Cresheim Valley Drive Ruins Philadelphia
Explore stone ruins
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.
About this spot
Cresheim Valley Drive
- Sunrise - sunset daily
USD
free
Find your way with 156 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Philadelphia
Long in the Tooth Record Store
High fidelity
"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
Bronwyn
Lepore
Abstract Mural Callowhill
Artist Tim McFarlane
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
Bronwyn
Lepore
Bio Pond U. Penn
Urban oasis in West Philly
The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park in Philly (known by locals as the Bio Pond) was University of Penn’s first botanic garden. Makes for a romantic date...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Stina Pizzeria
Delightful Mediterranean fare
"Stina Pizzeria" in Philadelphia offers an enticing blend of pizza but also the best spanakopita I've ever tasted and other Mediterranean-inspired dishes...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
The Modern Republic
Midcentury home decor
"The Modern Republic" in Philadelphia is a midcentury modern home decor shop that is colorful, ebullient, high-ceilinged, and tastefully curated!
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Lil Nas X Mural Gayborhood
LGBTQ icon
"Lil Nas X Mural Gayborhood" in Philadelphia is 36-feet-large and portrays the early 21st-century LGBTQ+ icon that's conquered the world...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Dream Garden
Beautiful free art
When you see it for the first time you are struck by its size.
by
Jeff
Landis
Contrafuerte
Outdoor sculpture
"Contrafuerte" in Philadelphia is Miguel Antonio Horn's latest sculpture which comprises of eight entangled nude bodies holding a small concrete bridge...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Poquessing Creek Trail Ruins
Prison farm ruins
These old farm ruins outside Northern Philadelphia are covered in graffiti and belong to a now-abandoned prison...
by
Holly
Miller
Two Persons Coffee
Excellent coffee zen space
"Two Persons Coffee" in Philadelphia is in a building that used to be a public vocational school, and its furniture was salvaged to complement the cafe...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Merchant Exchange
Greek Revival architecture
My favorite building in Philadelphia is the Merchant Exchange, conveniently located across the street from my favorite movie theater...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Heading to Philadelphia?
156 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Philadelphia?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 156 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Philadelphia
Get to know our other Spotters from Philadelphia
As featured on:
