Rittenhouse Square

Historic Origins

Rittenhouse Square sits like a green jewel in the southwest quadrant of Center City Philadelphia. This historic public park started as one of William Penn's five original open spaces in his 1682 city plan. Back then, they simply called it Southwest Square, until 1825 when it was renamed to honor David Rittenhouse, a brilliant local astronomer and inventor who made Philadelphia proud in the 18th century.

Covering about 6 acres, the square is neatly tucked between 18th Street to the east, Walnut Street to the north, and Rittenhouse Square West and South streets.

Design and Landscaping

The square's lovely layout comes from French-born architect Paul Philippe Cret, who redesigned it in 1913 - and remarkably, not much has changed since then. His vision blended classical elegance with modern sensibilities, creating a timeless urban retreat.

Walk through the park and you'll notice the thoughtful design of diagonal pathways that meet at a central oval. The square features generous lawns, seasonal flower beds that bloom with color, and mature trees - sycamores, horse chestnuts, maples, and oaks - providing welcome shade when Philadelphia's summer heat kicks in.

At the heart of the square, a fountain provides the peaceful sound of flowing water that makes city life feel a little more distant, while attracting birds and offering a refreshing mist on warm days.

Art and Sculptures

Art lovers will appreciate the collection of sculptures scattered throughout the park. Kids (and the young at heart) gravitate toward "Billy" - the treasured goat statue in the southwest corner that's been a climbing favorite for little ones since 1919.

In total, eight significant sculptures call the square home, each adding its own touch of cultural and historical significance to the park.

Community Hub

On any given day, you'll find a cross-section of Philly life here - people reading on benches, friends sharing picnics on the grass, or photographers capturing the seasonal beauty. Many locals and visitors gather here throughout the day.

The square really comes alive during its annual events, including the colorful flower market and the impressive outdoor fine art show. If you're looking for fresh produce, stop by the farmers market that sets up on Saturdays (9am-2pm) and Tuesdays (10am-2pm), offering everything from seasonal fruits and vegetables to cut flowers and artisanal treats.

Weekends bring even more character to the square - you might stumble upon impromptu musical performances, intense chess matches, or even catch the Sunday afternoon dance gatherings when the weather cooperates.

Dog-Friendly Environment

If you're a dog person, you'll feel right at home here. The square is something of a canine social club, where leashed dogs and their humans parade along the pathways throughout the day. It's become quite the meeting spot for four-legged friends and their owners.

You'll find dog waste stations strategically placed around the park, making it easy to keep the grounds clean and pleasant for everyone.

Surrounding Neighborhood

Step beyond the park's boundaries and you're in one of Philadelphia's most stylish neighborhoods. The streets surrounding Rittenhouse Square feature upscale boutiques, diverse restaurants, and elegant residential buildings. This mix creates a dynamic atmosphere that keeps the area buzzing from early morning coffee runs to evening dinner outings.

Foodies will appreciate the range of restaurants that circle the park, many offering outdoor seating with square views - excellent for savoring a meal while watching the endless parade of city life unfold before you.