Front and 2nd Streets between Arch and Race Streets
(215)574-0560
Admission: $2.00 for #124 and #126
Hours:
January and February, Saturday 10:00am-4:00pm and Sunday
12:00pm-4:00pm
March through December, Tuesday through
Saturday 10:00am-4:00pm, Sunday 12:00pm- 4:00pm
Elfreth’s Alley is a one-of-a-kind
attraction, in the sense that it’s the oldest constantly
occupied street in the country, dating all the way back to 1702.
Ever since then, and continuing through to the present day, the
elegant houses are all lived-in and maintained, and the street
itself is set off a little, marked by cobblestones and a small
plaza and sign in its entranceway.
Former tenants were generally craftsmen
and sea captains, as well as others in the shipping industry,
which was Philadelphia’s driving economic force in those days.
Now, the houses are living artifacts and are all open to the
public on certain occasions such as the first weekend of
December and first weekend in June. For the rest of the year,
only #124 and #126 are open to the public. During the June
festivities, tours of the entire alley are given by guides
wearing authentic Colonial clothing, which is interesting in a
surreal sort of way.
Even if you cannot see the entire alley,
it is still very interesting to visit the two houses during your
walking tour of historic Philadelphia. Even though the name
suggests a dark alley, the houses and general area are truly
scenic and the plaza is a great place to take a breather.
Definitely recommended.
