About this Event
The tour begins with a short walk west along Market Street to understand the reason for submerging the original elevated structure and the trolleys back in the 50's.
After riding the trolley from 33rd Street eastbound around City Hall to 13th Street, we check out the PCC car in the basement of SEPTA HQ at 1234 Market Street. Continuing on the Market-Frankford Subway/El east, we see the sun again at Spring Garden Station, view Northern Liberties and Kensington from above, pass the site of a rare derailment, and cross over abandoned freight lanes. Returning west to 69th Street Terminal, we take a brief look at the enormous, multi-modal 69th Street Terminal. The tour concludes with a return ride on the El to 30th and Market/Amtrak.
Along the way, learn how the El went over (not under) the Schuylkill River, view the region’s loneliest station, and lament the loss of the elevated line that went directly to Penn’s Landing 100 years ago. Jerry gives you the scoop on the trolleys that formerly ran diagonally through the University of Pennsylvania, shows you the oldest subway station in the city, and demystifies the pedestrian concourse that surrounds the basement of City Hall.
Whew! Don’t miss this chance to explore Philly’s transit—you’ll never look at Philly’s trolleys and trains the same!
Guide Jerry Silverman was born to give this tour. He was the very first rider ever on PATCO as a teenager and later the chair of the SEPTA Citizen’s Advisory Committee.
***PLEASE NOTE*** You will need to purchase two SEPTA fares during the tour, unless you already have a loaded Key Card or senior card. NO BATHROOMS EN ROUTE.
Hidden City Members, use your promo codes for discounts on tickets!
Questions, concerns, conundrums? Contact Hidden City project coordinator Alyssa Shea at [email protected].
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Inside the William H. Gray III 30th Street station at the giant angel statue, 2955 Market Street, Philadelphia, United States
USD 0.00 to USD 25.00