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    Reviews With Photos - Cescaphe Water Works

    Jenaya P.

    Beautiful, Beautiful beautiful!! Omgee I think I just found my future wedding venue! lol. I never even knew Fairmount Water Works even existed! What have I been missing? Obviously a lot! Fairmount Water works was designed in the past as the place to purify and pump the water for the city of Philadelphia, now its a landmark site that is used for educational purposes as well as weddings, walking trails and many more. I came to Fairmount Water works for their Parks on Tap event and left with much more discovery! Their was a lot to explore such as the gardens and the boardwalk, my oh my just nature and beauty at it's finest! There's also a parking lot but it can get filled up pretty fast. Overall I definitely look forward to returining to this beauty of a place!

    Wedding
    Dan R.

    Absolutely outstanding. Outstanding in every single way. We attended a wedding there Friday night, and spent time in three venues at the Waterworks Complex. The ceremony was held outdoors under a gazebo with beautiful views of lawns and water surrounding us. We were greeted with flutes of champagne and bottles of cold water as we walked down the path from our bus to be seated. We spent a cocktail hour and a half in one of the function rooms, and the food was just incredible. Seafood, sushi, Asian stir fry stations, Italian pasta stations, meats and cheeses, even lobster tails! There were also a ton of passed hors d'oeuvres and two bars. Honestly, there was no need for dinner after this feast. But of course, there was a dinner, at a third location in an outdoor courtyard (more flutes of champagne and watermelon cocktails were served on the way to keep us hydrated). We had a choice of Chilean Sea Bass, Veal Chop, or Beef Short Rib, all were served with a risotto, carrots, and beans. My fish was very good. Dessert was another embarrassment of riches- an endless table of ice cream and toppings and petit fours and assorted pudding cups, and cupcakes, and funnel cakes, and my favorite- chocolate covered macaroons. The staff was impeccable, the scenic views were incredible, and the food was plentiful and amazing. Seriously, from a food and venue standpoint, this was one of the very best weddings I have ever been to.

    Sonji C.

    Such an informational visit! I came after spending some time at the park to this museum. I didn't know what to expect but I was more than welcomed by the staff. The content consisted of showcasing the historical influence of this water system not only in Philly but all over the USA. The pool exhibit was about the historical and current day segregation of Black Americans and predominantly White swimming culture. I learned so much and really felt the spirit of the relationship between humans and water, particularly Black people. 10/10 recommending to everyone to stop by!! And please donate to this amazing organization since they keep the museum free to all :)

    Michelle V.

    Attended an evening event from a conference hosted in Philadelphia. This place is beautiful and elegant. Behind the museum of art which is a classic landmark of the city. The event had an open bar and hors d'oeuvres and they were a great selection of sea food, cheeses, meats and desserts. Perfect place to host events.

    Looking towards the gazebo.
    Sam M.

    Great park in a great area! The history behind the Water Works is very interesting, and although you can check out the inside for yourself, the grounds are still nice. Right beside the Philadelphia Museum of Art the entire grounds are well maintained. Great place to stop by if you're headed to the PMoA.

    So much love surrounding this special spot!
    Sari Marissa G.

    500th review! I have to make it a good one, right? There was one special place that immediately came to mind...the spot I became a Mrs.! (This is less about the history/tours and geared mainly towards future brides/grooms or anyone planning a special day/photos here). Our dream wedding location was the gorgeous, regal, historic gazebo at Fairmount Water Works. For us, it was THE perfect ceremony spot. This beautiful structure overlooking the river, nestled between Kelly Drive and Boathouse Row, at the foothills of The Philadelphia Museum of Art, not far from the Azalea Gardens is very special to us... When we lived in the Fairmount/Art Museum area we took walks/jogs on the drive daily, ending here at the gazebo. One day, waaaay before we were engaged he said "wouldn't this be an amazing place to get married?" That's it! I was done! That's all I needed to hear! This was going to be THE spot one day! -We wanted somewhere we could visit forever with our children and one day, with our grandchildren. - We wanted someplace we would always have access to as we wished and a place we would be assured would never close. -We wanted somewhere with rich history and a place that held permanent residence in a city and neighborhood we loved so very much. -We wanted what so clearly was "our" spot. I jumped through many hoops to secure this location for us! He got down on one knee October 17th and I had to wait until January 2nd, which for an excited bride is an eternity!! 8am on the second freezing day of the new year, with a money order in hand as instructed, I was at the door of the Fairmount Park Commission up on Concourse Drive in Fairmount Park, diagonal from Please Touch Museum. There, I filled out an application and waited and waited....and waited, and yep, waited, all the way until spring hoping to finally get the thumbs up on approval!! (It was a very long winter that year haha) You see, they give first priority to charities and local organizations and won't schedule weddings/ceremonies on days when there is a regatta on the river. Being that our date 10-10-10 was oh so insanely popular to begin with, I had my doubts we would even get it even if there weren't events going on. I still kept the faith and we did get it!!! The notification that we did for sure secure the space was THE greatest news EVER! Actually, a real dream come true! Well worth the wait!! Important things to remember : -The number to call for more information is: (215) 685-0060 $500 for the gazebo for 2 hrs $150/ hr for photos. (We never pay for photos. We're smart about the times we come ex: mid week, just before sunset. We haven't had an issue in 5 years) -you may not tie anything to, or alter the gazebo in any way. (We had a hand held chuppah.) -you will need to order your own chairs. The cost can be very minimal if you shop around a bit! -you MUST have your permit for the space with you at all times! The most important part of my review however is this: NO ONE but the Fairmount Park Commission owns the gazebo and surrounding structures! PERIOD!!! If you google it, even go for a tour there, it would appear the restaurant which was then the Water Works (currently Cescaphe group) owns the gazebo. In fact, they will try to tell you you they own it! THEY DO NOT!! NEVER WILL!! This misrepresentation enrages me because it holds many couples and (almost) us from our dream wedding ceremony! We first hand went on a tour where we were told this. We already had our reception caterer booked elsewhere so we had no interest in the reception space. We were ALMOST conned as many are when looking into the gazebo and cocktail space! After a little investigating from an uber determined bride, we came to find that use of the gazebo comes only with reception booking was a lie!!! You do not need to use the restaurant to use the gazebo. If you simply want to rent the gazebo or any aspect of the Waterworks outdoor spaces, you can absolutely do this without booking the restaurant for your reception! We still run into many, many couples who look over the gazebo because one reason or another regarding the restaurant. Despite what it may seem, they are completely separate and always will be!! After moving from the area, we don't visit here daily anymore, but we absolutely continue to come each and every year for our anniversary. We play our wedding song, the kids run up and down what was our aisle, and of course, I cry! I LOVE looking through these photos of how our little family is growing year after year! This is a truly beautiful, magical spot and we couldn't recommend it any more for a wedding ceremony or for special photos. The space is elegant and neutral, making for the ultimate perfect backdrop. It's definitely not an easy site to secure for ceremonies, but believe me, it's extremely well worth it!

    View of Water Works & Schullykill River from the side of the Philadelphia Art Museum.
    Melanie D.

    Water Works is a really special spot behind the Philadelphia Art Museum, on the Schulykill River, near the Fairmont Dam over by Kelly Drive. There are opportunities to run, walk, and bicycle on the clean, well cared for paths. You can exercise on the grassy and gazebo areas overlooking and by the river. You can learn a lot about local history. Take some lovely photographs. Get a fresh perspective on the day with a new view of the city. There are small wading fountains for the kids. It's a nice place to go for active seniors, adults, young adults, families, folks with dogs. There is fine dining, though I've not been so I can't review the restaurant. Ive been during the day, the evening, and at night. Early morning and after 5 evening is definitely for joggers, day time for everyone, night time for more casual joggers and walkers, and late night seems more for the young and bold out with their more street style bicycles. Not everyone thinks its good for me to walk at night, though that is usually when I like to walk the most. I'm not sure if it is good to visit if you are in a wheel chair, as quite a few of my friends are - So my next walk I'll check it out for accessible visits. Two good links for more information on the Water Works and Schulykill River Walk: http://www.fairmountparkconservancy.org/downloads/FPC_WW_Brochure.pdf http://www.schuylkillbanks.org/

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    Ask the Community - Cescaphe Water Works

    Review Highlights - Cescaphe Water Works

    Fairmount Water Works is one of my favorite places to explore on long walks with my dog near the art museum.

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    City Hall

    City Hall

    4.1(112 reviews)
    1.4 miPenn Center, Market East, Logan Square, Avenue of the Arts North

    Philadelphia, PA - this is a review for the City Hall Tower Tour. I'm irresistibly attracted to…read moreobservation decks and old towers, so when I discovered that Philadelphia's City Hall doesn't just offer building tours but also a panoramic Tower Tour from atop its clock tower, I didn't question whether I really NEED to see the bird's eye view of yet another city. Located just a short walk from my hotel and something I can squeeze in before check-out, well that sealed it. The tour is very intimate, as each group maxes out at four people, owing to the tower's narrow dimensions, so you're basically on a private tour. There are plenty of time slots however, as the tour departs every 15 minutes, but booking in advance is highly recommended if not imperative (isn't everything these days!). It is only available Monday-Friday from 10am-2:45pm cos, government building. The experience was wonderful from top to bottom. The ladies in the visitor center were so nice and chatted with us as we waited for the tour to begin, and even gave my kiddo a pair of binoculars which he clutched onto with excitement and didn't put down for the rest of the day. Our guide Kim was genuinely warm, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable. She took our photos, kept things interesting, and capped it all off with an awesome list of insidery tips about what to do and see - places I hadn't even known about. I've done several dozen observation towers around the world and they never get old. This one's a departure from the usual glossy skyscraper presentation with a slick immersive elevator ride (in fact the elevator ride's pretty rickety), but if you like history and high places, and the luxury of zero crowds, this is a cool hidden gem.

    Philadelphia City Hall has become a must-visit for me whenever I am in the city for running events…read morelike the Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run or the Philadelphia Distance Run. My trips just don't feel complete without stopping by to take in its architecture. I remember the 2022 Broad Street Run vividly, falling in love with the building's design around mile five of the course. Being near it, I must say, it has an astonishing presence. I learned that it was designed by Scottish-born architect John McArthur Jr. and Thomas Ustick Walter in the French Second Empire style, with construction spanning from 1871 to 1901. The exterior tower was completed by 1894, although the interior was not finished until 1901. At the very top stands a 37-foot bronze statue of William Penn, the founder of Philadelphia. At 548 feet, this made it the tallest habitable building in the world from 1894 to 1908. City Hall sits on one of the five original urban park squares laid out by William Penn. Geometrically, it is the center of the other four squares within Center City--an area fittingly renamed Penn Square. If you are planning a trip to Philadelphia, I highly recommend including a walk around this iconic landmark on your itinerary, though it is bound to catch your eye unexpectedly while you are downtown. One of my favorite sculptures on the outer perimeter is of Octavius Catto, a trailblazing civil rights leader, educator, and athlete whose contributions to racial equality in 19th-century America remain profound. ~ Be obsessively grateful ~ Thomas G

    Photos
    City Hall - 3.3.2024

    3.3.2024

    City Hall - 8/16/2025

    8/16/2025

    City Hall - Exterior

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    Exterior

    Independence Hall - Room where the Declaration of Independence was signed

    Independence Hall

    4.5(418 reviews)
    2.1 mi

    In 1776, the Second Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence here. Man, if walls…read morecould talk. Be sure to book your tour in advance and request the last tour as you get to explore the second floor Governor's Council chamber.

    Independence Hall is one of the most consequential civic buildings in the United States. The red…read morebrick Georgian structure reads as restrained and formal rather than ornate, but its significance carries most of the weight. The surrounding Independence National Historical Park frames it as part of a larger civic landscape, where open squares, pathways, and nearby historic buildings create a setting that feels intentionally preserved rather than reconstructed for spectacle. The main experience here is centered on the building itself and the rooms that shaped foundational moments in American history. I stepped inside and found the Assembly Room standing out as the focal point, where key debates over independence and constitutional design took place. The scale surprised me. It is surprisingly intimate compared to how monumental its outcomes are often perceived, which made the space feel more grounded than grand. During my visit, access was managed through a timed entry system, but the experience consistently revolved around standing in spaces directly tied to the formation of governing documents and early national decision making. The visit is structured and guided in a way that felt controlled but informative. Rangers managed the flow carefully, especially during the busy periods I encountered. Security procedures were part of the entry process. Even with portions of the interior restricted, the surrounding exhibits and nearby historic rooms helped fill in context. The overall pace was more about controlled observation than wandering, with a clear emphasis on preservation and historical interpretation rather than open exploration.

    Photos
    Independence Hall - History made here

    History made here

    Independence Hall - Philadelphia's Old City Hall - Courtroom

    Philadelphia's Old City Hall - Courtroom

    Independence Hall - East Wing of Independence Hall

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    East Wing of Independence Hall

    Edgar Allan Poe House

    Edgar Allan Poe House

    4.3(97 reviews)
    1.8 miSpring Garden

    Small, easy, short touristy trip. Another great free thing to do in the city when you have friends…read moreor family from out of town. I live in Nolibs, so this is an easy walk from my house. Parking is plentiful nearby, too!

    Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site - Philadelphia, PA…read more Boomsauce Score: BS +++ (Amazing location! now that's boomsauce!) Even mid-renovation, this place hits different. Stepping into Poe's former home is like walking through the pages of Gothic literature. The art installations and that surreal raven sculpture outside? Straight out of a dream--or a fevered poem. It's eerie, poetic, and deeply moving. Though the house is currently closed for a utilities improvement project, you can still feel the weight of history pressing through the walls. Poe lived here during one of his most prolific periods, penning classics like The Black Cat and The Tell-Tale Heart. The cellar even resembles the one described in The Black Cat, adding a deliciously creepy layer to the visit. If you're in Philly, this is a must-visit. It's not just a museum--it's a tribute to the tortured brilliance of one of America's greatest literary minds. And when renovations wrap, it'll be even more hauntingly beautiful. --- Boomsauce Scale | Rating | Meaning |---------|----------------------------------| | B | basura (trash) | | BS | basic (come on! Try harder) | | BS + | better (Yo! That's better) | | BS ++ | best (alright! Alright! Alrightttt!) | | BS +++ | Amazing location! now that's boomsauce! |

    Photos
    Edgar Allan Poe House
    Edgar Allan Poe House
    Edgar Allan Poe House

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    The President's House - Entrance

    The President's House

    4.3(11 reviews)
    2.1 mi

    I had an amazing experience at The President's House in Philly. From the moment I arrived,…read moreeverything about the visit felt meaningful, informative, and well done. The site is beautifully presented and offers a powerful look into an important part of American history. The exhibits are engaging and thoughtfully designed, making it easy to learn while still feeling emotionally connected to the stories being told. I really appreciated how the history was presented in a way that was both educational and impactful. The atmosphere is calm and reflective, yet very engaging--you can take your time, read, and truly absorb the significance of the space. It's a must-see if you're visiting Philadelphia or even if you're a local looking to experience the city's history in a deeper way. Overall, it was a memorable and enriching experience, and I'm really glad I took the time to visit. Highly recommend adding The President's House to your Philly itinerary.

    Visiting the President's House site in Philadelphia was unexpectedly powerful. It's just steps from…read morethe Liberty Bell, but the energy there is quieter--more reflective. At first glance, it's a series of open-air stone walls and glass panels, but as I read the stories etched into the displays, it hit me how layered the history really is. This was once home to George Washington and John Adams--but also to nine enslaved people who lived and worked there. The exhibit doesn't shy away from that fact. It honors their names, their stories, and brings humanity to a place often remembered only for power and politics. I stood for a while at the video screens, listening to voices speak the names of those enslaved here. It made the past feel personal and real in a way textbooks never could. A thoughtful, moving site that sticks with you long after you leave.

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    The President's House
    The President's House - Foundation

    Foundation

    The President's House - Foundation

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    Foundation

    Bartram's Garden - Bartram's Garden

    Bartram's Garden

    4.5(64 reviews)
    2.8 mi

    Came here for a 52 Firsts event during Spring Fest and it ended up being such a fun day. There was…read morea lot going on without feeling overwhelming. Live energy, little activity tables, and a small plant sale that was honestly very tempting. One of the coolest things I learned is that they have what's believed to be the oldest ginkgo tree in both North and South America. That alone made the visit feel a little special. I spent some time walking the trails and made my way around the water too. It's really pretty back there. Lots of flowers in bloom, open space, and quieter areas if you want a break from the crowd. I definitely liked the more shaded, tree-heavy sections the most. Some of the booths were set up fully in the sun and it got a bit intense after a while, so having those cooler, shaded areas made a big difference. Staff were very helpful and the trails are clearly marked, which made it easy to just wander without worrying about getting lost. Only downside is the location can be a little tricky to get to, especially if you're not driving. But once you're there, it's absolutely worth it. Overall just a really enjoyable, laid-back outdoor spot with a lot to explore. I'd come back, especially for another event.

    Had a few hours before my flight and was looking for something to do. I came across this garden…read moreand it was beautiful. Well maintained and relaxing. Plenty of trails and benches. The flowers were gorgeous. You get a nice view of the city from the boat dock and parking area. I spent a few hours here. Great if you're solo or with people.

    Photos
    Bartram's Garden - Bartram's Garden

    Bartram's Garden

    Bartram's Garden
    Bartram's Garden - Bartram's Garden -- 2025

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    Bartram's Garden -- 2025

    Cescaphe Water Works - landmarks - Updated July 2026

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