Philadelphia Architecture Hike 1 of 12: Best of Georgian and Federal Styles

2.5-3 hours, 3-4 miles, brisk pace between stops, best examples of Georgian and Federal architecture in Philadelphia, lunch afterward if there's interest.

We're kicking off 2026 with a new series of hikes to showcase Philadelphia's amazing variety of architectural styles. We'll work through the styles chronologically, starting with the city's most beautiful buildings from the Georgian era (from about 1700 to 1780) and the Federal era (from about 1780 to 1830). Many of these homes, churches, and public buildings were built before America was a country! You'll definitely see why no other city in America can match Philadelphia in breadth and quality of buildings from these eras.

We'll start with the right way to view Independence Hall, which at over 270 years old is still newer than some of the other buildings on the hike! Then we'll wind through Old City and Society Hill, stopping at several wonderful buildings from the Colonial era and the early 1800s, including one that became the tallest building in the nation when the United States was founded. I'll highlight places with historical connections, but our main goal will be to visit and admire beautiful buildings!

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 hr 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 (2152474459) or at mrbasketball.net/HIKEpay.html. Yearly donation $15 July-Aug; $10 Sept-Nov; Dec new year. Thanks.