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.

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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.

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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.

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Philadelphia skyline with fall colors
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Best time to visit Philadelphia

Visitors to Philadelphia may be forgiven for feeling like they’re traveling through time in this former capital city, as they chart its evolution from the birthplace of the United States to the modern, cosmopolitan city it is today. No stone of history is unturned in its museums, and no corner of its streets devoid of its own work of art or world food café. You can also travel through the seasons, and it’s particularly vibrant in the summer months with its stacked schedule of outdoor festivals and events. But for those who prefer a little space, there’s plenty to enjoy in the cooler months too, with its abundance of galleries and restaurants to escape into, and of course a profusion of parks and gardens that are continually changing as the year goes by. So whether you prefer hot or cold, bustling or quiet, or are at the mercy of your schedule, you can be sure to find plenty of interest, and people ready to welcome you, in the city of brotherly love. Summer Summer is the busiest and most expensive time to visit Philadelphia, but if you love warm weather, outdoor festivals and the company of other extroverts then there’s no better place to be. June is Pride month, so be sure to hop onto an LGBTQ history tour, scope out restaurants serving LGBTQ themed food to support pride-related charities or go and see one of the city’s famous drag shows. If you find yourself in Philadelphia for the Independence Day celebrations in July, brush up on your history by visiting the National Constitution Center or the Museum of the American Revolution, or contemplate heroes from around the world at the National Liberty Museum. Beer, folk and food festivals continue well into July and August, and although they say it’s always sunny in Philadelphia this is also when the rain is most likely to roll in. Beat the humidity by escaping to Spruce Street Harbor Park, considered to be one of the best Urban beaches in America, or escape to Longwood Gardens where the water lilies will be in full bloom and the pond’s fountains dazzling crowds with water and light displays. Fall September is a refreshing time to be in Philadelphia, as temperatures cool, crowds disperse and the colors begin to change – so if you’re after some fiery photographs head to Independence Hall or the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, where the autumnal leaves contrast against the city skylines. A month-long Fringe Festival also kicks off this month, or if you’re a fan of all things fungi, check out the annual Mushroom Festival at Kennett Square, just outside the city. October is Halloween month and festivities abound, with German food and music taking center stage as part of several Oktoberfest celebrations. At Peddler’s Village, about 45 minutes out of town, a hundred scarecrows pop up every year, and visitors can vote for their favorite while exploring winding brick walkways and quirky restaurants. If you’re still in Philadelphia on the third Thursday of November you’ll be able to watch the country’s oldest Thanksgiving Day Parade, which runs from 20th Street to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Santa himself makes an appearance at the parade, which officially starts the winter holiday season. Winter If you like to save money, avoid crowds and don’t mind the cold, then Philadelphia in winter could be the perfect city for you. After the Thanksgiving Parade the dark evenings are brought to life with annual traditions such as the RiverRink Winterfest, the Philadelphia Christmas Village and Christmas at the Wanamaker Building. Franklin Square lights up with Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa celebrations every year and there are light displays in almost every park and public garden. The new year celebrations begin with a fireworks display on the Delaware River on New Year’s Eve and on New Year’s Day locals flock into the city once again to marvel at the lavish floats and costumes of the Mummers Parade, a much-anticipated annual tradition since 1901. January is the coldest month in Philadelphia, with an average temperature of just above freezing – but it’s also the best month for snow, so snow angels are your thing you’re in the right place! In February things begin to brighten a bit and you’ll start to see buds appearing on trees and hedges. Try wrapping up for an invigorating walking tour, then head indoors to the Aquarium or the Penn Museum to thaw out. If you’re feeling brave, liven up the dark evenings with a Dark Philly Adult Night Tour. Spring Although Spring in Philadelphia is still brisk with average temperatures rising from just the mid-30s in March to the 50s in May, it’s a good time to visit before the crowds – and accommodation costs – increase in summer. There’s plenty to do in spring, as outdoor markets start popping up and street festivals – complete with outdoor skating rinks, ferris wheels and carnival games – come back to life along the river. In April sports fans can cheer on Olympic hopefuls at the high school and collegiate Penn Relays, and in May many of the attractions that have been closed for winter begin to reopen, including the Delaware RiverLink Ferry which links the Camden and Philadelphia Waterfronts. Nature lovers will find plenty of inspiration in spring, as pops of color begin to appear on street corners in the form of tulips and other early emerging flowers. At the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden the cherry blossoms burst into life in a profusion of pink and white petals, reassuring walkers and passers by that warmer weather is on the way. See more with Go City Summer, winter, spring or fall, you’ll find plenty to fascinate you in Philadelphia. And whether you prefer indoors or outdoors, museums or tours, you’ll see and save more with Go City.
Karleen Stevens
best things to do in Fishtown Philadelphia
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The Best Things to do in Fishtown Philadelphia

There are three inevitabilities in life; death, taxes, and gentrification. For the sake of levity, let's focus on the third one. No city is safe from the artsy, techy glow-up gentrification brings these days. Just look at Fishtown. Once Philly's industrial hub, this long-abandoned neighborhood has become the haunting ground of hipster millennials and their unique brand of entertainment. Craft beers, pop-up markets, and art installations are in, and you should be too. Fishtown demands a visit, and thanks to our tips on the best things to do, you'll know what to try on your Philadelphia vacation! Including Fishtown's top craft joints The best eats in the neighborhood Get artsy Lounge in Penn Treaty Park Get thrifty at the local shops Fishtown's best watering holes If you're looking for historical experiences or classicly touristy things to do in Fishtown, then you're probably in the wrong part of Philadelphia. Instead, Fishtown is known for its gentrified offerings. Take the bar scene, for example. It's great. So great that you should tour the neighborhood's best watering holes! But where to begin? Well, the first stop on your bar crawl should be Johnny Brenda's. This cozy spot has a great beer selection and an intimate setting that's perfect for enjoying a few drinks with friends. Next up is Frankford Hall, a German beer garden that's perfect for spending a sunny afternoon drinking outdoors. There's also plenty of food to soak up all the refreshments, including pretzels, sausages, and burgers. If you're looking for something a little more low-key, head to Fishtown Tavern. This local favorite has a relaxed atmosphere and serves up classic American pub fare. Finally, no bar crawl in Fishtown would be complete without a stop at Kraftwork. This industrial-chic spot has a large selection of craft beer and a menu that features locally sourced ingredients. Then, drink a load of water and go to bed. You'll thank us in the morning. Fishtown's best restaurants With all those inebriation opportunities, you'll need to line the ol' stomach with some sweet sustenance. Thankfully for you, Fishtown has plenty of eating opportunities, and it would be irresponsible to miss out on them, so check out our recommendations. Numero uno on our list is Suraya. Its middle eastern delights will water the mouth and trigger the happy bits in your brain. Do yourself a favor and grab some fatteh and kafta kebab before your journey to Fishtown's boozy underworld begins. If you're in the mood for something a little more upscale, then be sure to check out Kensington Quarters. This farm-to-table restaurant is known for its excellent steak and seafood dishes. The roasted chicken is our pick for a standout dish, especially when paired with one of their delightful wines. Or, if you be needing a hit of sweet, sweet pizza, try Pizzeria Beddia. This no-frills pizzeria is all about the pizza, and they make some of the best pies in town. The menu may be limited, but each choice yearns to be tasted. Simply yearns. And finally, if you crave the sweet embrace of Philly's classic cheesesteak, head to the humbly delightful Joe's Steaks + Soda Shop. Generous portions, great service, and juicy steaks covered in cheese and wrapped in bread await you. Explore the neighborhood's brilliant street art As soon as you enter Fishtown, you'll realize that the neighborhood itself has become the canvas for its residents. Trashcans, air-con units, fire hydrants, and other typical urban sights have been given a rather atypical glow-up thanks to the artsy crowd that calls Fishtown home. But the best bits are the myriad murals you'll find adorned on walls across the district. Some of these are DIY jobs, but many were actually commissioned by the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program, which supports local artists and helps them get their work into the public eye. The Front Street Walls display, for instance, is a rotating roster of street art you can find throughout the year. If you've an eye for street art, or just self-expression in general, be sure to check it all out. Park your buns and pay homage to William Penn Need to take a load off and want to admire some amazing views of the Ben Franklin Bridge while doing so? Head to Penn Treaty Park, and get among all the green! Built on the site of William Penn's treaty with the Native Americans, this delightful spot offers you acres of space to stretch out and relax, a place to let your furry friends loose, and even fishing spots on the Delaware, if Deadliest Catch is up your alley. You can also see a statue of the park's namesake if you want to add a little history to your park visit. Bring a boozy picnic and toast to the big man himself. Even Penn would agree it's one of the best things to do in Fishtown on your Philadelphia vacation! Bargain hunt at the local thrift stores What would an artsy, gentrified neighborhood be without its fair share of thrift shops? Nothing. It would cease to exist, pulled into the chasm of oblivion where even light fears to tread. For our final tip of the best things to do in Fishtown Philadelphia, we're talking thrift stores. So, if you're in the market for some rare goodies, golden oldies, or hipster attire, check out our recommendations! The Dumpster Diver is a goldmine for those who love a good bargain. They sell items donated by local businesses and residents, which gives the place a lovely sustainable vibe. Everything from clothes to furniture to electronics can be found here, and it's all priced incredibly cheaply. Fishtown Second-Hand is run by a local non-profit organization, and all of the proceeds go towards supporting their programs. More brilliant schemes! They sell a wide variety of items, including clothes, furniture, books, and more. The Philly Free Store is exactly what it sounds like - a store where everything is free. They accept donations of gently used items and then make them available to the public at no charge. This is a great place to find unique treasures. Magnifique, non? And those were our picks of the best things to do in Fishtown Philadelphia! Keen to explore the other delights Philly has to offer? With Go City, you can choose All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, and see the city at your own pace. So what's stopping you?
Dom Bewley
Teens on a bus tour
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Things to do in Philadelphia with Teens

Vacations aren't fun when you're not interested in doing anything, a fact that rings more true for teens! Here are our suggestions to get your teen engaged when visiting Philly!
Karleen Stevens

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