Afternoon Obsession: Streets of Philadelphia

Great American cities often employ tourism campaigns filled with love. There’s “I Heart NY,” of course, on t-shirts, buttons, and cups stacked and spilling out of the numerous tourist shops sprinkled over the state. And the association with love is unavoidable in this city of ardor–between our amorous etymology (Philos and adelphos translate to loving brother) and LOVE sculptures at JFK Plaza and Penn’s College Green. And then there’s the city’s Love Letter campaign, which assures travelers via notebook scribbles that we’ll love you as much as you’ll love us.

The passion in this typography map of Philadelphia, sold on Etsy, is more subtle, but its devotion runs deep. Mapped entirely by Philadelphia’s landmarks, neighborhoods, and streets, this comprehensive print is a delight for typography enthusiasts, Philadelphia natives, and Philadelphia novices alike. There are even touches of red admist the black, because frankly, Philadelphia without love isn’t Philadelphia at all.

And with the release of Vogue’s misguided sketch earlier this summer, we can all appreciate a city map that doesn’t sacrifice accuracy for creativity.