Dickens and Little Nell in Philadelphia: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Historical Background and Significance

In the heart of Clark Park, within Philadelphia’s lively Spruce Hill neighborhood, stands the “Dickens and Little Nell” statue—a singular tribute to the literary giant Charles Dickens and his beloved character Little Nell from The Old Curiosity Shop. Crafted by American sculptor Francis Edwin Elwell in 1890, this award-winning bronze statue is remarkable for its artistry and its status as the only known public monument worldwide to feature Dickens himself and a fictional character (Philadelphia Public Art).

Dickens had explicitly requested no monuments in his honor, leading to a circuitous journey for the statue: after being rejected by London and Dickens’s family, it was accepted by Philadelphia in 1901. Today, it stands not only as a testament to Dickens’s global influence, but also as a symbol of Philadelphia’s commitment to literary culture and public art (Atlas Obscura).

This comprehensive guide explores the statue’s history, artistic importance, practical visitor information, and nearby cultural attractions, offering insights for literature enthusiasts and travelers alike (Association for Public Art).

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Origins and Creation of Dickens and Little Nell
  3. The Statue’s Journey to Philadelphia
  4. Artistic and Cultural Significance
  5. Visiting the Dickens and Little Nell Statue: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
  6. Philadelphia’s Tradition of Literary Monuments
  7. Preservation and Community Engagement
  8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
  9. Conclusion
  10. References

Origins and Creation of Dickens and Little Nell

The “Dickens and Little Nell” statue was sculpted in 1890 by Francis Edwin Elwell, an acclaimed American artist. The bronze work was first displayed at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, where it won a gold medal for its exceptional artistic quality (Smithsonian Institution). Elwell’s composition portrays a contemplative Charles Dickens seated, with Little Nell, the innocent heroine from The Old Curiosity Shop, leaning gently on his knee—symbolizing the enduring connection between author and creation.


The Statue’s Journey to Philadelphia

After its debut in Chicago, Elwell offered the statue to London as a fitting tribute to Dickens. However, honoring Dickens’s wishes as outlined in his will, both his family and the city declined. The statue ultimately found a permanent home in Philadelphia, accepted by the Fairmount Park Art Association and installed in Clark Park in 1901. This journey adds depth to its significance, making it not only a rare artistic achievement but also a testament to the complex relationship between public memory and literary legacy (Atlas Obscura; Association for Public Art).


Artistic and Cultural Significance

As the only known public monument to Dickens worldwide, the statue is exceptional for both its subject matter and execution. The figures—Dickens in thoughtful repose and Little Nell with an air of innocence—invite reflection on themes of authorship, compassion, and the redemptive power of literature. The granite pedestal features an inscription from The Old Curiosity Shop, further linking the monument to Dickens’s literary impact (Philadelphia Public Art).

Since its installation, the statue has become an emblem of the Spruce Hill neighborhood and a focal point for community events, especially on Dickens’s birthday.


Visiting the Dickens and Little Nell Statue: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Location

  • Clark Park: 43rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Visiting Hours

  • Park Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • The statue is accessible during park hours. Nighttime visits are not recommended due to limited lighting.

Tickets and Admission

  • Admission: Free. No tickets are required.

Accessibility and Directions

  • Wheelchair Access: Clark Park features paved, accessible paths leading to the statue.
  • Public Transit: Reachable by SEPTA trolley lines (Routes 11, 13, 34, 36) and nearby bus routes.
  • Parking: Limited street parking nearby; public transit is recommended for convenience.

Travel Tips

  • Visit during spring or fall for pleasant weather and community events.
  • Saturdays are lively thanks to the year-round farmers’ market.
  • Bring a camera for photos, especially during early morning or late afternoon light.

Nearby Attractions

  • University City: Includes the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University campuses, with museums and gardens nearby.
  • The Rosenbach Museum & Library: Houses rare Dickens manuscripts and offers literary events (The Rosenbach).
  • Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site: Another literary landmark in Philadelphia.
  • Baltimore Avenue: Known for its vibrant murals, cafes, and shops.

Special Events and Tours

  • Annual Dickens Birthday Celebration: Held each February, featuring readings, Victorian-era treats, and traditional performances.
  • Farmers’ Market: Saturdays year-round, offering local produce and artisanal goods.
  • Community Fairs and Performances: Including outdoor movies, concerts, and festivals hosted in Clark Park.
  • Guided Literary Tours: Some literary walking tours in Philadelphia include the statue as a highlight (Friends of Clark Park).

Philadelphia’s Tradition of Literary Monuments

Philadelphia’s embrace of the Dickens statue reflects a broader commitment to public art and literary heritage. The city’s parks and public spaces feature monuments that celebrate figures from across the arts, reinforcing Philadelphia’s reputation as a center of cultural memory and civic pride (Association for Public Art).


Preservation and Community Engagement

Despite initial controversy regarding Dickens’s wishes, the statue has been lovingly maintained by local organizations. A significant restoration was completed in 1989, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The statue continues to be a focal point for community engagement, educational programs, and cultural festivities (Association for Public Art).


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Dickens and Little Nell statue?
A: The statue is accessible during Clark Park’s open hours, 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

Q: Is there an admission fee or are tickets required?
A: No. The statue and park are free and open to the public.

Q: Is the statue site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes. Paved pathways make the statue accessible.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Some literary walking tours include the statue; special events may offer guided experiences.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: The Rosenbach Museum & Library, University City campuses, and Baltimore Avenue shops and cafes.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Yes, pets on leashes are welcome in Clark Park.


Conclusion

The “Dickens and Little Nell” statue stands as a powerful symbol of literary legacy and community spirit. Its unique story—rooted in Dickens’s personal wishes, transatlantic artistic exchange, and Philadelphia’s embrace—makes it a must-see for literature lovers and cultural explorers. With free, accessible visiting hours and a vibrant neighborhood setting, the statue offers a meaningful experience for all.

To enrich your visit, take advantage of special events, explore nearby attractions, and consider using the Audiala app for immersive audio tours. Plan your trip today and connect with Philadelphia’s rich tapestry of history, art, and literature.


References


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