Arch Street Meeting House is an active Quaker place of worship and museum at 320 Arch Street in Philadelphia. Its plain Federal-style brick building, quiet meeting room and garden offer a close look at Quaker history and practice. Inside, exhibits introduce the community and the meeting house’s place in American history; guided tours add context about the building, its people and its grounds. Allow time to walk outside, where the burial grounds include unmarked graves. Tours are available for a fee, and advance tickets are recommended.
A Quaker meeting place since 1682
Quaker gatherings have taken place on this site since 1682. The land was granted to the Society of Friends by William Penn in 1701. The current meeting house was built for the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting of the Society of Friends, with construction taking place in stages between 1803 and 1811. Quakers had been among Philadelphia’s early residents, and the meeting house connects that history with a community that remains active today.
The building is still used for worship, including weekly services. It is also a museum and a National Historic Landmark, so a visit brings together the history of the site and its continuing religious use.
The building and meeting room
Quaker architect Owen Biddle, Jr. designed the red-brick building in the Federal style. Its lines and interior are notably simple. Inside, old wooden benches furnish the worship space, where the plain design keeps attention on the meeting itself. Renovations took place from the late 19th through the early 20th century.
The meeting room remains part of a living place of worship, not only a historic display. Visitors can see the space and learn about Quaker practice through the museum exhibits and guided tours. The exhibits introduce the community’s history, while guides explain the stories connected to the building and its grounds.
The grounds and burial ground
The garden and surrounding grounds are part of the visit, alongside the brick building. The burial ground holds many unmarked graves. The site was used for burials of free African Americans, enslaved people, Native Americans and people described at the time as strangers. An account of the property estimates that around 20,000 people were buried there.
Walk the grounds thoughtfully, remembering that the meeting house remains a place of worship and the burial ground is a place of rest. The outdoor setting also gives a quieter view of the site beyond the museum rooms.
Tours and events
Guided tours explain the meeting house’s history, Quaker heritage and connections to Philadelphia. Tours inside the building are available for a fee, and booking ahead is recommended. The venue also hosts events, including weddings and Quaker self-uniting ceremonies. Its garden and lawn are used for gatherings, while the interior provides a simple setting with wooden benches.
The meeting house is open to visitors Thursday through Sunday. Check the venue’s current information before planning a visit, especially if you want to join a tour or attend an event.
FAQ
Is Arch Street Meeting House still used for worship?
Yes. It remains an active Quaker place of worship and is used for weekly services.
Are tours available?
Yes. Guided tours inside the building are available for a fee. Booking in advance is recommended.
What can you see at Arch Street Meeting House?
You can visit the simple meeting room, see museum exhibits about Quaker history, and walk the garden and grounds, including the burial ground.
When is Arch Street Meeting House open to visitors?
It is open Thursday through Sunday. Check the venue’s current information before visiting.
