Philadelphia Architecture Hike 12 of 12: Best of Exotic Styles

3.5-4 hours, 5-6 miles, brisk pace between stops, best examples of exotic architectural styles in Philadelphia, lunch afterward if there's interest.

We'll wrap up this cycle of hikes by visiting some fabulous "exotics." These are buildings in architectural styles for which Philadelphia has fewer examples, at least compared to the styles highlighted in earlier hikes in the series. From our meeting point we'll head over to the Victory Building, a brilliant example of an architectural style (Second Empire) that is more commonly associated with Paris. Then we'll head into Chinatown to view the city's most famous structure in the Chinese Imperial style. Afterward we'll hike up to the Spring Garden neighborhood to see architectural styles that are usually associated with Chicago and Istanbul. Finally we will work our way south to check out an Arts and Crafts treasure and then my candidate for the coolest building in South Philly!

We will move quickly between locations, while stopping for enough time to enjoy and discuss each one. As always, no knowledge of architecture is needed . . . just an interest in seeing beautiful places and a willingness to stay with the group.

GENERAL RULES: ••Hike at my pace. ••Hike lengths are approx.: allow 30 min - 1 hour extra. ••Donation requested. All monies donated to recreational charities like Natural Lands and the Friends of Wissahickon. ••For ~360 events each year donate $20 (2026), $30 for 2 or family or donate $5 for each event. ••Pay in person or at Zelle (Sidney Goldstein 215-247-4459). Please text Sidney after you donate so he can properly give you credit. The yearly donation goes down to $15 in July; to $10 in Sept-Nov; Dec new year. Thanks.