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Lemon Hill
Founding father Robert Morris’ hilltop estate
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The Lemon Hill House in the East Fairmount Park area of Philadelphia
Photo by Eric Vath, Fairmount Park Conservancy
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Outsider Tip
Great spot to catch the July 4th fireworks, with a clear view of the Center City skyline
The rolling, hilltop grounds of Lemon Hill — a historic mansion with views of the Center City skyline to the south and the Schuylkill River to the west — make it a popular spot for picnickers and barbecues during the warmer months. Basketball courts are open to the public and trails that snake back into Fairmount Park make it a favorite for walkers, hikers, and bikers.
The present house, built in 1799, earned its name when owner Henry Pratt planted the first lemon trees in America here. It was designed in the neoclassical style and noted for its graceful, oval rooms with curved doors and fireplaces on each of its three floors. It is open for tours via the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
COME PREPARED
Picnickers are welcome, but permits are required. The house is open for tours Wednesday through Saturday, April - December.
DON'T MISS
Lemon Hill is a prime viewing area for the Philadelphia International Cycling Championship (formerly the Wachovia USPro Cycling Championship) held each June. The multi-lap race follows a loop from the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to Manayunk and goes past Lemon Hill on its return.
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