Boathouse Row: Where History Meets Hunks (in Crew Necks, Obviously)
Ever seen a picture of Philadelphia and wondered, "Wait, is that Venice in America?" Hold your gondolas, folks, that's Boathouse Row, a sight that's equal parts stunning scenery and rich history, with a dash of athleticism thrown in for good measure.
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| What is Boathouse Row In Philadelphia |
A Row of Rowing Royalty: From Humble Beginnings to National Treasure
Boathouse Row isn't some fancy apartment complex overlooking a river. These beauties are boathouses, dating back to the mid-1800s. That's right, over 150 years of housing racing shells and the dreams of glory-bound rowers (think "Rocky," but with oars instead of gloves). These clubs are the Schuylkill Navy, the oldest amateur athletic association in the US – basically, they're the OG's of rowing.
Fun Fact: Some of the boathouses were designed by the architectural team Furness & Evans, the same folks who brought you the stunning Philadelphia City Hall. So yeah, these boathouses aren't just storing oars, they're dripping with architectural pedigree.
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Beyond the Boathouses: Lights, Camera, Action!
Boathouse Row isn't just a daytime stunner. Come nightfall, the buildings light up like a Christmas tree on steroids. We're talking colorful LED extravaganzas that change with the seasons and special events. It's a sight that'll make you want to grab a cheesesteak and shout, "Yo, Adrian, this view is invincible!"
Pro Tip: If you're planning a visit, try to catch the Boathouse Row Relighting Ceremony (usually happens in March). It's a night of live music, food trucks, and a light show that'll leave you starry-eyed (and maybe a little full from all the cheesesteaks).
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But Wait, There's More! Fun Facts About Boathouse Row
- Ivy League Crews? You Betcha! Penn, Drexel, and La Salle all have boathouses on the Row. Guess those college applications better include some serious rowing skills these days.
- Not Just for Guys: The Philadelphia Girls' Club has a boathouse on the Row too, proving that women have been kicking butt in the rowing world for ages.
- Did Someone Say "Rocky"? While the movie trained on the Schuylkill River, the famous "Rocky steps" scene wasn't filmed near Boathouse Row. But hey, it's still Philadelphia, so you get an A for effort!
Boathouse Row FAQs:
How to Get to Boathouse Row? Boathouse Row is located on Kelly Drive in Fairmount Park. You can drive, bike, or take public transportation (the closest stop is Fairmount on the Broad Street Line).
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How to Take a Tour of Boathouse Row? There aren't official tours of Boathouse Row itself, but you can rent a kayak or paddleboard from a nearby boathouse and get a close-up look. There are also boat tours on the Schuylkill River that offer stunning views of the Row.
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How to See a Rowing Race? The Schuylkill Navy hosts races throughout the year. Check their website for the schedule and cheer on the future Olympians!
How to Become a Member of a Boathouse Row Club? Membership in these clubs is typically private, but some offer rowing programs for the public. Contact the clubs directly to inquire about their offerings.
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How to Just Relax and Enjoy Boathouse Row? Spread out a blanket on the Kelly Drive green space, grab some takeout, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. It's the perfect spot for a picnic with a view!
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