Philly 5 Squares Hike & Sightseeing, plus Lunch (optional)

Hike Stats:

• Total Distance: Approximately 7 miles
• Pace: Around 3.0+ mph — not very fast, but not a stroll either!
• Terrain: Mostly flat, paved & sidewalks
• Difficulty: Moderate — not tough, but you should be comfortable with the distance and pace
• Time Estimate: Approximately 3 hours, depending on pace & breaks

Meeting & Departure Location & Times

• Meet at 10:30, Sunday November 23, 2025
• Lloyd Hall, 1 Boathouse Row
• NOTE: Please plan your trip accordingly, leaving time for both excess traffic and parking. I can’t delay the hike more than 15 minutes for those who don’t show up on time, however, because of the nature of this hike, you might be able to catch up and join us along the route.

Join Me for a Scenic Urban Hike Through Historic Philadelphia!

Come explore the heart of Philadelphia on a scenic and fun urban hike starting and ending at Boathouse Row. We’ll visit all five original squares from William Penn’s 17th-century city plan, taking in some of the city’s most iconic views and landmarks along the way.

Throughout the hike, we’ll stop briefly at several points of interest to take photos, admire the scenery, and allow everyone to catch up. Afterward, those interested can join me for an optional brunch/lunch. Please comment if you’d like to join for the post-hike meal so I can plan accordingly.

This is a great chance to enjoy Philly, get some steps in, and connect with other fun people who love being outdoors. Can’t wait to see everyone — new faces and old friends alike! 🌞

The Plan

We’ll meet in front of Lloyd Hall (the first building at the start of Boathouse Row). From there, we’ll:
• Stroll past the Sea Horses Fountain and Fairmount Water Works
• Stop at the gazebo overlook for amazing views of Boathouse Row and the Schuylkill River
• Walk to the top of the Art Museum steps (yep — the Rocky steps!) for another incredible city view
• Then head down the famous steps, onto the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and continue to the five squares, making our way past museums, fountains, public art, and plenty of Philly’s historic landmarks, as well as several other parks.

We’ll visit all five of Philadelphia’s original squares:

1. Logan Square (Circle)
2. Center Square (City Hall)
3. Rittenhouse Square
4. Washington Square
5. Franklin Square

We’ll finish where we started at Boathouse Row, where you can choose to wrap up your day or join the group for lunch.
(If severe weather is expected, the hike will be canceled.)

We’ll try to keep the group together, but please know your own pace and fitness level. If you’d prefer something shorter, there will be a few spots where you can shorten the route — we’ll figure that out when we meet.

Gear/food/drink, etc.
Sneakers are fine/recommended.
Wear weather-appropriate clothes
Bring plenty of water, plus snacks to hold you over

Parking
There are several options for parking nearby. There are two paid lots, a parking garage behind the museum and a parking lot next to Lloyd Hall. There is street parking on Kelly Drive as well as on Sedgley Drive, which is directly across from Lloyd Hall and runs perpendicular to Kelly Drive. I, as well as many other people, park on Sedgley Drive, although I must admit that I’m not 100% sure about the parking status on that street.
Please be aware and read all parking signs. Be especially careful not to leave anything in your car in plain sight. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are not ticketed or towed, be safe, and protect your belongings.

Public Transportation
There are several public transportation options that will take you to or near our meetup location. You should be able to figure it out using either the SEPTA app or one of the map apps.

Waiver of Liability
By joining this hike or activity organized by Fabulous Philly Friends Meetup group, you acknowledge that outdoor activities involve risks, including injury, illness, or death. You voluntarily participate at your own risk and agree to assume full responsibility for any harm or loss you may suffer. You hereby agree to release and hold harmless Fabulous Philly Friends, its organizers, volunteers, and members from any liability, claims, or demands arising from participation, including those caused by negligence. You affirm you are physically able to participate and understand this waiver is binding. You also consent to the use of any photos taken for group purposes.