Split Button

Split Button Philadelphia Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Philadelphia’s University of Pennsylvania campus features a remarkable piece of public art—The Split Button, affectionately known as “The Button.” Created by artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen in 1981, this monumental 16-foot aluminum sculpture transforms a simple, everyday object into a symbol deeply tied to Philadelphia’s geography, history, and campus traditions. Located in the heart of University City, The Split Button is not only a striking artwork but also a vibrant gathering spot, a point of campus pride, and a gateway to exploring the city’s rich cultural offerings (Frankly Penn, Association for Public Art, Penn Campus Monuments).

This detailed guide covers everything visitors need to know about The Split Button: practical information, historical background, nearby attractions, accessibility, and its enduring place in Philadelphia’s public art scene.

Introduction
Practical Visitor Information
Location and Visiting Hours
Admission and Accessibility
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Guided Tours and Special Events
History and Artistic Significance
Commissioning and Installation
Oldenburg’s Vision and Symbolism
Campus Traditions, Myths, and Preservation
The Split Button in Philadelphia’s Public Art Landscape
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Sources and Official Links

Practical Visitor Information

Location and Visiting Hours

Location: The Split Button is located on Locust Walk, directly in front of the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center at 3420 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, on the University of Pennsylvania campus. It is easily accessible by public transportation, a short walk from the 34th Street subway station on the Market-Frankford Line.

Visiting Hours: The sculpture is outdoors and freely accessible to the public 24 hours a day, year-round. For optimal lighting and safety, visiting between 8 a.m. and dusk is recommended.

Admission and Accessibility

Admission: No tickets or fees are required; The Split Button is always free to visit.
Accessibility: The site is fully wheelchair accessible via wide, paved walkways and nearby accessible parking. For detailed accessibility info, visit UPenn Visitor Services.
Parking: Metered street parking and several garages (e.g., Walnut 38 Garage, Penn Museum Garage) are available. Bike racks are provided throughout campus.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Public Transit: SEPTA buses, trolleys, and subways serve the University City area.
Best Times to Visit: Spring and fall offer comfortable weather and fewer crowds. Early morning and late afternoon light are best for photography.
Nearby Landmarks:
- Benjamin Franklin Statue: Steps from the sculpture, honoring Penn’s founder.
- Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center: The university’s main library.
- Penn Museum: World-class archaeology and anthropology collections.
- Philadelphia Museum of Art: A short ride away; home to the Rocky Steps.
- Locust Walk: A scenic, historic pedestrian path.
- Food and Drink: Numerous cafés, food trucks, and restaurants in University City.

Guided Tours and Special Events

University of Pennsylvania campus tours often include The Split Button as a highlight. During major events such as commencement, homecoming, and orientation, the plaza around the sculpture becomes especially lively with student gatherings and celebrations. Check the university’s events calendar for updates.

History and Artistic Significance

Commissioning and Installation

The Split Button was commissioned as part of Philadelphia’s commitment to integrating public art into urban spaces, funded through the city’s Percent for Art program (Association for Public Art). Installed in 1981 and made of painted aluminum, the sculpture measures 16 feet in diameter and weighs around 5,000 pounds (Frankly Penn).

Oldenburg’s Vision and Symbolism

Claes Oldenburg, celebrated for monumental versions of everyday items, designed The Split Button with layered symbolism:

Split Design: Represents the Schuylkill River dividing Philadelphia.
Four Segments: Reference William Penn’s original city plan with four squares.
Proximity to Franklin Statue: A playful nod, fueling campus lore about the button popping from Ben Franklin’s vest (web.sas.upenn.edu).
Material and Scale: The industrial aluminum and oversized form evoke Philadelphia’s manufacturing heritage and challenge perceptions of public monuments.

Public Reception: The Split Button initially faced controversy over its scale and whimsical nature, especially among those who preferred more traditional monuments. Over time, it has become a cherished campus icon and a central part of Penn’s collective memory (pennds.org).

Campus Traditions, Myths, and Preservation

Campus Culture and Lore

Meeting Spot: “Under the button” is a common phrase for arranging meetups.
Traditions: Students walk through The Button’s split for good luck before exams.
Folklore: Legend holds that the nearby Franklin statue “lost” its button, which landed and split open where the sculpture stands.
Photo Opportunities: The sculpture is a popular backdrop for graduation and campus photos, and its interactive design encourages creative engagement.

Preservation

Recognizing its cultural significance, the university maintains The Split Button with regular cleaning and restoration efforts to preserve its painted surface and structural integrity (Association for Public Art).

The Split Button in Philadelphia’s Public Art Landscape

Philadelphia is renowned for its vibrant public art, with over 4,000 murals and sculptures citywide (freewallphiladelphia.org). The Split Button stands alongside other Oldenburg works like the Clothespin, contributing to ongoing conversations about the role of public art, funding, and creativity in urban environments.

The sculpture’s playful, accessible design demystifies contemporary art, inviting interpretation and conversation among visitors of all ages. Its visibility on social media and in campus publications has further cemented its place as a Philadelphia landmark (pocketsights.com).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Split Button’s visiting hours?
A: The sculpture is outdoors and accessible 24/7, year-round.

Q: Is there an admission fee or ticket required?
A: No, The Split Button is free and open to the public.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: University of Pennsylvania campus tours often feature The Split Button; self-guided tours are available via mobile apps like GPSmyCity (gpsmycity.com).

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with paved walkways and accessible parking nearby.

Q: Can I take photos at the sculpture?
A: Yes, photography is welcome. Please do not climb on the sculpture for safety reasons.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: Van Pelt Library, the Benjamin Franklin statue, Penn Museum, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and many dining options in University City.

Conclusion

The Split Button is more than a whimsical artwork—it’s a symbol of Philadelphia’s dynamic culture, Penn’s innovative spirit, and the power of public art to engage and inspire. Free, accessible, and centrally located, The Button is a must-see for students, art lovers, and anyone exploring Philadelphia’s rich array of historical and cultural landmarks.