Philadelphia fairly teems with possibilities with its vibrant balancing act between the historic and the modern. Diverse, distinct and charming, each of the city's neighborhoods has its own special amenities that beckon consumers who are searching for a new home. Below, in no certain order, are five fantastic places in Philadelphia that have much to offer.
1. Washington Square West
With an overall grade of A+, Washington Square West can best be described as three neighborhoods rolled into one. Washington Square, which is the foundation that connections the entire neighborhood together, is one of the city's five original public squares. Easy to get around in thanks to the SEPTA's Jefferson Station located joust one block from the neighborhood, Washington Square West is also comprised of Gayborhood and Midtown Village. The area gets high marks as a good place for families, nightlife, outdoor activities, diversity and crime and safety.
2. Graduate Hospital
The neighborhood of Graduate Hospital is situated just south of Center City and dominated by its main thoroughfare, South Street West. Replete with shops, cafes, restaurants and bars, South Street West is pedestrian friendly and welcoming to all. The neighborhood is also notable for its series of contrasts such as its mix of both old and new single-family homes or the fact that it is both family-friendly and home to some of the city's best bars.
3. Queen Village
Queen Village possesses a charm that makes it stand out -- even in a historically charming city like Philadelphia. Welcoming, full of modern energy and extremely walkable and bikeable, Queen Village also offers lots of green spaces dominated by mature trees. It's the location of Headhouse Square, the city's renowned weekend farmers market. SEPTA buses that criss-cross the neighborhood make getting around easier without the challenges of finding parking for a vehicle.
4. Bella Vista
Originally settled by Italian immigrants in the late 19th century, this "beautiful sight" still boasts signs of that proud heritage and culture even as its diversity expanded to include others such as Mexican and Vietnamese. Bella Vista is perhaps best known for a truly unique Philadelphia gem: the 9th Street Italian Market which is the country's oldest open-air market still in operation. Bella Vista is easy to traverse on foot or on a bike and multiple SEPTA lines can be accessed nearby.
5. Society Hill
In spite of its name, Society Hill is actually a down-to-earth neighborhood that is one of the city's most popular and highly-desirable. Though dominated by residential homes, Society Hill also provides a pleasing combination of shops, restaurants and historic attractions that give residents plenty of entertainment. Bounded by the Delaware River, Society Hill features historic homes and other buildings as well as a naturally diverse and beautiful park-like setting. Its cobblestone streets welcome both lovers of the modern and the historic.
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