There are cities that are great to visit, and there are cities that are great to live in. Philadelphia is both. Philly residents and visitors alike have fallen in love with the city’s electric atmosphere, cultural scene, and rich history.
Philly is roughly divided into several neighborhoods, four of which we’ll take a look at here. If you’re planning a trip to Philly, these are some great places to start.
Fishtown
This is one of Philadelphia’s working-class neighborhoods. It takes its name from its proximity to the city’s harbors – the home of a bustling fishing industry.
These days, Fishtown is best known for its narrow streets that are filled with row homes and punctuated by distinctive locally owned and operated businesses. Residents and travelers alike enjoy the eclectic collection of music venues, pubs, restaurants, and art galleries. From its humble beginnings, Fishtown has become the home of a truly world-class social scene.
Fishtown is just 10 minutes away from Old City and features a number of great hotel choices for travelers including the Sheraton Society Hill, Hyatt Regency, and Hotel Monaco.
University City
University City, located in West Philadelphia, has become the de-facto epicenter of academic activity for the entire region. It goes by the name University City due to the fact that it’s home to two of the country’s most important universities: Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania.
Thanks to a melting pot of local, out-of-state and even international students, University City is home to a bustling and colorful cultural and artistic atmosphere. Visitors to University City can walk for miles along the busy side-walks and discover a unique collection of people and places, including a lively night life and many high-end art studios.
Rittenhouse Square
Whether you’re a real estate enthusiast, you’re thinking of moving to Philly, or you’re just looking for a great place to spend an hour or two, Rittenhouse Square is a great place to be. It’s the home of some of the best condos in Philadelphia and has been since a building boom in the 1850′s, when it became one of the most sought-after residential areas in the city.
Rittenhouse Square is home to some striking outdoor art exhibitions as well as a central plaza that features a reflecting pool and beautiful landscaping.
Old City District
The Old City District is frequently referenced as the most historic area in all of Philly. Old City is home to some of the nation’s most important landmarks and artifacts, some of which date back to the very birth of the US.
Visitors looking to visit the Liberty Bell, the Constitution Centre, Independence Hall, or the former residence of founding father Benjamin Franklin should plan on spending a great deal of time in Old City during their visit.