One of the best public art spaces in Philadelphia is hidden along the river at Pier 18. Once a busy Conrail stop along the Reading Railroad, Pier 18 is now Philadelphia’s worst kept secret, and dozens of people flock to “Graffiti Pier” every day to take photos that will take your breath away.
Pier 18 used to be a critical point at Port Richmond Yards, the sprawling Reading Railroad landing spot.
Flickr / Sara Castillo Workers would load anthracite coal from the pier into waiting trains. To everyone, it was just another pier along the yard.
In 1991, Conrail decommissioned and abandoned Pier 18. It didn’t take long for the city’s urban explorers to investigate the newly vacant site.
Flickr / pwbaker
Soon, artists from around the city began tagging Pier 18, and it quickly took on the name “Graffiti Pier.”
Flickr / pwbaker
Though it is still marked as private property, it’s one of the most Instagrammed places in Philadelphia.
Flickr / PWBaker
In fact, you’ll see cars lining up on beautiful weekend days as they try to find nearby parking before exploring this stunning art space.
Flickr / pwbaker
Adventurous Philadelphians come here to enjoy the balance of nature and urban decay, as the pier is in disrepair and it’s common to see trees, shrubs, and weeds poking their way through the concrete.
Flickr / pwbaker
The viewpoints you can find at Graffiti Pier are unlike any others in the city. No wonder so many people come here for art projects or photoshoots!
Flickr / pwbaker
Recently, there has been a big movement to turn Graffiti Pier into a public park, but that would require a lot of site cleanup, so plans have not yet been set by the city.
Flickr / pwbaker
Regardless of its future, one thing Philadelphians can all agree on is that this abandoned pier-turned-public-art-space is one of the most uniquely beautiful and captivating places in the city.
Flickr / pwbaker
Did you know Philadelphia has more public art than any other city in the country? No wonder we seem to love Graffiti Pier!
Flickr / Sara Castillo
Workers would load anthracite coal from the pier into waiting trains. To everyone, it was just another pier along the yard.
Flickr / pwbaker
Flickr / PWBaker
Here are a few more facts about Philadelphia to impress your friends – or to get ready for Trivia Night in Old City.
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