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Thanks to iconic film scenes (Rocky), pop culture (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia) and Philly sports, the iconic rowhomes, pubs, steak shops and unmistakable personality and grit of South Philly are what many people picture when they think of the City of Brotherly Love.
Located south of South Street and bordered by the Schuylkill and Delaware rivers, South Philly is comprised of some of Philly’s most iconic neighborhoods, with Queen Village, Bella Vista, East Passyunk and Pennsport falling east of Broad Street and Graduate Hospital, Point Breeze, Newbold and Grays Ferry laying west of the boulevard.
What makes South Philly so awesome? Let us count the ways.
Incredibly diverse, the area is home to vibrant Latino, Italian, Irish, Black, Southeast Asian communities and more, highlighted at major attractions like the Italian Market and the Southeast Asian Market at FDR Park.
A true foodie heaven, South Philly lays claim to many famous eateries, and major local traditions — from the cheesesteak to the Mummers — got their start here.
And in a town as sports-obsessed as this, South Philly is home base, with Philly’s professional basketball (76ers), football (E-A-G-L-E-S), hockey (Flyers) and baseball (Phillies) teams all playing right here.
And yo! That’s just the beginning. Read on for our guide to South Philly.
South Philly is your one-stop shop for all the Philly classics.
Practically ground zero for cheesesteaks, the neighborhood is home to iconic rivals Pat’s and Geno’s, not to mention Angelo’s, Jim’s, Cosmi’s Deli, John’s Roast Pork, Tony and Nick’s and Oregon Steaks.
In more of a hoagie mood? Gooey Looie’s, Mi-Pals Deli, Lil Nick’s, Antonio’s Deli, Ricci’s Hoagies, Farina Di Vita and Paesano’s Philly Style are go-to’s for the local staple.
Did someone say dessert? Look no further than the lineup of top water ice spots, including John’s Water Ice, Pop’s Homemade Italian Ice, Jimmy’s Water Ice, D’Emilio’s Old World Ice Treats and Chuck’s Homemade Water Ice.
Pat's King of Steaks — Photo courtesy Pat's King of Steaks
Philly’s oldest market — the South 9th Street Italian Market — is the ultimate foodie playground.
Find top-tier taquerias alongside historic red-gravy joints. Peruse colorful produce at outdoor vendors. And score gourmet meats, cheeses and spices at old school butcher shops, bakeries and specialty stores.
— Photo by S. Ramones for Visit Philadelphia
Critically acclaimed dining continues on quirky East Passyunk Avenue.
The Ave is known for its outstanding collection of James Beard-honored restaurants, including Gabriella’s Vietnam and El Chingon, and funky, independently owned boutiques, selling everything from Philly-centric gifts (Occasionette) to vintage typewriters (Philly Typewriter).
El Chingon — Photo courtesy El Chingon
South Street — lined with fantastic bars, diverse eateries, eclectic shops and vibrant galleries — attracts the ultimate cross-section of Philadelphia.
Beyond its top-notch nightlife and shopping, the area is home to iconic landmarks, like the Magic Gardens Museum and Headhouse Square.
Magic Gardens Museum — Photo by D. Knoll for Visit Philadelphia
Clocking in at a whopping 348 acres, the area’s largest park offers tons of outdoor amenities, including nature trails; picnicking grounds; 40 acres of lakes; numerous athletic fields and courts; two playgrounds; and a skate park. FDR Park is also great for birding, boasting one of the most diverse habitats in the city.
The picturesque park is also home to the American Swedish Historical Museum, as well as a number of events throughout the season, most notably the nationally acclaimed Southeast Asian Market and the African American and Latino markets.
Southeast Asian Market — Photo by S. Ramones for Visit Philadelphia
The South Philly Sports Complex — aka Philly sports central — is the home of:
Even fans without tickets flock to the area on gameday to tailgate and catch the action from inside Xfinity Live!.
Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park — Photo by Visit Philadelphia
The streets of South Philly come alive thanks to a blockbuster lineup of annual cultural and foodie fests, including South Street Fest and Oktoberfest on South Street, the Italian Market and the Day of the Dead festivals in the Italian Market, and Flavors on the Avenue and Restaurant Week in East Passyunk.
Other major traditions include the New Years Day Mummers Parade, ODUNDE Festival and the Miracle on South 13th Street light display.
ODUNDE — Photo by S. Ramones for Visit Philadelphia
From cute boutique hotels (Yowie) to luxury accommodations (Live! Casino & Hotel), the area is home to several hotels. Check out our guide to hotels in South Philly to learn more.
Corner King Suite at Yowie — Photo by Visit Philadelphia
Ready to experience the area firsthand? Here are some tips to get you started:
Philadelphia is a city of vibrant neighborhoods bordered by a region of charming towns, with each area owning a distinctive personality. Explore the neighborhoods and towns in and around Philadelphia — their storied streets, interesting attractions, buzzed-about restaurants and year-round happenings.
Use the menu above to explore Philadelphia Neighborhoods