University City Neighborhood Guide

A busy section of West Philadelphia, University City offers parks, a lively food scene, and arts and culture. The family-friendly area is underpinned by a group of hospitals and research facilities as well as six universities, as indicated by the neighborhood’s name.  

The parks and universities are the beating heart of the neighborhood. You can take in the skyline view at Drexel Park or watch a movie on a summer night at Clark Park. See a performance at Penn Live Arts at the University of Pennsylvania or attend a fascinating guest lecture at Drexel. There is always something fun going on.

People playing in a park with a city skyline in the background.
The skyline view from Drexel Park

Where is it?

University City is just across the Schuylkill River west of Center City. Its boundaries are generously defined as stretching from the river in the east to 52nd Street in the west. Its northern border is Powelton Avenue and Market Street while the southern border is University Avenue and Civic Center Boulevard.

The eastern part of the official area is what most people consider the core of University City, as the broader boundaries include local neighborhoods such as Cedar Park and Spruce Hill.

History

Building with decorative windows and numerous steps leading to an archway entrance.
Fisher Fine Arts Building, one of the oldest buildings on Penn’s campus

Five years before William Penn founded Philadelphia, William Warner purchased land from the Leni Lenape to establish Blockley Township in 1677. The land, which included the current University City and several nearby neighborhoods, was incorporated into Philadelphia proper in 1854 just 18 years before the University of Pennsylvania opened its West Philadelphia campus.

Electrified trolleys and ultimately bridges and a tunnel made it easier for people to travel to and from Center City, leading to development in the western part of the neighborhood. As the area grew, local neighborhood names like Spruce Hill and Cedar Park began to be used.

Coining the name “University City” was essentially a marketing tactic employed in the 1950s by two realtors (and Penn alumni) to entice Penn faculty to move to the area near the University. Beginning in the 1960s, Penn focused on heavy gentrification of the area, which led to substantial displacement of the neighborhood’s residents of color. Today, the neighborhood is racially diverse—the population is 42% Black, 35% White, 18% Asian/Pacific Islander, and 4% Hispanic.

Museums and attractions

Ancient lyre shaped like the head of a bull on display in a museum.
Lyre from Ancient Ur displayed at the Penn Museum

Penn Museum – The collection of the Penn Museum features objects that trace the history of humanity back thousands of years. From a bull-shaped lyre made of gold and lapis from Ancient Mesopotamia to the largest Egyptian Sphinx in the Western hemisphere, the artifacts and interactive components encourage visitors to imagine themselves within the cultural context of the exhibits.

World Café Live – With food, drinks, and two listening venues, World Café Live is a stellar choice for a night out. In addition to concerts and the “World Café” radio show, they host open mic nights, trivia games, and other special celebrations.

BioPond — If you didn’t know to look for it, it would be easy to pass by the nearly hidden gem of James G. Kaskey Memorial Park on Penn’s campus. Surrounded by greenery and singing birds, the park has a lovely pond—the BioPond—at its center. The quiet space is ideal for escaping the busyness of the city for a moment.

People sitting on the lawn at a rooftop park with a view of skyscrapers in the distance.
Cira Green on a busy weekend

Cira Green – Cira Green offers stunning skyline views 12 stories above the street. This welcoming elevated park is open year-round and has a fast casual rooftop restaurant and bar in the warmer months. Come for the green space and dog run and stay for the special events including sports and movie nights on their massive projection screen.

Paul Robeson House & Museum – A musician, activist, and Renaissance man, Paul Robeson was famous both for his achievements and for his controversial political opinions that led to his being investigated by the FBI. The Paul Robeson House & Museum, where he spent the last years of his life, tells the story of his impressive career and controversies.

Drexel Park – The 2.5 acres of Drexel Park provides a great place to spend time outside for Drexel students and residents of Powelton Village. Bring a picnic blanket and a frisbee, and enjoy the view.

Headstones in a cemetery with trees and colorful fall leaves in the background.
The Woodlands cemetery in the fall

The Woodlands — The grand cemetery of The Woodlands offers a park-like atmosphere where it’s very common to see locals exercising and enjoying the outdoors. It doubles as a community space, hosting regular events including markets, yoga classes, happy hours, and musical performances in the 18th-century Hamilton Mansion. The fall colors here are next-level.

Institute of Contemporary Art – For over 40 years, the Institute of Contemporary Art has given artists a space to push creative boundaries. Whether it’s performance art, experimental film, sculpture, or photography, the ever-changing exhibits here are thought-provoking.

Restaurants and eateries

Ribeye Sukiyaki with Udon Noodles and Shiitake Mushrooms in an earthenware bowl.
Dinner at Pod

Pod – A neighborhood institution, Pod serves sushi and Japanese specialties in its sleek dining room. Don’t miss the butter krab roll and Japanese fried chicken karaage.

Abyssinia – Abyssinia to a go to spot for top-notch Ethiopian food. Try the combination platter for lots of different flavors (and a large portion!) at an affordable price.

Dim Sum House by Jane G’s – Settle into the comfortable booths at Jane G’s to enjoy Shanghai and Cantonese-style dim sum. Don’t miss the pork soup dumplings, shrimp siu mai, salt and pepper squid, and bao buns.

Terakawa Ramen – A top choice for quick service, Terakawa Ramen is excellent for a bowl of spicy tan tan ramen plus other delicious dishes like shrimp tempura udon and karaage chicken curry.

Omelet, potatoes, and salad on a plate.
Brunch at White Dog Cafe

White Dog Café – A mainstay of city dining for over 40 years, White Dog Cafe serves excellent food against the backdrop of dog-themed decor. We love it particularly for brunch—try the churro waffle and Kennett Square mushroom soup.

Louie Louie – Across the street from Penn Live Arts, Louie Louie is an ideal pre- or post-theater stop. A half-dozen oysters along with the burger and truffle fries is a winning combination.

Don Barriga – A taste of Mexico in West Philly, Don Barriga offers unlimited fresh chips and salsa (a rarity) alongside lots of delicious birria tacos, tortas, and more that neighbors rave about. It’s BYOB.

Saad’s – Chicken Shish Tawook Maroosh, a sandwich featuring grilled chicken and garlic sauce and piled with veggies, is a favorite at Saad’s Halal restaurant. Try baba ghanouj, grape leaves, falafel, or any of the other excellent choices here.

Jezabel – At this homey café, employees make the delectable empanadas right in front of you. We’re partial to the chorizo and corn, but they’re all good.

Corner storefront of a cafe.
Green Line Cafe

Green Line Café– A welcoming space on 43rd and Baltimore, the original location of Green Line Café is known as “West Philly’s living room.” Grab a pastry and some of the city’s best coffee, and enjoy.

Shopping and businesses

Triple Girl Treatment Candle Co. – Featuring lots of natural products, this Black-owned business focuses on aromatherapy and skin care. Check out their large 3-wick candles in scents like white tea and ginger and black currant and jasmine. 

Ceramic Concept – Over 50 artists from across the country have their work showcased at Ceramic Concept. Enjoy browsing through dishes, jewelry, planters, and the mug wall, and see what upcoming classes are available.

Black Hound Clay Studio – If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at pottery, head to Black Hound Clay Studio to try their wheel throwing or hand building classes. You’ll leave with your own cups, planters, or other creations. 

Hello World Modern Mercantile – From stationery and barware to jewelry and candles, Hello World offers a little of everything. It’s great for Philly-themed gifts, unique accessories, and home decor.

Last Word Bookshop – This great shop has an unbelievable 80,000+ used and long out-of-print books at reasonable prices. The staff at Last Word Bookshop is known for their expertise and helpfulness, so don’t hesitate to ask for advice.

Annual Events

Three musicians playing music in a park.
Musicians in Clark Park

Spruce Hill May Fair – Each May, the Spruce Hill Community Association hosts a day of music and entertainment alongside a petting zoo, a vendor fair, and plenty of games and food trucks.

West Philly Porchfest – In early June, porches around the neighborhood fill with musicians in the very DIY and very fun West Philly Porchfest. Anyone can host or play, and it’s a great time.

Shakespeare in Clark Park – The group behind Shakespeare in Clark Park brings their immense talent to the park every July in a series of free outdoor productions. The plays draw hundreds of people to enjoy a picnic in the park and a night of theater.

Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll – For 15 years, the Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll has drawn neighbors in search of good deals and a night of fun on the Avenue. There is live music, free activities for kids, and lots and lots of shopping.

Where to stay

Cars parked outside a brick building with a glass entryway.
The Inn at Penn

Inn at Penn – Located on the Penn campus, the hotel is within walking distance of many neighborhood attractions.

Sheraton University City – Recently renovated, the Sheraton University City offers an on-site restaurant and spacious guest rooms.

Cornerstone B&B – The historic property offers 5-star accommodations and a tasty breakfast.

Homewood Suites by Hilton – Homewood Suites features fully-equipped kitchens and free breakfast.

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