How to Eat, Shop and Experience Your Way Through Philadelphia’s Neighborhoods

For new, or even returning, students at Drexel University heading off-campus to explore the city might seem daunting, or even unnecessary. University City probably seems like it has everything you need, but with that attitude, you’ll never know what’s missing.

 It’s time to grab a friend and journey outside of your comfort zone! Here’s what to eat, see and shop in these key Philadelphia neighborhoods.

West Philadelphia

• Eat. When parents are in town or there’s something to celebrate, try Marigold Kitchen for chef Eric Leveillee’s New Nordic, multi-course tasting menus. Looking for something more low-key? Honest Tom’s Taco Shop has been a staple in the neighborhood for year, but just recently went totally plant-based. If you’re of age, head to Dock Street Brewery or Local 44 for a cold drink and a quick bite.
• See. As one of Philly’s greenest neighborhoods, opportunities to spend time outside abound in West Philly. Head to Bartram’s Garden, which is the oldest surviving botanic garden in North America, or chill out in Clark Park. For something more cultural, check out upcoming events at The Rotunda.
• Shop. For vintage treasures to fill your home or your closet, peruse the Jinxed West Philly location or follow Jinxed on Instagram and call to buy when something catches your eye.

Center City

• Eat. A great introduction to Philadelphia cuisine is to visit one or all of Stephen Starr’s Center City restaurants, which range hugely in type, price and atmosphere. Those on the closer side to campus include Mexican-home-cooking-inspired El Rey, British-pub-themed The Dandelion or Continental Mid-town with its lounge vibes and airy rooftop patio.
• See. Center City is home to most of Philadelphia’s cornerstone cultural attractions. If you’ve already done the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in historic Old City, then opt for some of the city’s newer museums, like The Barnes Foundation. Another must-see is the Mütter Museum of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, though this outing is not recommended for the faint of heart or the weak of stomach. And be sure to visit the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University — you can get in free with your Drexel ID!
• Shop. Center City houses the city’s shopping districts, so there’s really no where you can go wrong by stopping in!

Fishtown/Kensington/Northern Liberties

• Eat. A quick ride on the Market-Frankford Line will deliver you to the heart of what these hip northeastern neighborhoods have to offer, including cuisine. Find bar grub at Front Street Café, Kraftwork and Cedar Point Bar and Kitchen, or international cuisine at Suraya, Stock and Cheu Fishtown.
• See. For those of age, great places to go with friend or family include Philadelphia Brewing Company, which also hosts free tours and tastings from noon­–3 p.m. on Saturdays, as well as Frankford Hall for free games and beer garden vibes. For something more family friendly, ride the carousel at Franklin Square or have a picnic at Penn Treaty Park.
• Shop. A go-to shopping destination in this neighborhood is Liberties Walk, which includes several independently owned stores, as well as those in The Schmidt’s Commons.

South Philadelphia

• Eat. Philadelphia boasts a large Vietnamese immigrant population, and some of the most well-known Vietnamese restaurants can be found in South Philadelphia shopping centers dedicated to these communities. This includes Pho 75, of Anthony Bourdain’s “The Layover” fame,Nam Phuong and Le Viet. For something a little more familiar, skip the “cheesesteak corner” and, instead, try vegan diner The Tasty for a sandwich, salad or a cup of Joe.
• See. South Philadelphia’s main attractions can be found on South Street, including the popular Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, a mosaicked visionary art environment, and the temporary FIGMAGO installation, which also boasts an “Alive!” version featuring acrobatics and dance.
• Shop. Similar to attractions, South Street is also South Philly’s main shopping hub for vintage and consignment, record stores and novelty shops.