124-126 Elfreth's Alley

This was really cute to check out while in the Philly area. Would recommend to check out.

I love the history of Philadelphia and all there is to unravel. Elfreth's Alley is a historic street in the Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia, dating back to 1703.[2] The street has 32 houses, built between 1703 and 1836. We visited the week before Christmas and so while we missed their twice annual open doors where visitors can peak inside their homes, it was still Ana incredibly charming stroll. We saw the museum but it wasn't open. I will def be back to visit.

Elfreth's Alley is located very near to the river, and it's still got it's original 18th century charm. The residents of the Alley have taken great pains via lobbying and other means to keep the historic value of this old-time piece of Americana intact; they haven't allowed it to be consumed in the name of of Urban Progress and/or real estate development. It's highly likely that if you take one of the many professionally guided walking tours of Philadelphia, Elfreth's Alley will be a featured stop. However, if you're taking in the sites without a guide, you should make a point to spend some time here.

This is a cool little alley to walk through. It's historic and quaint. One of those types of places that you can just add as something to walk through, but you wouldn't necessarily need to spend a lot of time here. People live in the actual houses, so it's not like you're going inside. Worth a stroll through if you're nearby!

Second trip here. First trip was in Nov. 23 and just had to bring my partner here this Jun (2024). Dating back to 1700's it is the oldest inhabited street in the country, or at least proclaimed. We parked a bit away and walked down. Such a special place. You can feel the history. Gift shop was closed during this trip but I do believe I did see a townhouse for rent in anyone is interested. I couldn't imagine the price though. Definitely check it out if in the area.

Elfreth's Alley dates back to 1703. Many of the early structures on this historic street were built between 1720 and 1836. The very first time I visited Philadelphia, I stumbled upon this area without knowing anything about it. I was amazed by its Colonial era design. Back in the day, this alley was designed as an alternate route to the river between properties due to overcrowding. Today, Elfreth's Alley is a thriving residential community that is home to all sorts of people. This alley is named after Jeremiah Elfreth and has 32 houses. Elfreth's Alley is closed during the winter season. There is a walking audio tour that can be purchased for a few bucks on your smartphone. The Elfreth's Alley Museum is located in #124 and #126.

Happy Independence Day Everyone! What better way to celebrate 4th of July than to explore Elfreth's Alley, a time capsule of one of the most historic neighborhoods in America. The museum here is furnished like it would have been in 1760 and is located at house No. 126. Please respect the privacy of the other residents here. 29 of the 32 homes are privately owned. You can truly feel the past as you walk along the picturesque quaint alley. I couldn't help but marvel at all the original exterior structures that were still intact. One wonders what the interior looks presently. One amusing thing that happened as we were strolling along...my son says to me, I'm sure most of these homes have been passed down by generations. I doubt one of them is owned by an Asian family. And right at that moment, we spot a Japanese Maneki Neko (Lucky Cat) on one of the home's window sill.

Difficult one to rate. At the end of the day, it is an alley with row homes. Not much to get excited about. I can imagine that kids on vacation with their families come here, and they spend the entire time begging their parents to leave and go do literally anything else. On the other hand, it is pretty freaking dope that the street has survived as long as it has, and that people still live here. Certainly, it is possible that our nation's founders had dinner or tea in these homes. Wild to consider. The homes are pretty and well maintained because the association + Dept. of Interior keeps it that way. It's worth a visit, but make sure the kids have a toy or something before you stop in.

My partner and friend and I all came here on a random Monday night to check this place out because we've heard it can feel a little spooky at times. We love that type of vibe (Halloween, etc) so we decided to venture around here. I did not realize how actually old this place is, and a lot of very well-known and historically significant people have walked and lived on this street. It definitely brings you back to a feeling of being in the UK somewhere which I loved.

Omg, such a cute historical little alley where actual residents live. One of the oldest streets in the U.S.!

Elfreth's Alley is an easy must see landmark while visiting Philly. They have America's first homes since 1713. Please be respectful during your visit because 29 of the 32 homes are privately owned. They are opened April - October, Friday to Sunday, 12 noon - 4pm. I came during the weekday so the museum was closed. There was a QR code to scan for an Audio Tour. It was only $3 and I was going to pay it, but then they had all these annoying questions for me to make an account. Jeez, let me just pay, why do you have to be so complicated. I didn't want to fill out all that information so I skipped the Audio Tour. Maybe another time in the future when I'm there during their very limited business hours. The ally itself it a quick walk from end to end. I love the architecture. The homes are simply super cute. It really displays how Philly is such a diverse melting pot with many flags being hung up in the area, of course including the American flag. I love the cobblestone paths, I love the red brick buildings. Must see, must visit, must take those pictures spot. I ran into a nice European family and I was their photographer for a quick minute. Be nice to tourists! If you are already in the area, you are within walking distance of Betsy Ross' house, where the first American flag was made, so you should check that out too!

After an elite 8:30 mile pace for the first 2 miles of a 4 mile run, I hit the emergency brake on these WHEELS as I had arrived at Elfreth's Alley. How you gon jump me if my legs work?!? I pulled off my noise canceling Sony WH-910N Wireless Headphones to hang around my neck as I was set to take in the air, energy, and soul of the oldest residential street in the US. I stood at the entrance to one side of the Alley, Drakes "Tried Our Best" faintly audible from my noise canceling Sony WH-910N Wireless Headphones, trying to put myself in the shoes of mid-18th century residents inhabiting this place and feel the revolutionary undertones beginning to percolate. Those mfs had COURAGE bro. What a fascinating time in human history... but I'm a bit of a dork so... Just as I was beginning to visualize my blacksmith, glassblowing, and furniture building neighbors, I see a Grey Prius slowly turning onto the alley. Damn you can still drive on this road wtf??? We should probably rope this off lmaooo. Also, I never understood the Prius hate back in the day, I think they're kinda cool tbh. After the Prius rolled on by at a noise level of 5.5 decibels, I took a slow stroll down the alley and realized that people really STILL live here. Kind of funny to see the contrast of the oldest residential street in the country littered with Ring doorbells ahahahaha. The duality of man. After about 10 minutes of soaking up this energy, I put back on my noise canceling Sony WH-910N Wireless Headphones and set back on my elite 8:30 mile pace with "Tried Our Best" still spinning. "But Johnny you said you were there for 10 minutes and that song is only 3:30..." Yeah okay thanks you little nark. I've had this song on repeat 1 since this album dropped. It's a look at my soul, I can't stop listening. Anyways, this place is SO worth a visit. I love Philly. I love American History. I love my noise canceling Sony WH-910N Wireless Headphones. IG @jnov_ Tiktok @jnov__ *This review was brought to you by Sony WH-910N Wireless Headphones #ad*

Probably closer to a 4.5, but if you're even slightly in the area, this is a must include. Give yourself 20-30 minutes to walk around and look around. Don't be a disturbance and respect the homeowners. It's pretty cool to take a moment and consider everyone that has walked on those bricks and how much the world has changed since these houses were constructed.

Elfreth's Alley is the nation's oldest residential street and dates back to 1703. It's also on the National Register of Historic Places. There is a museum open Fridays-Sundays, but I came on a weekday. Although it is a cute street, I wouldn't go out of my way for it.

Imagine riding in a horse and buggy, hitching your horse and getting off here in the 18th century. Ephrath's Alley brings you back to Colonial times and you can walk the narrow cobblestone street to see the homes that grace both sides. Each property is numbered and there is a sign advising you that this is still a residential area and to mindful of that. The museum is scheduled to open this season on April 15th on weekends only. Check out their website for more information on the museum. At the end of the alley is Bladen's court which really doesn't have much to look at. Your entire walk should be at most 5-10 minutes to see it all. This is a historical landmark bearing the name of the oldest inhabited residential street in the US. If you are near the Betsy Ross house this street isn't far from it and worth a visit. Most of the other streets in this area are very narrow but there is a parking garage nearby and the area is cleared marked with directional signs leading you to popular points of interest. Definitely make it a point to visit Ephrath's alley when visiting historic Philadelphia.

One of the most picturesque spots in Philly. The annual open houses, Deck the Alley and the Fete, are great. You'll leave wishing you could live on this adorable block. (I seriously considered a house on the alley in my recent house hunt since it coincided with the Fete and a home hit the market that week.) I walk past often since I live in the area, and I've taken many a photo for strangers at the end of the block. I bring all of my out-of-town visitors here, and the small museum is full of interesting information. The residents are a friendly bunch, and they really seem to appreciate and be proud of their special block. It's a Philly treasure.

Very charming. This is the oldest, continuously inhabited residential street in America. It's a quick but pleasant stroll. I didn't go inside the museum so not sure what's happening there. According to their website, "the Elfreth's Alley Museum is open Friday-Sunday, 12-4pm through the end of October. Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for children (ages 7-12), and free for those under 7." You can also use your smartphone to purchase a self-guided audio tour for $3. There is a QR code on site. I didn't see much parking around here but I didn't look closely. We parked in a garage by Independence Hall and walked here. Paddy's Pub (the bar that inspired the bar in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia) is a couple blocks away. People still live here so be mindful of that.

I'm gonna be honest, when I heard that this is the oldest, continually used, residential street in the country, I had to see it. It was amazing to walk a street that was put in place in the 1700s. To think of the millions of footsteps made on this cobblestone and brick alley is a bit baffling. To be able to walk this alley (that is protected as it is a National Historic Landmark) was a thrill for this guy. It is a beautifully preserved neighborhood that feels very welcoming. Even though it does feel like you are free to roam about with total disregard, please be mindful of yourself. This is still an area that people live. Off of Elfreth's Alley is Bladen's Court. It is a nice little off shoot that has it's own little history to it. It was originally a shared space between two families that held opposing political views (didn't end well, look it up). Bladen's Court was not named after either of the two, but after a baker that owned the property in the 1800s. Bladen's is not technically a historically protected area as of right now, but there is debate ongoing to extend the courtesy. One thing I do suggest to do, take pictures. It is an amazing setting, you will get some great shots.

Brings one back to the colonial times! It's quite charming walking through! Had a pleasant experience here!

Charming alleyway that dates back to the early 1700's, with just a line of historic, row houses. Although the museum was closed when we visited, it was still a great experience to walk down Elfreth's Alley. Elfreth's Alley is located in Philadelphia, just blocks from Independence Hall, Betsy Ross House, etc. It's where all the action happened back in the day. Because of how far it dates, this alley is a National Historic Landmark. The alley's grounds are paved in cobblestone, reflective of how it was then, and the row houses are made of stone and brick. The houses were homes then and it is now! How cool to live in Elfreth's Alley, with how much history has taken place here. I'm sure if you visit the museum you will learn much more about this alleyway; however, even if you can't, I recommend walking through if you're in the Philadelphia area and are interested in history. You may even see a house for sale! I love the architecture of these historic homes, which really tells you times of once was.

Fun little ally with colorful homes and lots of American history. Theres a self guided tour as an options as well.

Such a cute and historic stop if you are visiting Philadelphia! This alley is the oldest residential street in the US that still has residents today.

If you like the look of old-school Philadelphia, with scenic row houses and vintage vibes, Elfreth's Alley is worth a stop. It's a small block located between between Arch Street and Quarry Street. I believe I read that Elfreth's Alley is the first United States residential street dating back to 1703. The street has 32 houses which are all still inhabited today (well, most of them), but you'd never know it because you won't bump into any of the tenants. It's a National Historic Landmark, and the current owners of the homes try to keep it cute with thematic decor. When I saw it, many of the houses had president inspired pumpkins and other seasonal decor that made it extra cute. There is a museum in the alley but I didn't pop into it. If it's a nice day, I really think this historic street is worth a stroll. I think it's super interesting to think about all the history that this street has seen and there's even a little outdoor garden area that's quaint and fun if you can catch it when the leaves are changing.

If you're into history, Elfreth's Alley is a cool spot in Philly that's worth checking out. It's a pedestrian-only alleyway lined with colonial-era homes; 32 to be exact. Walking on the short street is like taking a trip back in time. The alley is located on the east side of Center City, near the Ben Franklin Bridge, Delaware River, and Pennsylvania-New Jersey border. It's a National Historic Landmark. We visited around 5pm on a Sunday and the alley wasn't crowded at all. At times, my fiancee and I were the only ones there. Somewhat to my surprise, our Lyft driver, who has lived in Philly for a number of years, had never heard of Elfreth's Alley before. It's a cobblestone street, originally designed to be a cart path to the river. The multistory brick homes are quaint and well-maintained. The homes were originally occupied by shopkeepers and merchants who operated businesses out of their homes. According to a plaque posted in the alley, the alley dates back to 1736. The Elfreth's Alley Association describes this as the nation's oldest residential street even though New York's Huguenot Street was settled in the 1600s and has been continuously inhabited. Two of the 32 homes are used today as a museum and gift shop. The museum is furnished as it would have been in 1760. At the time of writing this review, the museum is open April-October, Friday-Sunday, 12pm-5pm. Admission is cheap: only $3 per adult, $2 per child aged 5-12, and free for children under 5. However, walking the alley is completely free and it's "open" 24/7. The other 29 homes are private residences that are still in use today. In December 2018, Curbed reported that an end unit was for sale and the asking price was $925,000 (https://philly.curbed.com/2018/12/10/18134400/elfreths-alley-philly-home-house-historic-sale-1700s). In February 2019, Philadelphia Magazine reported on the same house at 139 Elfreth's Alley. The magazine said, "Recent sales on this block have run in the $600,000-$800,000 range." (https://www.phillymag.com/property/2019/02/19/house-for-sale-elfreths-alley-oldest-house/) Be sure to check out Bladen's Court, a whimsical and charming tree-lined alley within an alley. It dead-ends into a quiet courtyard. Bladen's Court originated between 1749 and 1752. It's named after William Bladen, a biscuit-maker, who owned the property in the early 1800s. Elfreth's Alley is named after Jeremiah Elfreth, a blacksmith, silversmith, land speculator, developer, and property owner. Elfreth's Alley is conveniently located within walking distance to many of Philly's major historic sites including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall (5-6 blocks away), the Benjamin Franklin Museum and Christ Church Burial Ground where Ben Franklin is buried (4 blocks away), the United States Mint (3 blocks away), and the Betsy Ross House, birthplace of the first American flag (1 block away).

The one place in America that happens to be the oldest residential street in the United States - how cool is that? For real. The street (or alley) dates back to 1702. The buildings that currently exist were built between 1728 and 1836. The alley is named after Jeremiah Elfreth, who was a property owner and blacksmith. Most of the people who lived in those buildings were tradesmen, glass blowers and furniture builders. That would all change throughout history. In 1900, it was mostly Irish immigrants. In 1934, a restoration group was formed and since then they have done a great job preserving the alley and its homes. The cobblestone street was common back in the day, and I'm glad it is still being used as a walk/bike way. I didn't go to the museum, as it is only open on the weekends. Would've been awesome to check out, but it was no biggie - as long as I took plenty of photos. I did go into Bladen's Court, which is considered an "alley within an alley" with a mini courtyard hidden. I chilled there for a few moments. There are a few markers that were very interesting, so definitely check those out. Lots of history lie here. It's hard not to be thrilled to be in it. It is said that Betsy Ross would walk on the alley on her way to school. Nat "King" Cole shot an album cover for his "Sings My Fair Lady" 1963 album here. There have been times when the alley and its homes were threatened with demolition, but thanks to the efforts of many historians, locals and others, it is there for people to experience what 18th Century life was like. A must for anyone who loves American history and classic architecture.

Very cute alley, like so many in Philadelphia-reminds me of Acorn st. in Boston. Worth a little stroll if in the area, very peaceful - be mindful of the residents obvi.

Very cool place to see. I wouldn't visit every time in Philly, but I can say it's worth seeing once or twice. Really quaint and cute. My wife and I really enjoyed it. Very colorful alley with the city seemingly built all around it.

One of those classic locations that I should have reviewed sooner, but 3 away from 1400 isn't bad! When it comes to an Olde Philadelphia location that nearly free to travel and walk through, it doesn't get much better than our nation's oldest block. And from a cultural perspective its fun to bask in the classic historically preserved architecture, stop in their museum to see heirlooms from the time period, and dial into a free audio tour on your cellphone. Take the right turn down their alleyway and you'll also stumble upon their general store where you can buy some inexpensive baked goods and coffee. Come in during a First Friday and you might just stumble upon some free guided tours, and the likes of Saint Benjamin's Brewing serving beers in the back. If I reviewed Elfreth's Alley a few long years ago like I had intended, I would of called it the perfect escape for seemingly being able to step out of the city for awhile. Sadly, with one of those giant loft constructions starting to tower over it, that's no longer the case. But it can still make for a fine getaway from the usual.

America's oldest residential street built in the 1800's is something everyone should see. It is amazing how well kept and that it still has residents in these historical homes. It really takes you back in time. I loved that their was a beautiful kitty who greeted me on my walk down the street. Its definitely worth the stop even if its just for pictures.

This is popular alley, a historic site. Nice architecture for photography. There are still people living in this alley. On their windows, it states who were/are the owners of that unit. There are 2 units are opened for tour on Fridays & weekends. Small fee/donation.

I visited here in the early morning. There was no one. I could avoid a tourist trap. The alley was quiet. It is hard to believe that people are still living. Were they sleeping? Anyway, it was free. Just walk and take pictures!

Bottom Line: A remarkable historic landmark that is the best sight in Philly. Visiting Elfreth's Alley is like stepping in a time machine and jumping off of your horse in a nearly 300 year old residential street. It's the closest I've come to time travel so for that reason it is my 2,100th Yelp Review! How I missed this historic gem on my first visit to Philly I'll never know but it was an amazing surprise when I did a walking tour on my second visit to the City of Brotherly Love. Today the alley is home to a museum, artisans and residents. Even if you don't visit the museum or take a guided tour it's a great place to take a very slow stroll and admire the residences that were built between 1720 and 1830. The street and homes are well maintained and I really admire those who those who worked tirelessly to preserve the street in the 1930s. In the 1960s the street was designated a National Historical Landmark. Today, there are full time residents living on Elthreth's Alley as well as plenty of tourists cruising through.

America's oldest continually occupied street, vey picturesque with quaint shuttered windows and traditional brickwork. Love the cobblestone street. It felt like I was in Europe. It's free to visit and it's neat to walk down the alley and look at the housing of the past. It only takes you about 10 minutes to slowly walk through this row of houses. Try not to miss walking in Bladen's Court located midway down the street, which is basically an alley within an alley that leads into a charming circular courtyard. It's a cool jewel back in time in the middle of Philadelphia. It also makes a great Instagram picture! I had to come here on my visit to Philly! It's a cool place to visit! 5 stars!

Not much to see Took our obligatory group pic Advise to visit it at night during the holidays when it's lit and makes for a magical stroll

I never miss an opportunity to swing by this quaint alley. Reminiscent of England this alley has beautifully maintained cobblestone lined with turn of the century homes. Beautiful Victorian architecture. Lots of times there are events happening like house tours and little sales. The alley is a block long and so easy to walk and enjoy the beauty of the oldest area in the city.

Impression: This is a small charming Euro- New England row of rowhouses that have bright cheerful colors. For those who live in Philly, it's the same as the rowhouses around, just prettier and more colorful that makes for good photos. For those who haven't seen the rowhouses of Philly, then this place is a good place to go if you're in Old City. If you're at Independence Hall, the Meeting Place for Quakers, the Mint, or even near Spruce Street Harbor, it is definitely worth a stop over. It is a little further from the former I listed, so that's why you will have less tourists there compared to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall that has many many people in line to see these attractions. Photography: The best shot I think is the one right at the entrance at an angle shot. Getting a shot straight down the middle will kind of detract from the colorfulness of the a whole row of houses. A few streets down there are also small residential pockets that look similar to Elfreth's- There's even a whole house decked out in Canadian flags and colors that made for good photos if you're walking up from Spruce Street.

Charming block of homes which is the oldest neighborhood in America. These homes are kept in wonderful condition, and they're still lived in! We walked the short distance from the Betsy Ross House to this alley. It's really hard to find parking in this area, and I'd recommend you walk here if you're capable because it's faster to walk here than to try to find close parking!!!! It didn't take us more than fifteen minutes to wander through this group of colonial homes. One note of caution.... I didn't see any public restrooms around here. We had to walk back to Starbucks (about two blocks away) where we ended up buying drinks so we could use the restroom there. This is a nice group of well maintained colonial homes, and informative. I'd recommend stopping by here if you have time. Super lovely ....

Cute place but there area buildings around with the same design. If you are near go but I wouldn't make a special trip.

It's neat. It's historic. If it's on your way, then walk on through! But don't go way out of your way just to see it unless this is your jam. Read on. Basically it is a street of Georgian row homes, beautifully painted and well kept. Still occupied, the alley is a well-preserved piece of early Philadelphia. With cobblestones and much too narrow for a car, it is quite a dainty street, perfect for a sweet stroll. I haven't been to the museum, because it is always closed when I come by, but that would probably make it more worth while to visit. The museum is only open Fri, Sat, and Sun. 12-5. I also would l love to go to one of the events where you can tour the inside of some of the residents' homes! I believe there are a few different ones throughout the year.

We just happened upon this street when we were walking around Philadelphia. And it's one of the reasons why it can be so fun to be a tourist in this historical city. Elfreth's Alley is the oldest residential street in the United States, dating back to the early 1700s. People lived here in these exact homes before our country was even a country. It was great to think about all of the history that has happened around this street, which seems to be stuck in time, the same as it was in the 18th century. How did the strife from the Revolutionary War spill out into this street? Were there celebrations in the street when it was won? Thirty two residences line the street, which seems like a lot for the large city block. But that's part of the allure. The homes are charming, with colorful shutters and cobblestones. There's also a bakery and small museum. It's important to be respectful of the people who live on this street -- yes, people still actually live here. Though they are likely used to the looky-loos. I imagine this street is particularly beautiful during the holidays. I hope I get to go back one day.

Excellent spot. 1) If you are into American history, this is a must visit spot. 2) I enjoyed the old architecture and area. 3) Will definitely come back.

This Alley is a gem! Come see, even if you take a wrong turn. Even if you are on your way some place else. An adorned, brick-lain old colonial streetlet that is supposedly the oldest in Philly. You look in old glass windows. There are cavernous bends to ruminate in. Worth a long look; at how real Americans lived - before sky scrapers, bridges, freeways and malls. Wish there were some more historic signs leading up to Elfreth on other streets. Beautiful! Rebel review: 5 star history!

I love this area of historic Philly. Elfreth's Alley is so cool. It's amazing that people have continually resided in these homes since the 1700's. Lots of cool shops in the area as well. Metered parking but easy to find a place to park.

Beautiful little alley in Philadelphia. It's hard not to be impressed by the pretty houses, cobblestone pavement and Georgian architecture. I was tempted to enter the houses and get a look inside out but I guess that would have to wait till my next visit.

A great depiction of what early 18th Century America looked like. The street is narrow but meticulously maintained. Take the time to go through the one small alley and visit the donut shop there, the donuts were delicious.

This is a beautiful alley to visit while roaming in Philadelphia. Forget the regular tourist spots and hit this place on your feet with cobblestone and beautifully painted doors and windows. DO NOT take the hop on hop off bus and they dont let you get down at this spot to be able to get an actual feel of this place.

Elfreth's Alley is a quaint little street with lots of character. It's considered America's oldest residential street. There's only about ten or so homes, with shuttered windows and a cobblestone street! Soooo cute! Free to walk down and observe but I think there's also a home open to the public during certain hours for $5/pp I believe. We didn't get to do this since we came super early in the morning - also were hardly any people there when we came. Maybe it was still too early for other tourists to be out? Anyhow, definitely worth a visit and a stroll down this alleyway. People still actually live here! Super neat.

First stop on my Philly tour, Elfreth's Alley! This is the oldest residentially occupied street in the country. How cool! Walking down the cobblestone road and thinking back to how life was in the 1702 is an interesting thought experiment. Not sure if anyone ACTIVELY lives here or how much longer they could stand their home being a National Historic Landmark. Apparently there's an Elfreth's Alley Museum, but I didn't get a chance to experience that. Next time. I happened to visit during the Christmas season, so the street looked even more beautiful and colorful than usual. I'd recommend stopping by on your way to other parts of Philadelphia, especially if you're wanting to check another historic landmark off your list of traveling adventures!

What an adorable little street. Absolutely breathtaking! I can't believe people really live there, how cool. Loved walking through a time in history.