Neighborhood Tour: Your Guide to Spending a Great Day in West Philadelphia
If you've got a day to spend in West Philly, here's an itinerary to get you started.
Clark Park in West Philly / Photograph by Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
It’s known for its surrounding eds and meds, but there’s an underrated eclectic vibe to West Philly, which is light on retail chains and touristy spots while heavy on character. Here’s how to spend a great day there.
Belmont Plateau Trails
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Start at Belmont Plateau’s trails to catch a beautiful view of the city’s skyline above the hills. (Hat tip to hometown hero Will Smith, who immortalized “a place called the Plateau … where everybody goes” in his iconic hit “Summertime.”)
Jezabel’s Cafe
Chef Jezabel Careaga at Jezabel’s Cafe in West Philly / Photograph by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Grab a bite at Jezabel’s Cafe, where chef Jezabel Careaga serves the most divine Argentine empanadas (including a vegan version!) and baked goods.
Paul Robeson House & Museum
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Take a guided tour of the Paul Robeson House & Museum, which honors the many contributions of the legendary Black entertainer, athlete, and civil rights activist.
Shop on Baltimore Avenue
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Shop for treasures on beloved Baltimore Avenue, home to Jinxed (mid-mod furniture), VIX Emporium (gifts), Bindlestiff Books, and other dope spots you can’t find anywhere else.
Clark Park
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Now you’re near Clark Park — an expansive family-friendly green space perfect for people-watching. (It’s also the former site of a Civil War-era Union hospital; visit the park’s memorial Gettysburg Stone.)
Booker’s Restaurant & Bar
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Finally, no West Philly day is complete without a visit to jazzy Booker’s Restaurant & Bar, a Black-owned neighborhood favorite known for soul food (Creole vegan jambalaya, country-fried chicken, spicy mango salmon), cocktails with generous pours, and live music.
>> Click here for more neighborhood bucket lists.
Published as “Your Hyperlocal Bucket List: What to See in West Philly” in the July 2022 issue of Philadelphia magazine.
