The 5 Best Neighborhoods in Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia is the sixth largest city in the U.S. and has over 150 established neighborhoods. With such a wide variety of neighborhoods spread over diverse geographic areas, you are sure to find a neighborhood that suits you, whether it is for density, walkability, parks, proximity to work, or retail services. We highlight five notable neighborhoods in Philadelphia that are definitely worth a look.

Rittenhouse, Philadelphia

This neighborhood derives its name Rittenhouse Square, one of the five original planned open spaces in the city. The park is tree-filled, nice plantings and lots of benches for sitting and relaxing. There is always a bustle at the park and it creates a core area of activity for people living in this neighborhood.  Residential offerings in this neighborhood are high rise residences and luxury apartments. Public transportation in the area is well developed, so if you are looking to be without a car, this is a great neighborhood to consider. There are plenty of cultural offerings in the neighborhood, including the Curtis Institute of Music, The Philadelphia Art Alliance and the Civil War and Underground Railroad Museum. Notable restaurants in this neighborhood include Alma de Cuba, Tinto and Lacroix.

University City

University City is the easternmost part of West Philadelphia. It gets its name from number of educations institutions in the area, such as University of Pennsylvania, Drexel and the University of Sciences in Philadelphia. This neighborhood has experienced redevelopment for many years. There are a variety of housing options and the neighborhood boasts an eclectic mix of eateries spanning a variety of global cuisines. Notable restaurants in the area include Sitar Indian Restaurant, Pod and Distrito. With this neighborhood’s location near major universities, there is an abundance of cultural offerings including museums, live theater and music events, readings and lectures.

Cedar Park

Cedar Park is a smaller neighborhood within the larger University City area. It originally started as a suburb to Philadelphia, but with growth it is now part of the city. Cedar Park boasts beautiful Queen Anne-style architecture with a substantial housing stock of historic homes.  There has been gentrification in this neighborhood and there is also an active neighborhood association that provides input on balancing the changes with the historical fabric of the neighborhood. There are a variety of housing options and the neighborhood boasts an eclectic mix of eateries spanning a variety of global cuisines. Notable restaurants in the area include Mood Café, Vientiane Café and Le Bercail.

Manayunk, Philadelphia

This neighborhood is located in the northwest section of the city on the banks of the Schuylkill River with a history that dates back over 200 years. This neighborhood prides itself on its small town charm where you can still find cobblestone paving and well-maintained row houses. There has been gentrification in recent years which has resulted in conversion of older industrial buildings to residential lofts. This neighborhood includes a registered historic district with over 100 significant buildings.  There are many restaurant, bar and wine bar options in the neighborhood. Notable restaurants include Yanako, Agiato and Chabba Thai Bistro.

Fishtown, Philadelphia

Fishtown garnered its name from its location at the center of the shad fishing industry on the Delaware River. Historically this neighborhood was settled by immigrants, primarily German, Polish, Irish and Italian. It remained a working class neighborhood and more recently has faced gentrification which has brought in a wider array of art, restaurant and entertainment venues. Notable restaurants in the neighborhood include Fishtown Market and Kraftwork. The annual Fishtown Shad Fest is a festival that features live music, food, artists and a fun run.