Your Guide to Mt. Airy, Philadelphia

Mt. Airy is a leafy, residential neighborhood in Northwest Philly, nestled right up next to Wissahickon Valley Park.

Origin Story: In 1750, William Allen, an affluent colonial merchant, attorney, and public official, built his summer estate outside of Philadelphia and named it “Mount Airy.”

This eventually became the name of the surrounding neighborhood, which became a part of the city about a hundred years later.

Noteworthy Residents: Civil rights activist C. Delores Tucker grew up on Lincoln Drive. She was the first Black woman to serve as Pennsylvania’s Secretary of State.

Linda Creed, who grew up in Mt. Airy, helped shape the famous “Philly Sound” of the 70s and 80s as a songwriter for Gamble and Huff.

Here are a few spots to visit next time you’re in the area:

Savor a hand-crafted dish from this cozy modern Italian restaurant. Bring your finest bottle of wine to this BYOB and indulge in calamari, branzino or pan seared scallops.

7131 Germantown Ave

This 50-year-old co-op has all you need to stock your kitchen to perfection. It specializes in those hard-to-find items and bulk selections of nuts, grains, spices, and snacks. Click here for more grocery store recommendations.

559 Carpenter Lane

If you’re a Greek food fan, stop by this charming cafe for baklava, shawarma, and falafel. Your meal will taste even better with a refreshing fruit smoothie.

6734 Germantown Avenue

Treat yourself to something sweet at this gourmet mobile stand. Send your taste buds to another dimension with flavors like cinnamon chocolate chip oatmeal cookies or pumpkin gingersnap.

6616 Germantown Avenue

Craving more? Here are some of the best ice cream spots in the city, according to you, our dear Hey Philly readers.