Take a Ride Down Kelly Drive

There is plenty to see on John B. Kelly Drive along the Schuylkill River. Come here for the history, the views, to take photos, or just for a scenic Sunday drive.

Previously known as East River Drive, the roadway was renamed in honor of John, B. Kelly, Jr. who was an Olympic rower, Philadelphia City Councilman, and brother of Grace Kelly – an American actress who became Princess of Monaco. There is also a statue of Kelly’s father, John B. Kelly, Sr., which is located at the grandstand by the national racecourse finish line.

There is another portion of Kelly Drive dubbed “Boathouse Row” which is a historic site just to the north of the Fairmount Water Works and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The boathouses are full of history as all of them are over 100 years old with some being more than 150 years old. Take a look at this great photo of Boathouse Row at night:
Other highlights along Kelly Drive include the Ellen Phillips Samuel Memorial Sculpture Garden and a multipurpose recreational trail that is within Fairmount Park. So if you are looking for something to do this weekend, why not take a fun trip down Kelly Drive? Afterward you can have some fun in downtown Philadelphia, grab a bite to eat, or check out one of the many great things to do in Philadelphia. See what’s happening in Philadelphia this week by clicking here.

(Frederic Remington sculpture titled “Cowboy” – the only full size sculpture created by Remington)