Saturday Stroll in the Queen Village Neighborhood of Philly
Today we explore…
QUEEN VILLAGE | Philly, PA
My favorite neighborhood in all of Philly, hands down.
This was my very first neighborhood the first time I moved to Philadelphia back in March of 2017, so it’s pretty special to me now and always. It was officially the first time I had moved to a new city knowing not a soul. These streets were my companions those few months before I made any friends, as I’d stroll around lost and discovering my new city.
I’d often go for long walks or runs, and be completely in awe each and every time - you will see why in the video on this page! Beautiful murals, both painted and made of mosaic tiles (Philadelphia Magic Garden’s) would pop out of nowhere…and you know how much I love street art. Instant joy, every damn time.
There was a coffee shop I used to frequent that is sadly no longer here - but luckily there are cafes a PLENTY in this area. I’d often spend my solo weekends ordering a coffee and working on my crazy ideas in my head, while I people watched and wondered if I’d ever form a community here. I am so thankful I eventually did.
There is something unique about this part of Philadelphia - you get this hip, quirky vibe mixed with such a family-friendly feel. You see parks full of children running around, with funky little bars right across the street.
You are just a few blocks away from the Delaware River, which overlooks New Jersey and the Ben Franklin Bridge. It’s the perfect running route and you’ll often see people at any time of day getting their walks or jogs in.
It’s smooshed in between the Italian Market and Society Hill/Old City, which centers you smack dab in the middle of so much to do - not to mention, it’s about 35 minutes to City Hall. A really prime location - if you’re ever looking to visit (or move here!).
Check out my top places to visit in the area, along with a little video tour below to give you an even better idea of how great this neighborhood is! This is my ideal day in Queen Village - let’s go!
Coffee first…Dottie’s Donuts
Kick start your morning with a coffee and the most DIVINE donuts in the city. Chocolate glazed is my fav + an iced coffee. It’ll give you a good sugar rush to get started for the day.
Located at 509 South 6th St.
Search for the Magic Gardens
You will be pleasantly surprised at the mosaic murals at every corner, or down hidden alleyways - even covering the sides of some of the houses! Artist Isaiah Zagar does not disappoint - 100% worth looking into.
Located ALL over South Philly.
You must go into Mostly Books.
What looks like a tiny little storefront is ACTUALLY the most massive, hidden gem of a bookstore. Rows upon rows of book, if you are like me you can get stuck in there for hours!
Located between 5th and 6th at 529 Bainbridge St.
Emmy Squared = Detroit style in Philly.
While there are too many good pizza joints in Philly to count, this place gives ode to the first city I fell in love with, Detroit. Their “signature Detroit-style pizza is marked by its square shape, crispy bottom, fluffy dough, cheesy "frico" crust, and signature sauce stripes.” YUM!
Located on the corner of 5th & Bainbridge at 632 S 5th St.
Nightcap at Royal Izakaya.
Make sure you give your eyes a few minutes to adjust to the dark candlelit vibes - this place is a gem. If you are still hungry after pizza, you can order small plates to share and end the night with a delicious drink.