C
Communications Technology High School building in Philadelphia, USA

Communications Technology High School Philadelphia: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Communications Technology High School (Comm Tech) in Philadelphia is a remarkable emblem of the city’s storied legacy in vocational and technical education. Though no longer an active educational institution, the school’s distinctive Late Gothic Revival architecture and its pivotal role in the evolution of public schooling make it a notable destination for history enthusiasts, architecture admirers, and those interested in Philadelphia’s educational landscape. This guide offers comprehensive information about the school’s historical significance, visitor logistics, accessibility, nearby attractions, and resources to enhance your exploration of this Philadelphia landmark. For further details, consult the School District of Philadelphia, Workshop of the World, and Visit Philly.

Table of Contents

Historical Context

Public Education in Philadelphia

Philadelphia has a distinguished reputation as a pioneer in American public education, with its commitment to accessible schooling dating back to the 18th century. The city’s early free schools laid the groundwork for what would become a robust public education system, expanding rapidly during the city’s industrial boom (Workshop of the World).

Rise of Vocational and Technical Schools

At the height of its industrial might in the early 20th century, Philadelphia needed a steady supply of skilled labor. The city’s diverse industrial base led to the establishment of specialized vocational and technical high schools, preparing generations of students for careers in manufacturing, media, and technology (Workshop of the World).

The Story of Communications Technology High School

Constructed in 1926–1927 and originally named the George Wolf School (after Pennsylvania’s “father” of public education), the building later evolved into Communications Technology High School, also known as Comm Tech. Serving Southwest Philadelphia for over 80 years, the school’s curriculum adapted to include hands-on training in radio, television, telecommunications, and digital media. Its architectural and educational significance was recognized with its placement on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988 (Kenopsia Explorers, Wikipedia).


Visiting Information

Location and Directions

  • Address: 8110 Lyons Avenue, Southwest Philadelphia, Hedgerow neighborhood
  • Transit Access: Reachable via SEPTA’s Route 36 Trolley and bus Routes 37, 108, and several 400-series lines (SEPTA)
  • Parking: Limited street parking available; visitors should observe local regulations

Current Status and Site Access

Since its closure in 2013 as part of citywide school consolidations, Communications Technology High School has remained vacant. Plans to redevelop the building into a community center have not materialized as of early 2025 (Kenopsia Explorers, Wikipedia). The building is not open for interior tours or events. Visitors can admire the exterior from public sidewalks, but entry is strictly prohibited.

Accessibility

  • Sidewalks: Generally accessible, though some areas may have uneven pavement or limited curb cuts.
  • Restrooms and Facilities: None available onsite; for amenities, consult the Philadelphia Visitor Center at 1601 Market Street.

Nearby Attractions

While the school itself is closed, Southwest Philadelphia and the greater city offer a wealth of historic and cultural sites. Consider visiting:

  • Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
  • The Wagner Free Institute of Science
  • Local parks and neighborhood cultural centers

For a full slate of city attractions, see Visit Philly.


Architectural Highlights

Designed by Irwin T. Catharine, the three-story yellow brick building is a signature example of Late Gothic Revival school architecture. Notable features include:

  • Stone-surrounded arched main entrance
  • Two-story projecting stone bay window
  • Crenellated parapet
  • Raised basement and projecting end bays

These elements contribute to the building’s historic character and visual appeal, making it a favorite for architectural photography and exploration from the exterior (Kenopsia Explorers).


Planning Your Visit

  • Exterior Viewing Only: Respect all signage and do not attempt entry.
  • Photography: Permitted from public areas; for commercial shoots, obtain permits from the City of Philadelphia.
  • Safety: The surrounding residential area is generally safe, but daytime visits are recommended.

For those interested in the broader context of Philadelphia’s educational and architectural heritage, guided city walks and audio tours—such as those offered via the Audiala app—can enhance your experience.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I tour the interior of Communications Technology High School?
No. The building is closed to the public, and interior access is prohibited.

Is parking available?
Yes, limited street parking is available nearby. Always follow posted regulations.

What public transit serves the site?
SEPTA’s Route 36 Trolley and bus lines (37, 108, 400-series) serve the area (SEPTA).

Are there any events at the school?
No current events take place at the building. Check with local community organizations for history walks and talks.

Is the site accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Public sidewalks are generally accessible, but there may be some uneven surfaces. No onsite facilities are available.


Conclusion

Communications Technology High School remains a significant symbol of Philadelphia’s commitment to innovation in education and the city’s industrial heritage. Although closed to the public, its striking architecture and storied past make it a worthy exterior stop for those exploring the city’s historic educational sites. To fully appreciate Philadelphia’s rich legacy, pair your visit with nearby attractions and stay informed on any redevelopment updates through official city channels.

For curated audio tours and up-to-date information, download the Audiala app and follow relevant social media channels.


References and Further Reading


  • [Top Historic Schools to Visit in Philadelphia]
  • [Philadelphia Architectural Landmarks You Can’t Miss]
  • [Guide to Philadelphia Public Transportation for Tourists]

Visuals


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Philadelphia

13Th Street
13Th Street
15Th Street
15Th Street
22Nd Street
22Nd Street
2300 Arena
2300 Arena
30Th Street
30Th Street
30Th Street Station
30Th Street Station
49Th Street
49Th Street
8Th Street Station
8Th Street Station
Abigail Vare School
Abigail Vare School
Academy At Palumbo
Academy At Palumbo
Academy Of Music
Academy Of Music
Academy Of Natural Sciences Of Drexel University
Academy Of Natural Sciences Of Drexel University
African American Museum In Philadelphia
African American Museum In Philadelphia
Alexander Dallas Bache School
Alexander Dallas Bache School
Alexander K. Mcclure School
Alexander K. Mcclure School
Alternative Middle Years At James Martin School
Alternative Middle Years At James Martin School
American Board Of Internal Medicine
American Board Of Internal Medicine
American Philosophical Society
American Philosophical Society
American Swedish Historical Museum
American Swedish Historical Museum
Amy Northwest Middle School
Amy Northwest Middle School
Andrew J. Morrison School
Andrew J. Morrison School
Angora
Angora
Arden Theatre Company
Arden Theatre Company
Athenaeum Of Philadelphia
Athenaeum Of Philadelphia
Baker Bowl
Baker Bowl
Baptist Temple
Baptist Temple
Barnes Foundation
Barnes Foundation
Bartholdi Fountain
Bartholdi Fountain
|
  Bartram'S Garden
| Bartram'S Garden
Basilica Shrine Of Our Lady Of The Miraculous Medal
Basilica Shrine Of Our Lady Of The Miraculous Medal
Belmont Charter School
Belmont Charter School
Belmont Mansion
Belmont Mansion
Benjamin Franklin Academics Plus School
Benjamin Franklin Academics Plus School
Benjamin Franklin Bridge
Benjamin Franklin Bridge
Benjamin Franklin National Memorial
Benjamin Franklin National Memorial
Betsy Ross Bridge
Betsy Ross Bridge
Betsy Ross House
Betsy Ross House
Bny Mellon Center
Bny Mellon Center
Boathouse Row
Boathouse Row
Bodine High School For International Affairs
Bodine High School For International Affairs
Bridesburg
Bridesburg
Carpenter
Carpenter
|
  Carpenters' Hall
| Carpenters' Hall
Cedar Grove Christian Academy
Cedar Grove Christian Academy
Centennial National Bank
Centennial National Bank
Center City Commuter Connection
Center City Commuter Connection
Charles W. Henry School
Charles W. Henry School
Chelten Avenue
Chelten Avenue
Chestnut Hill East
Chestnut Hill East
Chestnut Hill West
Chestnut Hill West
Chestnut Street Opera House
Chestnut Street Opera House
Chestnut Street Theatre
Chestnut Street Theatre
Chief Justice John Marshall
Chief Justice John Marshall
|
  Children'S Hospital Of Philadelphia
| Children'S Hospital Of Philadelphia
Christ Church Burial Ground
Christ Church Burial Ground
Christ Church, Philadelphia
Christ Church, Philadelphia
Church Of St. James The Less
Church Of St. James The Less
Church Of The Gesú
Church Of The Gesú
Citizens Bank Park
Citizens Bank Park
Civil War Museum Of Philadelphia
Civil War Museum Of Philadelphia
College Boat Club
College Boat Club
Columbia Park
Columbia Park
Comcast Center
Comcast Center
Comcast Technology Center
Comcast Technology Center
Communications Technology High School
Communications Technology High School
|
  Congregation B'Nai Abraham
| Congregation B'Nai Abraham
Congress Hall
Congress Hall
Conwell Middle Magnet School
Conwell Middle Magnet School
David Landreth School
David Landreth School
Delair Bridge
Delair Bridge
Delaware Generating Station
Delaware Generating Station
Dickens And Little Nell
Dickens And Little Nell
Dimner Beeber Middle School
Dimner Beeber Middle School
Drexel University
Drexel University
East Falls
East Falls
Eastern State Penitentiary
Eastern State Penitentiary
Eastwick
Eastwick
Ebenezer Maxwell House
Ebenezer Maxwell House
Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site
Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site
Edward W. Bok Technical High School
Edward W. Bok Technical High School
Edwin Fitler Academics Plus School
Edwin Fitler Academics Plus School
|
  Elfreth'S Alley
| Elfreth'S Alley
Emlen Elementary School
Emlen Elementary School
Fairmount Park
Fairmount Park
Fairmount Water Works
Fairmount Water Works
Falls Bridge
Falls Bridge
Federal Reserve Bank Of Philadelphia
Federal Reserve Bank Of Philadelphia
Fern Rock Transportation Center
Fern Rock Transportation Center
First Bank Of The United States
First Bank Of The United States
First Presbyterian Church Of Germantown
First Presbyterian Church Of Germantown
First Unitarian Church Of Philadelphia
First Unitarian Church Of Philadelphia
Fisher Fine Arts Library
Fisher Fine Arts Library
Fishers
Fishers
Forest Hills
Forest Hills
Forrest Theatre
Forrest Theatre
Fort Mifflin
Fort Mifflin
Fox Chase
Fox Chase
Frances E. Willard School
Frances E. Willard School
Frankford Arsenal
Frankford Arsenal
Frankford Junction
Frankford Junction
Frankford Transportation Center
Frankford Transportation Center
Franklin Court
Franklin Court
Franklin Institute
Franklin Institute
Franklin Square
Franklin Square
George W. Childs School
George W. Childs School
Germantown
Germantown
Germantown Church Of The Brethren
Germantown Church Of The Brethren
Germantown Cricket Club
Germantown Cricket Club
Germantown White House
Germantown White House
Girard Point Bridge
Girard Point Bridge
|
  Gloria Dei (Old Swedes') Church
| Gloria Dei (Old Swedes') Church
Gravers
Gravers
Grumblethorpe
Grumblethorpe
G.W. Childs Elementary School
G.W. Childs Elementary School
Hahnemann University Hospital
Hahnemann University Hospital
Hardy Williams Academy
Hardy Williams Academy
Henry C. Lea School
Henry C. Lea School
Henry H. Houston Elementary School
Henry H. Houston Elementary School
Highland
Highland
Hill-Physick-Keith House
Hill-Physick-Keith House
Historic Rittenhousetown
Historic Rittenhousetown
Holy Trinity Church
Holy Trinity Church
Hospital Of The University Of Pennsylvania
Hospital Of The University Of Pennsylvania
Independence Hall
Independence Hall
Independence National Historical Park
Independence National Historical Park
Independence Seaport Museum
Independence Seaport Museum
Institute Of Contemporary Art, Philadelphia
Institute Of Contemporary Art, Philadelphia
Irish Memorial
Irish Memorial
Irvine Auditorium
Irvine Auditorium
Ivy Ridge Station
Ivy Ridge Station
James Dobson Elementary School
James Dobson Elementary School
Japanese House And Garden
Japanese House And Garden
Jefferson Station
Jefferson Station
|
  Jewelers' Row
| Jewelers' Row
John F. Kennedy Stadium
John F. Kennedy Stadium
John Greenleaf Whittier School
John Greenleaf Whittier School
John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge At Tinicum
John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge At Tinicum
John M. Patterson School
John M. Patterson School
Johnson House Historic Site
Johnson House Historic Site
Joseph H. Brown Elementary School
Joseph H. Brown Elementary School
Joseph Pennell School
Joseph Pennell School
Kensington High School
Kensington High School
Kimmel Center For The Performing Arts
Kimmel Center For The Performing Arts
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Korean War Veterans Memorial
La Salle University
La Salle University
La Salle University Art Museum
La Salle University Art Museum
Lantern Theater Company
Lantern Theater Company
Laurel Hill Cemetery
Laurel Hill Cemetery
Lawndale
Lawndale
Lemon Hill
Lemon Hill
Lenni
Lenni
Liacouras Center
Liacouras Center
Liberty Bell
Liberty Bell
Liberty Place
Liberty Place
Library Company Of Philadelphia
Library Company Of Philadelphia
Lincoln Financial Field
Lincoln Financial Field
Logan Circle
Logan Circle
Love Park
Love Park
Manayunk
Manayunk
Marian Anderson House
Marian Anderson House
Mastery Charter School Thomas Campus
Mastery Charter School Thomas Campus
Mechanicsville School
Mechanicsville School
Meiklejohn Stadium
Meiklejohn Stadium
Memphis Street Academy
Memphis Street Academy
Merion Botanical Park
Merion Botanical Park
Merriam Theater
Merriam Theater
Meyerson Hall
Meyerson Hall
Morris Arboretum
Morris Arboretum
Moshulu
Moshulu
Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church
Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church
Mount Airy
Mount Airy
Mount Moriah Cemetery
Mount Moriah Cemetery
Mount Vernon Cemetery
Mount Vernon Cemetery
Mummers Museum
Mummers Museum
Museum Of The American Revolution
Museum Of The American Revolution
Mütter Museum
Mütter Museum
National Constitution Center
National Constitution Center
National Liberty Museum
National Liberty Museum
Ned Wolf Park
Ned Wolf Park
North Broad
North Broad
North Philadelphia Station
North Philadelphia Station
Old City
Old City
Old City Hall
Old City Hall
|
  Old St. Joseph'S Church
| Old St. Joseph'S Church
Olney
Olney
Olney Transportation Center
Olney Transportation Center
Overbrook
Overbrook
Overbrook Elementary School
Overbrook Elementary School
Painted Bride Art Center
Painted Bride Art Center
Parkway Center City High School
Parkway Center City High School
Parkway West High School
Parkway West High School
Penn Medicine Station
Penn Medicine Station
Penn Presbyterian Medical Center
Penn Presbyterian Medical Center
Pennsylvania Academy Of The Fine Arts
Pennsylvania Academy Of The Fine Arts
Pennsylvania Hospital
Pennsylvania Hospital
Philadelphia Charter School For Arts And Sciences
Philadelphia Charter School For Arts And Sciences
Philadelphia City Hall
Philadelphia City Hall
Philadelphia Convention Hall And Civic Center
Philadelphia Convention Hall And Civic Center
Philadelphia Cricket Club
Philadelphia Cricket Club
Philadelphia History Museum
Philadelphia History Museum
Philadelphia International Airport
Philadelphia International Airport
Philadelphia International Airport Stations
Philadelphia International Airport Stations
Philadelphia Mint
Philadelphia Mint
Philadelphia Museum Of Art
Philadelphia Museum Of Art
Philadelphia Naval Shipyard
Philadelphia Naval Shipyard
Philadelphia University
Philadelphia University
Philadelphia Zoo
Philadelphia Zoo
|
  Philadelphia'S Magic Gardens
| Philadelphia'S Magic Gardens
Philip H. Sheridan School
Philip H. Sheridan School
Please Touch Museum
Please Touch Museum
Powel House
Powel House
|
  President'S House
| President'S House
Prince Music Theater
Prince Music Theater
Queen Lane
Queen Lane
Ralph Brooks Park
Ralph Brooks Park
Ramp Playground
Ramp Playground
Reading Terminal
Reading Terminal
Reyburn Park
Reyburn Park
Richards Medical Research Laboratories
Richards Medical Research Laboratories
Richardson L. Wright School
Richardson L. Wright School
Richmond Playground
Richmond Playground
River Field
River Field
Rocky Statue
Rocky Statue
Rodin Museum
Rodin Museum
Romanian Folk Art Museum
Romanian Folk Art Museum
Roosevelt Playground
Roosevelt Playground
Rose Playground
Rose Playground
Rosenbach Museum & Library
Rosenbach Museum & Library
Russo Park Playground
Russo Park Playground
Ryerss Mansion
Ryerss Mansion
Sacks Playground
Sacks Playground
|
  Saint Joseph'S University
| Saint Joseph'S University
Science History Institute
Science History Institute
Scotts Playground
Scotts Playground
Second Bank Of The United States
Second Bank Of The United States
Sedgwick
Sedgwick
Seger Park Playground
Seger Park Playground
Shevchenko Park
Shevchenko Park
Shibe Park
Shibe Park
Sigma Sound Studios
Sigma Sound Studios
Smedley Elementary School
Smedley Elementary School
Smith Playground
Smith Playground
Society Hill Synagogue
Society Hill Synagogue
Somerton
Somerton
Spectrum
Spectrum
Split Button
Split Button
Spring Garden Street Station
Spring Garden Street Station
Ss United States
Ss United States
St. Agatha – St. James Church
St. Agatha – St. James Church
St. Anthony De Padua Parish School
St. Anthony De Padua Parish School
St. Augustine Church, Philadelphia
St. Augustine Church, Philadelphia
St. Joachim Church, Philadelphia
St. Joachim Church, Philadelphia
St. Martins
St. Martins
|
  St. Mary'S Roman Catholic Church
| St. Mary'S Roman Catholic Church
St Nicholas Of Tolentine, Philadelphia
St Nicholas Of Tolentine, Philadelphia
|
  St. Peter'S Episcopal Church
| St. Peter'S Episcopal Church
Starr Garden Playground
Starr Garden Playground
Statue Of Benjamin Franklin
Statue Of Benjamin Franklin
Statue Of George Whitefield
Statue Of George Whitefield
Stenton
Stenton
Stenton Park
Stenton Park
Stinger Square
Stinger Square
Stokley Playground
Stokley Playground
Strawberry Mansion
Strawberry Mansion
Sturgis Playground
Sturgis Playground
Suburban Station
Suburban Station
Swann Memorial Fountain
Swann Memorial Fountain
Tacony
Tacony
Tacony Creek Park
Tacony Creek Park
Temple University
Temple University
Temple University Hospital
Temple University Hospital
Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
The Tla
The Tla
The University Of The Arts
The University Of The Arts
The Wharton School
The Wharton School
The Woodlands
The Woodlands
Thomas Jefferson University
Thomas Jefferson University
Thomas Jefferson University Hospital
Thomas Jefferson University Hospital
Thomas Mill Covered Bridge
Thomas Mill Covered Bridge
Tiptop Playground
Tiptop Playground
|
  Tony Luke'S
| Tony Luke'S
Torresdale
Torresdale
Torresdale Playground
Torresdale Playground
Towey Playground
Towey Playground
Trenton And Auburn Playground
Trenton And Auburn Playground
Trocadero Theatre
Trocadero Theatre
Tulpehocken
Tulpehocken
Universal Alcorn Charter Elementary School
Universal Alcorn Charter Elementary School
Universal Creighton Charter School
Universal Creighton Charter School
Universal Vare Charter School
Universal Vare Charter School
University Of Pennsylvania
University Of Pennsylvania
University Of Pennsylvania Museum Of Archaeology And Anthropology
University Of Pennsylvania Museum Of Archaeology And Anthropology
University Of The Sciences In Philadelphia
University Of The Sciences In Philadelphia
Upsal
Upsal
Uss Becuna
Uss Becuna
Uss John F. Kennedy
Uss John F. Kennedy
Uss Olympia
Uss Olympia
Valley Green Inn
Valley Green Inn
Vare Playground
Vare Playground
Veterans Stadium
Veterans Stadium
Vietnam Memorial
Vietnam Memorial
Vogt Playground
Vogt Playground
Walnut Street Theatre
Walnut Street Theatre
Walt Whitman Bridge
Walt Whitman Bridge
Walter George Smith School
Walter George Smith School
Walton Run Park
Walton Run Park
Wanamaker Organ
Wanamaker Organ
Washington Lane
Washington Lane
Washington Monument
Washington Monument
Washington Square
Washington Square
Waterloo Playground
Waterloo Playground
Waterview Recreation Center
Waterview Recreation Center
Wayne Junction
Wayne Junction
Webster Playground
Webster Playground
Weccacoe Playground
Weccacoe Playground
Weinberg Park
Weinberg Park
Weitzman National Museum Of American Jewish History
Weitzman National Museum Of American Jewish History
Wells Fargo Center
Wells Fargo Center
West Mill Creek Playground
West Mill Creek Playground
William H. Harrison School
William H. Harrison School
William S. Peirce School
William S. Peirce School
William T. Tilden Middle School
William T. Tilden Middle School
William W. Axe School
William W. Axe School
Wilma Theater
Wilma Theater
Wingohocking Park
Wingohocking Park
Wissahickon Hall
Wissahickon Hall
Wissahickon Neighbors Playground
Wissahickon Neighbors Playground
Wissahickon Playground
Wissahickon Playground
Wissahickon Valley Park
Wissahickon Valley Park
Wissinoming Park
Wissinoming Park
Wissinoming Station
Wissinoming Station
Wister
Wister
Wister Woods Park
Wister Woods Park
|
  Woman'S Medical College Of Pennsylvania
| Woman'S Medical College Of Pennsylvania
Womrath Park
Womrath Park
Woodland Terrace
Woodland Terrace
Woodmere Art Museum
Woodmere Art Museum
Woodrow Wilson Middle School
Woodrow Wilson Middle School
Wyck House
Wyck House
Wyndmoor
Wyndmoor
Zahav
Zahav
Ziehler Playground
Ziehler Playground