South Philadelphia

Start walking south from Center City and within minutes you will notice the transformation as the imposing skyscrapers become charming clapboard houses and small local stores as you enter South Philadelphia.

Modest, longstanding family-owned eateries tell the neighborhood's story as the landing sport for centuries of immigrants. A wide selection of authentic restaurants, pubs, boutiques, theaters, and galleries flourish here thanks to South Philadelphia's large Italian, Irish, and Mexican populations.

This former shipbuilding port is one of the city's oldest areas. It has served as home for some celebrities like Chubby Checker, Kenny Gamble, and Frankie Avalon. It is still home to the Italian Market, Mummers, Melrose Diner, and a bocce league.

The Italian Market in Bella Vista remains the heart of the neighborhood even today. Order up some gourmet cheeses, octopus, and imported olives at the five-block, open-air market.

If you're in the mood for a sit-down meal, Dante & Luigi’s, Ralph’s Italian Restaurant, Tiramisu Ristorante Italiano, Vesuvio Restaurant & Bar, and Villa di Roma are just a few of the infinite Italian dining establishments.

South Philadelphia is home to the city's best-known cheesesteak rivals: Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks - both on the corner of Passyunk Avenue and 9th Street, and renowned for the sandwich that bears Philadelphia’s name. Further south, the Melrose Diner has served customers for more than 70 years, and don’t forget about Ms. Tootsie’s Restaurant Bar Lounge featuring southern cuisine.

Between bites there is much to do and see. On South 2nd Street, the Mummers Museum depicts the history of this eclectic group of elaborately costumed men and women, famous for their distinct strut down Broad Street during the annual New Year’s Day Parade.

Along the nearby waterfront, visit Fort Mifflin on the Delaware River to see the site of the greatest bombardment of the American Revolution and the oldest fortification in continuous use in the United States. Pennsylvania’s oldest church, Gloria Dei, with over 300 years of history, is also located in South Philadelphia.

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