Cherry Street Pier
| Cherry Street Pier | |
|---|---|
| Type | Adaptive reuse pier / Arts venue |
| Location | Delaware River waterfront |
| Coordinates | 39.9550,-75.1380 |
| Area | 55,000 square feet |
| Established | 2018 |
| Operated by | Delaware River Waterfront Corporation |
| Features | Artist studios, gardens, food hall, event space |
| Hours | 7 AM - 10 PM daily (varies seasonally) |
| Transit | Walk from Old City; SEPTA bus 25 |
| Website | Official Site |
Cherry Street Pier sits on the Delaware River waterfront in Philadelphia, reimagined as a space where artists work, people eat, and communities gather. Built as a shipping pier back in 1919, it's now a thriving adaptive reuse project that opened in 2018. The original covered structure remains, its dramatic industrial frame creating shelter and character that modern construction couldn't replicate.[1]
What makes it work is simple: artists, food, and public space coexist naturally here. It doesn't feel forced.
History
Original Pier
Back in 1919, Philadelphia's port still mattered. This pier served that purpose:
- Handled Delaware River shipping traffic
- Its covered roof protected cargo operations
- It was part of a bustling port system
- Eventually fell silent as shipping moved elsewhere
Transformation
The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation took on the challenge of bringing it back to life:
- Between 2016 and 2018, the pier underwent major renovation
- They kept the original structure and roof intact
- Artist studios and public spaces got added in
- Now it runs year-round programming
Features
Artist Studios
Working artists occupy studios throughout the pier:
- You can watch them create
- The residency program rotates regularly
- Open studio events happen often
- Art's available for purchase
The Garden
Container plantings and raised beds fill the center:
- Container plantings and raised beds
- Seating scattered throughout
- String lights add warmth at night
- You get river views through the open sides
Food and Drink
Several vendors operate here:
- Local food options
- Craft beverages
- Menus change seasonally
- Both covered and outdoor seating available
Event Space
The pier hosts everything:
- Markets and pop-ups
- Live music
- Festivals
- Private events too
Visiting
Hours
It's generally open 7 AM to 10 PM, though that shifts with the seasons. Best to check the website for current hours.
Admission
- Free admission to the pier
- You'll pay for food, drink, and art purchases
Getting There
Location: Delaware River waterfront at Cherry Street
By Public Transit:
- From Old City, just walk east
- SEPTA Bus 25 stops at Columbus Boulevard
- Market-Frankford Line to 2nd Street, then a short walk
By Car:
- Columbus Boulevard parking lots
- Penn's Landing parking
By Bicycle:
- Delaware River Trail connects here
- Bike parking's available
Tips
The covered structure beats the sun and rain. Sunsets through the open pier sides? They're spectacular. Since Race Street Pier is just south, you could visit both in one trip. The event calendar shows markets and music performances, so check it before you go.
Nearby
- Race Street Pier is adjacent along the waterfront
- Penn's Landing runs south from here
- Old City is a short walk west
- Benjamin Franklin Bridge is visible from the pier
- Spruce Street Harbor Park sits further south, though it's seasonal
See Also
References
- ↑ "Cherry Street Pier". Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. Retrieved December 30, 2025