"Da Vinci Art Alliance, Bella Vista by Rally. Founded in 1931, the Davinci Art Alliance is a member driven nonprofitthat provides studio and gallery space to local artists and brings art and culture to the community. Check their website for their current and upcoming exhibitions and stop by to support the arts in Philadelphia."

"Tortilleria San Roman, Bella Vista by Rally. Located in South Philly’s Italian Market, Tortilleria San Roman keeps it simple with tortillas and salsa, a freshly made classic that’s hard to beat."

"Friendly Lounge, Bella Vista by Rally. This classic dive is one of Philly’s hidden gems. Friendly bartenders, good prices, low lighting, locals, and fun tunes from an old jukebox make Friendly Lounge truly a neighborhood bar."

"12 Steps Down, Bella Vista by Rally. 12 Steps Down is a friendly dive with great prices and an inviting atmosphere. Grab a beer and play a round of pool or swing by on a Tuesday for a fun night of Karaoke. Make sure you don’t miss out on their $2 mimosas and bloody marys!"

"Superior Pasta, Bella Vista by Rally. Nothing says Historic Italian Market like Superior Pasta’s “Old World” family pasta recipes. Try everything from fresh three cheese Ravioli to marinated mozzarella salad."

"John’s Water Ice, Bella Vista by Rally. To locals there is nothing Bizarre about this Family owned and operated Philly tradition. They keep it simple with three ingredients: Fruit, Water, and Sugar. Want to order like Obama? Try lemon!"

"Fantes Kitchen Shop, Bella Vista by Rally. If you are visiting Philadelphia’s Historic Italian Market, make a stop at Fantes and browse their large selection of kitchen utensils, cookware, cutlery, and more. Family owned and operated since 1906, Fentes provides quality products for both the professional chef and the home kitchen."

"Fleisher, Bella Vista by Rally. Since 1897, Fleischer has been making art accessible to the community through an array of classes, workshops, exhibitions and other community basedprogramming. Committed to Samuel Fleisher's values, they offer classes for any budget, seeking to better both individuals and the community at large through artistic expression."

"Nomad Pizza, Bella Vista by Rally. Nomad Pizza trusts in simplicity to bring you quality. Using the freshest local and organic ingredients, their simple menu of brick oven pizzas, salads, and wine is sure to satisfy."

"The Good King, Bella Vista by Rally. Experience a taste of France in the heart of Bella Vista. Bernard Gigri, a Côte d'Azur native, and his daughter Chloe are ready to show you the not so stuffy side of southern France through The Good King Tavern’s warm environment and delicious tavern fare. The cocktails are also not to be missed."

"Bario Neal, Bella Vista by Rally. Beauty meets sustainability at Bario Neal. Stop by the store to find jewelry that has been hand crafted by designers working on site in their Philadelphia studio. Each piece is an environmentally responsible work of art, utilizing reclaimed precious metals, Fairmined gold, and ethically sourced stones to bring you the unique piece of jewelry you’ve been waiting for."

"Rays' Café & Tea House, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. Ray's Café boosts strong coffee brewed with a siphon, and they are not lying. One sip will have coming back from the dead. It's so delicious you'll want 2, but have to stop in the middle of the first glass for fear of your brain exploding. They also have great Taiwanese teas and food."

"Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. Open Friday through Sunday, the Poe House is a great place to get acquainted with one of America’s most prolific mystery and macabre writers. Did you know he wrote “The Tell-Tale Heart” and “The Black Cat” in this very house? After the tour you can head up to the Philadelphia Free Library’s Special Collections and see in person the stuffed Raven that Poe famously wrote about."

"Chinatown Market, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. Looking for a case of dehydrated shrimp? Or how about a carton of crazy candies? Or what about that ever elusive century egg? Don't worry the Chinatown Market has it all. Even if you're not looking to shop, it's worth the trip just to see the awesome goods."

"New Harmony, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. New Harmony is the place for vegan and veggie Chinese food. They’ve been around forever and have cornered the market. Order the sesame peanut noodles. Seriously you can’t go wrong with any item. Even the cheeseburger, trust us."

"The Trocadera, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. If you were a teen in the late 90’s you’ll understand the nostalgia surrounding the Troc. It was and still is the best place to see your favorite band. It has a long history including being an opera house to start and a burlesque venue for a period. Now it hosts dance parties, movies, and comedy nights along with its usual shows."

"Terakawa, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. Terakawa Ramen is the place for traditional Japanese ramen. They’ve perfected the broth and it takes 2 days to mature. Talk about patience. Luckily for us though it’s ready the moment you walk in. Service is quick and affordable. It’s worth the trip. Don’t forget the pork buns!"

"Reading Terminal Market, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. It’s safe to say that Reading Terminal is a Philly staple. It’s an excellent place to grab lunch or groceries, housing food and cultures from all over the world. Most notable are the Philly vendors: Bassett’s Ice Cream, Termini Brothers Bakery, Metropolitan Bakery, and the Dutch Eatery run by the local Amish. It also hosts a wide variety of events, including Scrapple Fest."

"Space 1026, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. A self-described creative community Space 1026 has become a haven for young and crazy talented artists. With a laid back attitude they have successfully taken over the art scene. They are probably known best for their yearly Art Auction. It showcases their member’s work for a steal and supports the community for continued growth. It’s definitely the place to be on First Friday"

"Divine Lorraine, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. If you haven’t heard of or seen the Divine Lorraine, now is the time to catch up. It was constructed in 1892 to be luxurious apartments for Philadelphia’s elite, under the name Lorraine. In 1948 the building was sold to Father Divine who moved in his flock, the Universal Peace Mission Movement. Changing the name to the Divine Lorraine. We’ll let you do your own research on movement; trust us you want to. The building has sat abandoned from 1999 until now. Recent development has started again to bring the building back to its original glory of 1892."

"Trestle Inn, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. The Trestle Inn has an over 100-year history of being a place to “cut loose” and see some skin. The now redesigned bar keeps this history in mind with a nod to the 60’s and 70’s. Go-Go dancers perform regularly on the weekends, dancing on stages & directly on the bar. With regularly scheduled DJ’s, it’s also a great place to get down with your friends"

"Underground Arts, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. Underground Arts is comfortable residing in the basement of a warehouse. Which makes the acoustics one of a kind. It’s the perfect place to see your favorite stoner rock band. The space is intimate but industrial all at the same time. A must see/never hear again venue."

"Vox Populi, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. Vox Populi is an artist collective founded in 1988. They have an ever-growing membership of amazing artists. You can be guaranteed to see an excellent show here. Be sure to stop in next First Friday."

"Union Transfer, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. Union Transfer first opened in 2011, and the music scene in Philly has forever changed for the better. The space is one of kind located in an old Spaghetti Warehouse. The venue can accommodate intimate shows to huge blockbuster performances. No matter whom you’re seeing, you’re in for a good time."

"Philamoca, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. In the mid 00’s Diplo bought the Finney & Son mausoleum, and turned it into the headquarters of his Mad Decent record label. The mausoleum became a place for the arts, between the recording artists working there to the artist’s partying there. In 2010 Diplo moved out but the mausoleum’s art community only grew. Now it’s home to music performances, art shows, film screenings, and notorious parties."

"Bufad Pizza, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. Honestly who doesn’t love pizza? Bufad specializes in wood-fired pizzas. They’ve also got a great selection of southern Italian small plates. If you’re looking for great Italian food, Bufad is the place for you. It may even make you want to book your next trip to Italy ASAP."

"Prohibition Taproom, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. ProTap is a great place to meet great friends and have great food and great drinks. Did we say great enough? With an amazing interesting bar and killer locally farmed food, you really can’t go wrong. They even have their own IPA brewed especially for ProTap by Yards. Drink up."

"Café Lift, Chinatown The Loft District by True Hand Society. With a slogan like “Brunch All Day Everyday” you know you’re in for a treat. Café Lift has perfected the brunch game. Lemon Ricotta pancakes? Sold. Do we need to say more?"

"Pizzeria Vetri, Fairmount Art Museum by Radlands. Authentic neapolitan brick oven ‘Za from acclaimed chef Marc Vetri. Communal seating, relaxed vibe, killer beer list and exotic pies (oven-baked Nutella Pizza topped with marshmallow!?)"

"Tela's Market & Kitchen, Fairmount Art Museum by Radlands. Tela's offers local, high-quality foods, and stocks the best products from the region’s best farmers, growers, and fishermen. A great place to grab a bite and a cup of coffee or do some light grocery shopping."

"Rybrew, Fairmount Art Museum by Radlands. A fun bar with a deep collection of hops and a great space. Sandwiches are on point, you won't run out of beer choices and the service is unpretentious and friendly. If you don't care about any of that, theres shuffleboard upstairs in the loft. We'll meet you there."

"Buena Onda, Fairmount Art Museum by Radlands. Good vibes tacos, baja style from acclaimed Chef Jose Garces. A great stop off for a bite to eat in between the many art museums in the neighborhood."

"La Calaca Feliz, Fairmount Art Museum by Radlands. Themes of death cover the walls but we live for the fundito! Vibrant colors & dense decoration make a great backdrop for the unparalleled (in this neighborhood) Mexican cuisine. There's an outdoor patio, huge rounded booths & a great copper topped bar next to a fire brick oven."

"The Belgian Cafe, Fairmount Art Museum by Radlands. The Belgian Cafe's choice beers, delicious mussels and legendary burger menu make this one of our personal favorites. Casual vibes, quality food and friendly service."

"Sabrina's Cafe, Fairmount Art Museum by Radlands. Famous brunch spot with multiple locations in the city. Quirky decor and a homey atmosphere that makes sweatpants almost acceptable to wear to sunday brunch. Comfort food with a twist."

"The Lucky Goat Cafe, Fairmount Art Museum by Radlands. The Goat is tucked away in the far corner of Fairmount and pours some of the finer cups of fuel in the neighborhood. Caffeine up, cop a pastry and read a book.All black, all day, all pulled double ristoretto."

"Sal's Produce Plus, Fairmount Art Museum by Radlands. If you’ve got $4 in your pocket, grab a hood hoagie and eat it in front of the Historic Divine Lorraine Hotel. Family owned produce and seafood spot that people line up out the door for at lunch. Snowcrabs with 2 sides for $12? And surprising not sketchy."

"Bridgids, Fairmount Art Museum by Radlands. Next level dishes for this unassuming neighborhood bar. The place sounds and looks Irish but the food is actually Italian. Crab meat on top of house made ricotta cheese on toast, topped with pickled onions, cherry tomatoes and balsamic reduction? Rad. Understated, non-trendy place, which is refreshing these days."

"Zorba's Tavern, Fairmount Art Museum by Radlands. Beyond gyros, Zorbas is Legit Greek cuisine. Cozy, family-run BYOB with a small dim dining room & a few seats outside."

"Hickory Lane, Fairmount Art Museum by Radlands. Fancy beef at this neighborhood bistro. A little pricey for the neighborhood, but they do have some “foodie” options. Any place with decent outdoor drinks (right next to the historic penitentiary) and a quality burger are a good call."

"Fare, Fairmount Art Museum by Radlands. Farm to table with a great vertical garden mural. Friends with gluten free type diets will love this place, be we really just come for the side patio green space. The outdoor fireplace with couches is a perfect fall happy hour too."

"Good Spoon Soupery, Fishtown by The Heads of State. Unassuming and quaint, Good Spoon Soupery offers up some of the most delicious soups around and even offers fresh and frozen quarts to go!"

"Good Spoon Soupery, Fishtown by The Heads of State. Unassuming and quaint, Good Spoon Soupery offers up some of the most delicious soups around and even offers fresh and frozen quarts to go!"

"Frankford Hall, Fishtown by The Heads of State. An open-air, German-style beer garden, Frankford Hall is always a good time. With beer served by the half-liter or liter, fire pits for roasting marshmallows, picnic tables to lounge at while indulging and playing Jenga, it’s easy to spend an entire afternoon into evening here."

"Fette Sau, Fishtown by The Heads of State. A summer evening never tasted so good as when you’re sitting outside, chowing down on a tray full of smokey bbq with all the sides, including: burnt-end baked beans, potato salad, etc. Plus, they have over 100 North American bourbons and whiskeys. So... see ya there."

"Soup Kitchen Café, Fishtown by The Heads of State. This is one of our favorite spots in Fishtown for a modern twist on classic comfort food. Come here with your laptop for a working-lunch, or just head over for a proper meal. Just know that you can’t leave without trying the tomato basil soup, which is so good, they should offer up by the trough!"

"Loco Pez, Fishtown by The Heads of State. Sometimes nothing is better than tacos and tequila, especially on the weekend but especially on $1 taco night! Be sure to keep an eye on their Twitter for mention of the special, which varies throughout the week."

"Barcade, Fishtown by The Heads of State. Have a hankering to play a game of Ms. Pacman? What about Punch Out? Spend a night out feeling young again – with vintage arcade games and a rotating list of some pretty impressive craft beers."

"True Hand Society, Fishtown by The Heads of State. Combination tattoo shop and design studio, True Hand Society offers up aesthetics expertise – whether it’s on your arm or your business card."

"Kensington Quarters, Fishtown by The Heads of State. A restaurant, bar and butcher shop – the beautiful chic-industrial interior sets the stage for a magical night out. Stop here for dinner, drinks and/or a bone-in Porterhouse to cook at home and sign up for classes while you can."

"Johnny Brenda's, Fishtown by The Heads of State. Johnny Brenda’s is one of our favorite Fishtown haunts. Its super low-key climate lends itself perfectly to throwing some back with your buddies after work, chowing down on their killer burger, shooting a game of pool or catching your favorite band play their intimate upstairs venue."

"Jinxed, Fishtown by The Heads of State. Now with five locations around town, Jinxed offers up an array of vintage finds and oddities. It’s the perfect spot for unique décor and a go-to for gifts."

"La Colombe, Fishtown by The Heads of State. The space couldn’t be more beautiful and frankly, the coffee doesn’t get much better. While there may not be any Wi-Fi, they do also serve beer and wine and we’d venture to guess that that option might be sufficiently distracting."

"Little Baby's Ice Cream, Fishtown by The Heads of State. If you’ve seen the commercial or their tricycles around town, then chances are your interest has already been piqued, but in case not – Little Baby’s HQ is the place to cool-off in the dead of summer or just to treat yourself any other time of the year. The quirky ice-creamery offers up some seriously high quality dairy (and non-dairy) treats in flavors running the gamut from “bourbon bourbon vanilla” to “earl grey sriracha.”"

"Palmer Burial Ground, Fishtown by The Heads of State. Surprisingly more tranquil than it is morbid, Palmer Burial Ground offers a permanent place of rest for some original Fishtowners and has been called one of the “quaintest, quirkiest cemeteries in Philadelphia.”"

"Pizza Brain, Fishtown by The Heads of State. A pizza museum and eatery - enough said."

"Milk Crate Café, Fishtown by The Heads of State. A coffee shop and a record store - this neighborhood spot has the feel of a quaint neighborhood cafe with some of the top selection by way of wax."

"Penn Treaty Park, Fishtown by The Heads of State. Right along the Delaware River, the park is the perfect spot for a little peace and quiet. It’s great for head-clearing, picnics and sweet walks with your beau."

"City Planter, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. Imagine the depressing plant palettes at Ikea...and then imagine a quaint, independently-owned store, naturally lit from a huge skylight atop soaring ceilings, chock full of greenery from top to bottom like an indoor urban oasis: wouldn’t you rather shop at City Planter? This store is small, but it packs a big punch, and if you don’t see what you need you can chat with them about ordering something from their extensive catalog."

"North Bowl, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. North Bowl is not your typical bowling alley. It's a modern take on an old American pasttime with classy decor, food & drink, an old school photo booth, arcade games and quirky memorabilia. Book it for a party or come during open bowl with a group of friends for a guaranteed good time."

"The Abbaye, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. If you're looking for a chill bar with food as good as it's beer, The Abbaye is your spot. There's nothing better than sitting at the bar with a cold beer and a toasty grilled cheese on a cold fall day. The Abbaye is great for a relaxed date night or gather a bunch of friends and come play Quizzo on Thursday evenings."

"Ruba Club, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. Ruba Club is a 100 year-old event space and social club.It is one of the most unique spaces in the city housing a cabaret prohibition style bar downstairs, and a full theatrical stage upstairs. Ruba presents weekly entertainment and provides a nightly experience that has kept locals coming back for decades."

"Standard Tap, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. We’re just going to say it: the Tap is the heart and soul of Northern Liberties. Multi-level and many-roomed, we come here for nearly any occasion: sit at the bar for a quick drink with friends, bring your family upstairs for a slightly more formal experience in the red room, or enjoy every last minute of Summer on the second-floor deck. The food menu changes often, but the Standard burger is a pièce de résistance and the local beer selection never disappoints. If you only have one hour to spend in Northern Liberties, spend it here."

"Federal Donuts, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. What's better than freshly made donuts? Donuts and fried chicken, it's the ultimate sweet and savory combination. Whether you come here for coffee and a donut in the morning or a fried chicken sandwich for lunch (or both), you won't be disappointed. A few of our favorites are their old fashioned and anything lemon but we won't lie, we've tried them all and you really can't go wrong."

"Heritage, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. Heritage is new to the already plentiful Northern Liberties bar and restaurant scene, but it also has a lot to offer: high ceilings, a long bar, live jazz every night, a huge draft list, a small outdoor area, plenty of seating, and a great garage door that stays open street-side in good weather."

"Bourbon & Branch, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. Bourbon & Branch is a boutique live music venue in the heart of Northern Liberties. Come here for a craft cocktail and stay for a show. The space has some great architectural details like the tin ceiling and the bar salvaged from a local church on 10th and Green."

"Silk City, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. As if the authentic diner car as the main seating area isn’t cool enough, Silk City boasts one of the nicest outdoor dining spots in the entire city, as well as a downstairs lounge for dinner service and DJ nights. Despite the classic shiny exterior, the menu here goes above and beyond your typical diner fare, particularly for brunch: the fried chicken and waffles (that’s ONE dish, not two!) is the perfect sweet-and-savory option, and the salmon eggs benedict is a personal favorite. Be forewarned: Silk City’s excellent brunch reputation precedes itself, so expect a wait on an average weekend morning, particularly if it’s nice outside."

"Liberty Lands Park, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. As the only public green space in the neighborhood, Liberty Lands is a beloved oasis in the heart of Northern Liberties. Features of the park include a small community garden, a playground area, picnic tables, and a stage for a variety of community events. The [calendar](http://www.nlna.org/liberty-lands-calendar-2/) has more information on smaller events like outdoor yoga and fitness classes, and be sure to check out the free summer movie series presented by Awesome Fest, where they screen a good variety of independent movies (generally intended for adult audiences)."

"Honey's Sit 'n Eat, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. BRUNCH. This place is so insanely popular, the Sunday-morning wait can be up to two hours. We think that is a little crazy, considering how many other awesome brunch places there are in this area, but the Challah French toast is admittedly delicious. Bonus: they source a lot of their ingredients from nearby Lancaster County."

"The Foodery, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. This place is simple: a decent lunch spot for sandwich-type items, but mostly a great selection of local, national and international beers, all by the bottle. Warning: if you’re not careful, you very well may end up with a $20+ six-pack, but sometimes that’s the price you pay for variety."

"R.E.Load, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. Philadelphia used to be a gigantic hub of industry, and although most factories have shuttered, small businesses like R.E.Load help keep the local manufacturing scene alive. Each R.E.Load bag is made by hand, right here in the shop, so you can fully customize your own bag features, material, colors, and an option to embroider nearly anything you can think of on the flap. Popular with cyclists, college kids and beyond, the shop also sells hats, aprons, bandanas, and more."

"The Random Tea Room & Curiosity Shop, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. Before what has seemed like a coffee explosion in the Northern Liberties/Fishtown area, the Random Tea Room has been offering up the other kind of caffeinated beverage for years. Charming and chai-scented, this is the place you come when you need a zen moment. The shop also offers some locally made jewelry and other curios, while the backyard seating area is its own hidden gem."

"The Piazza, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. Mention the Piazza to those who live in the area, and you’ll get mixed reviews. On one hand, it’s a little bit like a campus quad (with less learning going on) and the surrounding retail and restaurants—as a whole—leave a lot to be desired. On the other hand, neighbors may remember gathering at the Piazza to watch the Phillies work their way through the playoffs on the jumbotron, surrounded by a throng of cheering friends and fellow Philadelphians. It was the next best thing to being at Citizen’s Bank Park itself. The Phillies are a long way from regaining their glory, but occasionally the Piazza still feels like a good place to hang out."

"Jinxed Northern Liberties, Northern Liberties by The McQuades. We panned the general retail offerings of the Piazza, but this is one big exception. Jinxed seems like one of the few antique stores around where you can actually still find some good deals. This is one of five locations in Philly, and the curation here is good, but the best larger pieces are shared through their instagram account and some things sell *fast.*"

"Essen, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. The babka changes everything. Coffee aside, we turn to the chocolate halva babka on good days and bad, in sickness and health, for richer and poorer (there's a discount on day-old babka). Seriously, we like it so much we'll marry it. Or maybe the Za'atar Croissant?"

"Noord eetcafe, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. Northern European dining on Passyunk Square. An incredibly dope brunch. The brisket hash is a hill worth dying on."

"Ultimo, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. Rated best coffee shop in the country, the owner trains coffee judges on how to judge coffee. Do they need any more qualifications?"

"Fountain Porter, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. FoPo knows how to keep things simple. $5 burgers. $3 fries. Assorted cheese and meat boards topped off with one of the best draught lists in the city and some laid-back vibes."

"Amelie's Bark Shop, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. A year ago Amelie's Bark Shop joined the neighborhood and quickly became the best spot to get a homemade treat for mans best friend! The bakery case is full of treats made in house for both cats and dogs, and mimic some of the neighborhoods classic foods (such as the cheesesteak and the cannoli). They also carry handmade eco friendly toys, foods, and accessories for your furry pals. Make sure you say hi to the shop cat Don Draper, and of course, the shops namesake, Amelie!"

"Benna's West, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. The Benna's goodness you know and love, with an expanded sandwich menu. Nancy is our spirit guide."

"Jinxed, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. One of the newer Jinxed locations in the city, this spot is a go-to for those who can’t wait for the weekend flea markets to find a new gem for their windowsill or vintage bar cart. Chock full of interesting finds that will spruce up any abode, Jinxed will satisfy any bargain hunters craving. For extra points, keep an eye on their Instagram!"

"El Pueblo, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. If you've never had arroz con leche ice cream, it's time to broaden your horizons."

"The Bottle Shop, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. Located on E. Passyunk Ave. The Bottle Shop is a South Philadelphians go-to stop for that unique brew you've been wanting to share with some friends. They offer a wide variety of American and Imported Craft Beers. Grab a snack while you're chatting up the friendly staff."

"Chhaya Cafe, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. Great vibe with plenty of pour over pleasure. Super friendly staff and solid food throughout the day. Hard to go wrong with the menu."

"Columbus Square Park, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. Come here to read a book outside, walk through the garden trail, or watch all the comings and goings at the dog park, playground, and sports field."

"The P.O.P.E., Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. Nestled along the northern stretch of the East Passyunk cooridor, The Pub On Passyunk East offers rich pub fare alongside a rotating chalkboard of beers. Darkly lit at any time of day, the P.O.P.E. is a perfect place to start or end your evening on the Avenue."

"Occasionette, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. Whether you need a gift for your cheese snob friend, or want to treat yourself to a handprinted tea towel - this is THE spot. From home goods, to stationary, & DIY kits - there is just so much to choose from. The aesthetically pleasing displays draw you in for hours of browsing. Be sure to catch one of their events which are accompanied by sips and good company."

"Prima Pizza Taqueria, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. While you wait for the best tacos in town you’ll be sucked into the emotional dramas flickering on the screen in the corner as the telenovelas play all day long. Open super late for that post bar hungry crawl home."

"Artisan Boulangerie Patissier, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. The best french pastries and bread in the city, period. Get here early to behold their delicious bounty. Arrive much later than 10am on the weekend and you, my friend, are out of luck."

"Bing Bing Dim Sum, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. Hang out with your friends and order pitchers of cocktails and dim sum for hours. Hit up the bar for a great weekday happy hour and try their dumplings inspired by the neighborhood itself. Two words: TIGER KICK."

"Beautiful World Syndicate, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. Vinyl, vinyl, vinyl. Beautiful World Syndicate jumped on the vinyl train long enough ago to earn some street cred. Pop in here to buy a $3 copy of anything from classic rock like the Beatles and Stones to punk to jazz and everything else in between."

"Urban Jungle, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. The finely curated selection at this perfectly located plant store gives locals reasons to keep coming back even though it’s pricier than a trip to Lowe’s. You’ll find a lot here, from mums to terrariums and even Christmas trees during the holidays. It’s as well suited for gift shopping as it is for a weekend project in your back patio."

"Benna's, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. South Philly locals flock here for a coffee and a bagel seven days a week at this East Passyunk neighborhood institution. A friendly vibe mostly made up of regulars- first timers will want to make it a part of their routine as well."

"Bitar's, Passyunk by P'unk Avenue. It is not commonly known that 10th & Federal in South Philadelphia was the center of one of the largest Lebanese communities in the entire United States. Embedded within the more well know Italian community, the Lebanese community created businesses, a church, and many other institutions to support itself. Bitar’s is one of those institutions. Finer Lebanese food would be harder to find anywhere in Philadelphia. The baba ganoush is particularly delightful, but anything on the menu is worth trying (hummus, gyro, etc). Make sure to give the Angelo Cataladi sandwich a try. It is the perfect marriage of Lebanese meets Italian in a pita."

"Rittenhouse Square, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Grab your friends, a blanket and a bottle of wine! Rittenhouse is the best park to chill in after work. Free concerts, farmers' markets, art exhibits...what else do you need? Hipsters, suburban moms and homeless people existing in perfect Philly harmony. Just watch your purse."

"P.S. & Co., Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. P.S. & Co. is just a short walk from Rittenhouse Square, which makes it a perfect spot to grab a juice or sandwich. It wins top honors in the 'Things That Make You Feel Good' category. Just looking at the place calms you down. Everything they make is 100% organic, gluten-free, vegan, and kosher, plus they offer cooking classes and holistic nutrition services."

"Joseph Fox Bookstore, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. If you ask anyone about this place, they will inevitable say ‘there aren’t many places like that anymore’. And they are totally, 100% right. This place is book heaven. It’s a hardcover mecca. It’s the most pure form of bibliophile-crack in Philadelphia. There’s shelf after shelf of books on art, design, architecture, and extensive offerings in fiction and non-fiction."

"Mütter Museum, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. The Mütter Museum is like nothing else. Though it's exhibits might not sit well with those weak (or full) in the stomach, the collection is fascinating. Technically residing within the halls of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia, this display medical anomaly wonderland is something you will not soon forget, and pray you don't one day end up in."

"Fireside Camp Supply, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Camp vibes and woodland tribes are alive and well at Fireside. Whether you're a backpacker prepping for some primitive camping or a weekend Wissahickon hiker, you can find everything you need to survive your trek and look rad while doing so."

"Schuylkill River Park and Boardwalk, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Schuylkill River Park is a new wave of `public space thinking`. There's dog parks and basketball courts and a skatepark and a garden and lawn space galore. The boardwalk juts out into the Schuylkill and makes you feel super in-shape, since most of the time you can run faster than the cars stuck on I-76."

"Oyster House, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Central.Raw.Bar. This place tends to be packed from lunch to close and there's no question why. Super fresh seafood, bar stool views of Philly folks passing by, and crisp, clean interior design that matches the essence of their food. Menu changes daily."

"The Print Center, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Philly's best kept secret, tucked away on a miss-if-you-blink side street in a quintessential carriage house. This place is a MUST visit. Rotating exhibitions of all things beautiful in photography and printmaking, both historical and contemporary...not to mention a perfectly curated gift shop with prints etc. at all prices."

"Oscars Tavern, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Red light, shifty chairs, lumpy seats. Oscar's is the most legit dive bar. There's a surprising draft list (including Philadelphia Brewing Co.), and it's the best bet in the area for a night out with a low tab. Bill Murray was recently spotted here at 2am, so consider the deal sealed."

"The Foodery, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. The Foodery is the J2 after-work-beer location of choice. There is a diverse selection of beer (including a seasonal fridge), lots of tables, and decent snacking options. They also have ever changing draft options as well."

"Omoi Zakka, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Super random, not-so-subtly-Japanese, and perfectly curated...this gift shop/emporium is home to beautifully unique lifestyle objects. A place to find a gift for the friend who has everything...local shopping at its best! Their collection of books and magazines is not to be missed."

"Cook, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Cook is part classroom, part restaurant, part shop, all focused on the craft of cooking. There are only sixteen highly sought-after seats from which you can watch a simple demo or in-depth instructional class from an ever-changing cast of visiting chefs. If you can get into a class, not only will you learn, but you get to eat some of the best food in town while doing so."

"Dos Tacos, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Dos Tacos pumps out some of our favorite tacos. Like the name implies, you get two tacos per order, both of which are overflowing tortillas of food bliss. Also worth your dinner (though not a taco): the 20 Buck Bird."

"La Colombe, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. La Colombe is the queen bee of Philadelphia coffee. And while they have three locations in Center City alone, the Rittenhouse location at 19th and Walnut is the first home for the roaster."

"Frankinstien Bike Worx, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. A great bike city deserves great bike shops, and this is one of them. The shop may be basement level, but it’s well worth walking your bike down a few stairs. It may be a bit nitty gritty, but the owner is a stand-up dude who prefers his cigar over trying to sell you a bike when all you need is a flat fix."

"Elixr, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Elixr is hear for you in every way. Perfect pour overs, incredible space, and full of the best kind of coffee shop conversations to listen in on. Escape from Walnut street and enjoy the finest part of life."

"Monk's, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Way before there were gastropubs with 100 taps, Monk's was bringing in hundreds of Belgian, European, and local beers. The cafe is notoriously known for its massive collection of beer offerings, and the bottle list is so long it's been deemed the Beer Bible."

"Spread Bagelry, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Wood ovens usually signify good pizza. In the case of Spread Bagelry, it signifies amazing Montreal style bagels. The bagels are hand rolled, shaped a little wobbly, and the perfect vehicle for some Lox and cream cheese. Best at breakfast, but great all day long."

"Le Bus, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Oh Delhi sandwich, how we love you. Le Bus is a small store, shelves lined with every bread you could imagine, sweets and treats tempting you at every turn. This place is a one stop shop for all things carb. Grab one of their delicious specialty sandwiches and head to Rittenhouse for the ultimate eating/people watching experience."

"Fitler Square Park, Rittenhouse Square by J2 Design. Fitler Square Park is small in relation to nearby Rittenhouse, but this little parcel of land is a great place to enjoy some lunch or soak in some afternoon sun. The farmers market every Saturday is a big plus too."

"Crane Arts, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. One of the first big arts centers in the neighborhood, Crane Arts is still running strong. The building houses galleries, art studios, and two curated spaces——the Grey Room and the mammoth Icebox. Philadelphia Photo Arts Center, one of the building’s mainstays, offers photography classes, exhibitions, and services like printing and scanning."

"Mid-Century Furniture Warehouse, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. If you get all hot and bothered by walnut and brass, get ready to be really hot and bothered. While some of the furniture veers toward the campy kind of retro, there is a ton of drop-dead gorgeous mid-century stuff in here. Since it’s only open twice a month for just three hours, it can get really busy and, let’s just say, competitive. Get there early if you intend to leave with anything specific that you see on their website."

"Keystone Mini Golf & Arcade, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. I won’t lie: at first I turned my nose up at the idea of indoor mini-golf course at Keystone, but after finally visiting I have changed my tune. The holes may not be good enough for Myrtle Beach, but they’re fun and uniquely Philadelphia. In addition to the 9 indoor holes, they’ve added 9 more in the courtyard, which I can’t wait to hang out in myself. And don’t forget that you can bring your own beer (you have to play a round, of course) for extra fun."

"Everybody Hits, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. The name of this place is legit: everybody does, indeed, hit. You can head here with friends or family, rent the place out for a birthday party, entertain your nephews for an hour, or work on your swing for your office softball team. It’s a great non-bar, non-shopping activity, but if you must, you can bring our own beverages."

"Philly Homebrew Outlet, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. Whether you're an ambitious homesteader or a nerdy beer enthusiast, Philly Homebrew Outlet has got you covered. They sell all sorts of beer brewing supplies—from equipment to ingredients—and they sell winemaking, cheesemaking and kombucha kits as well. If you need a hand before jumping right in, they also offer a variety of classes and workshops."

"Norman Porter, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. For those want to support the handmade-in-America movement by wearing it, book an appointment at Norman Porter. They make their jeans one floor above their appointment-only shop, and they also do hemming and repair services, even on jeans that aren’t their own. Much to my chagrin, they don’t make ladies’ jeans, but they do also make tote bags, belts, hats and aprons which are easily unisex."

"Halcyon Floats, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. Periods of calm during the winter are called Halcyon Days. Ninety minutes of calm in complete darkness, floating weightlessly while your anxiety drifts away—that’s Halcyon Floats. Each tank holds 850 pounds of Epsom salts dissolved in just 10 inches of water, which creates the buoyancy needed for you to float perfectly on the surface. They say the total darkness can cause hallucinations, but I’d shell out just for the peace and quiet."

"Que Chula Es Puebla, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. Que Chula dishes out some of the best Mexican north of Market Street. The interior is equal parts humble and full of pride, and it can be a great birthday party spot. Blankets and sombreros line the wall, the windows are filled with neon and covered with security bars welded into mountainous landscapes. Recommended: carnitas tacos, chicken burrito, all of the tortas."

"The Resource Exchange, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. Resource Exchange began as a way of salvaging what was left after film or stage sets were torn down and otherwise discarded. These days you can find stacks on stacks of meticulously organized fabrics, costumes, building materials, props, office supplies and so much more. Stop by to peruse their offerings, or call in advance if you have something you'd like to donate yourself."

"ReAnimator Coffee, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. The folks behind ReAnimator are serious about coffee. They source the beans from around the world, roast it here in South Kensington, and serve it up any way you like: espresso, pour-over, drip, iced, and if you’re lucky you might stop by on a day when they’re offering affogato. The bright, open industrial space is serious business as well, and a perfect pit stop if you’re heading over to Crane Arts across the street."

"New Liberty Distillery, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. New Liberty is one of the latest distilleries to pop up in Philadelphia. Stop by for one of their weekend tours (they offer several different packages) and head on up to the bar on the third floor where bartenders mix up creative cocktails featuring their own signature whiskeys combined with homemade syrups and herbs from the garden outside. It’s a beautifully renovated building and a frequent private event space."

"El Bar, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. I'm just going to say it: this is pretty much a hipster dive bar, although you can find a healthy amount of oldtimers here on an average night, also. There’s a giant backyard for outdoor vibes, pinball, and one of those digital jukeboxes that’s actually okay because it has a lot of Misfits songs. This place can get crazy busy on weekend nights."

"Tandoor, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. Fishtown’s Ekta has ruled the Indian cuisine scene in this area for many years, but newcomer Tandoor is worthy competition. This is the kind of restaurant that I’d be inclined to take out or have delivered, but the indoor seating area is humongous, so it could be great for larger groups, and the outdoor area is great, even/especially with the El lumbering overhead."

"Borderline Records, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. The owner of this establishment has a reputation for being a little kooky, but would you really want to buy your vinyl from any other type? Borderline Records looks as if it belongs on South Street, which makes it a unique addition to this neighborhood. Don’t expect anything glamorous—or organized, even—but if you’re on the hunt for reasonably priced, classic records, this may just be your place."

"Carriage Company Stables, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. The 76 Carriage Company stables aren’t so much a destination as they are a surprise to stumble upon. If you ever visit Old City, you’ll undoubtedly come across a horse-drawn carriage or two, and these stables are simply where the horses are when they’re not working. You can’t actually ​do​ anything at this location, but more often than not you can see a horse or two outside, and if you’re lucky an owner or driver will be around to boast about his/her horses."

"Gryphon Coffee, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. If the idea of fighting off the crowds at La Colombe a few blocks away is too much to handle, stop by Gryphon Coffee for a more low-key experience. Nestled inside the expansive residential loft complex of Oxford Mills, this equally lofty cafe has plenty of tables—and wifi—to get a little work done. Enjoy an iced coffee on nitro or a nice hot cappuccino. Not a coffee drinker? Check out the shelves behind the counter for a pretty great tea selection as well."

"St. Benjamin Brewing Company, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. It’s exciting to see commercial enterprises make their way back into neglected factories and warehouses, and this nanobrewery has made a home for itself in between renovated loft residences. They’re only open once a month for tours, but they have plans to open a full tasting room and restaurant sometime next year. For now, it’s well worth a trip to check out their operations and grab a top notch Koffee Kolsch or Hopligation."

"Paesano's, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. Paesano’s isn’t just the best sandwich shop in the area (it borders both Northern Liberties and South Kensington), it might just be the best in all of Philadelphia. Although the Paesano seems to be the collective favorite, my go-to order is the Gustaio: lamb sausage with cherry mostarda, gorgonzola and broccoli rabe in a pita wrap. It’s ridiculous."

"Jerusalem, South Kensington by Melissa McFeeters. At first glace, Jerusalem is nothing to write home about, but look past the fluorescent deli lighting and some clutter and you’ll see this corner store is chock full of treats that can be difficult to find elsewhere: throughout several ownerships, this storefront has offered up Middle Eastern groceries for 33 years. In recent years the current owner started offering a small selection of food: the shawarma and falafel come highly recommended. And unsurprisingly, the hummus knocks Sabra out of the park."