neighborhoods in philadelphia

Neighborhoods in Philadelphia - the Best Places to Stay

By Dom Bewley

Friends, Romans, and would-be travelers. We all know what brought you here - Philadelphia. The city of liberty has one of the richest histories in all of America. Now that you've decided to vacation there, you'll want to find the perfect place to set up basecamp and begin exploring its many delights. Do you want to be right in the heart of the action, or a little off the beaten path? Are you looking for somewhere with a lot of history, or something a little more modern? With so many questions, where does one even begin? Well, here, of course! Right now. Because we've put together a list of some of our favorites. So without further ado, here are the best neighborhoods in Philadelphia!

Including:

  • Chestnut Hill
  • Bella Vista
  • West Philly
  • Old City
  • Washington Square West
  • and more!

Is Philadelphia a safe place to visit?

Like any large metropolis, Philly isn't without its issues. However, if you stick to the neighborhoods we list below, you'll be away from the rougher areas. Always be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings close and your valuables out of sight, and you'll be right as rain.

Image of Neighborhood, Autumn, City, Suburb,

Which is the safest neighborhood in Philadelphia?

That would be Chesnut Hill. With a prime location near the city but far enough away from the thick of it, it's easily one of the best neighborhoods to visit in Philadelphia. You'll be near a number of great places to eat and drink, and it backs onto Wissahickon Valley Park, one of the city's best green spaces. It's no surprise that its nickname is 'the Garden District'.

And, with the lowest crime rates in the city, you'll feel at ease walking the streets and seeing all the district's beauty up close!

Washington Square West

If you're looking for inclusivity, then Washington Square West should be top of your list. With a historical connection to the LGBTQ+ community, expect plenty of like-minded folks and great vibes. Eschewing larger department stores and chains for small businesses, you'll find plenty of unique and delightful boutiques, jewelers, and heaps of food and drink opportunities. It's also the home of Washington Square Park, if you need to stretch out and catch some rays.

Image of Grass, Nature, Outdoors, Park, Garden, Vegetation, Tree, Arbour, Land, Woodland, Summer, Car, Herbal, Herbs, Grove, Scenery, Flower, Bench,

Bella Vista

With a name that literally translates to 'beautiful view', do you need any more encouragement that it's one of the best neighborhoods in Philadelphia? If you like your food Italian, your vibe Italian, and your people Italian-American, then Philly's own Little Italy should be top of your list. On the outskirts of the city's Downtown, you'll find plenty of great eateries, places to have a quiet drink, parks to explore, and great people to meet. Stellar.

West Philly

Known locally as University City due to the number of top higher education establishments that call it home, West Philly is a great place for younger travelers to go and kick back. After all, being surrounded by like-minded folk never hurt. Or if you're young at heart and crave the company of Gen Z to make you feel less old - no judgments here. In a district full of art, food, and bars and clubs on every corner, you can't go wrong.

Image of Clock Tower, Tower,

Old City

If you want to be close to Philadelphia's historical side, then Old City is one of the best neighborhoods in the city. Philadelphia is one of America's oldest cities, playing a huge part in the War of Independence. So, if you've come for the likes of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall (where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were both signed), stretch your legs and your mind on a walking tour of the district's best bits. Then, when you've had your fill, go explore the neighborhood's beautiful architecture and ample nightlife offerings.

Fishtown

This concrete jungle was once the industrial center of the city. When industries moved out of the town - and eventually the country - the myriad buildings and warehouses were left a ghost town. That was until the hipsters caught a whiff of the real estate and started moving in en masse. Now, you'll find it refurbished to high heaven, with bucket loads of quirky entertainment opportunities. Bars now populate repair shops, and fishing warehouses have become slapdash theaters. So grab your beard oil and check it out.

Image of Neighborhood, City, Nature, Outdoors, Sky, Urban, Building, Cityscape, Metropolis, Sunrise,

Northern Liberties

And right next to Fishtown, you'll find the equally gentrified Northern Liberties. Its laid-back vibe is home to many local businesses and restaurants, and some of the best views in the city. And not just from the outside. Thanks to its enviable art scene, you'll find plenty of great eye candy in many of the neighborhood's pop-up galleries. And like many of the other neighborhoods on this list, you'll find plenty of parks and other green spaces to reconnect with a little nature.

East Falls

If you want to be near the water but prefer being away from the hustle and bustle of Philadelphia's center, then East Falls will be one of the best neighborhoods for you! Backing onto the delightful Schyukill River, you can spend many a morning walking or jogging along the river trail, or wrangling up a picnic at the foot of Blue Bell Park. One of Philly's quieter areas, it's perfect if you're bringing the little ones along for your vacation. If not, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to keep adults happy too. Plus, thanks to the city's brilliant public transport infrastructure, you're only ever a bus, tram, or subway ride away from the busier bits!

Image of Bottle, Alcohol, Beer, Beverage,

Graduate Hospital

Don't let the name fool you. Graduate Hospital might sound like a bad reality TV show, but it's actually one of Philly's lesser-known wonders. Within walking distance of the historic Old Town as well as Center City, it's also one of the city's most family-friendly neighborhoods. So, if you're looking for a little peace and quiet at night, but with touristy stuff nearby, it should be top of your list. The neighborhood's South Street features a ton of restaurants and bars, so you'll be well served when the sun goes down.

And those were our picks of the best neighborhoods in Philadelphia and where to stay! Now you've got some base camp ideas, you'll want to know about some of the experiences you can see in the city. Don't worry; Go City's got you covered. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see Philadelphia at your own pace.

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in Old City Philadelphia - go visit Betsy Ross house
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The Best Things to do in Old City Philadelphia

They say history is written by the victors. Well, they aren't wrong. Take Old City Philadelphia, for example. This historic neighborhood is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Philly. Everywhere you turn, you'll find ounces of revolutionary history. From its brick colonial buildings, narrow streets, and abundance of restaurants, bars, and attractions, it's hardly surprising. So, enough chit-chat. Let's explore what makes this neighborhood so freaking great! Here are our picks of the best things to do in Old City Philadelphia. Including: Betsy Ross House Museum of the American Revolution Independence National Historical Park Christ Church Burial Ground The areas best restaurants and more! Betsy Ross House Let's kick things off with an American legend. And not the mystical, metaphorical kind, but an actual one-living legend! You probably already know the name Betsy Ross - her needlework helped create the stars and stripes themselves (allegedly, we must stress). So why not go look around her house and see where this unmistakable symbol came about? Unsurprisingly, the Betsy Ross House is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Old City Philadelphia. No longer a home but rather a testament to her life, the house is a museum that contains furniture and other belongings from the Ross family. Visitors can also see a replica of the flag that Betsy Ross sewed. You'll even get to meet the dame herself. Well, they might be an actor playing the part, but squint, and you won't even know the difference. Museum of the American Revolution But Betsy Ross was a cog in the independence machine. Who were the other cogs, what did it take to beat the evil, devious Red Coats, and what did the War of Independence mean for the future of America? Find out at the Museum of American Revolution. Appropriately located a stone's throw from Independence Hall, this museum tells the story of the American Revolution through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive experiences. Visitors can learn about the Causes of the Revolution, the Declaration of Independence, and the Battle of Bunker Hill. The Museum of the American Revolution is a must-see for anyone interested in American history. And presumably, history's the reason you're visiting Old City in the first place! Independence National Historical Park But where did it all begin? Where did these brave men and women first congregate to plan the revolution? And where were two of America's most important documents ever both drafted and signed? Lucky for you, they're all in one lovely place. And that place is Independence National Historical Park. It's home to some of the most important historical sites in the country, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Betsy Ross House. They're all must-visit sites for any budding historians. So add them all to your itinerary this instant! Of course, if you'd prefer a more curated experience, why not take a tour of the entire area? With a knowledgeable - and humorous - guide in tow, you'll learn even more about all the goings on back in 1776 and beyond. They might even clue you into some super secret secrets. Who knows? Only you will, when you embark on this epic tour! Christ Church Burial Ground Want to go pay your respects to some of America's heroes? Head to Christ Church Burial Ground and do just that! This historic cemetery is the final resting place for many notable figures from Philadelphia's past, including Benjamin Franklin, his wife Deborah, and five other signers of the Declaration of Independence. Despite the morbid nature of cemeteries, it's a beautiful and peaceful place, and it's definitely worth a visit if you're interested in American history. Even if you're not, it's still an interesting place to walk around and take in the atmosphere. Plus, you can toss a coin on Ben Franklin's grave for good luck. It's just what they do in Philly! Delightful Eats All that sightseeing and patriotism might have left you a little hungry. Well, never fear o' famished one, we have picked our favorite Old City restaurants for you to try! Zahav is a modern Israeli restaurant that offers a unique culinary experience. The menu features small plates meant to be shared, so it's perfect for groups. But even on your own, you'll be delighted by the interesting and delicious options on the menu! Bistrot La Minette is, unsurprisingly, a French bistro. But boy, is it a good one, serving classic dishes like coq au vin and mussels. The atmosphere is casual, and the service is friendly. Nice. And, for some Mediterranean treats, check out Barbuzzo. Known for its wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta, you'll find an enviable selection of dishes on its generous menu. Our top pick? The lamb meatballs. Divine. Delightful Drinks We'll end our picks of the best things to do in Old City Philadelphia with some refreshments. After all, you'll need something to alleviate that parched throat. You know, from all the joyous screaming of being in Old City. Here are our picks for the best bars in Old City. McGillin's is the oldest tavern in Philadelphia and has been serving up cold drinks since 1860. The bar is located on Drury Street and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. National Mechanics is a great place to get a drink and listen to live music. The bar is located on Chestnut Street and features a variety of local and regional beers on tap. The Bards is a wine bar you'll also find on Chestnut Street. They offer an extensive list of both red and white wines from around the world. The knowledgeable staff is always happy to help you find the perfect wine to pair with your meal. And that about does it for our guide to the best things to do in Old City Philadelphia. Whether you're interested in history, food, or just grabbing a drink, you'll find what you're looking for in this historic neighborhood. But what about Philadelphia's other districts? What delights await you throughout the city? See all of Philly's best bits with Go City! Our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass let you see the city at your own pace.
Dom Bewley
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Thanksgiving in Philadelphia

Will your Thanksgiving plans find you in Philadelphia this year? Whether Philly is your home base, or you’re visiting family or friends for the holiday, you probably already have some ideas for the meal itself. However, if you’re entertaining out-of-town guests, or just trying to keep the kids occupied during their time off from school, you may be in search of some Thanksgiving-friendly things to do this time of year. Many of these Philly Thanksgiving events are a kickoff to festivals, events, and activities that lead into the holiday season, too, so we hope this article is of help for longer-term planning as well. We’ve put together a few of our favorite fall activities and seasonal things to do in November. Check our ideas below: Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade Christmas at Peddler’s Village Winter at Dilworth Park Franklin Square Holiday Festival Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market A Longwood Christmas Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade While it’s less famous than its New York City or Chicago cousins, the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade is the oldest of its kind in the country. It proceeds down Benjamin Franklin Parkway, bursting with colorful floats, massive balloons, and performers from all across the state. And it wouldn’t be a Thanksgiving parade without the appearance of the Man himself at the end!   Christmas at Peddler’s Village November – December Encompassing the kick-off to the Christmas season on one end, and the official Christmas Celebration at the other end, this seasonal event series at Peddler’s Village is a local tradition. Located about an hour from Center City Philadelphia in New Hope, PA, this charming historic town boasts more than 60 specialty shops that are ideal for holiday shopping. Their festive decorations are practically unparalleled, too—a truly inspiring start to the holiday season.   Winter at Dilworth Park November - February This Center City locale is a popular site for holiday festivities, offering up everything from an ice rink (opening usually early November) to an inside garden space in Dilworth Park called Winter Garden. You’ll also find an abundance of glittering holiday lights here, with vendors offering hot cocoa and apple cider, and all that welcomes you into the Christmas season. Dilworth Park also hosts many events throughout the year including fall and winter markets, concerts, and even an Oktoberfest event, should you be visiting before Thanksgiving.   Franklin Square Holiday Festival Mid-November – Late December Another bastion of holiday cheer with its glittering lights, glamorous decorations, and cheerful music, Franklin Square is one of the top places in the city to celebrate the oncoming season. During the week of Thanksgiving, they usually host Thanksgiving craft-making events for kids, while after the focus is on Christmas. You can enjoy family-friendly activities throughout, such as a carousel, miniature train, mini-golf course, and more. And don’t forget the enchanting lights show that runs each day beginning at 4.30PM.   Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market November – January Also located in Dilworth Park, this expansive holiday market features nearly 50 different artists and artisans selling their beautiful handcrafted wares. You can find everything from unique gifts to specialty holiday foods. Admission to the market is free, but you’re sure going to want to set aside some money for the presents you’ll be purchasing. It’s right across the street from the Christmas Village, a German-style marketplace which is held in LOVE Park.   A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens November – January Longwood Gardens is an inspiring sight year ‘round, but there’s just something about the acres of poinsettias, Christmas trees, and winter flowers that populate their Conservatory during the holiday season that makes it truly special. Outdoors, you’ll also find a cozy, blazing fire pit accompanied by thousands of twinkling lights on nearby trees. This season typically kicks off on Thanksgiving Day, but they’ve added a week this year to give everyone more time to enjoy the magic that is a Longwood Christmas. BlueCross RiverRink Winterfest Late November – Early March This holiday tradition is one of Philadelphia’s most beloved things to do on Thanksgiving weekend. This time of year, it’s typically cold enough to begin ice-skating, and families love to bring their kids to burn off a little bit of that Thanksgiving meal at the RiverRink. Winterfest is a seasonal extravaganza, with everything from fire pits and an ice rink to indoor arcades and a chalet-like lodge nestled in a picturesque winter landscape.   Other Things to do in November in Philadelphia Skip the cooking and eat out! Many restaurants serve special meals for the holiday and you won’t have to do the dishes. Register for a Turkey Trot – Philly loves running and you’re sure to find a race to suit your mileage. Or, run/spectate the Philadelphia Marathon (November) Volunteer a food bank or shelter. There are many serving Thanksgiving dinners to the less fortunate. Indulge your rural side and enjoy a hayride or some apple-picking outside the city. Explore the local arts scene at CraftNOW Philadelphia, held at various locations throughout the city in November (select dates, November – December). Take in a flick at the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival (November). Explore American heritage! From the Betsey Ross House to the Liberty Bell, you can learn more about American history during November—a good field trip season, too. Save on November Activities in Philadelphia Planning to explore a few of these ideas for your family during Thanksgiving break? Grab a Go Philadelphia pass to save up to 45% on tickets to top November activities. After all, the December holidays are rapidly approaching and you’ll want to save where you can now! So, what are you waiting for? Grab a Philadelphia pass and get exploring! Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we'll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers, and events and inspiration for your chosen destination, too!
Katie Sagal
free things to do in philadelphia see the liberty bell
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Free Things to do in Philadelphia

Hello! How are you? Well, we hope. Why don't you sit down and take a load off, so we can talk about free stuff. Nothing is quite as sweet as paying nothing to do fun stuff, is it? That's why you're here, isn't it? So if you're visiting the fine city of Philadelphia, you'll be wanting the low down on all the best free things to do in the city, right? Right this way, please. We've curated this brilliant list just for you. So, without further ado, here are the very best free things to do in Philadelphia! Including: The Liberty Bell Independence National Historical Park Independence Visitor Center The 'Rocky' Steps Science History Museum and more! Ring the Bell Let's start with one of Philadelphia's most famous artifacts. This here's a revolutionary town, thanks to the city's role in the War of Independence. In the past, The Liberty Bell stood for America's secession from the United Kingdom. Basically, Brexit before it was cool. It was one of many bells that rang out on the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Today, its cracked facade stands as a reminder of America's triumph. And, thankfully, for those of you working to a budget, you can go and see the metal ringer free of charge! Alongside said bell, you can also see documents and images that explore the bell's history and its role in the formation of America. However, given its popularity, you may have to line up to see it up close. But what's a little waiting when a special selfie is prime for the taking? Deck the halls with Independence Running with the Independence theme, let's talk about one of Philadelphia's best green spaces. Not only is it free, but it stands for freedom too. Does it get much more American than that? We think not. We're talking about Independence National Historical Park, where, among the greenery, you'll find the famous Independence Hall. For the uncultured among you, that's where the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed! But getting into the Hall will cost money, so let's instead focus on the free goodies you'll find around the park! For starters, it's a park, so expect plenty of trees, wildlife, and green spaces to stretch out for a relaxing picnic or just to read a book. It's also where you'll find the Liberty Bell, so it ticks a box off your historical itinerary. And even though Independence Hall does require a small fee to get to the touristy stuff, you're free to explore Old City Hall and Congress Hall, which you'll find in the Independence Hall's complex. A free summary Visiting Philadelphia from out of town and want to get the lay of the land? Of course you do, traveler. How else will you know where to buy your convoluted coffee orders? Well, look no further than the Independence Visitor Center. Right in Independence National Historical Park, you'll find this grandly inviting building. Inside, you'll get a free comprehensive orientation to the local culture, the city's history, the best shopping areas, and where to eat. All of that courtesy of the fantastic staff you'll find manning the trenches. So, if you want a head start on your trip, go check it out. And you'll be pleased to know that the whole thing is 100% freebies. Adrian! Boxing fans and cinema fans rejoice! Philadelphia is known for many historical things, but it's also the playground for celluloid's most famous haymaker. That's right, Philly was the setting and stomping ground of one Rocky Balboa, and it was also the scene of one of the most famous training montages of all time. That's right, cinephile, you too can ascend the steps that Rocky so famously ascended, turn back to look upon your victory, and raise your arms in glory. Just as he did. For bonus points, hire a photographer to capture your moment of utter dominance, or simply drag a friend or partner along to begrudgingly snap a pic. Then, head right back down and snap another pic with a statue of the man himself. No, not Stallone, but a statue of Rocky stands tall at the foot of the stairs. Commissioned for the third Rocky move, the bronze Adonis now keeps watch over the area like a shiny golem. And best of all, it's totally free. Take that, money! Science but free Yes, even scientific discoveries can be discovered for free in sweet Philly. That's all thanks to the Science History Museum, an interactive collection of hundreds of years of scientific progress, successes, and failures. Inside, you'll find nearly half a millennia of artifacts, information, and exhibits about breakthroughs in the scientific community and how they benefited both the people of Earth and the planet itself. Of course, not all discoveries are intentional, which is why you'll find some of the biggest surprises are the discoveries made entirely on accident. Alongside a slew of permanent exhibits, you'll also have the chance to see seasonal content about different parts of scientific history. Definitely one of the best free things to do in Philadelphia. Fund-free fire fun Speaking of free museums, if you want to know more about the history of firefighting in the US, go check out the Fireman's Hall Museum. There, you'll find plenty of old firefighting gear, from old-timey fire wagons (yes, they're actual wagons), to hundred-year-old hats, hoses, and ladders. Kids can even try on some of the gear, if firetrucks are still the most exciting thing they've ever seen. On a more somber note, you can check out the museum's tribute to first responders during 9/11, as well as displays about the heroes. It's well worth a visit if you have a passing interest in history, firefighting, or both. And here ends our list of the best free things to do in Philadelphia! Looking for money-sapping entertainment to tackle between the free stuff? See all of Philly's best bits with Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see the city at your own pace.
Dom Bewley

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