Once part of Roxborough Township, Philly’s Manayunk neighborhood still feels like its own town with distinct character, traditions, and riverfront views. Deriving from the Lenni-Lenape word “manaiung,” translating to ”place to drink,” many visitors come to do just that along its bustling Main Street corridor.
While Europeans settled in the Roxborough-Manayunk-Wissahickon area in the 1700s, Manayunk would materialize as a textile village after the completion of the Flat Rock Dam and Manayunk Canal in the 1820s. Its use of powerlooms competed with handweavers in Kensington’s textile industry. The work attracted laborers from Germany, Italy, Ireland, and Poland.
The neighborhood later experienced some decline along its business corridor as its anchor industries moved on, but began to be revitalized in the 1980s, repurposing the old mills for restaurants, galleries, and studios.
Manayunk’s boundaries are Fountain Street to the north, Ridge Avenue to the south, Manayunk Avenue to the east, and the Schuylkill River to the west. You can get there via the Regional Rail’s Manayunk/Norristown Line or catch buses 9, 27, 35, 61, or 62.
Where To Eat and Drink
Manayunk has such a lively restaurant scene that it hosts its own food festival every year. While we can’t name all the spots in the neighborhood, here are some favorites.
At Artesano Cafe, you can get coffee, a plant, and artwork all in the same building. Munch on paninis, arepas, or carrot cake. In the evening, Artesano is open for bar service. Its gallery space hosts over 100 original works made of metals and reclaimed materials.
If you’ve ever felt like an outcast, Fat Lady Brewing is here to remind you that you belong. The taproom hosts game nights, Quizzo, and open mics throughout the week.
How about a piece of pizza? Twisted Gingers may have eight beers on the tap, but its 14-inch artisanal pizzas with ale-infused crust hit the spot, like “Philly Popper” and “Noochy Boochies.”
While Lucky’s Last Chance’s burgers get all the (understable) fan-fare, be sure to try the hotdogs, too.
Add Blondie to your brunch rotation. The bistro’s green and gold palette gives off an eye-catching elegance. Definitely make a reservation before heading over so you can try the crab omelette or cinnamon roll pancakes.
We can’t forget about our pups. Pick up a treat from Pet Friendly Dog Bakery while out for a walk.
Where To Shop
A new addition to the neighborhood is Cupid’s Bookshop. If you love to read romance novels, this is your one-stop shop for meet-cutes and steamy lit.
Delete Spotify and go analog at Main Street Music. Operating since 1991, this record shop has an extensive collection of CDs and vinyl records from old and newer artists.
Vintage-lovers can find a treasure trove of wares at Jinxed. With three locations in the city, the Manayunk shop fits right into the artsy vibe of the neighborhood.
Jedidah Gallery sells artwork from local artists, as well as crafting kits and classes. Be sure to shop its Manayunk Creator Market on the weekends to support the artistic community.
Things To Do
Admire Manayunk's flora and fauna in real life or in its vibrant murals. (Siani Cólon / City Cast Philly)
The Manayunk Arts Festival is the largest outdoor art festival in the tri-state area and draws thousands from across the country each year. For over 30 years, the festival has shut down Main Street as shoppers peruse art ranging from paintings to glasswork.
West Philly is known for its Porchfest, but other neighborhoods are getting in on the fun. RoxYunk Porch Fest is bringing the do-it-yourself music festival to Manayunk and Roxborough, with professional and amateur musicians taking over porches and front lawns.
Have a date night at Baby Face Studios, where you can take pottery classes for a drop-in or an eight-week session.
Where To Chill
A walk along the canal is perfect to quiet your mind, no matter the season. (Siani Colón / City Cast Philly)
The gem of Manayunk is its trail network. You can sit by the water or fish at Canal View Park. If you can’t stay idle, take a stroll down Manayunk Canal Towpath, which connects to the Schuylkill River Trail. The canal was recently restored, and now folks can spot larger fish in its waters.
Head over to Pretzel Park, where its friends group is regularly hosting activities. Each Saturday there’s a farmers market with live music. The park also features concerts across genres. And when it's the season, you can kick back and relax during Parks on Tap. This park is also dog-friendly.
