Best neighbourhoods in Philadelphia
A locals' map of Philadelphia — the neighbourhoods worth spending a half-day in, what to eat in each, and the streets actually worth wandering.
Top spots in Philadelphia
Independence Hall
CultureOld City
Where the Declaration was signed — small room, very large weight.
Magic Gardens
CultureSouth Street
Isaiah Zagar's mirror-and-mosaic maze — half a city block of folk art.
Reading Terminal Market
Food & DrinkCenter City
Amish pretzels, roast pork sandwiches and a century of vendors under one roof.
Rocky Steps at the Art Museum
OutdoorsFairmount
Run the steps, then actually go inside — the museum is world-class.
Wissahickon Valley
OutdoorsNorthwest Philly
Forest gorge trails 15 minutes from Center City.
Where to eat
Federal Donuts
$Fried chicken & donuts · Multiple
Half-dozen donuts and a piece of Korean-spiced fried chicken.
Suraya
$$$Lebanese · Fishtown
All-day Levantine market, café and dining room with garden seating.
Vetri Cucina
$$$$Italian tasting · Center City
12-course Northern Italian in a townhouse — one of the country's best.
Zahav
$$$Israeli · Society Hill
Michael Solomonov's hummus and lamb shoulder — book a month out.
Pat's King of Steaks
$Cheesesteak · South Philly
Order 'whiz wit' and eat it standing up.
Frequently asked
- Standouts right now: Independence Hall, Reading Terminal Market, Rocky Steps at the Art Museum. The shortlist is curated by people who live in Philadelphia and refreshed regularly so it reflects what's actually open and worth your time.