Fairmount & Parkway Museums District
Home to Philadelphia's art museums, Fairmount and the Parkway Museums District is teeming with hidden gems.
Centered around the museums on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway – modeled after the Champs-Élysées in Paris — Fairmount and the Parkway Museums District offer outstanding art and plenty of breathtaking sights.
What to Do
The Fairmount neighborhood is home to Philadelphia’s Parkway Museums District, the city’s artistic red carpet. This mile-long stretch features prominent museums and attractions, such as The Franklin Institute, the Barnes Foundation, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art — the site of the steps Rocky Balboa triumphantly ran up in the film “Rocky.” On Fairmount Ave, cozy restaurants and mom-and-pop shops share the street with Eastern State Penitentiary. Kept in “preserved ruin,” the historic prison is open to the public. With an audio tour voiced by actor Steve Buscemi, you can stroll through the prison and learn about former inhabitants, including Al Capone.
Eastern State Penitentiary
Where to Dine
Enhance your artistic adventure with an equally enjoyable meal at one of Fairmount’s restaurants. Steps away from the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Pizzeria Vetri celebrates the art of pizza making, using only freshest ingredients. At Osteria, the warm atmosphere pairs perfectly with their homemade pasta and authentic Italian dishes. Or if you’re looking for a swanky happy hour or dinner, Cicala at the Divine Lorraine is a whimsical escape in the big city. For a slice of pizza near the Pennsylvania Convention Center, visit Santucci’s Original Square Pizza.
Where to Stay
Fairmount invites visitors with rejuvenating stays in historic buildings, providing swift access to the vibrant attractions defining the neighborhood. Situated across from the historic square that shares its name, The Logan seamlessly integrates local experiences into the heart of Philadelphia. Elevate your experience at the Assembly rooftop bar, where you can enjoy a drink while taking in picturesque views of the museums along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. On the next block, The Winsor Suites, enhances your stay with thoughtful amenities, including a 24-hour fitness center, complimentary bike rentals, and a pool, making it the ultimate hub for convenience and comfort in downtown Philadelphia.
The lobby of the Logan Hotel. Photo courtesy of The Logan.
