Center City, Philadelphia’s commercial district, encompasses many of the city’s highlights from Benjamin Franklin Parkway in the west to the Old City and the Delaware River Waterfront in the east. Some of the most popular neighbourhoods to stay in within Center City include Old City, Rittenhouse Square, Society Hill, and the Parkway Museum District.
Home to some of Philly’s biggest cultural landmarks, including Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, the monumentally historic Old City is ideal for first-timers who want to tick off the tourist list. Foodies, meanwhile, will have their mouths watering at its choice of cuisine.
Society Hill and Rittenhouse Square, meanwhile, may appeal more to those who want to experience the city in style and luxury. Both boast top hotels and restaurants, and Rittenhouse Square also boasts a covetable selection of high-end shops and art galleries.
History buffs, science enthusiasts, and art-lovers may feel most at home in the Parkway Museum District where they can spend their days immersed in Philadelphia’s finest museums and galleries.
To indulge in the city’s alternative side, you must swap the shiny Center City for its edgy outer neighbourhoods. The East Passyhunk area is packed with street murals, local-style restaurants, indie boutiques, and basically all things cool. Fishtown, however, is where you’ll find the trend-setters and party-goers.
Families will feel most at home in Chestnut Hill, the picturesque garden district known for its old mansions, tree-lined streets, and abundance of green spaces. It might be on the outskirts of the city, but with antique shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants, there is plenty to keep you busy there too.
It’s easy to explore much of Philly on foot. However, there are buses, bike rentals, trams, and the Philadelphia Phlash Downtown Loop at hand too, just in case your feet get tired.
