Graffiti Pier - Philadelphia
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Graffiti Pier

4.8
·10 reviews·Philadelphia, United States

An iconic outdoor art gallery on an industrial pier, showcasing ever-changing graffiti and vibrant street art with Delaware River views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
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Graffiti Pier - Philadelphia

Graffiti Pier

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic outdoor art gallery on an industrial pier, showcasing ever-changing graffiti and vibrant street art with Delaware River views.

4.8
(10 reviews)

"Dope Graffiti Art! The table area must be "reservable" because an event was going on but one of the staff was awesome and let us in the gates."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking & Access

Drive to a nearby lot, then follow a path behind a fence. Coordinates: (39.9733849, -75.1170495)

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The pier can have uneven surfaces and debris. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ever-Changing Murals

Ever-Changing Murals

The entire pier structure

Witness a vibrant, evolving canvas of street art, from massive murals to intricate tags. A true outdoor gallery.

Delaware River Views

Delaware River Views

Edges of the pier

Enjoy panoramic views of the Delaware River and the Philadelphia skyline from this unique vantage point.

Urban Exploration Vibe

Urban Exploration Vibe

The pier and surrounding area

Experience the raw, industrial charm of this iconic Philadelphia spot, a haven for urban art enthusiasts.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Graffiti Pier

Graffiti Pier, also known as Pier 18, is an outdoor art installation. Access can be tricky; some visitors report needing to go past a fence. Be prepared for uneven terrain and potential closures due to structural integrity concerns.

Artistic Evolution & Access

The pier's art is constantly changing, offering a dynamic visual experience. While parts have collapsed, the art continues to thrive. Check for any temporary closures or access restrictions before your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Graffiti wall, Philadelphia, PA #graffiti #philly #philadelphia #phillygraffiti #mural #art
@msalethea
136 likes • 2.6K views

🚗 Parking & Access

Drive to a nearby lot, then follow a path behind a fence. Coordinates: (39.9733849, -75.1170495) Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The pier can have uneven surfaces and debris. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:

Graffiti Pier📍Philadelphia, PA NOOK / SEV1 / SEVEN / PEST / ALLOYIUS MCILWAINE / QZAR / SEYISM / A REGULAR TYPE DUDE / SLAK #graffitipier #phillygraff #philly #graffitiforyou #graffitilocation #streetartandgraffiti #urbanexploring
@graffitilocation
44 likes • 1K views
Graffiti Pier (Pier 18) Part 3 of 7 The plans with the 6 acres and more abandoned piers, include making trails wider and the area ADA accessible, cultivating marshes, building new concrete walls to prevent erosion, 👈🏻 🤗 erecting fences along the edges of the pier, and planting native plants in the surrounding area and the pier. • • • • • • #philadelphiagraffiti #graffitipier #abandonedplaces #los...
fiscos_films
37 likes • 452 views

📸 Capture the Art

The graffiti is constantly changing, so every visit offers new photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

⚠️ Be Aware of Closures

Sections of the pier have collapsed. Always check for current access status before visiting. Instagram+1

I havent visited Graffiti Pier since a part of it collapsed into the Delaware River and I wanted to visit and see how its doing. We may of lost a piece of it to the water but the art is still blossoming
randuart
1.3K likes • 21.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking & Access

Drive to a nearby lot, then follow a path behind a fence. Coordinates: (39.9733849, -75.1170495) Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The pier can have uneven surfaces and debris. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Art

The graffiti is constantly changing, so every visit offers new photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

⚠️ Be Aware of Closures

Sections of the pier have collapsed. Always check for current access status before visiting. Instagram+1

🎨 Art is Temporary

Embrace the ephemeral nature of street art; what you see today might be different tomorrow. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(10 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the vibrant and ever-changing graffiti art at Graffiti Pier, calling it 'dope' and 'awesome.' The unique urban setting and river views are also highly praised. However, some note that access can be tricky and mention concerns about the pier's structural integrity.

"Is this place just one wall or is it kinda like an alley? Me and my husband are really interested in going but we just want an idea of what it is.
Thank you!"

Brittany Kellam

"Dope Graffiti Art! The table area must be "reservable" because an event was going on but one of the staff was awesome and let us in the gates. Nice vibes, music, dope art."

Deja StarCatcher

"Glad to see Graffiti wall be recognized"

ben diaz

What People Like

Dope graffiti art
Unique urban vibe
River views

What People Dislike

Tricky access
Structural concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Accessing Graffiti Pier can be a bit of an adventure. Many visitors drive to a parking area near the pier and then follow a path behind a fence. Some Reddit users suggest using coordinates like (39.9733849, -75.1170495) to find the general vicinity. Be prepared for an urban exploration feel. Reddit

Yes, there are parking areas near Graffiti Pier. Visitors often drive to a lot and then navigate towards the pier entrance. It's advisable to use GPS coordinates to guide you to the closest accessible point. Reddit

Once you're in the general area, look for a fence. There's often a path behind it that leads towards the pier. It's part of the urban exploration experience, so be observant and follow any visible trails. Reddit

While the art is vibrant, safety is a consideration. Parts of the pier have collapsed into the Delaware River, so be mindful of your surroundings and stick to stable areas. Instagram+1 It's recommended to visit during daylight hours and with a companion. Reddit

Public transport options might require a walk from the nearest stop. It's best to check SEPTA routes and schedules for buses or trains that get you closest to the Delaware River waterfront in that area, and then plan your final approach. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Graffiti Pier is an outdoor public space and generally does not require tickets for entry. However, access can sometimes be restricted or managed for events. Reddit

As an outdoor art space, Graffiti Pier doesn't have official opening and closing hours like a traditional park. However, it's best visited during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Reddit

The pier's accessibility can vary. Due to structural issues, parts have collapsed, and there might be temporary closures. It's wise to check recent visitor posts or local news for any updates on its status. Instagram+1

While the pier is a public space, events can be organized. If you see an event happening, it might be reservable or ticketed. Otherwise, general access is usually free. Reddit

If the primary access point is blocked, explore the perimeter cautiously. Sometimes there are alternative, less obvious entry points, but always prioritize safety and avoid trespassing on private property. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For photography, weekday mornings offer softer light and fewer people. Late afternoons during the golden hour provide a warm, dramatic glow perfect for capturing the art and the river views. TikTok

Drone regulations can be complex, especially in urban areas. It's best to check with local authorities or the Philadelphia Parks & Recreation department regarding drone usage in this specific location to avoid any issues. TikTok

You can capture vibrant street art murals, detailed graffiti tags, expansive river vistas, and the industrial aesthetic of the pier. The ever-changing nature of the art means unique shots every time. Instagram

Crowds can make getting unobstructed shots challenging. Visiting during off-peak hours, like weekday mornings, will significantly improve your chances of capturing clear, impactful photographs. TikTok

For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to inquire about permits or permissions, especially if you plan to use specialized equipment or block access. Contacting the relevant city department is recommended. TikTok

🎫 🎨 Art & Culture

Graffiti Pier is renowned as an iconic outdoor art gallery, showcasing a dynamic and ever-changing collection of street art and graffiti. It's a celebrated spot for urban art enthusiasts. Instagram

The art at Graffiti Pier is constantly evolving. New pieces are added, and old ones are painted over regularly, making each visit a unique experience. Instagram

While it's a popular public space, Graffiti Pier is more of an informal art installation on an old industrial pier. Plans have been discussed for its redevelopment into a park with trails and native plants. TikTok

The art is created by a variety of local and international graffiti artists and street artists. It's a platform for diverse artistic expression in the urban landscape. Instagram

Originally Pier 18, it was an active shipping pier. It later became a canvas for graffiti artists, transforming into a significant landmark in Philadelphia's urban art scene. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Graffiti Pier can be an exciting visual adventure for families, offering a unique outdoor art experience. The vibrant murals are captivating for children, turning the visit into a colorful exploration. However, safety is paramount. Due to the pier's condition and potential for uneven surfaces or debris, it's best suited for families with older children who can follow instructions and navigate carefully. Always supervise children closely and stick to the most stable parts of the pier. Reddit

Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience. Pack comfortable, closed-toe shoes for everyone, as the terrain is not stroller-friendly. While the art is the main attraction, the river views can also be engaging. Be mindful that parts of the pier have collapsed, so keep a close eye on children and avoid areas that appear unsafe. Instagram+1

📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts

For photographers and art lovers, Graffiti Pier is a dream destination. The constantly changing murals provide an endless source of inspiration, offering unique compositions and vibrant colors. Weekday mornings are ideal for capturing the art without crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots. The golden hour in the late afternoon also provides beautiful lighting for dramatic photos. TikTok

Be prepared for an authentic urban environment. While the art is the star, the industrial backdrop and Delaware River views add depth to your shots. Remember to wear sturdy footwear, as the pier's surface can be uneven. Embrace the ephemeral nature of street art; the pieces you photograph today might be gone tomorrow, making your captures even more special. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Evolving Canvas of Graffiti Pier

Graffiti Pier, also known as Pier 18, is a testament to the dynamic nature of street art. What began as an industrial relic has transformed into a vibrant, open-air gallery where artists continuously leave their mark. The art here is not static; it's a living, breathing entity that changes with every new tag, mural, or stencil. This constant evolution means that no two visits to Graffiti Pier are ever the same, offering a fresh visual experience for every visitor. Instagram

While the art is the main draw, the pier itself has a history tied to Philadelphia's industrial past. Plans have been discussed for its redevelopment, aiming to incorporate trails, native plants, and erosion control, potentially transforming it into a more structured park. However, for now, its raw, urban charm and the ever-changing graffiti remain its defining characteristics. TikTok

Visitors should be aware that the pier's structure has faced challenges, with sections collapsing into the Delaware River. This adds an element of caution to any visit, reminding explorers to be mindful of their surroundings and stick to safer areas. Despite these challenges, the spirit of artistic expression continues to thrive on this iconic Philadelphia landmark. Instagram+1

Navigating Access and Safety

Reaching Graffiti Pier involves a bit of urban exploration. Many visitors report driving to a nearby parking area and then navigating towards the pier, often needing to go past a fence. Using specific GPS coordinates, like (39.9733849, -75.1170495), can help pinpoint the general location. Reddit The terrain can be uneven, so wearing sturdy, closed-toe shoes is highly recommended to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. Reddit

Safety is a key consideration due to the pier's condition. As parts of the structure have collapsed into the Delaware River, visitors are advised to be aware of their surroundings and avoid unstable areas. Instagram+1 It's generally recommended to visit during daylight hours to better assess the environment and for increased visibility. Traveling with a companion can also enhance safety. Reddit

While Graffiti Pier doesn't have official operating hours, visiting during daylight ensures you can fully appreciate the art and navigate the pier safely. Be prepared for an authentic urban art experience that requires a bit of adventurous spirit and a mindful approach to safety. Reddit

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