Philadelphia’s tourists typically flock to Old City, and with good reason. This historic center has cobbled streets, leafy parks, and seasonal flavors. Yet, there’s a neighborhood that borders Old City that will further allow you to experience the essence of this East Coast giant: Northern Liberties. Dating all the way back to 1682, Northern Liberties has a colorful past and is considered to be Philadelphia’s first suburb. As a historical marker in the neighborhood points out, the first lager in the country was brewed here. Another fun fact? Writer Edgar Allan Poe lived in Northern Liberties in the 1840s, and his house still stands today. Although it’s formerly known for being a run-down industrial zone, over the years, Northern Liberties has grown into a sought-after walkable neighborhood with trendy shops and old-school eateries.
“The area is home to an extensive network of sidewalks and small streets, making it easy to navigate on foot or by bike. This makes it easy to run errands, visit local businesses,” explains a review on Niche, where Northern Liberties is ranked as one of the top 20 places to live in the city. While this is a valuable feature for residents, visitors can also take advantage of this amenity. They can start by exploring Northern Liberties’ North 2nd Street, lined with vintage clothing stores and other distinct retailers.
When it comes to dining options, Northern Liberties offers a distinct culinary landscape suitable for all budgets. Nevertheless, you can’t go wrong with one of the neighborhood’s diners for a bit of nostalgia. Note you can actually use public transportation, such as the L line on the SEPTA Metro to reach Northern Liberties and North 2nd Street in under 15 minutes from Old City.
Indulge in retail therapy and experience Northern Liberties’ local cuisine
Northern Liberties’ North 2nd Street blends the neighborhood’s industrial character with modern charm. Complementing this aesthetic are its numerous unique local businesses. This includes Dames Vintage Emporium. Rated five stars on Google, it offers a selection of clothing and accessories from the 50s and beyond for men and women. According to PHL17, owner Alane Dame is a life-long thrifter, so you can only imagine how impressive her selection is at her small boutique…