Historic Pennsylvania Institution for the Deaf and Dumb building at Broad and Pine Streets, Philadelphia

The University Of The Arts

University of the Arts Philadelphia Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Located on Philadelphia’s renowned Avenue of the Arts, the University of the Arts (UArts) has been a fixture of the city’s creative and cultural landscape for nearly 150 years. Originally established in 1876 as the Pennsylvania Museum and School of Industrial Art, UArts evolved through a series of mergers that included the Philadelphia Conservatory of Music and the Philadelphia College of Art. Although the university closed in June 2024, its architectural landmarks, alumni legacy, and the vibrant arts community surrounding its historic campus continue to shape the city’s identity. This guide offers comprehensive details for visitors, including campus history, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a tourist, or exploring Philadelphia’s cultural sites, this resource will help you make the most of your visit.

For up-to-date details on visitor access, cultural events, and virtual experiences, consult official sources: University of the Arts Official Visitor Info and Philadelphia Tourism Official Site.

A Brief History of the University of the Arts
Visiting Hours & Ticket Information
Guided Tours and Visitor Experiences
Campus Facilities and Architectural Highlights
Accessibility and Transportation
Nearby Attractions and Dining
Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Dorrance Hamilton Hall: A Historical Landmark
Exploring the Former University of the Arts Campus
Conclusion
References and Further Reading

A Brief History of the University of the Arts

Founded in 1876 as the Pennsylvania Museum and School of Industrial Art, UArts grew to become a multidisciplinary hub for visual and performing arts education. The university’s evolution included the founding of the Philadelphia Conservatory of Music in 1877, and a pivotal 1985 merger between the Philadelphia College of Art and the Philadelphia College of the Performing Arts, resulting in university status in 1987 (Inquirer, Wikipedia). UArts’ influence endures, both through its historic campus buildings and through nearly 20,000 alumni — among them photographer Irving Penn, musician Stanley Clarke, actress Kate Flannery, and singer Elle King — whose creative contributions continue to enrich Philadelphia and the world.

Visiting Hours & Ticket Information

Visiting Hours: As of June 2025, most interior campus spaces remain closed due to the university’s closure and ongoing redevelopment. However, visitors can explore building exteriors and public spaces along South Broad Street and adjacent avenues daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Admission & Tickets: There are no fees or tickets required for viewing exterior sites and public art installations. Entry to interior spaces is not available at this time. For special events or pop-up exhibitions organized by local arts groups or property developers, check official event listings and Philadelphia Tourism Official Site.
Special Exhibitions & Performances: While the university’s own events have ceased, nearby venues such as the Kimmel Center and the Philadelphia Museum of Art offer regular programming (Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes Foundation).

Guided Tours and Visitor Experiences

Guided Tours: Formal tours of the former UArts campus are not currently offered. However, several local walking tours of the Avenue of the Arts highlight UArts’ historic buildings and cultural legacy. Check with Philadelphia Tourism or local tour operators for updated offerings.
Self-Guided Exploration: Visitors are encouraged to stroll the Avenue of the Arts, viewing architectural highlights such as Hamilton Hall and Terra Hall. Descriptive plaques and informal memorials provide context for the university’s impact.
Virtual Experiences: Online galleries and virtual tours of campus spaces are available on the UArts website and partner platforms, offering insight into the university’s history and design.

Campus Facilities and Architectural Highlights

Hamilton Hall

The city’s oldest Broad Street building, dating to 1826 with neoclassical design. Originally the Pennsylvania Institution for the Deaf and Dumb, it later served as UArts’ main administrative and exhibition space (Philly Mag).

Terra Hall

A 17-story Beaux Arts structure, formerly the Ritz-Carlton hotel (1911), later transformed into UArts’ primary academic building.

Gershman Hall

Once the Young Men’s Hebrew Association, now a modern student center and performance space.

Philadelphia Art Alliance

An Italianate mansion on Rittenhouse Square, notable as one of the few remaining original mansions, acquired by UArts in 2017.

Center for Immersive Media

Dedicated to digital arts and new media; its future use is under review.

Other significant sites include the Anderson Hall art studios, the historic Merriam Theater, and the Albert M. Greenfield Library (arts-focused collection). While most interiors are closed, their façades remain accessible and are of architectural interest (ArchPaper, AP News).

Accessibility and Transportation

Accessibility: Public sidewalks and outdoor campus areas are wheelchair accessible. Interior accessibility will depend on future redevelopment.
Transportation: The area is well-served by SEPTA’s Broad Street Line (Walnut-Locust Station) and multiple bus routes (SEPTA Transit Information). Walking and cycling are popular options for exploring the Avenue of the Arts.
Parking: Limited street parking is available; several paid parking garages serve the district.

Nearby Attractions and Dining

Cultural Landmarks: Within walking distance are the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes Foundation, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, and Academy of Music (VisitPhilly, VisitPhilly).
Dining: South Broad Street and the surrounding area offer diverse options, from casual cafes to fine dining.

Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit: Daytime hours (8 AM–6 PM) for safety and optimal viewing.
Footwear: Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking tours.
Stay Informed: Check official websites and event calendars for special exhibitions or temporary events.
Respect the Site: The campus is the subject of ongoing redevelopment and community reflection; be mindful of the local context.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I enter former UArts buildings?
A: As of 2025, interior access is generally restricted. Visitors can view exteriors and public art installations.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: No formal tours at present, but local walking tours often include UArts highlights.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No. Exterior exploration is free; tickets are required only for special events at nearby venues.

Q: Is the area accessible for those with disabilities?
A: Yes, public sidewalks and outdoor spaces are wheelchair accessible.

Q: What else can I do nearby?
A: Explore the Kimmel Center, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes Foundation, and Rittenhouse Square, all within walking distance.

Dorrance Hamilton Hall: A Historical Landmark

Overview

Dorrance Hamilton Hall, at 320 S Broad St, is a key piece of Philadelphia’s cultural heritage. Originally part of the UArts campus and named after philanthropist Dorrance Hill Hamilton, the hall is known for its role in arts education and community engagement. Following UArts’ closure, the building’s exterior is open for viewing from dawn to dusk; interior access remains restricted.

Visitor Information

Location: 320 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Visiting Hours: Exterior accessible daily, dawn to dusk.
Tickets: None required for exterior visits.
Accessibility: Sidewalks and public spaces are wheelchair accessible.
Photography: Allowed for exteriors and public memorials.

Context

Dorrance Hamilton Hall remains a gathering point for alumni and community members, with its exterior reflecting both the university’s artistic legacy and recent community activism. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of ongoing redevelopment and community sentiments.

Exploring the Former University of the Arts Campus

Historical Overview

The campus’s lineage traces back to the late 19th century, culminating in the 1985 merger that formed UArts. Its buildings along South Broad Street, including Hamilton Hall, Terra Hall, and the Philadelphia Art Alliance, have played central roles in Philadelphia’s artistic life for generations (Philly Mag, ArchPaper).

Visiting Details

Hours: Exterior areas accessible 8 AM–6 PM.
Tickets: No admission required for outdoor exploration.
Tours: No formal tours; check for local walking tours.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible outdoors; future interior access depends on redevelopment.

Nearby Attractions

Avenue of the Arts: Home to the Kimmel Center and other performance venues.
Rittenhouse Square: Offers park space and access to the Philadelphia Art Alliance.
Other: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Barnes Foundation, and Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Conclusion

The former University of the Arts campus stands as a testament to Philadelphia’s enduring creative spirit and architectural richness. While interior access is currently limited, visitors can explore the historic exteriors, enjoy nearby cultural venues, and reflect on the university’s legacy. The Avenue of the Arts remains a vibrant corridor celebrating the arts in all forms.

Stay informed about redevelopment progress and future events by checking official sources and Philadelphia tourism platforms. Download the Audiala app for curated walking tours, cultural updates, and insider tips to enrich your Philadelphia arts experience.