If you're a fan of traditional solitaire games but are seeking something a bit different and more strategic, Streets and Alleys Solitaire might be the perfect fit for you. Often considered a variation of the classic Forty Thieves game, Streets and Alleys offers a unique layout and gameplay that challenges your logical thinking and planning skills. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through how to play, including setup, rules, and strategies to help you win.
Streets and Alleys is a one-deck solitaire card game that emphasizes careful planning over luck. The game gets its name from the layout: the four foundation piles represent streets, and the tableau columns act as alleys. Unlike Klondike Solitaire, there’s no draw pile, so every card is visible from the start—making each move a critical decision.
The objective is to build four foundation piles in ascending order from Ace to King, one for each suit. All cards must eventually be moved to these foundations to win.
Streets and Alleys is played with a standard 52-card deck. Here’s how the game is arranged:
Four foundation piles are placed at the top, initially empty. These will be built up from Ace to King by suit.
Eight tableau columns (alleys) are placed below the foundations.
All 52 cards are dealt out into the tableau, with four columns containing seven cards and four columns containing six cards.
All cards are face-up, and there are no hidden or draw cards.
Card Movement: You may move the top card of any tableau column to:
Another tableau column, if the destination card is one rank higher and of any suit.
One Card at a Time: Only one card can be moved at a time. There is no building in-suit within the tableau.
Empty Columns: Any card can be moved into an empty column.
No Redeals or Draw Piles: All cards are dealt at the beginning. There's no second chance, so every move matters.
To win Streets and Alleys Solitaire, you must move all 52 cards to the foundation piles, building each from Ace to King in the correct suit.
Because there are no unknown cards and no draw pile, success is based entirely on strategy and forward-thinking.
Unlike other solitaire games that involve a lot of chance, Streets and Alleys rewards patience and planning. Here are some key strategies to keep in mind:
Your first goal should be to get the Aces onto the foundation piles as soon as possible. Without the Aces, you can’t start building suit sequences, so freeing and playing them early opens up more options.
Try not to bury low cards beneath higher ones unnecessarily. This can create "dead zones" in the tableau that block your progress.
Empty tableau columns are powerful tools. They give you room to temporarily move cards and re-arrange sequences to uncover or release blocked cards.
Always ask yourself: If I move this card here, what opens up? It’s easy to get stuck by making moves that feel productive but actually close off other paths.
Don’t rush to fill an empty column just because it’s there. Sometimes, leaving it open gives you more flexibility later when you really need it.
This game is ideal for solitaire fans who want a more logical and less luck-based experience. Because all cards are visible from the start, it’s almost like solving a puzzle rather than just playing a card game. Each round feels like a test of your strategy, patience, and ability to plan several steps ahead.
Streets and Alleys is great for players who:
Enjoy mindful gameplay over speed.
Prefer open information with no surprises.
Like planning out efficient move sequences.
Want a new twist on traditional solitaire games.
Streets and Alleys Solitaire offers a refreshing change from the more luck-driven solitaire variations. With its unique tableau setup and total card visibility, the game demands strategy, discipline, and a careful approach.
Whether you're a casual player looking for a thoughtful pastime or a dedicated solitaire enthusiast wanting to try something different, Streets and Alleys is a rewarding game that can be both calming and mentally stimulating.
Give it a try and see if you can clear the alleys and build the perfect streets!