Atlas Obscura · People & society

Wood Street Steps in Philadelphia

The Wood Street Steps are the sole remaining example of stairways commissioned by William Penn to ensure public access to Philadelphia's river wharves.

Penn's original plan in 1684 included at least 10 stairways from Vine Street to South Street as part of a compromise to grant river access to all citizens, despite objections from some wealthy landowners.

These steps represent a historical commitment to public access to the waterfront, a principle established by the city's founder.

Directions to the steps involve walking east on Race Street to Columbus Blvd., then left to Summer Street, proceeding past Vine Street on the left side of Water Street until bricks are visible at the sidewalk.

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