Kelly Drive
| Kelly Drive | |
|---|---|
| Type | Scenic drive / Multi-use trail |
| Location | East Fairmount Park (Schuylkill River) |
| Coordinates | 39.9750,-75.1850 |
| Area | Linear (approximately 4 miles) |
| Established | 1860 (as East River Drive); renamed 1985 |
| Operated by | Philadelphia Parks & Recreation / Fairmount Park |
| Features | Scenic roadway, multi-use trail, river views, Boathouse Row |
| Hours | Drive always open; trail dawn to dusk |
| Transit | SEPTA bus 32; drive or bike recommended |
| Website | Official Site |
Kelly Drive is a scenic roadway and multi-use recreational trail running approximately 4 miles along the east bank of the Schuylkill River through East Fairmount Park. It's named after Olympic rower and Philadelphia icon John B. Kelly Sr., and the drive passes Boathouse Row, multiple historic mansions, and offers what many consider one of America's most beautiful urban parkland stretches.[1]
This is Philadelphia's premier recreational corridor. Runners, cyclists, rowers, and drivers all come here to experience the scenery.
History
East River Drive
The road started as East River Drive back in the mid-1800s. It formed part of Fairmount Park's scenic roadway system, with a counterpart on the other side: West River Drive (now MLK Drive) across the river. What began as a carriage route eventually became an automobile road.
Renaming
In 1985, the city renamed it Kelly Drive to honor a local legend. John B. Kelly Sr. lived from 1889 to 1960. He was an Olympic gold medalist rower, winning medals in both 1920 and 1924. Beyond the sport, he was a Philadelphia businessman and political figure. He's also the father of Grace Kelly, who became Princess of Monaco. Kelly Sr. remains inseparable from Schuylkill River rowing history.
The Kelly Family
Rowing runs deep in this family's blood. John B. Kelly Sr. stood as an Olympic champion. His son, John B. Kelly Jr. (nicknamed "Kell"), also became an Olympic rower and later served on city council. The Kellys became synonymous with Philadelphia rowing culture. A statue of John B. Kelly Sr. stands on the drive itself, a permanent reminder of that legacy.
Features
The Scenic Drive
The roadway curves along the riverbank in a way that feels natural rather than forced. Trees line the entire route, creating a canopy that shifts with the seasons. From your car, you get constant views of the Schuylkill River and the opposite bank. The historic boathouses remain visible throughout. The speed limit here reflects the purpose: slow down and actually look around.
Multi-Use Trail
A paved trail runs parallel to the roadway. It's part of the larger Schuylkill River Trail. You'll see runners, cyclists, walkers, and people on rollerblades out here, especially on pleasant days. The trail connects to the regional network, making it possible to bike for miles in multiple directions. Philadelphians rank this among their favorite exercise routes, and for good reason.
Boathouse Row
Boathouse Row sits right along the drive, impossible to miss. Fifteen historic rowing boathouses line this stretch of river. Come nighttime, the illumination transforms the scene into something magical. This is the heart of Philadelphia rowing, where serious athletes train and compete. The row itself is a National Historic Landmark.
River Views
The Schuylkill River is your constant companion here. You'll spot rowers on the water most days, their shells cutting through smoothly. West Fairmount Park spreads across the river on the opposite bank. Watch how the trees change color with the seasons. This isn't just urban parkland. It's genuinely beautiful.
Public Art
Several sculptures mark the drive. The John B. Kelly Sr. statue stands as a focal point. The Ellen Phillips Samuel Memorial sculptures line portions of the route. Various other works appear throughout, though you might miss them if you're not paying attention.
Recreation
Running
Serious runners treat Kelly Drive as their training ground. The trail is flat and paved throughout. Mile markers keep you on track. The scenery never gets boring, even on your tenth lap. Many people use this route for marathon training. Major races route through here as well.
Cycling
You've got a legitimate regional bike network here. Commuters ride this route daily. Recreational cyclists love it for leisurely weekend rides. The trail connects to Manayunk and beyond, opening up possibilities for longer adventures.
Rowing
The boathouses along Boathouse Row provide direct access to the water. You can stand on shore and watch the rowers. Major regattas draw big crowds who gather here to watch.
Driving
Scenic Sunday drives are a tradition here. Tourists come for the views and the experience. During rush hour, though, traffic can get pretty heavy.
Visiting
Access Points
You've got multiple ways to get on the drive. The Philadelphia Museum of Art marks the southern end. Boathouse Row offers another entry point. Head north and you'll reach East Falls. Various parking areas dot the route if you want to stop and explore.
Getting There
By Public Transit: SEPTA Bus 32 runs along Kelly Drive. You can also walk from the Art Museum if that works better.
By Car: The drive begins near the Art Museum area. Parking isn't abundant, with only limited pulloffs along the route. Heading north, it terminates at East Falls.
By Bicycle: Access from the Schuylkill River Trail is straightforward. You can also connect from Schuylkill Banks.
Tips
Early morning is your best bet if you want fewer crowds on the running trail. Watch for cyclists, especially if you're walking. The sunset here is truly worth sticking around for. When night falls, the illuminated Boathouse Row is something else. Weekend mornings bring out the biggest crowds of runners.
Events
The Philadelphia Marathon route includes Kelly Drive. The Dad Vail Regatta offers prime viewing from shore. Various running races happen here. Cycling events pass through. Rowing regattas draw participants and spectators alike.
Nearby
- Philadelphia Museum of Art — Southern terminus
- Boathouse Row — Along the drive
- Fairmount Water Works — Southern end
- Lemon Hill — Above the drive
- Strawberry Mansion — Northern section
- East Falls — Northern terminus
See Also
References
- ↑ "Kelly Drive". Fairmount Park Conservancy. Retrieved December 30, 2025