Locals and visitors alike can’t help but admire Philadelphia Alley. This spot is one of Charleston’s best photo ops and is included on many local tours. Located downtown, this alleyway connects Queen Street to Cumberland.
- In the 1700s, the alleyway was known as Kinloch’s Court and was sometimes called Cow Alley because cattle used the path to get to the market. Fun fact: That former market is now where City Hall is located.
- Over several years, the area saw new owners and two major fires.
- Citizens from Philadelphia helped rebuild the area following the fires, and it has been suggested that’s where the current name originates from.
- In the 1800s, the passageway was shortened and became known as Philadelphia Street.
- In 1952, the City of Charleston designated the area Philadelphia Alley.
- In 2006, it went through a beautification project.
Check this episode of Charleston Time Machine for a more in-depth lesson about its history.
Fun Fact: You can spot Philadelphia Alley and other Charleston landmarks in Darius Rucker’s “Come Back Song” music video and City Editor Callie took some of her engagement pictures here.
