Ben Franklin Bridge Pedestrian Tunnel Mural

icatsstaci (Atlas Obscura User)

A tunnel once gloomy and decrepit has become a giant mural. After renewing well over 2000-sqft of concrete walls with vibrant colors, the pedestrian tunnel under the Ben Franklin Bridge features one of Philadelphia’s most expansive murals.

The mural depicts scenes from the construction of the bridge, pictures of Philadelphia sights, and pays homages to those who keep it functioning day-to-day. The mural was created in partnership with Mural Arts Philadelphia by commissioned artists Brad Carney of Cherry Hill, and Philadelphia artists Melissa Mandel and Mat Tomeszko.

The bridge, completed in 1926 for the U.S. Sesquicentennial, was once the longest single-span suspension bridge in the world. Now, It is a Philadelphia icon, with over 100,000 vehicles crossing daily, along with passerby, who access the bridge via the tunnel. Both ends of the pedestrian tunnel connect to walkways that travel the full length of the bridge across the Delaware River. It offers stunning views for walkers, runners, and bikers, and now, since 2018, stunning murals.

Know Before You Go

The southern entrance of the tunnel can be found north of the corner of 5th St. and Race St. by following the brick sidewalk. The northern entrance is directly adjacent to the corner of 5th St. and N. Marginal Road. The walkway is open daily from 6 a.m.- 8 p.m. October 1 - April 30 and 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. May 1 - September 30. As with any location obscured from immediate public view, please use caution and be aware of your surroundings.