Old City, which spans from Vine Street to Walnut Street, and from 7th Street to the Delaware River, is the historic heart of Philadelphia. While the neighborhood still has plenty of 18th century charm, the cobblestone streets are occupied by eclectic art galleries and fashionable boutiques.
Old City leans into its significant past, boasting a number of cultural institutions like the National Constitution Center, the National Museum of American Jewish History, and the Betsy Ross House.
A photo of myself at Spruce Street Harbor Park, circa 2015. (Brittany Valentine/City Cast Philly)
- But exploring America’s history isn’t the only reason Old City is so popular. The Delaware River Waterfront has plenty of family-friendly attractions all year.
Spruce Street Harbor Park, my personal favorite, has the most comfortable hammocks to lounge on, a beer garden, and games like shuffleboard and bocce. When the sun goes down, the park is stunningly decorated with rainbow-colored lights, making it feel like an urban oasis.
- Benjamin Franklin’s first home in Philly was located in Old City on Market Street between Third and Fourth streets.
- The 15th season of “The Real World” was filmed in Old City from 2004 to 2005. The house was located at Third and Arch streets in an old bank.
- Due in part to Old City’s historic significance, Philadelphia became the nation's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in November 2015. We achieved this designation because of the abundance of historic buildings and cultural sites, including 67 national historic landmarks.
