Getting to Green: Route 7
August 7, 2024
SEPTA partnered with Mural Arts and Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) on Getting to Green: Routes to Roots - a multidisciplinary public art project aimed at inspiring Philadelphia residents to use public transportation [aka SEPTA] to explore the city’s green spaces. Through unique artwork including hand-drawn maps - riders are encouraged to discover new pathways and routes.
You might be surprised by how quickly you can travel from urban areas to green spaces on SEPTA.
Route 7 runs from Pier 70 in South Philadelphia to 33rd & Dauphin. On a typical weekday this route carries 2,619 passengers and makes a total of 103 trips. On weekends it operates around 84 trips.
Route 7 was once a streetcar line that ran from Strawberry Mansion to South Philadelphia. Route 7 operates in an L-shaped path with east-west service along Oregon Avenue in South Philadelphia and north-south service connecting Point Breeze, the western part of Center City, Fairmount, Brewerytown, and Strawberry Mansion. The central part of the route is straightforward while the segments at each end take a more winding path.
Did you know that you can ride Route 7 to a 650-acre park that runs alongside the eastern banks of the scenic Schuylkill River? Route 7 stops at East Fairmount Park - a park with a wealth of renowned landmarks and attractions. Visitors can explore the picturesque Schuylkill River Trail - lined with the iconic Boathouse Row and offering stunning views of the river. The park is also home to the prestigious Philadelphia Art Museum, the tranquil Strawberry Mansion Reservoir, the family-friendly Smith Memorial Playground, and a number of historic houses that showcase the area's rich heritage.
Fun Fact: the park originated from the acquisition of the former Lemon Hill estate by the City of Philadelphia in 1844.
And don't forget - you can bring your bike on the bus to explore and enjoy even more! Hop Route 7 to 29th and Pennsylvania Ave, 31st and Girard Ave, Art Museum Drive or 33rd and Dauphin.
Special Event on 8/13 at 8:30PM: Moon Walk & Star Gazing Party - with Fairmount Park Conservancy and astronomer/educator Buddy Muhler. The event includes a moonlit hike and guided observation of the moon, planets, or stars through high-powered telescopes. The nearest stops are 31st and Girard Ave and Art Museum Drive.
Now that you know the WAY TO GO - here are the WAYS TO PAY:
Bus fare is $2.50 cash [exact change required] or $2 if you have a SEPTA Key card with Travel Wallet or have one of these passes loaded to your SEPTA Key card: Monthly or Weekly TransPass or TrailPass, Convenience Pass, Neighborhood Flex Pass, or Anywhere FleX Pass.
No SEPTA Key card? No problem! Tap your contactless credit card, debit card, smart phone or watch to ride SEPTA buses, subways, and trolleys. Or check out SEPTA Key Tix - the new and convenient way to pay for transit using your smartphone!
And don't forget - Kids under 12 ride free when accompanied by an adult and Seniors 65+ ride free with a SEPTA Key Senior Fare Card!
Getting to Green: Routes to Roots is a collaboration between two local Philadelphia artists. Shira Walinsky has created over 40 murals in Philadelphia focusing on people and maps. Laura Deutch uses media and participatory art to explore connections between people, places, and their stories.
