Top 6 Neighborhoods to Discover in Philadelphia

Home to Independence Hall, where the nation’s founders debated and signed the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, Philadelphia is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

However, this city offers so much more. It boasts the largest urban park in the country, a 3,000-year-old Egyptian sphinx, and a vibrant brewery culture. The best way to experience the City of Brotherly Love is through its unique and lively neighborhoods. Here are six neighborhoods in Philadelphia you shouldn't miss.

Brewerytown

Ideal neighborhood for parks and picnics

Famous for its century-long brewing legacy, this neighborhood located northwest of Center City is ideally situated for picking up all the ingredients for a delightful outdoor lunch after exploring the Museum of Art or the Philadelphia Zoo. Stop by Rybrew to check out their impressive collection of over 300 beers and grab a few of their hearty sandwiches.

For a taste of another local specialty, hunt down Spot Burger for one of the finest cheesesteaks in the city. Enjoy your meal at nearby Fairmount Park, where you can discover the perfect picnic spot within the 9,200-acre expanse, such as Glendinning Rock Garden or Boathouse Row, especially if a rowing regatta is taking place.

Brewerytown is primarily a residential area, so if you decide to stay here, expect apartment rentals rather than hotels. You'll be conveniently located to enjoy Fairmount Park and the Museum of Art, though public transportation options are somewhat limited in Brewerytown.

Fishtown

Ideal neighborhood for a night out

Situated north of Old City, Fishtown is one of Philadelphia’s most lively areas, perfect for food and music enthusiasts, and boasts a thriving craft beer scene. At Philadelphia Brewing, one of the city’s oldest breweries, guests can take a tour to discover its history and brewing process before tasting the Pennsylvania Pale Ale and Walt Wit, a refreshing unfiltered Belgian-style white ale.

Relax in the spacious courtyard at Evil Genius and try one of their creative brews, like a chocolate peanut butter porter or a guava IPA. St Oners serves as the urban branch of suburban brewery Tired Hands, offering a fresh lineup of its newest beers.

Accommodations in this neighborhood feature sleek, modern designs for a true city living experience, and the MFL Septa Line provides convenient access to the rest of Philadelphia.

East Passyunk

Top neighborhood for dining

Nestled in South Philly, East Passyunk is characterized by a distinctive slanted street that weaves through the neighborhood. Start your day at the modern Jewish bakery Essen for coffee and chocolate babka, or visit Vanilya just a few blocks south for one of the city’s finest bagels (be sure to try the Turkish sausage). Don’t miss the East London-style pie shop Stargazy, known for its classic shepherd’s pie, sausage rolls, and Friday fish and chips.

Enjoy a cocktail at Manatawny Still Works, crafted with their small-batch whiskey. For dinner, reserve a table in the garden at the regional Italian eatery Le Virtu or at Laurel, where chef Nicholas Elmi offers an elevated menu that changes with the seasons and local ingredients. Don’t forget to save room for dessert at D’Emilio’s Old World Ice Treats, where Chris D’Emilio serves up water ice—a beloved summer treat in Philadelphia—made with fresh ingredients and his grandmother’s recipe.

Choose an apartment rental in this neighborhood for easy access to the sports stadiums and the chance to experience local life for a few days.

Old City

Ideal neighborhood for shopping

Old City in Philadelphia serves as the historical core of the city, where the nation's democracy took shape. Here, you can get an up-close view of Betsy Ross’s flag and the crack in the Liberty Bell. It’s also a shopper's paradise—check out Omoi Zakka for an exquisite range of Japanese stationery and home goods, or find unique Philly-themed gifts at Philadelphia Independents.

For a delightful keepsake, visit Shane Confectionery, where they have been crafting chocolate for 150 years.

Being the tourist epicenter of Philadelphia, Old City boasts spacious, well-appointed hotels with easy access to the city via train or by walking.

University City

Best neighborhood for culture

This area in West Philadelphia derives its name from the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, and other educational institutions in the vicinity. However, it’s not just about college bars and pizzerias. At the Penn Museum, you can see the impressive 25,000-pound, 3000-year-old Sphinx of Ramses II, along with galleries featuring archaeological treasures from Africa, Central America, and beyond.

Take a leisurely walk around Penn’s campus to admire sculptures by acclaimed artists such as Alexander Calder, Robert Indiana, and Simone Leigh. Notably, Leigh's sculpture Brick House is located at the entrance to College Green, at the intersection of 34th and Walnut Streets. On a warm day, treat yourself to small-batch popsicles at Lil Pop Shop.

For a nearby stay, consider the historic Cornerstone Bed & Breakfast, which offers Victorian-era charm and delicious lemon buttermilk pancakes. This neighborhood is ideal for those focusing on University City activities or visitors seeking a fresh perspective on Philadelphia after previous trips.

North Broad

Best neighborhood for music and public art

The North Broad area has seen a revival since the 2018 reopening of the stunningly renovated former opera house, Met Philly. It has hosted prominent artists like Demi Lovato, John Legend, and Alicia Keys.

Before the performance, reserve a table at one of the new or established eateries along Broad St. Cicala offers Southern Italian dishes, including handmade pasta with octopus and linguine with mussels. For a taste of more exquisite Italian cuisine in a serene garden setting, visit Osteria. The area is rich in public art, featuring the vibrant 55-foot North Poles lining Broad St from Hamilton St to Glenwood Ave, along with several striking large-scale works from Mural Arts.

Choose to stay in the North Broad neighborhood for convenient access to music venues and to experience a bit of Philly's characteristic grit.