On Saturday, the Delaware River Port Authority shut down the Benjamin Franklin Bridge to allow Philadelphia residents to walk over to Camden and enjoy a festival commemorating the 100th year anniversary for the bridge.
By Terrence Brown | Pennsylvania Talks
This weekend, thousands of people crossed the Benjamin Franklin Bridge on foot after the Delaware River Port Authority closed the bridge to vehicle traffic for its 100th anniversary celebration. Watch the full Pennsylvania Talks video below before exploring additional photos from the event.
Photographer: Terrence Brown
This was the beginning of the walk into Camden. Families, runners, photographers and history enthusiasts gathered before making the nearly two-mile trip across one of the Delaware Valley’s most recognizable landmarks.
The bridge quickly filled with pedestrians as thousands made their way toward the Camden waterfront celebration. The event recreated a tradition from the bridge’s original opening in 1926, when approximately 100,000 people crossed on foot before it officially opened to vehicle traffic.
One of my favorite parts of the experience was simply stopping to take in the view. From the bridge, visitors get a unique look at Philadelphia’s Center City skyline that most drivers never have the opportunity to enjoy.
The Benjamin Franklin Bridge offers sweeping views of Interstate 95, Penn’s Landing and the Delaware River waterfront. Seeing the city from this perspective was a reminder of how closely Philadelphia and Camden are connected.
The historic Poggenpohl Kitchens smokestack remains one of the most recognizable landmarks visible from the bridge. It’s a reminder of Philadelphia’s industrial history and another detail many people overlook while driving across.
Final Thoughts
For me, this was more than just a bridge walk. It was an opportunity to experience local history, get outside, and explore another community without spending much money. Events like this remind me why I started Pennsylvania Talks—to highlight experiences happening close to home that anyone can enjoy.
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