Best Neighborhoods In Philadelphia 2021
Settle into Philadelphia for a city with lots to offer, whether you’re looking for upscale living or a funky, creative enclave in the birthplace of America.
Philadelphia also boasts being a walkable and bikeable city. It features historic sites, 18th Century charm, and a cost of living that’s reasonable compared to the national average and similar-sized cities. Wherever you rent an apartment, you’re never far from the city’s cultural offerings or the best food and brews in town.
Ready to start your apartment search? Read on to find the best Philadelphia neighborhood that’s right for you.
Things To See And Do In Center City:
- Take a relaxing stroll through Fairmount Park.
- Run up the Art Museum Steps and do your best Rocky impression.
- See the largest collection of Rodins works outside of Paris at the Rodin Museum.
- Dig into delicious, spicy and savoury fare at Rose Tattoo Café.
- Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at Sabrinas Café & Spencers Too.
- Sip an awesome craft brew at Prohibition Tap Room.
- Grab a pint at Con Murphys Irish Pub.
- Indulge in a delicious cappuccino at Café Lift.
- Sample sophisticated cocktails at The Trestle Inn.
- See incredible performances from emerging artists at Underground Arts.
Staying At The Philadelphia International Airport
I recommend looking for hotels near the Philadelphia airport if your flight departs very early. Also, its a good idea to stay close to the airport if youre attending a sporting event or big concert, as the sports complex is nearby.
Despite all this, its a quiet and safe area where it is possible to find some of Phillys cheap hotels. The only drawback is that there arent many tourist attractions nearby, and its far away from downtown.
8. Around the Philadelphia International Airport
These are the best hotels to stay near the Philadelphia airport:
- Low-cost option: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Philadelphia Airport
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Crime Stats In Philadelphia Pa
Some communities in Philadelphia, PA have seen their crime rates increase year after year, while others maintain a safe, welcoming atmosphere. But due to the more crime-ridden areas, the total crime rate in Philadelphia is 55% higher than the national average.
Here are some more Philadelphia crime stats you should know as you consider relocating to the city:
- In Philadelphia, you have a 1 in 25 chance of becoming a victim of crime.
- There were 356 total homicides in 2019, which was about the same as in 2018.
- Violent crime is 139% higher in Philadelphia than the rest of the nation.
- Property crime in Philadelphia is 41% higher than the U.S. average.
- Philadelphia is safer than 5% of the cities across the U.S.
Best Hostel In Old City: Apple Hostels Of Philadelphia
Located on a quiet street in Old City, this hostel is close to top landmarks, as well as restaurants, bars, and museums. It has comfortable beds, outfitted with a reading light, electrical outlets, and a USB charging port. Its close proximity to everything means you can save money on public transport!
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Best Hotel In Philadelphia: Penns View Hotel Philadelphia
This elegant four-star hotel is our top pick for hotels in Philadelphia. Amenities include an onsite fitness room and spa, as well as spacious guestrooms. Located at the heart of the Old City neighborhood, this hotel is close to Philadelphias most famous sightseeing attractions.
Philadelphia is a city bursting with history. The one-time capital of the United States, this massive Pennsylvanian metropolis played a major role in the development of America as a nation. Its where the Declaration of Independence was signed in the 18th century, and history rings out throughout the city to this day.
Philadelphia is the fifth most populous city in the USA. It is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, as well as an impressive selection of nightlife, dining and entertainment offerings.
If its your first time visiting Philadelphia, we recommend staying in Old City. One of the oldest neighborhoods in the entire nation, its full of historic landmarks, art museums, upscale boutiques, and nightlife.
If youre traveling to Philadelphia on a budget, youll find a lot of great accommodation in Center City. Its the citys CBD, and is packed with things to explore at reasonable prices.
Rittenhouse Square is an upscale neighborhood, home to some of the best of Philadelphias nightlife. If youre looking for somewhere thats as busy at night as it during the day, then this is your best option.
Best Airbnb In Old City: Cobblestone Delight
Located on a small cobblestone street, this stunning contemporary house is ideal for families or groups visiting Philadelphia for the first time. Interiors are light and spacious, with high ceilings and exposed brick in each room. The house has two double bedrooms and large bathrooms, as well as a fully equipped industrial kitchen.
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Academy Gardens Pleasant Community In Philadelphia
- Population: 27,044
- Crime: Total crime in Fox Chase is 38% lower than the national average.
- Median Home Listing Price: $251,000
- Great for: Academy Gardens has a median age of 44 years old, leading this community to have more people who are looking for a calm, quiet neighborhood.
The Philadelphia neighborhood of Academy Gardens is a highly affordable area with much to offer its residents. Along with a handful of fun activities nearby, the community is safer than 74% of the other neighborhoods in Philly. Crime rates are low, providing peace of mind to everyone who lives here.
Local homes in Academy Gardens can be a bit more pricey but there are various options that make it possible to find something befitting your budget.
South Philadelphia Where To Stay In Philly For Foodies
South Philadelphia is known for its residents Italian Heritage. Throughout the years South Philadelphia has grown increasingly diverse attracting residents from all backgrounds and cultures.
With its diverse culture, South Philadelphia has multicultural food attractions. You can enjoy Asian cuisine for one meal and get a taste of Italy with your next.
Did you know various iconic films took place in South Philadelphia? The Sixth Sense and the Rocky franchise are two extremely popular films that are set in South Philadelphia.
The Lincoln Financial Field home to the Eagles is in Philadelphia. Are you a fan of the Eagles or a fan of a team about to play the Eagles? Thousands of visitors and tourists schedule their vacation around an Eagles game. Fans of all ages pack the stadium, while they enjoy a classic American sport.
Do you love shopping? King Prussia Mall has all the newest trends, styles, and products without the hassle of New York traffic. King Prussia Mall is the largest US retail space making it a tourist destination. There are over four hundred stores to shop displaying high-end name brands. In November and December alone, over five million people will shop at King Prussia Mall.
There are many places to stay in South Philadelphia from motels to hotels to Airbnbs. If you are traveling on a budget, it is not a problem South Philadelphia has accommodations that span over a wide range of price ranges.
Best places to stay in South Philly:
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Fishtown / Northern Liberties
Fishtown and Northern Liberties is an area immediately Northeast of Old City/Center City and is one of the rapidly growing neighborhoods in the City. While you cant generally walk from these areas to the core of Center City, there is the Market-Frankford line .
On the other side of the river, lies University City, home to the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University, as well as a growing biotech and medical scene. Theres also Wynnefield not far from there.
Because neighborhood boundaries are fluid, neighborhood names or boundaries are not always agreed upon. Generally, this guide aligns well with the City of Philadelphias neighborhood boundaries.
Although there are of course other neighborhoods this guide does not cover, this is one of the most comprehensive Philadelphia neighborhood resources.
Where To Stay In Philadelphia For Families
Families looking for a centrally located, mid-range hotel will like The Windsor Suites. This property features apartment-style suites with separate living spaces and full kitchens. A few come with balconies, although the views are off a busy freeway.
On-site amenities include a rooftop swimming pool with views across Philly and a fitness room, open 24/7. There is also a Chinese restaurant in the lobby.
In the vibrant University City neighborhood, which is filled with restaurants and shops, The Study at University City is another family favorite. This minimalist luxe hotel offers a number of different styles of rooms including studios, which come with kitchenettes and dining space. Or book one of the even larger suites with separate living rooms featuring sleeper sofas. On-site amenities include public lounging spaces like the Living Room, where you’ll find comfy seating and a cafe. There is also a well-equipped gym and an art gallery focusing on local artists.
Finally, families should check out The Inn at Penn, A Hilton Hotel, which is especially convenient if you’re in town to visit a child at the University of Pennsylvania â the property is on the campus. The hotel offers a mix of rooms and suites, all featuring contemporary furnishings and comfy beds. Staff is friendly, and everything is tidy. Away from the rooms there is an Italian restaurant, a gym, and paid parking on-site.
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Best Airbnbs In Philadelphia Pa
Known for its monumental history and a deep love of food, Philadelphia is a classic destination for a city break on the east coast. Whether you want to fill up on cheesesteak and soft pretzels or are more interested in the citys role in Americas independence, youre going to need a place to stay when in Philadelphia. And the best way to find vacation rentals in Philadelphia of all shapes and sizes is through Airbnb.
To help you with your trip here, weve put together this exclusive list of the best Airbnbs in Philadelphia. Each property has been carefully selected this list is full of superhosts and includes many places with Airbnb Plus status. For those unfamiliar, Airbnb superhosts are owners who have a strong record of good reviews and service, while an Airbnb Plus is one that has been verified by an in-person inspection. This helps give you the confidence that where youre staying is worth your money.
Explore A Foodie Hotspot From A Renovated 1910 Row Home
Its hard not to be thoroughly charmed by this large and masterfully renovated townhouse that seems ideal for a trip to Philadelphia. Located in East Passyunk, with its tree-lined streets and diverse influences, this townhouse puts you nice and close to some of the best restaurants, bars, and stores in all of South Philly.
This Philadelphia Airbnb Plus sleeps up to eight people, making it an obvious pick for larger groups looking to stay together. It wont be a challenge to fit so many in, either, as this townhouse has four bedrooms, all with queen or double beds. This way, you can all spend time together in the living room, dining room, or common area and then head off to your own individual rooms at the end of the day.
It should be noted that the Airbnb only offers one full bathroom and one half bath, which could slow things down in the morning. The good news is that you do have a fully equipped kitchen here, so cooking meals shouldnt be a problem. Further amenities include Apple TV, a washer/dryer, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and a Pack n Play.
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Cobblestone Old City Delight A+location
For an Airbnb in Center City Philadelphia, we suggest you take a moment to see if this gorgeous townhouse is right for you. Situated in the Old City neighborhood, its just three blocks to major historical landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. The area also offers some great nightlife and a diverse selection of eateries.
With your stay in this renovated apartment, its possible to comfortably fit four people. The Airbnb provides queen beds in both of its bedrooms, meaning its a great choice for couples away together or families with young kids. Elsewhere in this bi-level apartment you have two-and-a-half bathrooms and an open plan kitchen, living room, and dining space.
While all of this might seem quite standard, its really taken to the next level by this units sublime decor. From high ceilings and exposed brick to luxe furnishings, theres a real grandeur to this apartment that is sure to make your stay feel special. And lets not forget its amenities, including an indoor fireplace, washer/dryer, Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning.
Center City An Extremely Popular Place To Stay In Philly
Just a stones throw from Old City, Center City is the bustling heart of Philly. Boasting a dizzying blend of skyscrapers and heritage sites, Center Citer is where visitors can shop, sightsee, and even take in a show or two.
Center City is home of one of Phillys top attractions, the Franklin Institute, where visitors can both view and partake in permanent and rotating science exhibitions.
Additionally, there is the renowned Barnes Foundation, which showcases some of the worlds most celebrated impressionistic, post-impressionistic, and modern art.
Music and performance arts lovers will have no shortage of venues to consider in Center City, which boastsamong othersthe Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, Opera Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Ballet, and the Kimmel Center.
Along with performances, staff at many of these landmark venues offer free tours that delve into each buildings architecture, history, and lore.
Not for the faint of heart but a great deal of fun, the Mütter Museum is a medical museum dedicated to the study of medicine and scientific oddities.
Displays include anatomical specimens, wax models, antique medical equipment, and an assortment of curios ranging from the bizarre to downright terrifying.
Reading Terminal Market is one of Americas largest and oldest public markets, having been housed in a National Historic Landmark building since 1893.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PHILADELPHIA IN CENTER CITY
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Where To Stay For Philadelphia Marathon Weekend
In the entire nation, the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend is one of the ten best events. It features at least 30,000 runners, 65,000 spectators, and more than 30,000 volunteers.
We will share what we know about top-performing hotels and aparthotels in the region to help you make the best decision.
Philadelphia, being less crowded, is one of the best places to visit if you are looking to have a great time. The Philadelphia Marathon Weekend is around the corner, and you might be wondering where you will be staying during the event. This should not be something to worry about since world-class hotels and restaurants are waiting to give you an experience of a lifetime.
Once you show up for the event, you will be spoilt for choice. This is because they are just a walking distance from the finish line and offer all that you might need to have a remarkable stay in Philadelphia. Some of these best hotels include Windsor Suites, The Logan Philadelphia, and Sonesta Philadelphia Downtown Rittenhouse Square. The list goes on. If you are attending the event for the first time, we consider asking around, and you will be happy with what the place has to offer during the marathon.
Note that most Centre City Hotels get very expensive during these times, and most of them might also be sold out by the time you show interest. Thus, to avoid such predicaments, we suggest you act fast. This means taking a look at available hotels in the region and making reservations ahead of time.
Best Hotel In Fishtown: Lokal Hotel Fishtown
Each room in this stylish hotel comes with a full kitchen, private bathrooms and a dining area, so your family can enjoy all the comforts of home. Furnishings are modern and comfortable, and free wifi is available in each room. This place is ideal for families or couples heading to Philadelphia, with plenty of top attractions within walking distance.
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Ii: Important Considerations Before Picking Neighborhood
Here are some considerations as you think through which Philadelphia neighborhood to live in
Commute to Work
How close you are to your workplace? How long does it take to get there?
Walkability
How walkable is the community? Are there enough outdoor areas for you and your family to enjoy?
What is your budget?
How much you can afford will also impact your selection. Some of the most affordable Philly neighborhoods for families in Philadelphia are in the Far Northeast.
Lifestyle
What kind of lifestyle do you want? Are you looking for quiet, green spaces or more bustling precincts with plenty of action?
Crime Rate
Although this article doesnt list Crime Rate Data Specifics by neighborhood, and although no neighborhood is void of crime, crime can be measured and quantified historically. You should be familiar with the general crime rates in each neighborhood. For example, as of the date this article was first written and looking back 30 days, Northern Liberties/Fishtown had 43% more property crime than Center City . You can look into specifics here that the Inquirer Publishes results from the last 30 days.
Every neighborhood has its pros and cons. The good news is Philly has lots of great neighborhoods, so its easy to find something for your lifestyle.
Keep Reading for Specific Neighborhood Detail
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