Our Favorite Running Trails in Center City

Independence Park and Old City Streets - Old City is home to some of the city's prettiest cobblestoned streets and rowhomes, making for a unique experience running through Independence Hall, Constitution Center, or Betsy Ross Home.

The Schuylkill River Trail is an iconic Philadelphia attraction, providing serene views of the Schuylkill River as it winds its way through the city. Surrounded by trees, grass, and city skylines on both sides, it connects with 70+ miles of trails leading north. Eventually, it led to Kelly Drive and partially closed Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.

City Hall - Every Philadelphian should run through City Hall at least once. And even visitors to Philadelphia should do this as part of their sightseeing experience.

Spruce Street - I love the incredible architecture of Spruce Street's row houses; it is one of my favorite runs in Philadelphia. Brownstones on 19th and 20th streets boast wide sidewalks and spacious stoops for ample seating.

Benjamin Franklin Parkway - this French-inspired boulevard provides stunning views of City Hall in the Southeast or of the Philadelphia Museum of Art to its north and houses some of Philadelphia's most significant architectural works, such as Cathedral Basilica on 18th Street between Race and Race Streets, Free Library of Philadelphia at 20th Avenue and Vine Streets and Rodin Museum on 22nd. Plus, it's lined with trees on both sides for added shade!

Ben Franklin Bridge - crossing two states is undoubtedly impressive, but my preferred way of seeing Philly is from Camden. My run can extend all the way down to Camden Waterfront, where you'll get great views of Philadelphia from across the water - this route may not take you through Center City itself but gives an ideal glimpse of its skyline from across the water - this run may not be suitable for those afraid of heights however.