Brewerytown: Philly's Perfect Pour of Urban Culture

Can’t-Miss Experiences

1. Grab a brew or two

Brewerytown’s beermaking heyday may be long gone, but you’ve got plenty of options for sudsy sips.

Human Robot Girard offers experimental brews (you’ve gotta try a Milk Tube) along with tasty comfort foods. The Boozy Mutt invites pups to the party with an impressive menu of pub grub for both you and Fido. Or cozy up at artisan mainstays like 2637brew or Rybrew, where you can choose from 250-plus beers.

2. Enjoy flavor without borders

The Brewerytown dining scene spans cultures from across America — and around the world — with popular eateries like the modern Filipino-inspired Baby’s Kusina + Market, the traditional Ethiopian-based ERA, the no-frills Lazos Pizza & Grill, and the fast-casual Spot Gourmet Burgers.

Baby’s Kusina + Market   — Photo by M. Prince

3. Go wild at the Philadelphia Zoo

Located close by — just across the Girard Avenue Bridge — is America’s first zoological garden and a foremost conservation organization, the Philadelphia Zoo.

The Philly Zoo is home to more than 1,900 animals, including many rare and endangered species. Animals you may see on a visit: African lions, Galapagos tortoises, giant river otters and red pandas. Exhibits include Penguin Point, Outback Outpost and the ever-popular Big Cat Falls.

  — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

4. Take a stroll and explore the history of East Fairmount Park

A stone’s throw away from Brewerytown is the entirety of East Fairmount Park, 650 acres of rolling hills, gentle trails, waterfront views and shaded woodlands.

Near Brewerytown, discover historic sites like the Hatfield House, Lemon Hill Mansion, The Cliffs and Ormiston Mansion.

Lemon Hill Mansion   — Photo courtesy Fairmount Park Conservancy

5. Spend the day at iconic family-friendly attractions

Aside from the annual Girard Avenue Street Fest, visitors can find family-friendly fun year-round at nearby attractions like Smith Memorial Playground (best known for its massive Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide) and The Discovery Center (a nature center offering outdoor activities and educational programs).

The Discovery Center   — Photo courtesy The Discovery Center

Where to Stay

Looking to stay the night? Hotel options in Brewerytown are limited, but you can find great lodging in adjacent neighborhoods, like the Locale North Broad on North Broad and the Maj Hotel in Spring Garden, along with plenty of hotels in nearby University City.

Single King Room at Maj Hotel   — Photo courtesy Maj Hotel

Local Tips

Ready to experience the area firsthand? Here are some tips to get you started:

• Known to some by its former name, Route 15, SEPTA’s G trolley runs up and down Girard Avenue — and is one of the coolest ways to get around. The vintage green-and-cream streetcars feel like riding a piece of history.
• While public transportation is a super convenient way to traverse the neighborhood, those looking to drive can generally find parking along Girard Avenue.
• Brewerytown is a rich hub of cultural diversity. More than half of the businesses in the neighborhood are Black-owned, and more than half are women-owned. Visitors can support local entrepreneurship (while finding great products and deals) at boutiques like Holistic Jawn, Retro Rewind Vintage & Thrift, and more.