The historic Germantown neighborhood is packed with interesting sites that are often overlooked because of their distance from Center City. It’s a place we love exploring, and we always leave with a new appreciation for what’s in this part of northwest Philadelphia.
The area was settled in the 1680s and its rich history provides the backdrop for the strong sense of community and a vibrant group of Black-owned businesses today. Check out the fun festivals and unique attractions along Germantown Avenue.
Historic sites
Founded by Quakers and Mennonites, Germantown made history from the beginning—in 1688, the first protest against slavery was written here. From the American Revolution to the Underground Railroad to present day, the neighborhood has remained significant.
These are some of the interesting sites to visit.
Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion– “Hidden gem” is an overused term, but I think it’s appropriate for this cool Victorian house built when Germantown was in the countryside. We were impressed by its opulent furnishings and curious items like taxidermy birds that were preserved with arsenic. Even better: our costumed guide was so passionate about the story that she made her own Victorian dress.
Cliveden – The estate was the site of part of the Battle of Germantown in 1777. On a tour, we learned a lot beyond the American Revolution about the Chew family who lived here for seven generations and the enslaved people and indentured servants who built the family’s fortune. (It’s also supposedly haunted.)
Johnson House Historic Site – It’s not everyday that you get the chance to visit such an important Black history site that was a stop on the Underground Railroad. During a tour of the stone home, expect a vivid account of what those escaping from slavery endured while fleeing north.
Wyck – My favorite thing about the grounds of Wyck is the beautiful rose garden, which happens to be the oldest rose garden in its original plan in America. It’s glorious (and free!) to visit in late May. The house here belonged to the same family for nine generations, and thousands of their items and papers tell their story. Wyck hosts lots of agricultural programming, and we always enjoy the honey festival and bee-bearding (IYKYK).
Deshler Morris House – Also known as the Germantown White House, visiting this site is a step back in time to the 1790s when Philadelphia was the US capital. During the yellow fever pandemic, George Washington not only stayed here but also held Cabinet meetings. Unfortunately, it’s been under construction for several years, and we’re waiting for it to reopen.
Attractions and businesses worth visiting
The Colored Girls Museum – This vibrant house museum is a celebration of Black women and girls through art. During our guided tour, every room had a story and a curated collection of pieces in different media. I’ve never visited anywhere like it and highly recommend it.
Awbury Arboretum – The Arboretum is a beautiful space that’s free to visit. There are gardens, a farm, and an historic house. Plus, the grounds serve as an outdoor classroom. Our pick of things here is the Philly Goat Project, which hosts regular goat walks and happy hours. The walk we attended also included a maple sugaring demonstration and finished maple syrup, so keep an eye out for special events.
Ubuntu Fine Art – At Ubuntu, photographer Steven CW Taylor showcases his photography of stunning landscapes from around the world and slices of life from different cultures.
Philadelphia School of Circus Arts – If you’ve ever felt the urge to run away and join the circus, this is your place. The school offers classes for ages 2 to adults. They’re available at all different skill levels and include activities like aerial work, parkour, juggling, dance, and acrobatics.
Uncle Bobbie’s – Beloved by its regulars, Uncle Bobbie’s bookshelves are full of thought-provoking works authored mostly by writers of color. Grab a latte and a pastry to enjoy while you browse and check out their calendar of author talks and community events.
The Nile Café – We’d never had vegan Caribbean soul food before Nile. The chickpeas in coconut curry are excellent.
Young American Cider – Enjoying a flight of housemade hard ciders here makes for a lovely afternoon. They also have cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages. The food menu includes hand pies (highly recommended!) and a selection of soups, sandwiches, and other bites.
Annual events
Revolutionary Germantown Festival – The first Saturday in October, Cliveden hosts this festival featuring a battle reenactment, historical interpreters, crafts, a blacksmith, and food vendors. Many of the neighborhood’s sites are also open and free to visit on that day, so it’s a good time to visit somewhere you haven’t seen yet.
Juneteenth – The 6300 block of Germantown Avenue is packed with vendors and entertainment to commemorate the anniversary of emancipation. There are family friendly activities and even a bit of education—we enjoyed talking with a historical interpreter portraying a member of the United States Colored Troops.
How to get there
Germantown is served by two SEPTA Regional Rail lines — Chestnut Hill East and Chestnut Hill West. Bus routes 18, 23, 26, 41, 53, 65, 71, and 81 also service the neighborhood. Be aware that attractions are spread out.
For people coming by car, there is plenty of on-street parking.
