Rittenhouse Square History
Rittenhouse Square is a park that was planned by William Penn and named after David Rittenhouse, a clockmaker, surveyor and astronomer who was also the first director of the US Mint and member of the General Assembly and State Constitutional Convention. In the early nineteenth century, James Harper, after retiring from the US Congress, was the first to build a residence on the square. In the second half of the nineteenth century, the square become the most fashionable residential district in Philadelphia, with elaborate Victorian homes surrounding it. Some of those mansions still remain, though now the treed park is mostly surrounded by luxury apartments, restaurants and stores.
Rittenhouse Square Today
Rittenhouse Square offers shaded walkways perfect for a leisurely stroll as well as lush landscaped lawns, beautiful mature trees, colorful flower beds, ornamental lampposts, lion and goat statues and a reflecting pool. After a visit to the park, enjoy a meal at one of the area's popular restaurants, such as Rouge, Parc Restaurant Bistro & Cafe or Barclay Prime. The area also provides cultural enrichment at various museums, including the Rosenbach Museum & Library and the Mutter Museum.
Stylish Lodging near Rittenhouse Square
Crowne Plaza Hotel Philadelphia Downtown is conveniently located near Rittenhouse Square and offers the height of comfort, service and style during your Philadelphia visit. Enjoy sunbathing beside our rooftop pool, or sip a cocktail in our restaurant and lounge, the Elephant & Castle Pub and Restaurant. Other amenities include Wi-Fi, 32-inch flat-screen televisions with premium cable and pay-per-view and a fitness center. For more information about our hotel near Rittenhouse Square, please contact us at 215-561-7500 or toll-free at 866-618-0410.
