Franklin Avenue Bridge
Iconic bridge offering breathtaking skyline views of Philadelphia and Camden, perfect for a free walk or bike ride.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Franklin Avenue Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic bridge offering breathtaking skyline views of Philadelphia and Camden, perfect for a free walk or bike ride.
"Walking the Ben Franklin Bridge was nothing short of incredible – the most amazing gems are right in our own city!"
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike It!
The pedestrian walkway offers incredible views. Biking is also an option for a quicker journey.
📸 Capture the Skyline
Bring your camera! The Philadelphia skyline views are iconic, especially during golden hour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Philadelphia Skyline View
Mid-bridge
Panoramic vistas of the Philadelphia skyline, especially stunning at sunset. A must-see for photographers.
Camden, NJ Waterfront
Eastern end of the bridge
Explore the emerging waterfront area in Camden after your walk across.
Architectural Details
Bridge structure
Admire the impressive gothic-style architecture of the bridge itself.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Walk the Ben Franklin Bridge
Timing is Key for Views
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike It!
The pedestrian walkway offers incredible views. Biking is also an option for a quicker journey.
📸 Capture the Skyline
Bring your camera! The Philadelphia skyline views are iconic, especially during golden hour.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential for the 1.7-mile span.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, bring water as there are limited services on the bridge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike It!
The pedestrian walkway offers incredible views. Biking is also an option for a quicker journey.
📸 Capture the Skyline
Bring your camera! The Philadelphia skyline views are iconic, especially during golden hour.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential for the 1.7-mile span.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, bring water as there are limited services on the bridge.
⬆️ Head East for Philly Views
The most iconic views of the Philadelphia skyline are as you walk towards New Jersey.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, free views of the Philadelphia skyline from the Ben Franklin Bridge walkway, calling it an iconic and accessible experience. Many appreciate the opportunity for a scenic walk or bike ride connecting two states. Some note the bridge can be windy and exposed, and recommend comfortable shoes for the 1.7-mile span.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The pedestrian walkway entrance is located on the Philadelphia side, accessible from the area near the Independence Visitor Center. You can reach it via public transport or by walking from Old City.
Limited parking is available in the vicinity of the bridge on the Philadelphia side, but it can be expensive. Consider public transportation or ride-sharing services.
Yes, there is a dedicated bike lane on the Ben Franklin Bridge, separate from the pedestrian walkway.
From Center City, you can walk or bike east towards the Delaware River. Spring Garden Street or Race Street will lead you to the bridge entrance.
SEPTA buses and the PATCO Speedline (which crosses the bridge) can get you close to the bridge entrances. The Franklin Avenue Shuttle in Brooklyn is a different transit line.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Walking across the Ben Franklin Bridge is completely free! It's a fantastic way to experience the city and its surroundings without any cost.
The pedestrian walkway is generally open from 6 AM to 9 PM daily. It's always a good idea to check the official Delaware River Port Authority website for any updated hours or closures.
No tickets are required for the pedestrian walkway. It's open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis during operating hours.
While generally open, there might be occasional closures for maintenance or events. It's best to check ahead. Pets on leashes are usually allowed.
The pedestrian walkway is generally accessible, but the incline can be steep in places. It's advisable to check with the DRPA for specific accessibility details.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for capturing the Philadelphia skyline.
You can capture stunning panoramic views of Philadelphia and Camden, detailed shots of the bridge's architecture, and interesting perspectives of the city from above.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around major infrastructure like bridges due to security regulations. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive cityscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details. A tripod can help with low-light shots at sunset.
Yes, you can photograph the cars passing by, but be mindful of safety and avoid obstructing traffic or the walkway.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food or dining facilities directly on the Ben Franklin Bridge itself. You'll need to plan for meals before or after your walk.
Old City Philadelphia, near the bridge entrance, offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and bars, from casual to upscale.
The Camden waterfront is developing and has some dining options, with more expected as the area continues to grow.
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy during your walk. Just be sure to dispose of any trash properly.
Philadelphia is famous for its cheesesteaks, but you'll also find diverse cuisines, from Italian to Vietnamese, in the Old City area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Point out the Philadelphia skyline and talk about the history of the bridge.
🚶 Budget Travelers
It offers world-class views without costing a dime, making it a top attraction for those watching their wallets. To keep costs down, pack your own water and snacks.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for the most dramatic lighting and vibrant colors. The pedestrian walkway provides unobstructed views, perfect for panoramic shots. Bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the vast cityscape and a telephoto lens for capturing architectural details or distant landmarks.
A tripod can be invaluable for low-light photography, especially during sunset. Be mindful of the time of day and potential crowds, as getting the perfect shot might require some patience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Walkway
Many travelers recommend starting in Philadelphia and walking towards New Jersey to get the most iconic skyline shots. The bridge's gothic architecture also provides a dramatic backdrop for photos. While the walk is free and accessible, be prepared for some inclines. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for a scenic and active way to connect the two cities.
Consider the weather, as it can be windy and exposed on the bridge. For those interested in history, the bridge itself is a significant landmark, connecting Philadelphia and Camden since its completion in 1926. It's a testament to early 20th-century engineering and a vital transportation artery.
Photography Tips for the Ben Franklin Bridge
The best times for photography are during the golden hour – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – when the light is soft and warm, casting a beautiful glow on the city. Many visitors find the views from the Philadelphia side, looking towards the city, to be the most breathtaking. Beyond the skyline, don't forget to capture the architectural details of the bridge itself. Its imposing gothic style offers unique photographic opportunities.
Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the expansive panoramas, while telephoto lenses can be used to isolate details or compress the cityscape. Remember to bring a sturdy camera or smartphone, and consider a tripod for sharper shots in lower light conditions. Be aware of the lighting conditions and the movement of cars. While you can photograph the traffic, ensure you maintain a safe distance from the roadway and the pedestrian path.
The bridge can get busy, so patience might be needed to get that perfect, unobstructed shot. Navigating the Bridge and Surrounding Areas
Once on the bridge, the walk is approximately 1.7 miles to the New Jersey side. While there are no amenities on the bridge itself, you can find plenty of dining and refreshment options in both Philadelphia's Old City and Camden's developing waterfront area.
+1 Many visitors enjoy exploring these areas before or after their bridge walk. For those looking for alternative routes or connections, discussions sometimes mention routes like the SRT (Schuylkill River Trail) leading towards the Art Museum, which can then connect to the bridge.
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