Fairmount Water Works

Fairmount Water Works is a historic pump station on the eastern bank of the Schuylkill River featuring neoclassical buildings with symmetrical colonnades and reservoir pools. The site spreads across multiple levels along the riverfront, displaying original machinery and engineering that once supplied the city's water needs.

Frederick Graff designed this as the city's second waterworks in 1812, using innovative paddle wheels powered by the river's current. The facility became a model for water supply systems in other American cities and influenced how urban infrastructure developed across the country.

The name reflects its location at the foot of Fairmount hill, where the pump house served Philadelphia's growing population. Today, the riverside setting shapes how visitors experience the site, with the water flow and historic machinery visible from public areas.

The site sits directly on the river and is walkable from downtown Philadelphia, with parking available nearby. Visit on sunny days when the water stairs and outdoor areas are most accessible for exploring.

The water stairs served not only to manage water flow but also created a place where the public could gather and get close to the river. This dual purpose of engineering and public gathering was uncommon for the era.

Operator: Constructed by Philadelphia Water Department;maintained by Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. Part of Fairmount Park.

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-17:00; Sunday 13:00-17:00

Phone: +12156850723

Website: http://fairmountwaterworks.org

GPS coordinates: 39.96634,-75.18356

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:29