Attractions

The bustling heart of West Philadelphia and academic epicenter of the entire region, University City gets its name for having two of the largest and most influential institutions in town: University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University.

These collegiate giants, sub-anchored by nationally renowned medical hubs, serve multiple disciplines.

The enclave also boasts a magnetic individuality fueled by youthful innovation and an unshakeable commitment to artistic and cultural exploration.

Next to Independence Mall, where the country’s Founding Fathers declared liberty, Old City still boasts charming cobblestone streets and plenty of 18th-century charm — along with an independent streak evident in everything from its owner-operated shops to its edgy art scene.

Its proximity to the Liberty Bell, Penn’s Landing and Benjamin Franklin Bridge makes Old City a favorite for out-of-towners and its residents who call it home. People love the neighborhood for its fashionable boutiques, great restaurants, eclectic galleries and theaters, and vibrant nightlife. Especially popular on first Fridays of each month, art lovers fill the streets for year-round art walks and hop from gallery to gallery.

Home to Philly’s truly world-class museums, Fairmount is synonymous with fine art — but art is far from the only draw for this northern neighbor to Center City.

Often referred to as the “Art Museum Area” because of its walking-distance access to Philadelphia Museum of Art, Franklin Institute, Rodin Museum and Barnes Foundation, Fairmount possesses a distinct personality that thrives independent of those many hallowed halls.

Just outside the hustle and bustle, young families who move here enjoy its proximity to beautiful green spaces and a thriving food scene.

Getting acquainted with Fairmount is now easier than ever for new residents and visitors, as surrounding neighborhoods grow commercially and residentially.

Long-considered one of the toniest neighborhoods in the city, Rittenhouse Square isn’t just an enviable address. It’s a lifestyle.

And since it’s home to a number of hotels, the neighborhood, which spans Market to South streets from the north to south and runs east to west from Broad Street to the Schuylkill River Banks, remains an out-of-towner favorite.

Along the Rittenhouse sidewalks — many of which boast seating for alfresco dining and drinking in the warm months — residents and visitors find high-end stores; locally owned boutiques; small galleries; theaters and entertainment; cafes; beer, wine and cocktail bars; and restaurants of all kinds. With all this, the neighborhood buzzes with activity all year long.