South Street: Nonstop Energy & Unfiltered Charm

Can’t-Miss Experiences

1. Chow down on Philly classics or discover something new

Break out the stretch pants, friends: South Street District’s food scene is jam-packed with delicious possibilities.

Starting with a Philly go-to, dig into a classic cheesesteak at Jim’s, the OG chicken cheesesteak at Ishkabbibles or a cheesesteak with truffle oil whiz at Woodrow’s.

Other South Street must-eats include a hefty slice from Lorenzo’s (bonus points if it’s wrapped around a Jim’s cheesesteak, Philly taco-style) and dinner at a local favorite, like Bridget Foy’s, Marrakesh, Cry Baby Pasta, Southwark, Puyero, or Shiso Noodle and Sushi Bar.

Bonus: Grab freshly brewed coffee from Loretta’s and stroll the local vendors at Headhouse Farmers Market on Sunday mornings.

Jim's Steaks   — Photo by Visit Philadelphia

2. Have a drink (or two) with friends

The neighborhood is bar-hopping heaven with watering holes, wine bars and dives galore.

Down for beers and board games? Hit up Queen & Rook Game Cafe. Stop by MilkBoy for good drinks and great music. The Good King Tavern and Le Caveau specialize in wine and all things French, while The Twisted Tail’s got Bourbon on lock. BeerLOVE is a staple for craft brews, and Brauhaus Schmitz is your go-to for authentic German beers and bites. And the drinks at beloved hipster dive Tattooed Mom and Bloomsday wine bar are only rivaled by their delectable food menus. Enjoy happy hour specials at Argentine Steakhouse Malbec, or vegan tapas and cocktails at Fitz on 4th.

Tattooed Mom   — Photo by D. Knoll for Visit Philadelphia

3. Get lost in Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens Museum

Prolific artist Isaiah Zagar has made all of South Street and South Philly his canvas, mosaicing their walls and streets with hundreds of vibrant murals.

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens Museum on South Street might just be his magnum opus. A breathtaking dreamscape (and envy-inducing photo op), the indoor-outdoor labyrinth is covered from floor to ceiling with brilliant handmade tiles, international folk art, reclaimed bicycle tires and more.

  — Photo by D. Knoll for Visit Philadelphia

4. Catch a show at the Theatre of Living Arts

Some of the biggest names in rock and hip-hop, from Arcade Fire to The Roots, have graced the marquee at South Street’s top music venue, the Theatre of Living Arts — better known as the TLA.

Check out the official website for upcoming shows and grab your ticket.

  — Photo by A. Wendowski for Visit Philadelphia

5. Revel in festivals and block parties year-round

Any given season, South Street gives you a reason to celebrate, with a blockbuster lineup of events, big and small.

Among the most anticipated fetes are street festivals like May’s South Street Fest, family traditions like the Easter Promenade, boozy beer fests like South Street Oktoberfest, seasonal celebrations like Brauhaus Schmitz’s Maifest, block parties like Summer Solstice on 4th Street, and annual summer series like the South Street Night Market.

South Street Oktoberfest   — Photo by K. Aversa

6. Shop off the beaten path

You can find just about anything on or near South Street, from the fashionable to the eccentric, thanks to a colorful collection of shops.

Explore goth trinkets and taxidermy at The DreamEerie, hard-to-find vinyls at Repo Records, folk art at Eye’s Gallery, and designer fabrics at Fleishman Fabrics & Supplies.

Browse the classics at Atomic City Comics and LGBTQ+ lit (plus, great second-hand clothes and decor) at Philly AIDS Thrift.

Find artisan goods at Grand Souk, handmade and eco-conscious items from Moon + Arrow. Plus, flowers and plants from Walter Pine, and coffee beans at Ace Outpost.

Shop men’s streetwear at P’s & Q’s and handmade goods at South Street Art Mart.

Discover vintage finds at Moore Vintage, At My House and Sweet Peel Vintage. Excellent boutiques and second-hand shops also line South 4th Street between Bainbridge and Catharine streets — traditionally known as Fabric Row.

P’s & Q’s   — Photo courtesy P's & Q's

Where to Stay

You don’t have to look far. Cute boutique hotels, Yowie and The Queen Hotel Queen Village, Sonder, are great options, as are nearby waterfront accommodations, like the Philadelphia Marriott Old City and the Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing.

YOWIE   — Photo by Visit Philadelphia

Local Tips

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

• The South Street District is easy to navigate by bus and bike, thanks to SEPTA bus routes crisscrossing the area, multiple Indigo bike racks and stops on Big Bus’ hop-on-hop-off sightseeing tour.

• Multiple parking garages and lots are available for drivers. Most street parking in the area is timed and metered, so keep a close eye on signs and meters to avoid a ticket or a tow.

• Want more pro tips? Stop by the South Street District Office at 407 South Street for insider suggestions and happenings.