Abstract: There is a growing interest in restoring urbanized stream channels. The effects of urbanization on watershed hydrology and channel morphology have been studied for decades. However, most previous studies have been limited number in scope, and an empirical basis for restoration of urbanized channels is unclear. As part of a restoration program for Philadelphia's Fairmount Park system, we measured a wide range of variables in urban and rural catchments to quantify differences that could be used to design and evaluate stream restoration projects. Our results indicate that urban stream channels of southeastern Pennsylvania are wider, straighter, and smoother than their rural counterparts. In addition, streams in urban areas are affected by the high storm flows and low base flows. We also demonstrate that the beds of urban channels have not been completely scoured of sediment, suggesting that bed material continues to be supplied to these channels even after decades of urbanization.