Philadelphia is one of the oldest cities in the United States and is strategically located between New York and Washington DC.
The city offers many attractions to discover, even on a historical level, and is definitely worth a visit for a few days. In this guide we see in which area to stay in Philadelphia to make the most of your stay in what was the first capital of the United States
Where to Stay in Philadelphia: City Center
The best area to stay in Philadelphia is downtown, "CityCenter”, this is where you will find the main historical sites, tourist attractions, the best shops, restaurants and clubs.
A mix of history and modernity, the center is in fact the commercial heart of the city but also the best area to discover American history.
Among the main attractions of the center are: the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, the famous Park Love, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Philadelphia Museum of Art with the famous Rocky Balboa staircase and much more.
Staying in the center is the best solution especially if you do not have much time available, in fact the area is not so large and it is easy to move both on foot and by public transport, which is very efficient.
Downtown can be a good solution even if you are passing through for a quick stopover, there is a wide choice of hotels and restaurants and can be reached from the airport comfortably by train in about 30 minutes.
At this point you will have to choose the best neighborhood in the center, based on your interests and preferences. For example the area of the Old Town it is ideal for history buffs, while for the more fashionable, there is a short distance from the old city Rittenhouse Square, one of the most beautiful areas of the city, with many clubs and restaurants, an elegant neighborhood full of evening life.
But let's take a closer look at some of the best areas of downtown Philadelphia.
Old city
The Old City is perhaps the best area for a first stay in Philadelphia, a beautiful neighborhood where we find the main historical sites, such as Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Benjamin Franklin's grave and some museums and ancient buildings. A quiet oasis even if in the center.
The historic charm of the old town contrasts with the modern and contemporary atmosphere of the neighborhood: full of art galleries, restaurants, pubs and bars. During the day you can discover the history of the United States and in the evening experience the vibrant nightlife.
It is possible to find structures with a good value for money, considering that the area is central and well connected with other districts within easy walking distance or by public transport.
Rittenhouse
Rittenhouse is one of the most beautiful areas of the city, the square, which gives its name to the neighborhood, is the beating heart of Philadelphia with its beautiful park surrounded by greenery and located in the middle of skyscrapers.
Rittenhouse is an elegant neighborhood a stone's throw from the shopping street (Walnut Street), with a wide choice of clubs and restaurants and a lively nightlife, also ideal for pleasant strolls.
The Old City is not that close but can also be reached on foot.
Market East / City Hall
An alternative for your stay in Philadelphia is around the City HallIn the neighborhood Market East, perfect for those who want to stay between the Old Town and the Rittenhouse area. A very busy shopping area during the day and dominated by the imposing City Hall, the largest in the United States.
The area is well connected both to other parts of the city and to the airport, thanks to the SEPTA regional railway lines that stop right in Market East.
Washinton Square
A short walk from Market East is Washington Square West, a lively area full of trendy restaurants that also includes Midtown Village and Gayborhood. The latter district is distinguished by bars, restaurants and clubs frequented by a gay-friendly clientele, recognizable thanks to rainbow-colored stripes and street signs.
The landmark of the neighborhood is Washinton Square, the public park of the same name, located behind Independence Hall and dedicated to George Washington. A place full of greenery, ideal for walking or for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Parkway Museum District /Logan Square
Staying in the museum area means staying close to major cultural attractions such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Franklin Institute, the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, and the Rodin Museum.
For cinema lovers, the real point of interest in the neighborhood is the statue dedicated to Rocky Balboa and the staircase leading to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, traveled by Silvester Stallone in the iconic film. You will be amazed to see people lining up to take pictures of the statue and run up the steps imitating the American boxer.
The area is well placed for walking around the center, ideal for families and for a quiet stay within walking distance of shops and restaurants.
