Old City, the historic heart of Philadelphia, is considered the birthplace of American democracy. Many of the monuments and installations in this area reflect the complex stories of our nation’s past, all within walking distance of iconic landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

Not far from Center City on the other side of the Schuylkill River is University City in West Philadelphia. Accessible via 30th Street Station, this area is home to a number of colleges and universities, including the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. Many of the artworks on this tour are part of the University of Pennsylvania Art Collection.

Built in 1979 on the site of the former Horticultural Hall and 1876 Centennial Exposition building, the Horticulture Center is a modern exhibition hall and greenhouse in West Fairmount Park. Hours: 8am-6pm, April-October; 8am-5pm, November-March.

The Parkway’s renowned public art collection visually parallels the history of American sculpture. Running from the heart of Center City at City Hall to Fairmount Park at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Parkway has steadily evolved since the early 20th century as the city’s cultural mecca of art museums, educational institutions, and public artworks.

A remarkable collection of outdoor sculpture and Philadelphia’s historic Boathouse Row can be found along Kelly Drive, which follows the Schuylkill River through Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park. The Trail is an ideal spot for walking, jogging, or biking.

Alexander Milne Calder’s colossal statue of William Penn stands atop City Hall, which covers four and a half acres in the heart of Center City. An artwork in itself with over 250 sculptures primarily attributed to Milne Calder, City Hall is surrounded by notable sculptures such as Claes Oldenburg’s “Clothespin.”

Both the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the Philadelphia Museum of Art were completed in the 1920s, and since that time an impressive collection of outdoor sculpture has been placed in this area.

Some of Philadelphia’s most beloved outdoor sculptures were realized through the support of civic-minded Philadelphians. A selection of these artworks can be viewed in Rittenhouse Square, one of the five original squares planned by William Penn in the 1600’s.