Grand Opening: Rail Park Has Been Unveiled!

Park lovers, rejoice: Callowhill’s much-anticipated Rail Park is open to the public!

In the style of New York City’s famous High Line, the elevated quarter-mile trail runs along the path of the abandoned Reading Viaduct rail line, from between 12th and 1th to the intersection of North Broad and Noble streets.

It’s the newest destination for Philly’s outdoorsy set. Take a walk along its gravel pathways, have a picnic on its grassier areas, or play on its swinging benches, all while enjoying stunning views of the city.

City officials are optimistic that Rail Park, which has been in development since 2010, will bring commercial and residential growth to the Callowhill area — and maybe even bring Philadelphians together.

“This park it will connect people, it will connect communities, it will connect…our whole city,” Philly Parks and Recreation Commissioner Kathryn Ott-Lovell said at the ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday.

The park may be open, but there’s still more to come. Look forward to a few additional phases: though the details are under wraps, we know that by the time it’s finished, the park will stretch three miles past the Parkway, to Girard and 31st streets.

Photo Credit: Center City District