One Block: Favorite Spots in Philadelphia’s Old City

By WhereTraveler Staff on 07/21/2019, updated on 03/31/2020
History and contemporary sights mingle in this classic neighborhood.
Carriage in Old City
Old City (©R'Lyeh/Flickr, Creative Commons)

Laced with cobblestone streets and historic sites, Philadelphia’s Old City holds many charms, making it a popular area near the Delaware River Waterfront for locals and visitors alike. Throughout the year, find treasures from eye-opening museums preserving artifacts to indie galleries and shops stocking only-in-Philly finds. Here are a few of our favorite things to see and do in Old City.

Eat

America’s oldest neighborhood offers plenty of enticements, including tasty and lauded fare at James Beard-nominated Fork and Jose Garces’ handsome Olde Bar. Cafe Square One serves up healthy sandwiches, salads and smoothies in homey digs.

America’s oldest neighborhood offers plenty of enticements, including tasty and lauded fare at The Olde Bar | WhereTraveler

Shop

Retail in Old City runs the gamut from art by well-known and emerging creatives at Bluestone Fine Art to popular comic books and collectibles at Brave New Worlds and sweet treats at charming Shane Confectionery.

The Sweetest Retail in Old City can be found at Shane Confectionery | WhereTraveler

Drink

Explorers making their way through this historic enclave quench their thirst with craft brews at 2nd Story Brewing, wines from 120 taps at Panorama, located inside the Penn’s View Hotel, and hand-crafted cocktails at vintage favorite Sassafras.

Play

The Museum of the American Revolution highlights treasured items like George Washington’s original war tent. FringeArts pushes the theatrical envelope, while Olde City Escape Games challenges teams to beat the clock and unlock Philly-themed rooms.

FringeArts pushes the theatrical envelope | WhereTraveler

One Block: Favorite Spots in Philadelphia’s Old City By WhereTraveler Staff on 07/21/2019, updated on 03/31/2020