Fairmount Water Works Philadelphia
Water works for me
Two hot spots that visitors tend to enjoy when they come to Philadelphia are the Art museum and the beautiful Boat House Row. But there is a place perched right between the two that often gets missed, the Fairmount Water Works. The building dates to 1815 when it supplied water for the city of Philadelphia. It was decommissioned in 1909 and was left vacant for most of the 20th century. Through the generosity of the public, the building was restored and reopened in 2003.
The Water Works houses a small museum which highlights its history, but what I like most about the place is its beautiful location on the banks of the Schuylkill. I took my kids there when they were young just to run through the columns and out onto a long platform that at times hosts parties and weddings.
The area also features gardens and walkways along the river and serves as a peaceful contrast to the rest of the city which lies just on the other side of the Art Museum. And when you are there, make sure to take the steps up the hill to the Gazebo, where you can get a 360 view of the river and the city. It is worth the climb!
About this spot
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Philadelphia guide.
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Philadelphia
Fabric Workshop and Museum – Contemporary art
The "Fabric Workshop and Museum" in Philadelphia is one of the best places to see contemporary art - it's a central overlooks gem!
By
Andrea
Szyper
Material Culture – Anthropology museum or shop?
"Material Culture" in Philadelphia isn't just a store. It is a world. A global journey. An aesthetic trek through history & cultures...
By
Andrea
Szyper
Duross & Langel – Good clean fun
"Duross & Langel" is a Philadelphia soap shop. Scented with fruit and herbs, I'm afraid they're works of art almost too beautiful to use in the shower...
By
Andrea
Szyper
Laurel Hill Cemetery – I see dead people
"Laurel Hill Cemetery" in Philadelphia is equal parts public garden, sculpture park, historical campus and graveyard. It's a truly special spot...
By
Andrea
Szyper
Penn Museum of Anthropology – Mummies and more
The "Penn Museum of Anthropology" in Philadelphia would be a marquee attraction in a smaller town. Don't overlook this jewel and its collections, trust me.
By
Andrea
Szyper
Woodmere Art Museum – Home to Philadelphia artists
The "Woodmere Art Museum" and its mansion tell the story of Philadelphia and its artists from the 1800s to now. Don't miss its gift shop or back gallery!
By
Andrea
Szyper
Greene Street Consignment – Fashion-forward fun
"Greene Street Consignment" in Philadelphia makes it easy to find great pieces on their tidy, colorful shelves. My recommendation: check the clearance racks!
By
Andrea
Szyper
Simeone Foundation – The cool car museum
The "Simeone Foundation" Philadelphia is one of the finest private collections of classic cars in the US. This out-of-the-way treasure is a must see...
By
Andrea
Szyper
Hokka Hokka – Too pretty to eat
"Hokka Hokka" in Philadelphia is the sushi bar/restaurant my husband and I start so many of our dates. This balance of tasty and beauty is something else.
By
Andrea
Szyper
Tria – Beer, wine, and cheese Nirvana
"Tria" Philadelphia is my favorite sophisticated yet cozy bar to explore the divine trinity of wine, beer and cheese. Perhaps my favorite is Sunday School.
By
Andrea
Szyper
Night Kitchen – The best bakery in Chestnut Hill
How "Night Kitchen" get its cinnamon rolls to absorb so much butter is one of the great mysteries of Philadelphia. It's my favorite bakery in Chestnut Hill.
By
Andrea
Szyper
Solar Myth – Adventurous Jazz Bar
Besides the packed schedule of shows, they are also a daytime coffee shop that opens its bar at noon. They have a great (rotating) wine selection as well!
By