As one of the oldest settlements in Philadelphia, it goes without saying, Germantown has a rich history. It has one of the highest concentrations of historic resources in the country—estates that set the stage for Revolutionary War battles, homes that once brought refuge to slaves traveling on the Underground Railroad, and the site of the first anti-slavery protest in the country. Today, colonial homes and sprawling green spaces intertwine with the distinctive eateries and shops to create a vibrant neighborhood rooted in history.
Any chance we get to list a home or house hunt with our clients in Germantown, is always a treat. Just 20 minutes from Center City, you can’t help but take a deep breath and slow down a bit, admiring the Victorian details that define most homes here.
Cliveden Estate - In the 1760s Benjamin Chew had the family estate built outside of the city to avoid the yellow fever outbreak. The 6-acre property was the site of the only American Revolution battle fought in Philly. Seven generations of the Chew family lived here, three of which had a woman running the household—you know we love that! In the 70s the Chew family dedicated the estate to the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Johnson House - Many homes in the area have a story tying it to our city and country’s history but this home, in particular, was not only a stop on the Underground Railroad but also the meeting house for abolitionists like William Still and Harriet Tubman!
Eats
Tyemekas Soul Food - What started as a lunch truck in 2011 has become an area favorite for southern, partially home-cooked soul food. Bring your appetite! Each platter is stacked with your choice of mac and cheese, cabbage, and greens.
All The Way Live Cafe - As a neighborhood that is defined by its revolutionary spirit it only makes sense that the first raw-vegan café was opened right on Germantown Ave in 2008. Not a soup and salad kind of gal or guy? No worries the menu features pasta, burgers, and yummy desserts!
Newman’s Grill - When a restaurant specializes in all things brekkie and brunch you better believe we want to be first in line for a table. For nearly 40 years Newman’s has brought a taste of New Orleans brunch to Germantown.
Shops
Germantown Kitchen Garden - On Saturday mornings friends and neighbors mingle as they pick fresh produce and beautiful herbs and flowers to brighten their homes. Bakers and brewer vendors add fresh baked bread and kombucha on tap to the weekend scene.
Material Culture - An art lovers mecca, the 60,000 square foot space is an emporium of art, antiques, crafts, furnishings, and architectural elements from around the world! If you need a unique piece for the new home we just help you find, talking piece for your next party, or a little help bringing your family heirlooms back to life this is the place to go.
Recreation
Awbury Arboretum - A 55-acre green space just minutes from the busier parts of town. For over 100 years Germantowners and visitors alike slow down and unwind in a meadow of wildflowers, hideaway in a secret garden, and let the kids run free on the natural materials playground.
Happy Hollow Rec Center - I’m sure you’ve noticed the trend by now...there are a lot of old places and things in charming Germantown. Like the Happy Hollow rec center, it opened in 1911! That makes it the oldest city-owned and continuously operating recreation center.
Germantown is a storied neighborhood with plenty to discover. Whether it’s a culinary pursuit or historical, a day of exploring this hood will surely satisfy both your tastebuds and brain! If you stumble upon a home with too much charm to pass up, we are happy to help you get those keys!
