Philadelphia Architecture Hike 9 of 12: Best of Beaux-Arts Style

2.5-3.5 hours, 3-4 miles, brisk pace between stops, best examples of Beaux-Arts architecture in Philadelphia, lunch afterward if there's interest.

When someone says they don't like fancy architecture, they're probably thinking of Beaux-Arts. Well, they're wrong. The Beaux-Arts style can be overwhelming, but when it is executed well, the result is breathtaking. Beaux-Arts buildings came to prominence in Philadelphia from about 1890 to 1930. By the end of the period, the city was home to a few dozen excellent examples of the Beaux-Arts style. We're going to visit as many of these as we can in a few hours.

Our first stop will be the Commonwealth Title & Trust Company, an absolute gem that sports two lovely stone "eyes" on the top floor. Yes, that makes no sense, but you'll see what I mean if you come on the hike. Then we'll head west down Chestnut Street and through the heart of Rittenhouse Square to check out a series of exquisite Beaux-Arts offices, apartment buildings, and private homes. Then we'll swing back east to marvel at a hotel that is mostly known for a deadly disease outbreak that occurred there, but which should be known for its over-the-top Beaux-Arts ornamentation.

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.