North Broad: Where Philly’s Past, Present and Future Unite

Eksperyans ou pa dwe rate

1. Experience the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts

Founded in 1805 as the nation’s first art museum and first art school, the Akademi Boza Pennsilvani (PAFA) features Victorian Gothic architecture and works by famous American artists — from the 18th century to modern day.

The museum’s recently renovated Historic Landmark Building is currently dedicated to the landmark Nation of Artists exhibition (through September 5, 2027), with additional exhibitions in the Hamilton Building just next door.

Akademi Boza Pennsilvani   — Photo by B. Krist for Visit Philadelphia

2. Uncover the secrets of the Masonic Temple

Across from Philadelphia’s City Hall, the massive Norman cathedral-style Tanp Masonik has stood tall since 1873.

The church-like structure is the headquarters of the Freemasons of Pennsylvania, with 14th-century roots and members that once included Benjamin Franklin and George Washington.

Guided tours highlight the building’s Renaissance, Egyptian, Moorish and Corinthian-influenced architecture, plus its artwork collection and museum of Revolutionary-era Masonic artifacts.

  — Photo courtesy The Masonic Temple

3. Catch a show at some of Philly’s most iconic venues

On North Broad, you can find performance venues that are big, small, modern, historic and everything in between.

Once a renowned opera house, the 120-year-old Met Philadelphia is a stunning venue that hosts concerts, comedy acts and performances year-round.

On Temple University’s campus, Sant Liacouras — Philly’s largest indoor public venue north of City Hall — regularly hosts shows and sporting events.

For more intimate experiences, check out Broad Hall at Underground Concepts (a multifaceted space below The Divine Lorraine), or SOUTH Restaurant & Jazz Club (serving up live music and Southern cuisine every week).

Met Filadèlfi   — Foto koutwazi The Met Philadelphia

4. Dine around the world at buzz-worthy restaurants

Foodies can get their fill at great eateries all up and down North Broad, from the James Beard-recognized Osteya epi Honeysuckle to local faves like Max’s Steaks epi Santucci’s Pizza & Bar.

You’ll also find plenty of tasty no-frills restaurants like Brunch Brothers, Yummy Phở, ak Lil Trent’s Grille & Pizzeria.

5. Explore jaw-dropping architecture

Iconic landmarks on the corridor include the Beaux-Arts style Inquirer Building, the Italianate-style Edwin Forrest House (a National Historic Landmark) and the 130-year-old Victorian-style Divine Lorraine — an apartment complex and one of the country’s first racially integrated hotels.

6. Journey through a world of free public art

Discover must-see works all along the corridor, including Pak Rayon Ferye a, the elevated former Reading Railroad tracks boasting rustic plantings and industrial artwork; the 41 unmissable, 55-foot-tall North Poles art fixtures; or murals like Meg Saligman’s Fil Komen, James Burns’ Pwojè Fwal Nò Filadèlfi and Patrick Dougher’s Limyè yo: Koronasyon an.

Fil Komen pa Meg Saligman   — Foto pa Visit Philadelphia

7. See the area through a new lens with A Summer aBroad

Each summer, North Broad Renaissance hosts A Summer aBroad, an ever-growing series of free outdoor activities and community events, with discounts from local businesses.

Plus, visitors can tour the neighborhood at their own pace year-round with the Summer aBroad augmented reality app.

The self-guided tour features essential stops like The Divine Lorraine and The Rail Park, along with Sullivan Progress Plaza (the nation’s first Black-owned shopping center) and historic closed-to-the-public venues like the Blue Horizon and Uptown Theater.

Ki kote pou rete

You’ve got your choice of hotels in the area, especially the closer you get to the Sant Vil edge of North Broad.

Options include Aloft Philadelphia Sant Vil la, la Hampton Inn Philadelphia Center City Convention Center ak Kouyòt Filadèlfi Sant Vil.

The W XYZ Bar at Aloft Philadelphia Downtown   — Photo courtesy Aloft Philadelphia Downtown

Konsèy lokal

Ou pare pou w dekouvri katye a poukont ou? Men kèk konsèy pou kòmanse:

• North Broad is very public transportation-friendly. The corridor is easily accessible via Sepa’s B (Broad Street) subway line, with key stops including Girard Avenue and Cecil B. Moore Avenue.
• Parking can be limited during concerts. Consider using public transit or one of several nearby Indego bike stations.
• Some of the best dining experiences on North Broad come from popping into small businesses directly. Many local gems aren’t on delivery apps.

  — Photo courtesy North Broad Renaissance