THE GARDENS IN AND ABOUT INDEPENDENCE NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK

There is a string of really beautiful gardens in and about Independence National Historical Park that adds a magical quality to this wonderful historical site. I know of no other park located in a city that has such a perfect and extended Greenway for promenading, viewing historical buildings and enjoying the landscape.

Here is a suggested walk:

Start at the Society Hill Towers located at 2nd and Locust Streets and then walk west on Locust Street. Cross 3rd Street and head south to Pine Street. Make a right on Pine. There is a small walk on the right across from St. Peters Church Between 3^rd and 4^th Streets. This is the Greenway which connects Independence Hall and St. Peter's Church.

After walking along the Greenway, you will arrive at Bingham Court. Cross 4th Street at Locust Street. Between 4th and 5th Streets on Locust are two marvelous gardens: the Magnolia Garden to the South or left; and, directly across to the North or right, a Rose Garden, filled with old roses, irises and daffodils. The Rose Garden is between Locust and Walnut Streets.

Now cross Walnut Street and you will be in the back of the 2nd Bank. Note the iron work and the columns on the Bank. Turn left or west and walk behind the Bank to 5th Street. On the right, you will see the garden of the American Philosophical Society.

Cross 5th Street and you will be in the back of Independence Hall. Walk through this grand space and then cross 6th Street to historically important Washington Square which lies between 6th and 7th Streets. There are beautiful plantings in this Square and wonderful walkways for strolling. 

All of these garden spaces change with the seasons. The landscaping is carefully thought out and there is a succession of blooms and changing colors from early spring to late fall.  All of us can stroll and enjoy these gardens while we learn about the extraordinary history found in the City of Philadelphia and Independence NHP. 

If you enjoy the Greenways of Philadelphia and appreciate living and working in a “Green” neighborhood, you should join the Friends of Independence.  Friends’ members help to maintain and preserve the beautiful gardens of Independence NHP and allow all of us, residents and visitors alike, to enjoy the greenery all year long.

~Flora L. Becker

Treasurer for the Friends of Independence Governing Board