Places where you can mindfully connect with the soul of our city’s history

Submitted by reddittowl87 t3_yadkq3 in philadelphia

A Redditor recently posted some beautiful pictures of 30th St Station. This got me thinking about locations in the city that allow us to connect with our city’s history in a reflect full manner. I’m curious as to what recommendations people have for spaces where we can connect with the soul of our city.

I’d start with; 30th St station (main concourse), Fairmount Park (whispering bench), Art museum step late at night.

Please provide other thoughts.

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ignissancti t1_itbolvm wrote

The grassy area around Carpenter's Hall/First Bank is wonderful - the 18th century garden tends to be pretty chill (my preferred lunch spot in the Before times). The Benjamin Rush garden at 3rd and Walnut is nice but not as secluded.

The Woodlands and Bartram's Garden in West Philly for both the beauty of nature plus historic mansions/properties are well worth the (free!) visit for a few hours.

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[deleted] t1_itc2jqo wrote

Window seat on the MFL from end to end.

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jimsinspace t1_itaolz5 wrote

Maybe try and get access to someone’s basement in old city. There are a few that look super old compared to the building that sits upon it.

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Brraaap t1_itaoq6o wrote

City Hall, Independence Hall

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Leviathant t1_itc239s wrote

In Elfreth's Alley, turn down Bladen's Court - it's a secluded, intimate setting that inspires quiet reflection.

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Cloudy_Worker t1_itbqyks wrote

Cliveden House, Wyke House, other historic houses in the Northwest neighborhoods, lovely gardens at Wyke

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BasileusLeoIII t1_itc05dt wrote

Eternal Flame, Washington Square

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jaybay830 t1_itng6gp wrote

They really need to either ditch the portable fencing or put something nicer and permanent up. Going on 2 years now and really detracts from it

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mikeygaw t1_itbob6d wrote

Walk Locust or Spruce Street. Old school architecture and those are somewhat queitor

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Chiefduke t1_itbocs8 wrote

Penns landing. Bonus points for setting up next to the old tall ship.

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itsajanda t1_itbp03l wrote

The old mansions in Fairmount park

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ConfiaEnElProceso t1_itc6nsk wrote

The forbidden drive. Especially in autumn.

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reddittowl87 OP t1_itc6tb0 wrote

Great suggestion! I remember hiking there 30 years ago in autumn and it was magical.

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lateavatar t1_itc9xzm wrote

The Museum of the American Revolution was interesting. It definitely told a different story than what I learned in school about the causes.

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lawgirl3278 t1_itc0lln wrote

I don’t know if it is open to visitors, but I love the City Hall Law Library. It’s a beautiful room

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12kdaysinthefire t1_itc0km1 wrote

I like to meditate while sitting under that giant Native American(?) statue on Kelly Drive, you know, the one where the huge eagle is perched on the head of the man’s absolutely giant penis.

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rottencubed t1_itc7y8o wrote

The grounds of Pennsylvania Hospital.

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ClintBarton616 t1_itfv3zz wrote

I visited the tomb of the unknown soldiers in old city for the first time today. I would recommend it.

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monkeymaxx t1_itkbvtw wrote

Navy Yard has some amazing ships, historic buildings, and cool parks with art. Also the waterfront is a great quiet place to enjoy and reflect.

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napsdufroid t1_itbqfvb wrote

Old Christ Church, Quaker Meeting House, Memorial Hall, Masonic Temple

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TheFAPnetwork t1_itbme7h wrote

Ridge Avenue train station platform

/s

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