Rittenhouse Square is a tree-filled public park at 18th and Walnut streets in Philadelphia’s Center City. One of the five squares planned by William Penn, it gives you paths, lawns, benches, bronze sculptures and a reflecting pool for a quiet pause between city sights. Look for Duck Girl in the pool, or settle on a bench to watch the mix of dog walkers, families and office workers. Markets, art fairs and occasional live music add more to see; shops, cafes and restaurants line the surrounding streets.
A square in Penn’s plan for Philadelphia
Rittenhouse Square is one of five public squares included in William Penn’s plan for Philadelphia in the late 17th century. The park and the surrounding neighborhood share the same name. Set in Center City, it sits among residences, shops and restaurants, with Walnut Street close by.
The space was once used for grazing livestock. Today, paths cross its lawns and lead past benches, trees and planting beds. The square remains a public place to pause amid the city’s streets and buildings.
The pool, paths and public art
The reflecting pool is a central landmark. Duck Girl, a bronze statue of a young girl carrying a duck, stands in the water. Other bronze sculptures are scattered around the square, including a Giant Frog. Classical urns, some decorated with relief figures, and ornamental lamp posts add details to notice at the entrances and along the park.
Benches line the paths, while grassy areas give you room to sit with a picnic. People come to walk, meet friends and take a break from work or shopping. The park is also used by families and dog walkers.
Markets, art fairs and nearby streets
Farmers’ markets and seasonal events bring extra activity to the square. Markets feature local produce and other goods, and live music can be part of the scene. The twice-yearly outdoor fine arts show takes place around the park in June and September, with artists displaying work in different media, including painting, sculpture, photography and textiles. Check event details before planning a visit around a particular market or show.
Outside the park, the neighborhood has boutiques, galleries, cafes, bars and restaurants. Walnut Street and Rittenhouse Row are known for shopping, while nearby dining ranges from cafes to upscale restaurants. You can combine a walk through the square with a meal or browse the surrounding streets after a stop in the park.
Häufige Fragen
Where is Rittenhouse Square?
The park is at 1800 Walnut St in Center City, Philadelphia, at 18th and Walnut streets.
What can you see in Rittenhouse Square?
Walk the paths to see the reflecting pool, Duck Girl, the Giant Frog and other bronze sculptures. The park also has lawns, trees and benches.
Are there markets or art events at Rittenhouse Square?
Farmers’ markets and other events take place at the square. The outdoor fine arts show is held in June and September; check event details for dates.
Can you bring a picnic to Rittenhouse Square?
Yes. The park has grassy areas and benches where you can sit with a picnic.
