Universal Vare Charter School Philadelphia: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Universal Vare Charter School, located in the heart of South Philadelphia, stands as a testament to the city’s educational legacy and community resilience. Originally built between 1922 and 1924 as Edwin H. Vare Junior High School, this Colonial Revival landmark reflects the architectural and social evolution of Philadelphia’s public school system. Over the years, the building transitioned from a traditional junior high to a charter school managed by Universal Companies, an organization founded by Philadelphia music legend Kenny Gamble. This transformation was part of the city’s “Renaissance” initiative aimed at revitalizing underperforming schools and underserved neighborhoods.

As the school approaches closure at the end of the 2025–26 academic year due to demographic shifts and declining enrollment, its legacy as an educational and cultural anchor endures. Visitors and researchers will find both the school’s architecture and its community story compelling, offering insight into urban education, gentrification, and social change. This guide provides essential information on visiting hours, accessibility, historical context, and practical tips for exploring Universal Vare and its surroundings.

For in-depth coverage on the school’s closure and community reactions, see Fox29 News and Chalkbeat Philadelphia.

Table of Contents

Origins and Architectural History

Universal Vare Charter School’s building, designed by Irwin T. Catharine and constructed between 1922 and 1924, is a striking example of Colonial Revival architecture. The three-story, seventeen-bay brick structure features a shallow “W” shape, arched entrance pavilion, pilasters, and a brick parapet. Its stately presence on South 24th Street earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.


Educational Role and Community Impact

Originally named after Philadelphia politician Edwin H. Vare, the school served as a junior high before transitioning in 2011 to Universal Vare Charter School under Universal Companies. The charter school aimed to improve academic outcomes and provide a community hub for the Wilson Park and Grays Ferry neighborhoods, serving students in grades 5–8. Kenny Gamble’s leadership brought a focus on cultural pride and community empowerment, with the building’s lobby featuring his portrait—a symbol of the school’s mission.

Despite these efforts, the school has faced challenges, including declining enrollment linked to gentrification and shifting demographics (Fox29 News). Still, the school maintained its role as a source of stability, hosting community events and supporting families through local partnerships and after-school programs.


Visiting Universal Vare Charter School

Visiting Hours & Ticket Information

  • Current Status: The school is not regularly open to the public due to its transitional phase and upcoming closure.
  • Exterior Access: Visitors may view the building’s exterior, including its historic artistic panels, at any time during daylight hours.
  • Interior Access & Tours: Occasional access may be available during special community events or by appointment through the school or Universal Companies. For current information, check the official school website or call 215-952-8611.

Accessibility

  • The site is accessible via SEPTA bus routes serving Grays Ferry and is within reach of the Snyder and Tasker-Morris stations on the Broad Street Line.
  • Street parking is limited; public transit or rideshare services are recommended.
  • Entrances and common areas are generally accessible to visitors with disabilities. For specific needs, contact the administration in advance.

Travel Tips & Nearby Attractions

  • Plan Ahead: Schedule your visit and confirm access, especially for interior tours or events.
  • Bring ID: All visitors must sign in and wear a visitor badge if entering the building.
  • Nearby Sites: Explore the Italian Market, Passyunk Square, local parks, and other educational landmarks such as Vare-Washington School or Stephen Girard School.
  • Photography: Exterior photography is welcome; interior photography requires permission.

For additional travel ideas, see Visit Philly.


Cultural and Artistic Features

The building’s exterior is adorned with faded artistic panels from the early 20th century, offering glimpses into the school’s cultural and architectural heritage. These features attract photographers and history enthusiasts alike, providing a tangible link to South Philadelphia’s educational past.

Universal Vare Charter School Exterior

Alt text: Exterior view of Universal Vare Charter School, a Colonial Revival style brick building in South Philadelphia.


School Performance, Transition, and Closure

Despite its ambitions, Universal Vare Charter School has faced persistent academic and financial obstacles. Leadership changes, evaluations by the Charter Schools Office, and declining enrollment (from a capacity of 400 to only 130 students in 2024–25) contributed to the decision not to seek charter renewal. The school will close at the end of the 2025–26 academic year, a move seen as a response to changing neighborhood demographics rather than educational shortcomings (Chalkbeat Philadelphia).


Preservation and Future Prospects

The building’s National Register listing protects its architectural integrity. Following closure, its future use—whether as a community center, educational facility, or another public venue—will be guided by the School District of Philadelphia’s facilities planning and community advocacy.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the current visiting hours?
A: The school is not open for regular tours; the exterior may be viewed during daylight hours. Call ahead for information on special events or appointments.

Q: Is there an admission fee or ticket required?
A: No. Exterior visits are free; official events may have specific protocols but are generally free of charge.

Q: Is the site accessible by public transportation?
A: Yes. SEPTA buses and the Broad Street Line provide convenient access.

Q: Can I photograph the building and its features?
A: Exterior photography is permitted. Interior photography requires administrative permission.

Q: Are there community events or tours?
A: Occasional events may be scheduled; check the school website or Universal Companies for updates.


Key Dates and Milestones

  • 1922–1924: Construction of Edwin H. Vare Junior High School
  • 1988: Added to National Register of Historic Places
  • 2011: Reopened as Universal Vare Charter School under Universal Companies
  • 2025: Closure announced, effective end of 2025–26 academic year

Notable Figures

  • Irwin T. Catharine: Architect of the original school building
  • Kenny Gamble: Founder of Universal Companies, key figure in the school’s modern era
  • Edwin H. Vare: Namesake, Philadelphia politician and businessman


Summary and Visitor Tips

Universal Vare Charter School embodies a legacy of architectural distinction and community engagement in South Philadelphia. While its educational mission concludes with the 2025–26 school year, the building’s preservation ensures its story continues. Visitors can appreciate the site’s exterior and participate in occasional community events, while the surrounding neighborhood offers rich cultural experiences. For the most current information, monitor updates from the School District of Philadelphia, Universal Companies, and trusted news sources like Fox29 News and Chalkbeat Philadelphia.

To deepen your exploration of Philadelphia’s historic educational sites, use the Audiala app for curated tours and real-time visitor information.


References and Further Reading


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