Nearby Neighborhoods: Society Hill, Head House Square, Northern Liberties, Penn’s Landing
Known for: Art galleries, wholesale design distributors, renovated manufacturing buildings, old bars and new ones and a super First Friday.
It can be argued that Old City, just north of Society Hill and just South of Northern Liberties, captures much of the ‘old’ Philadelphia - think garment manufacturing, haberdashers, and a sugar refinery - and so much of pre-manufacturing days, as in the Revolutionary period. It checks the box of embracing history, as it is part of Philadelphia’s Historic District and host to the oldest, inhabited street in America, Elfreth's Alley. Head to the Delaware River and find family-friendly entertainment at the Blue Cross RiverRink and Penn’s Landing. Then, there is the new: Stick around on a First Friday of the month and you will find yourself among an exciting art scene. Independent boutiques offer everything vintage, handmade, designer wear, and even hokey souvenirs. It’s also about all that is new! It’s a super dog-friendly neighborhood, so you’ll find pet boutiques and a PAWs adoption center. Hungry? Tuck into that sweet coffee shop, stay for a romantic dinner at the many original brick-walled eateries, or that local grunge bar; there’s lots to choose from in terms of restaurants and bars in the area. Top it off with a show at the Arden Theatre, or a class at one of the many arts venues. Whew!
Even with all that hustle and bustle, you can find quiet streets in Old City like Church Street or N. American Street. You can see the famous Christ Church and Christ Church Burial Ground, which is an important early-American cemetery. It is the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin and his wife, Deborah, as well as four other signers of the Declaration of Independence. Green spaces include well known and historic, Independence National Park, and lesser-known hidden gems like Girard Fountain Park.
If you like loft living, you have your choice of revamped industrial buildings. You will also find classic historic brick homes that have been beautifully maintained and restored. Residents and businesses look to the Old City District, as a source of support, resources, and events in the neighborhood.
There truly is something for everyone in Old City, and you can be one of the lucky ones to call this neighborhood home.
We made a list and checked it twice - local shops, makers, and artists, naughty and nice! PHG is here to help you find gifts for even the most difficult person on your list.