Stroll Down Elfreth’s Alley, America’s Oldest Residential Street

Elfreth’s Alley in Old City is the oldest, continually-inhabited residential street in the U.S. The 32 homes on this quaint lane were built between the 1720s and 1830s, and most are still private residences today. The Elfreth’s Alley Museum is located at house numbers 124 and 126, and it offers a peek at the lives of early American families.

Elfreth’s Alley is named for Jeremiah Elfreth, an 18th-century blacksmith and property owner. His neighbors included tradesmen and their families, including glassblowers, silver and pewter smiths, and furniture builders. The Georgian- and Federal-style houses and cobblestone pavement were common in Philadelphia during this era.

Tours are $5 for adults, $2 for children 6-12, and free for children under 6.

From April to December, the museum is open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sundays, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. From January to March, the museum is open Thursdays through Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Elfreth's Alley
Between Front and Second streets, just north of Arch Street
(215) 574-0560
elfrethsalley.org
http://www.yelp.com/biz/elfreths-alley-philadelphia

Elfreth’s Alley: A Hidden Treasure

Philadelphia is rife with history, being one of the oldest cities in the United States. If you really want to take a trip back into the past, make a detour through Elfreth’s Alley. This is one of the oldest continually inhabited residential streets in the country, dating back to the early 1700s. Named after blacksmith Jeremiah Elfreth, the roadway is lined with Georgian-style townhomes that have weathered the test of time. In the 1930s, a preservation association was formed to ensure that the alley would remain intact for future generations to visit. The most interesting thing about Elfreth’s Alley is that it’s still a residential neighborhood – even though the buildings are centuries old, they’re all still inhabited. You can take a phone tour of the street to get some more information on its rich and fascinating history. Volunteer guides also staff the gift shop, which is interesting on its own accord.

Elfreth’s Alley
126 Elfreth's Alley
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 574-0560
http://www.yelp.com/biz/elfreths-alley-museum-philadelphia

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