As much as I love the city of Philadelphia, there are times when I like to take a break from the traffic and noise.  For me, that place is St. Peter’s Way. 

The Society Hill section of the city lies close to the Delaware River and features some of the oldest buildings in Philadelphia. There are houses that go back to the 18th century as well as an area which features homes more recently designed by I. M Pei.  When laying out the grid for Society Hill back in the 1950s and 1960s, a small area encompassing three blocks was left undeveloped and open to the public.  The area is a combination of a walkway and a park.

The path begins across the street from St. Peters Church (between 3rd and 4th street on Pine Street) and is aptly named St. Peter’s Way. At this end of the walk, the structures are restored homes from the Colonial period. The path then crosses over Delancey Street where you come upon a park. Passing through the park, you then cross over Spruce Street. On this segment, the buildings become much more modern. However, the change is not so dramatic, since builders of new construction were required to use bricks that matched those used in the historic homes.

As you reach the end of the path and swing back around onto 3rd street, you will find your stress level lowered, ready to face the excitement of the city!