South Philadelphia

South Philadelphia is known for its artistic flare captivated by Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens and its multicultural, foodie attractions, like the Italian Market. The neighborhood is also known for its easy access to major sporting arenas in Philadelphia’s Stadium District.

What to Do

Echoing the diversity of its residents, South Philadelphia has a wealth of eclectic attractions. East Passyunk Avenue has a seemingly endless assortment of local boutiques and shops selling apparel, jewelry, art, home goods, and more. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is a mesmerizing mosaic labyrinth spanning three city blocks.

Further down Broad Street, South Philadelphia is home to three of the city’s major sports complexes, where you can watch the Philadelphia Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, and Flyers play. Can’t grab a ticket? Xfinity Live! is across from the sports arenas, with plenty of indoor and outdoor bars that capture the game day atmosphere.

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

Where to Dine

The meddling pot of Philadelphia, South Philadelphia, serves up everything from city staples to traditional dishes. Two of Philadelphia’s most iconic cheesesteak shops — located just across the street from one another — are Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks, each offering a signature approach to the must-try sandwich.

Seen in the “Rocky” movies and known for always having fresh fish, meat, fruit, vegetables, cheese, and baked goods, the Italian Market on 9th Street is a bustling must-visit spot. Nearby, Dante & Luigi’s is one of the oldest Italian restaurants in the U.S., established in 1899, with a menu of red sauce classics. For authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist, try Banh Mi and Bottles.

Pat’s King of Steaks

Where to Stay

One of the neighborhood’s most unique offerings is The Deacon, a boutique hotel and event space located inside the former home of the First African Baptist Church. It features eight beautifully designed rooms and a common area that can be rented for private functions. Located within steps of the sports complex, Live! Casino & Hotel offers 510,000 square feet of gaming, hotel, dining and entertainment space. At the southern tip of Broad Street in the Navy Yard complex is the Courtyard Philadelphia South at Navy Yard.

There are also a number of hotel options around Philadelphia International Airport, just a short drive from South Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Airport Marriott Hotel is adjacent to the airport’s terminals and connected to Terminal B via a skywalk. The Delta Hotels by Marriott Philadelphia Airport is located only one mile from the airport. Other airport options include the DoubleTree by Hilton Philadelphia Airport, Embassy Suites Philadelphia Airport, and the Hampton Inn Philadelphia Airport.