Philadelphia Architectural Style Bonus Hike 2 of 2: Renaissance Revival

About this event

2.5-3 hours; 3-4 miles; brisk pace between stops; best examples of Renaissance Revival architecture in Philadelphia's Washington Square West and Rittenhouse neighborhoods; lunch afterward if there's interest.

We're doing a mini-cycle of 2 hikes devoted to the hidden gems of Philadelphia architecture. For these hikes we'll focus on the smaller-scale jewel box buildings that pop up all around Center City. This hike features gems in the Renaissance Revival style, which was at its height in Philadelphia between about 1860 and 1890. These ornate buildings look like they were plucked directly from a Venetian piazza!

After we gather, we'll hike through Washington Square West over to Broad Street, taking in a series of lovely Renaissance Revival office buildings that were designed to impress. Then we'll head over to the Rittenhouse Square area, where elite private residences will be our focus. For some of these homes, it's hard to believe that a single family lived there . . . with their servants, of course!

If you haven't been on previous architecture style hikes with us, I guarantee you'll see Philadelphia from a new perspective. For those who have joined previous hikes, this hike features ALL NEW buildings that we haven't visited previously. Everyone is welcome!

As always, we will move quickly between buildings, but we'll also stop for enough time at each one to enjoy and discuss the wonderful craftsmanship. No knowledge of architecture is needed . . . just an interest in seeing beautiful places and a willingness to stay with the group.

From Hiking Around Philly