When people think of American cities, oftentimes, the likes of New York, LA, Miami, Chicago, and D.C. come to mind. But there's one that, though not as popular, is slowly emerging as a major city to be reckoned with. This is Philadelphia. Regarded as the largest city in the country, as well as home to many historic artifacts, it's a place that both tourists and those getting relocated ought to consider going to! It has all the history you'd expect in D.C., the liveliness of New York, gets the four seasons like in Chicago, all with its own, unique charms!
Chestnut Hill
Though it's located all the way in the northwestern tip of the city, Chestnut Hill is actually one of the most beautiful places in Philadelphia. As well as one of the most comfortable. Literally located atop a hill, it's almost as if it exists on a world on its own, relatively far from the other areas on this list. And since it's on a hill, the weather is just right for most of the year. Not too cold during summer and the sun shines just enough to warm up during autumn. Of course, the array of Victorian houses adds its nostalgic charms.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Conshohocken
While Philadelphia is far from New York and LA's levels in terms of business, there's no doubt that the former is slowly catching up. And that's thanks to areas like Conshohocken! A big hub for both big and small businesses, it's the corporate center of the city. You'll definitely have an easier time
looking for a job here than in the other districts. And since the place is also a central point in the city's public transport, you can easily commute to and from here as well!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Fishtown
Make no mistake! Fishtown only got its name because it used to be a popular conclave for the fishermen of the area. Nowadays, however, it's completely different. If you can compare it to other places in the US, it's a lot similar to Soho in New York, one of
the city's trendiest neighborhoods. But why are Soho and Fishtown comparable? That's because the latter is also the creative district of Philadelphia. The art scene of the city is alive and well in this area!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Main Line
Though it's located in the northwestern part of Philadelphia, there's no denying that the Main Line area is also an important part of the city. It's notably one of the wealthier neighborhoods on this list, pretty much akin to the likes of the Upper East Side of New York or Beverly Hills in Los Angeles. Opulent homes, classic manors, and
luxury apartments are all for the taking here, open for those lucky enough to afford to own or rent them!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Northern Liberties
It's no secret that American history is grounded in Philadelphia as it is in other cities like
Washington D.C., Maryland, Massachusetts, and New York. But perhaps one of the more historic areas in Philadelphia that can arguably trump the other cities is the Northern Liberties. Why? Because it's said to be the first-ever suburban neighborhood in the country. Founded by founding father Wiliam Penn, this place has literally stood the test of time. Nowadays, it's become a trendy commercialized area where people can hang out and have a good time!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Old City
Of course, any conversation regarding American history and Philadelphia isn't complete without mentioning Old City. Also known as the City Center, it's where most tourists visiting the city will likely stay. The Liberty Bell,
Betsy Ross House, and Independence Hall are just some of the must-see sights and attractions that every first-time Phialdephha visitor ought to go to! As well as every American wanting to learn more about the country's history too! A bustling district unlike any other, it's no wonder so many people prefer this place to the many others.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Overbrook
Heading on over to West Philadelphia, there's the beautiful Overbrook neighborhood. Once home to award-winning actor Will Smith, the place is notable as one of the more affordable areas on this list. But make no mistake! Affordable doesn't mean lacking in quality or safety! Overbrook is the type of place wherein you can still get a great home within your own budget. The community here is open and welcoming and for the most part, it's a largely suburban area overall!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Society Hill
Another part of the city center is Society Hill. Now, this is a place worth going to when you have free time. Though yes, there are commercialized places with shops, restaurants, cafes, and the like, the highlights of this district are the parks. Both Washington Square Park and Spruce Street Harbor Park are located here. The former is more of a natural oasis where you can enjoy a picnic with family, play sports with friends, and the like. The latter, on the other hand, is more industrial is often the venue for pop-up festivals and such.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square is slightly similar to Society Hill in that it's also a great place to spend time in. But as one of the more upscale neighborhoods in the city, it's also a great place to call home. You have better chances of snagging a quality house or a beautiful apartment here than in most other areas on this list. And when you go outside, restaurants, bars, cafes, and parks are all for your lifestyle entertainment!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
University City
You can probably already tell what kind of place University City is just by its name. Home to many of the city's best institutions, most notably the
University of Pennsylvania ('UPENN'), the place is dominated by students and young professionals. So it makes sense that it's also one of the trendier districts in Philadelphia too. A fair share of cafes and bars balance out the more serious establishments in the area, allowing the students to still enjoy life while they study and do their best in university!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Philadelphia is undoubtedly on its way to becoming one of the most popular major cities in America. It has some stiff competition with the likes of New York and Los Angeles, but the many exciting and fun neighborhoods here prove it's got what it takes!
