Get to know the many neighborhoods of Philadelphia in Agent Lady’s blog series “Philly Neighborhood Spotlight.” Whether you are looking to buy a home in this wonderful City of Brotherly Love or just want to get to know the lay of the land, read about the history, location, and highlights of Philly neighborhoods.
Independence Hall – Michael Albany
Old City
Location
The neighborhood of Old City is located on the west side of the Delaware River up to 7th Street and between Vine Street and Walnut Street. Covered in cobblestone roads and narrow streets and alleys, Old City offers a unique experience for all Philadelphians.
History
Before Philadelphia was the birthplace of our nation, it consisted of small settlements by the Delaware River in the 17th century. It wasn’t until 1685 that permanent establishments were created on Walnut St. The river still played an extremely important part in the lives of early settlers as it was used to import goods and eventually became one of the largest shipping locations in America.
During the 19th century, Market Street boomed with businesses and commercial establishments. Banks were built using classic Greek architecture on 3rd Street, which eventually became known as Bankers Row.
Come the 20th century, the Benjamin Franklin Bridge closing the gap between New Jersey and Philadelphia is completed in 1926. This is just before The Great Depression hit the country, causing a stop to construction in the neighborhood.
It wasn’t until the 1980’s and 1990’s that artists decided to get creative and transform old and abandoned factories and warehouses into apartments and lofts. This revival of the Old City was just the beginning of what it is today.
Atmosphere
Old City is a maze of cobblestone streets, small and large. Brick homes from the 1800’s still stand to this day along the streets of Old City, some bearing the exact year it was built. Home to artists and the elite, art galleries and boutiques line 2nd and 3rd streets. Residents can spend days popping in and out of stores and gazing at artwork.
Old City is an oddly quiet section of Philadelphia, mostly made up of small businesses, locally owned restaurants, and residential homes. There are plenty of grassy areas where residents can sit to read a book, eat their lunch, or just enjoy the weather. However, it does draw a large tourist crowd over to Independence Mall.
Highlights and Events
Even residents who grew up in Philadelphia still must stop and stare at Independence Hall when they pass it on their way to work or dinner. With a great lawn and park behind it, it offers a great place to sit for lunch on a nice day.
For those wanting to get a feel of what Philadelphia must have felt like during the 19th century, they can wander down Elfreth’s Alley on 3rd and Arch St. It draws great crowds, as it is the oldest, untouched street in Philadelphia. Visitors and residents can walk along the narrow street and admire the architecture of homes where people still live.
Every first Friday of the month, Old City District puts on First Friday, an event that showcases local artists in galleries and tables lined on the sidewalk throughout Old City. Restaurants and bars offer specials to patrons who enjoy the event.
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Looking to Buy a Home in Philadelphia?
Are you looking to by a home in our beloved city of Philadelphia? If so, make sure to contact Philadelphia’s lead real estate Cherise “Agent Lady” Wynne. Friendly, motivated, and professional, the Agent Lady team is experienced and looking to help home buyers make Philadelphia their home.
Remember friends don’t let friends buy or sell real estate without the Agent Lady!
About Brittany: Brittany is the super organized (and awesome) marketing assistant that helps home buying and selling clients have the best experience possible. She also shares her creative side by writing compelling short stories about the home buying process that are loosely based on actual client situations and captures the authentic feel of Philadelphia neighborhoods.
