Falls Bridge Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites in Philadelphia

Date: 18/08/2024

Introduction

Planning a visit to the historic Falls Bridge in Philadelphia? This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your trip. The Falls Bridge, a Pratt through-truss structure built between 1894 and 1895 by Filbert Porter & Co., is a marvel of late 19th-century engineering. Its rich history, marked by earlier wooden structures that succumbed to natural forces, underscores the resilience and ingenuity of its designers. Located in Fairmount Park, the bridge connects Kelly Drive at Calumet Street with West River Drive at Neill Drive, offering not only a functional crossing but also a glimpse into Philadelphia’s industrial heritage (Workshop of the World, Historic Bridges). Whether you’re interested in its historical significance, architectural features, or simply looking for a scenic spot to explore, this guide covers everything from visiting hours and accessibility to nearby attractions and photography tips.

Table of Contents

History of Falls Bridge

Early Bridges and Their Demise

The history of the Falls Bridge in Philadelphia is marked by a series of earlier structures that succumbed to natural forces and engineering challenges. The first bridge, a covered wooden structure built in 1817, met a dramatic end when it was swept away by icy floodwaters in the winter of 1822 (Workshop of the World). Subsequent wooden bridges were constructed in 1829 and 1849, but these too were eventually destroyed by overloading and the harsh conditions of the Schuylkill River.

Construction of the Current Falls Bridge

The current Falls Bridge, a Pratt through-truss structure, was erected between 1894 and 1895 by Filbert Porter & Co. (Workshop of the World). This bridge was designed with a double-deck configuration in mind, although the upper deck was never built due to excessive costs and the need to displace existing structures. The bridge spans 600 feet in length and 40 feet in width, connecting Kelly Drive at Calumet Street with West River Drive at Neill Drive on the opposite side of the Schuylkill River. The stone masonry abutments and piers have stood the test of time, contributing to the bridge’s longevity.

Engineering and Design

The Falls Bridge is a notable example of late 19th-century engineering. Its Pratt through-truss design is characterized by pin-connected joints and a secondary system of bracing, which provides additional stability (Historic Bridges). The bridge’s overhead segments are exceptionally heavy, a feature that stems from the original double-deck design. This design also resulted in the bridge having massive members for its age, a factor that has likely contributed to its durability.

Historical Significance

The opening of the Falls Bridge in June 1895 was a significant event for Philadelphia, providing a much-needed link between the two sides of the river. The bridge was originally painted in flamboyant colors—buff, red, and white—which added to its visual appeal (Workshop of the World). The bridge’s construction cost $262,000, a substantial sum at the time, especially when compared to the $102,000 cost of the City Avenue Bridge, which was longer but built with private funds (Workshop of the World).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

The Falls Bridge is accessible to the public 24/7 with no admission fee. However, it’s advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and better viewing opportunities.

How to Get There

The Falls Bridge is conveniently located connecting Kelly Drive at Calumet Street with the West River Drive at Neill Drive. Public transport options include buses and nearby train stations, making it easy to reach.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting the Falls Bridge, you can explore nearby attractions such as Fairmount Park, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Boathouse Row.

Accessibility

The bridge and surrounding areas are accessible to visitors with disabilities, with paths and ramps available for easy navigation.

Modern-Day Relevance

Today, the Falls Bridge remains an active part of Philadelphia’s transportation system. It continues to serve vehicular traffic and is a vital link in the city’s infrastructure. The bridge’s historical and engineering significance has been recognized by the Historic American Engineering Record, which conducted a detailed study of the bridge in 1998. This study includes line drawings of the proposed double-decker bridge and photographs taken during its construction (Historic Bridges).

Preservation Efforts

Efforts to preserve the Falls Bridge have been ongoing. The bridge is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and various studies have been conducted to ensure its structural integrity and historical value are maintained. Current plans include lighting the bridge to enhance its aesthetic appeal and highlight its historical significance (Workshop of the World).

Visitor Experience

For visitors, the Falls Bridge offers not only a functional crossing but also a glimpse into Philadelphia’s rich engineering history. The bridge’s robust design and historical context make it a fascinating site for those interested in industrial heritage. The surrounding area, including Fairmount Park, provides additional attractions and scenic views, making a visit to the Falls Bridge a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Falls Bridge? A: The Falls Bridge is open to the public 24/7.

Q: Is there an admission fee to visit the Falls Bridge? A: No, visiting the Falls Bridge is free of charge.

Q: Are there guided tours available for the Falls Bridge? A: Currently, there are no official guided tours, but the historical markers and plaques provide valuable information.

Conclusion

The Falls Bridge stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of late 19th-century engineering. From its historical context, marked by earlier bridges that succumbed to natural forces, to its modern-day relevance as a vital link in Philadelphia’s transportation network, the bridge offers a unique blend of history, scenic beauty, and recreational opportunities. Efforts to preserve the Falls Bridge, including its listing in the National Register of Historic Places and ongoing rehabilitation projects, ensure that this iconic structure will remain a significant part of Philadelphia’s heritage for years to come (Workshop of the World, Historic Bridges). By following the tips and exploring the nearby attractions provided in this guide, you can make the most of your visit to this historical landmark. Don’t forget to download our mobile app Audiala for more historical insights and travel tips, and follow us on social media for the latest updates on Philadelphia’s historical sites.

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
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  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
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  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
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  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
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  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
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  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
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  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
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  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
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Joseph H. Brown Elementary School
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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
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Liacouras Center
Liberty Bell
Liberty Bell
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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
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  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
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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
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  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
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  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
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  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
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  St. Mary'S Roman Catholic Church
| St. Mary'S Roman Catholic Church
St Nicholas Of Tolentine, Philadelphia
St Nicholas Of Tolentine, Philadelphia
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  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
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Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
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The Tla
The University Of The Arts
The University Of The Arts
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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
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  Tony Luke'S
| Tony Luke'S
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Torresdale
Torresdale Playground
Torresdale Playground
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Towey Playground
Trenton And Auburn Playground
Trenton And Auburn Playground
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Trocadero Theatre
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Tulpehocken
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Universal Alcorn Charter Elementary School
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Universal Creighton Charter School
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Universal Vare Charter School
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University Of Pennsylvania
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University Of Pennsylvania Museum Of Archaeology And Anthropology
University Of The Sciences In Philadelphia
University Of The Sciences In Philadelphia
Upsal
Upsal
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Uss Becuna
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Uss John F. Kennedy
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Uss Olympia
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Valley Green Inn
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Vare Playground
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Veterans Stadium
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Vietnam Memorial
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Vogt Playground
Walnut Street Theatre
Walnut Street Theatre
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Walt Whitman Bridge
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Walter George Smith School
Walton Run Park
Walton Run Park
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Wanamaker Organ
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Washington Lane
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Washington Monument
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Washington Square
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Waterloo Playground
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Waterview Recreation Center
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Wayne Junction
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Webster Playground
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Weccacoe Playground
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Weinberg Park
Weitzman National Museum Of American Jewish History
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William H. Harrison School
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William S. Peirce School
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William T. Tilden Middle School
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Wilma Theater
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Wingohocking Park
Wissahickon Hall
Wissahickon Hall
Wissahickon Neighbors Playground
Wissahickon Neighbors Playground
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Wissahickon Playground
Wissahickon Valley Park
Wissahickon Valley Park
Wissinoming Park
Wissinoming Park
Wissinoming Station
Wissinoming Station
Wister
Wister
Wister Woods Park
Wister Woods Park
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  Woman'S Medical College Of Pennsylvania
| Woman'S Medical College Of Pennsylvania
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Womrath Park
Woodland Terrace
Woodland Terrace
Woodmere Art Museum
Woodmere Art Museum
Woodrow Wilson Middle School
Woodrow Wilson Middle School
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Wyndmoor
Wyndmoor
Zahav
Zahav
Ziehler Playground
Ziehler Playground