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Often compared to the Champs Elysées in Paris, the one-mile-long Benjamin Franklin Parkway and its attractions, green spaces and public art have captivated residents and visitors alike for more than a century.
The diagonal, tree-lined parkway exudes culture with world-renowned art museums and attractions, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation, the Rodin Museum and Calder Gardens.
Families can embrace Ben Franklin’s legacy of science and education at The Franklin Institute, or come face-to-teeth with a giant T. rex skeleton at The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University.
And in the warmer months, families gather at Sister Cities Park to play in the kid-friendly fountains and refresh with a bite to eat at the on-site cafe.
Read on to learn more about why the Benjamin Franklin Parkway remains a must-see attraction when visiting Philadelphia.
Earning the title of Philadelphia’s most artistic mile didn’t happen overnight.
It took years of planning and development to make the Benjamin Franklin Parkway an arts-and-culture lover’s premier destination.
Here are the museums and attractions that make the Parkway so special:
As the oldest natural history museum in the Americas, The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University invites people of all ages to experience natural science in a fun and engaging way.
Visitors can get up close with reconstructed dinosaurs (like the towering T. rex) and then dig for fossils, explore dioramas, touch live animals and even meet scientists.
— Photo by M. Servedio for The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
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Art aficionados flock to the Barnes Foundation, home to one of the world’s most impressive and important collections of African sculpture, impressionist, post-impressionist and early modern paintings.
— Photo courtesy Barnes Foundation
The collection includes works by Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso and Van Gogh, all displayed in collector Albert Barnes’ unique style.
In addition to permanent gallery space, the 93,000-square-foot building also includes a changing exhibition gallery, a conservation lab, an auditorium, a library, acafe and a gift shop.
Opened in 2025, Calder Gardens pays homage to Pennsylvania native son and artist Alexander Calder.
The 6,500-square-foot space has a distinctive two-story building, with half of its structure underground, where visitors can delight in Calder’s mobile sculptures nestled in a sprawling garden.
— Photo by Visit Philadelphia
The ground level includes an enchanting meadow, perfect for reflection on the immersive experience.
The museum plans to evolve over time with a rotating selection of works, encouraging repeat visits.
The largest Catholic Church in Pennsylvania, the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul is an architectural gem modeled after the Lombard Church of Saint Charles (San Carlo al Corso) in Rome.
Inside, visitors stand in awe of various shrines (including one to Saint Katherine Drexel), altars, statues and the paintings by Constantino Brumidi, famed painter of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC.
Check the church’s website for the daily mass schedule (open to the public) or grab a brochure for a self-guided tour (available on the table next to the Cathedral Shop entrance).
Opened in 1815 to provide safe, clean drinking water to a growing city, Fairmount Water Works sits at the foot of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. More than 200 years later, the site now holds National Historic Landmark status and provides exclusive event space for celebrations.
Head to the Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center for interactive, user-friendly exhibits to learn about the engineering wonder and the evolution of water safety.
The environmental education center on the banks of the Schuylkill River serves as the Delaware River basin’s official watershed education center and offers regular tours of the site.
One of the oldest science museums in the country, The Franklin Institute has been inspiring young scientists for ages. The museum’s hands-on learning exhibits take visitors through blockbuster exhibitions, engaging theatrical experiences and compelling permanent exhibits.
— Photo courtesy The Franklin Institute
Journey through the cosmos at the out-of-this-world Fels Planetarium, travel as a drop of blood through the museum’s famed gigantic heart, or get your game on as you learn the science of sports through heart-racing activities. Rotating special exhibitions pass through as well, drawing massive crowds.
Don’t miss the massive memorial sculpture dedicated to Philly’s favorite Founding Father (Benjamin Franklin) in the entrance lobby.
A gorgeous beaux-arts building serves as the heart of the Free Library of Philadelphia system, which includes more than 50 libraries throughout the city.
The Parkway Central Library invites book lovers to check out its massive collection, explore its notable rare book department, sit in on author readings and enjoy special exhibitions and events.
Free, daily tours lead visitors to the Rare Book Department to view the historic collection or throughout the building to learn about the history and architecture.
Founded in 1848 as the first and only women’s visual arts college for undergraduates in the country, the Moore College of Art & Design also offers programs for both men and women through its graduate studies, continuing education and workshops.
Enjoy free admission to The Galleries at Moore for self-guided tours to explore contemporary art from established and emerging artists and designers.
Don’t miss your chance to purchase original artwork from Moore students and alumni at The Art Shop.
One of the oldest public art museums in the U.S., the Philadelphia Museum of Art rises majestically at the end of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Head to the top of the museum’s famed steps for stunning panoramic views of the Parkway and the city skyline.
— Photo by Elevated Angles for Visit Philadelphia
The museum houses vast collections, including Renaissance, American and impressionist art — and special areas like the Japanese Ceremonial Teahouse and the arms and armor exhibit. The one-acre Anne d’Harnoncourt Sculpture Garden extends the galleries to the outdoors.
The Rodin Museum houses one of the largest public collections of works by master sculptor Auguste Rodin outside of Paris and greets visitors with bronze casts of The Thinker and The Gates of Hell.
The gallery collection includes a stunning marble copy of The Kiss, while the garden features the cast of The Burghers of Calais.
The museum offers pay-what-you-wish ticketing to explore the galleries, while the garden space remains free to explore year-round.
Some of Philadelphia’s most well-known statues and sculptures line the Benjamin Franklin Parkway alongside unsung and gorgeous works of public art:
Seventy-two steps lead art aficionados, exercise enthusiasts and millions of film buffs up to the East Entrance of the esteemed Philadelphia Museum of Art by way of what’s been coined the Rocky Steps. Naturally, a run up the steps requires triumphant fist pumps at the top.
Meanwhile, just down below, the Rocky Statue draws lines of visitors daily seeking photographs alongside the larger-than-life interpretation of the triumphant fictional boxer for which it’s named.
Rocky himself, actor Sylvester Stallone, commissioned artist A. Thomas Schomberg in 1980 to create the sculpture for Rocky III.
To mark the historic 2015 visit of Pope Francis to the United States and Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Association for Public Art partnered to install Robert Indiana’s tremendous sculpture AMOR atop the museum’s steps on the east terrace overlooking the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
“Amor” translates to “love” in both Spanish and Latin. The city so loved AMOR that it decided to give the sculpture a permanent home in Sister Cities Park.
Don’t miss Indiana’s famed LOVE sculpture just a few steps away at nearby LOVE Park.
Three generations of the Calder family of artists contributed numerous works of public art to Philadelphia.
Alexander Stirling Calder — father of Alexander, now exhibited at Calder Gardens (see above) — designed the ebullient Swann Memorial Fountain with architect Wilson Eyre.
The centerpiece of Logan Square, the fountain memorializes Dr. Wilson Cary Swann, founder of the Philadelphia Fountain Society.
Calder created three Indigenous figures to symbolize the Delaware River (a man), the Schuylkill River (a woman) and Wissahickon Creek (a girl). Frogs, turtles, a fish and two swans complete the group.
There’s so much public art on the Parkway that the Association for Public Art created a guide and offers audio information via the Museums Without Walls: Audio program.
Don’t miss:
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Here’s where to stretch your legs and touch grass in between cultural pursuits on the Ben Franklin Parkway:
One of city founder William Penn’s original five squares, the park at Logan Square contains one of the most striking features of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway — the Swann Memorial Fountain.
Find groups of visitors admiring the sculptures and the fountain’s 50-foot geyser from the benches scattered around it, especially during summer.
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society tends the beautiful gardens adorning the circular park.
Officially named John F. Kennedy Plaza, locals and visitors know the park with the iconic LOVE Sculpture as LOVE Park. The sculpture by Robert Indiana offers the ultimate Philadelphia photo op.
The Center City West outdoor space also offers green areas, a fountain, walking paths and abundant spots to sit to take it all in.
There’s also a visitor center at the park — conveniently located near City Hall and Dilworth Park — where visitors can grab brochures and plan out travel adventures in the city.
Sister Cities Park complements the grandeur of its neighboring Benjamin Franklin Parkway attractions.
A perfect park for littles to enjoy, the contemporary, eco-forward pavilion houses a cafe and a visitor center among the surrounding Children’s Discovery Garden, a boat pond, and a fountain that pays tribute to Philadelphia’s 10 sister cities.
Don’t miss the AMOR sculpture, a must-Instagram highlight at the park, or the buzzworthy pollinator garden brimming with more than 4,000 blooms.
The Parkway has always been street-party central, playing host to both annual and historic massive events along the grand boulevard.
Pope Francis knew the Parkway was the best place to deliver Sunday mass during his 2015 visit. The Parkway has also served as the perfect venue for epic music festivals, such as the Made in America Festival and Live 8.
Thousands gather each year to celebrate independence at the stellar Welcome America festival, complete with a star-studded Fourth of July Concert and fireworks lighting up the sky above the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Welcome America Fourth of July Fireworks — Photo by J.Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Eagles celebrated their 2018 and 2024 Super Bowl wins with unforgettable parades along the thoroughfare. Onlookers gather annually to cheer on runners at the Philadelphia Marathon.
And there’s no better place than the Parkway for parade-goers to enjoy beloved annual events like the Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Puerto Rican Day Parade.
You’ll surely need to refuel while exploring all the Parkway has to offer.
Con Murphy’s Irish pub serves steaks, seafood, pasta and cheesesteaks, as well as great people watching on the outdoor patio. Nearby upscale pub The Mulberry offers a delicious seasonal menu filled with fresh, local ingredients.
Enjoy a modern luxury vibe at the Assembly Rooftop Lounge at The Logan, Philadelphia’s Hotel. Situated nine floors above street level, take in fantastic parkway views while hanging out at a seating nest near a cozy fire pit. Or grab a bite to eat at the hotel’s rustic-modern steakhouse, Urban Farmer Philadelphia.
And there’s plenty of space to kick back and relax at the 14,000-square-foot Center City location of Victory Brewing Company, located at the memorable address of 1776 Ben Franklin Parkway. Enjoy two indoor bars, a pet-friendly outdoor bar, a beer garden, sidewalk dining and a rooftop patio with magnificent views of City Hall and parkway attractions.
The Parkway has always been one of the best places to stay in the city, due to its central location to so many attractions.
Across the street from the stunning Swann Memorial Fountain, The Logan Philadelphia (a member of the Curio Collection by Hilton) offers 391 impeccable rooms and suites, Urban Farmer steakhouse, along with the top-rated Underground Spa & Wellness.
Experience the vibrant culture of Philadelphia at The Maj, a contemporary boutique hotel. Located in a vibrant red brick building, The Maj has 26 thoughtfully designed rooms with smart mirrors, cutting-edge room controls and flat-screen TVs to enhance your stay.
Double Queen Guest Room at The Maj Hotel — Photo courtesy Maj Hotel
The circular Windsor Suites owned by Modus Hotels, plays up its views from each of its 199 Europe-influenced studio and one-bedroom suites. Each room has a full kitchen; the roof has a great outdoor pool.
Located roughly a block off of the Parkway, the Sheraton Philadelphia (a Marriott property) has elegant guest rooms with ample space, making it the perfect spot to stay if you are in town for a gathering at the nearby Pennsylvania Convention Center.
Planner Ther Paul Philippe Cret and designer Jacques Gréber, both French, modeled the Benjamin Franklin Parkway after the Champs-Élysées of their native country, creating a beautiful thoroughfare here in Philadelphia.
After a long planning and construction process, the Parkway officially opened in October 1918. The arduous yet bold vision ushered in a new era of urban design in America: the City Beautiful Movement.
In the beginning, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway was an architect’s and a planner’s dream, something breathtakingly bold for the city. Then it became a cultural hotspot — a center for museums and educational institutions.
Fountains, small parks, statues and monuments all lend a formality that gives the Benjamin Franklin Parkway its own special aura. The Parkway celebrated its 100th birthday in 2018.
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