Join our walks
Experience Philadelphia from its edges — at your own pace, in community.
Walk Around Philadelphia offers facilitated walking experiences year-round, ranging from short neighborhood explorations to full-day perimeter segments. Whether you want to dip a toe in, walk a stretch with friends, or someday complete the entire loop — you’re invited to join us.
Ways to walk with us
Baby Steps
(1–2 miles)
Gentle, conversational walks near points of interest on the city’s edge.
Great for first-timers, families, or anyone curious about the project.
Medium walks
(4-6 miles)
Half-day out & back experiences with varied terrain.
A good next step for people easing into perimeter exploration.
Full day segments
(~10 miles)
Full-day experiences that closely follow the city’s boundary.
Twelve are offered during each February & September cycle of the Walk.
You can always join for a partial segment. Many people do.
Seasonal walk cycles
Each February and September, small groups set out on a series of long walks that collectively circle the city. You choose how many segments to join — one, some, or all.
Every walk begins with an orientation where we review guidelines, introduce ourselves, and look at the map together. Facilitators help hold the container — but navigation and decision-making are shared.
-> How we walk
-> Guidelines & Safety
-> Accessibility
-> FAQ
What to Expect
- Small-group walking experiences (~15-20 people)
- A slow, thoughtful pace — focused on curiosity, not speed
- A mix of neighborhoods, riverfronts, woods, industry, parks & infrastructure
- Shared navigation + conversation
- Rest + snack breaks
- The “usual unusual” things and “expected unexpected” ones
- Surprises, detours, moments of beauty — every time
No two walks are ever the same.
-> Why we walk
Registration & Sliding Scale
We use optional sliding-scale registration contributions to keep walks accessible while sustaining the project.
No one is turned away due to lack of funds. If cost is a barrier, stipend support may be available.
-> Accessibility & Support
-> Donate to support a fellow walker
Who can join?
Adults and teens (with guardians) are welcome. Younger children may join under certain circumstances, please see the FAQ.
Some terrain can be challenging; shorter or select segments may work best for some walkers. Each segment registration comes with terrain previews, and you can learn more via our FAQ, discussion forums, and planning sessions.
We cannot welcome your pets in our group walks, but you may well discover a special place that you’ll want to come back to with them.
-> Frequently Asked Questions
Weather
We walk in most conditions — fog, rain, snow, and ice have all shaped unforgettable days. We only cancel in rare, truly dangerous weather.
-> Packing list
Getting to & From the Walk
We encourage public transit whenever possible, and coordinate our segment start times with SEPTA schedules as best we can.
Walkers can also coordinate rides together via our rideshare forums.
-> Frequently Asked Questions
-> Discussion forums
A Shared Practice of Care
Walking the perimeter means moving through diverse neighborhoods and landscapes.
We ask everyone to care for themselves, one another, and the places we pass through — with curiosity and respect.
-> How we walk
-> Guidelines & Safety
Ready to start your journey?
-> Frequently Asked Questions
-> Prefer toexplore on your own?