Elfreths Alley
Elfreth's Alley
| Type | Historic street |
|---|---|
| Address | Elfreth's Alley (between Front and 2nd Streets) |
| Map | View on Google Maps |
| Neighborhood | Old City |
| Phone | (215) 574-0560 |
| Website | Official site |
| Established | 1702 |
| Hours | Street always open; Museum varies |
Elfreth's Alley is a narrow cobblestone street in Old City, Philadelphia, described as "the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America." Dating to 1702, the alley's 32 Georgian and Federal rowhouses have been home to working-class Philadelphians for over 300 years.[1]
History
Origins
Elfreth's Alley was established in 1702 as a cart path between Front and Second Streets:
- Named for Jeremiah Elfreth, a blacksmith who owned property here
- Originally home to artisans and tradespeople
- Remained working-class for centuries
- Continuously inhabited since construction
Preservation
By the early 20th century, the alley faced demolition threats:
- 1934: Elfreth's Alley Association formed
- Residents organized to preserve the street
- Houses remain privately owned and occupied
- National Historic Landmark (1960)
The Houses
Architecture
The 32 houses represent:
- Georgian and Federal styles
- 18th and early 19th century construction
- Typical artisan/working-class homes
- Narrow facades, 2-3 stories
- Period details preserved
Notable Houses
- #124-126 — Elfreth's Alley Museum — Only interior open to public
- #122 — "Mantua Maker's House" (dressmakers)
- Various houses from 1720s-1830s
Visiting
The Street
Elfreth's Alley is a public street:
- Walk the cobblestones anytime
- Free to stroll and photograph
- Residents still live here—respect privacy
- Peek through windows at street level only
Elfreth's Alley Museum
- 124-126 is open as a museum:
- Period-furnished interior
- History of the alley and residents
- Gift shop
- Check hours—varies seasonally
Fete Day
Annual celebration (typically June):
- Houses open their doors
- Residents in period costume
- Special tours and events
- Best opportunity to see interiors
Visiting Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Street access | Always open (free) |
| Museum hours | Varies; check website |
| Museum admission | $5 adults |
| Address | Between Front and 2nd, off Arch Street |
| Time needed | 15-30 minutes (street); add time for museum |
Getting There
- SEPTA Subway — 2nd Street Station (Market-Frankford Line)
- Walking — In Old City, between Arch and Race Streets
- Parking — Nearby garages, limited street parking
Frequently Asked Questions
See Also
References
- ↑ "Elfreth's Alley". Elfreth's Alley Association. Retrieved December 23, 2025