South Street Bridge - a large bridge over a body of water with a ferris wheel in the background
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South Street Bridge

4.6
·491k reviews·Philadelphia, United States

Iconic bridge offering breathtaking Philadelphia skyline views and access to the scenic Schuylkill River Trail.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdHigh
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South Street Bridge - a large bridge over a body of water with a ferris wheel in the background

South Street Bridge

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic bridge offering breathtaking Philadelphia skyline views and access to the scenic Schuylkill River Trail.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"One of the best views in Philly!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Skyline

Visit during golden hour for the most spectacular Philadelphia skyline photos.

🚴‍♀️ Smooth Path Transition

Cyclists heading east, be mindful of the Schuylkill Path connection; it can feel a bit tricky.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Philadelphia Skyline Views

Philadelphia Skyline Views

South Street Bridge

Panoramic vistas of the Philadelphia skyline, especially stunning at sunrise and sunset. A must-see for photographers!

Schuylkill River Promenade

Schuylkill River Promenade

Adjacent to South Street Bridge

A scenic path perfect for a leisurely walk, jog, or bike ride with lovely river views.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

Catching the South Street Bridge at sunrise or sunset offers breathtaking skyline views, but be prepared for crowds. Weekday mornings or late evenings can provide a more serene experience for photographers and those seeking a peaceful stroll.

Navigating the Schuylkill Path Connection

Cyclists and pedestrians heading east on the South Street Bridge may find the connection to the Schuylkill Path a bit awkward. Pay close attention to signage and be aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe transition onto the path.

Best Times

When
Sunrise & Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday Evenings
Why
City lights glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The REAL Secret Spots of South Florida Cato’s Bridge Edition Did secret beach under a bridge is my new favorite spot when I want a secluded beach with crystal clear water that looks like jts out of this world. If you like snorkeling this is also a popular spot for that and if you have a paddle board then definitely bring it over. 📍Cato’s Beach, Jupiter Free to visit Opens daily Tip: Go early ...
@peakacity
48.1K likes • 794.6K views

📸 Capture the Skyline

Visit during golden hour for the most spectacular Philadelphia skyline photos. Instagram+1

🚴‍♀️ Smooth Path Transition

Cyclists heading east, be mindful of the Schuylkill Path connection; it can feel a bit tricky. Reddit

one of the best views in philly! 📍south street bridge
_emilypaulichi
5.2K likes • 98.1K views
Take a stroll to the south street bridge and take in these amazing views this weekend 🌉 🌃 Extra points if you can capture one of these photos while you’re at it 🎥: @travel_pel @discover_phl #phlbucketlist #philly
phlbucketlist
1.1K likes • 58.4K views

🚶‍♀️ Scenic River Walk

Enjoy a relaxing walk or jog along the Schuylkill River Path adjacent to the bridge. Instagram

✨ Best Philly Views

This bridge offers one of the best skyline views in the city! Instagram+1

✨ Philly looks good from every angle — but these spots give you the best skyline views: 🌉 South Street Bridge 🚴 Kelly Drive 🌿 Cira Green 🏛 City Hall Tower Tour 🥊 The Rocky Steps 🌳 Drexel Park Tag the person you want to see these views with. 💙👇 #DiscoverPHL #PhillySkyline
discover_phl
746 likes • 14.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Skyline

Visit during golden hour for the most spectacular Philadelphia skyline photos. Instagram+1

🚴‍♀️ Smooth Path Transition

Cyclists heading east, be mindful of the Schuylkill Path connection; it can feel a bit tricky. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic River Walk

Enjoy a relaxing walk or jog along the Schuylkill River Path adjacent to the bridge. Instagram

✨ Best Philly Views

This bridge offers one of the best skyline views in the city! Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the South Street Bridge for its spectacular Philadelphia skyline views, especially during sunrise and sunset. It's a popular spot for photography and offers a pleasant experience for walking and cycling along the Schuylkill River. Some cyclists note a slightly awkward transition to the Schuylkill Path when heading east.

What People Like

Stunning skyline views
Great for photography
Scenic river path access

What People Dislike

Awkward path connection

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The South Street Bridge is accessible by car, public transportation, and is a popular route for cyclists and pedestrians. SEPTA bus routes often stop nearby, and it's a key connector for the Schuylkill River Trail. Reddit

Street parking can be challenging in the area. Consider using parking garages in Center City or University City and walking or biking to the bridge. Some users suggest looking for parking in residential areas further from the immediate bridge access points. Reddit

Absolutely! The South Street Bridge is bike-friendly with dedicated lanes. It's a great way to access the Schuylkill River Trail, though some cyclists note the eastbound connection can be a bit awkward. Reddit

Yes, the bridge is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring ramps and smooth surfaces, making it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Instagram

Several SEPTA bus routes serve the area around South Street. Checking SEPTA's trip planner for routes like the 40 or 42 can provide specific directions from your starting point. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the South Street Bridge and the adjacent Schuylkill River Path are public spaces and do not require any tickets or admission fees. You can visit anytime. Instagram

The South Street Bridge is open 24/7, as it's a public thoroughfare. The surrounding park areas and trails generally follow daylight hours, but the bridge itself is always accessible. Instagram

There are no fees to walk, bike, or drive across the South Street Bridge. It's a free public amenity for residents and visitors. Instagram

Yes, the South Street Bridge provides direct access to the Schuylkill River Trail, allowing for seamless integration into your cycling or walking route. Reddit

While always accessible, the bridge can get crowded during sunrise and sunset for photography. If you prefer fewer people, consider visiting on a weekday morning. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the Philadelphia skyline. Instagram+2

You can capture stunning panoramic views of the Philadelphia skyline, the Schuylkill River, and the surrounding urban landscape. Instagram+1

Many visitors enjoy framing shots of the skyline with the bridge's architecture. Experiment with different angles along the pedestrian walkways. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive skyline. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions during sunrise or sunset. Instagram

Drone usage in Philadelphia is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check current FAA and local ordinances before flying a drone in this area. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The South Street Bridge is a great spot for families looking for a scenic outing. The wide walkways are perfect for strollers, and the open views of the city and river can captivate children's imaginations. It's a safe and accessible place for a leisurely walk or a short bike ride along the adjacent Schuylkill River Trail. Pack some snacks and enjoy the urban landscape from a unique perspective. Instagram

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

For those looking to capture stunning Philadelphia imagery, the South Street Bridge is a must-visit. The skyline views, especially at sunrise and sunset, are legendary and provide incredible backdrops for photos. Instagram+2 Don't forget your camera and consider a tripod for those magical low-light shots. The bridge's architecture also offers interesting foreground elements for your compositions.

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists & Runners

The South Street Bridge is a key connector for the Schuylkill River Trail, making it ideal for cyclists and runners. You can easily incorporate it into a longer ride or run, enjoying scenic river views and a smooth, paved path. Be mindful of the connection to the trail, especially when heading east, as noted by some users. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Philadelphia Skyline View

The South Street Bridge is renowned for offering one of the most picturesque vantage points of the Philadelphia skyline. Visitors flock to the bridge, especially during the 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset, to capture breathtaking panoramic views. The interplay of light on the city's iconic buildings creates a truly magical scene, making it a favorite spot for photographers and anyone looking to soak in the city's beauty. Instagram+2

Beyond the skyline, the bridge also provides excellent views of the Schuylkill River and the bustling activity along its banks. The combination of urban architecture and natural river scenery makes for a dynamic and visually appealing landscape. Whether you're an amateur photographer or just appreciate a good view, the South Street Bridge delivers an unforgettable visual experience. Instagram+1

To make the most of your visit for photography, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the skyline. A tripod can also be invaluable for steady shots during low-light conditions, ensuring your photos are sharp and vibrant. Remember to check the weather and sunrise/sunset times to plan your visit accordingly for the best light. Instagram

Connecting to the Schuylkill River Trail

The South Street Bridge serves as a crucial access point to the popular Schuylkill River Trail, a paved multi-use path that runs along the Schuylkill River. This connection allows cyclists, runners, and walkers to easily integrate the bridge into their outdoor activities, extending their routes and enjoying more of Philadelphia's scenic waterfront. Reddit

While the bridge offers convenient access, some users have noted that the transition onto the Schuylkill Path, particularly when heading east, can feel a bit awkward or less intuitive. It's advisable for cyclists and pedestrians to be aware of their surroundings and follow any available signage to ensure a safe and smooth entry onto the trail. Reddit

Despite this minor point, the bridge's role in connecting to the Schuylkill River Trail significantly enhances its appeal as a recreational hub. It provides a fantastic opportunity to combine urban exploration with nature, offering a refreshing escape within the city limits. Reddit

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