & Vine" in Philadelphia is a cafe inside a greenhouse. Whoever came up with this idea is a genius. I come here almost every weekend with my pug...
by
"Suraya" just might be the best restaurant in Philadelphia right now. If you love the flavors of the Levant, that you're going to love it, too...
by
"Spruce Street Harbor Park" is a true gift of the city of Philadelphia to its citizens, an ode to summer itself... I'll be there in a hammock!
by
The "Navy Yard Food Truck Lineup" in Philadelphia appears every Tuesday & Thursday, come rain or shine! Great opportunity to try a few of them at once...
by
"Interstate Draft House" is a Philadelphia neighborhood bar. I highly recommend ordering the Fishtown Tea cocktail there, similar to a Long Island Ice Tea.
by
"Lloyd" Philadelphia is my bar of choice when I need a stiff scotch (80+ types) or a finely crafted cocktail. The style definitely makes me feel at home.
by
Tuna Bar near the Ben Franklin Bridge is my go-to raw bar in the Old City in Philadelphia for exciting sushi rolls and Japanese-style appetizers!
by
"Long in the Tooth Record Store" in Philadelphia is a family-owned business that reminds me of one of my favorite films, High Fidelity...
by
Philadelphia’s Mural Arts has helped create literally thousands of gorgeous murals all over. I'm in love with the new abstract mural by Tim McFarlane...
by
156 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 156 Insider Tips