Want leafy green streets, a bit of room to let the dog run, but still be near excellent food, happenings and great people? Take a peek at Roxborough. It’s easily accessible to all the great offerings of Mannaunk, but not to be overlooked on its own. The average price of a 3 bed, 2 bath home runs about $350k. A total deal for a perfectly situated home in the city, balanced with a little taste of suburbia!
If you zip down Ridge Ave on foot or bike, you’ll find small businesses and restaurants lining the main drag. We popped our heads into some, and others just a bit off the beaten path. Here are our fav local Roxborough recommendations.
Things to do, Places to be
Valley Green Inn- Valley Green Rd | Pass by the Valley Green Inn on a weekend and chances are you’ll see a wedding in full celebration! This historic inn is quaint, romantic, and delicious. It also serves as a great meeting place (with parking) to start exploring the trails of the Wissahickon.
Secret Garden- 7631 Ridge Ave | So secret we almost passed it by. Tucked behind a building this well-curated nursery has plants, mulch, accessories, and a super-friendly staff ready for your questions!
Roxborough YMCA - 7201 Ridge Ave | Find the fitness class that works for you. With choices from 6am-8pm, there’s lots to love- including swimming activities! The Kidzone allows you to work out while your little ones are off having a blast with their buds. There are even pickle ball classes!
Philadelphia Folk School- 6711 Germantown Avenue | Curious about picking up a ukelele or mastering the harmonica? Head over to Philadelphia Folk School and peruse the classes offered. From voice, to folk dancing for all ages, the creative you is bound to find something that touches your creative soul.
Art on the Ridge - 6155 Ridge Ave | A gift shop where everything is created by local artists. Photography, quilting, knitted items, paintings, anything you can think of! They also host lectures and events that bring the community together.
Henry Got Crops- 7095 Henry Ave | CSA and Weavers Way Market- Located at Saul Agricultural High School, the farm market specializes in produce harvested from Weavers Way Farms, including the on-site Henry Got Crops farm and our Mort Brooks Memorial Farm at Awbury Arboretum. Join the CSA and take advantage of the pick-your-own garden
Philadelpha Woodworks - 4901 Umbria St | Right on the border of Manayunk and Roxborough is a woodworkers dream. A lumber yard, shop that allows for members to use equipment and crafting space. Not a professional? They offer classes of all levels- you can even have a party here and make your own cutting board. They even have kids classes!
Treats and Meals
Potheads Coffee - 7620 Ridge Ave | Got to have a great coffee shop! Stop in for your favorite latte, a yummy breakfast sandwich and friendly company.
Cafe Roma Bakery - 6147 Ridge Ave | A long standing business on the Avenue (40+ years and still going strong!). This is where the locals grab their birthday, graduation and celebration cakes for all occasions. They’ll customize to your liking so bring the creativity.
T&F Farmer’s Pride- 8101 Ridge Ave | A smell can transport you, and the scents of premium hoagies with sharp provolone cheese get us every time. This place is AMAZING! On a busy day, everyone was all smiles. Grab your extra pantry items and homemade dips while you’re there.
C&C Creamery- 5461 Ridge Ave | When we popped by for a cone we were told by the group of teens that this was the best ice cream and water ice around. We’re not going to argue with that!
Dalessandro’s Steaks- 600 Wendover St | You know when there is a line that continues through the lunch hour these cheesesteaks gotta be good! All the classics (both steak or chicken steak) are served but if you must stray, you can dive into the hoagie menu.
Bob’s Diner- 6053 Ridge Ave | A Ridge Ave landmark that borders Roxborough and Manayunk. Bob’s serves up all the breakfast and lunch comforts you want from a diner. Open daily from 7am-2pm.
Lucky Trading Co - 5154 Ridge Ave | A neighborhood food incubator and multi-concept kitchen. That’s the long way of saying they have something for everyone. Think of it as a local grass roots Wonder. This isn’t pre-made food, it’s hand crafted with creativity and love. Just order the peanut butter burger and you’ll be coming back to try it all!
White Yak- 6118 Ridge Ave | Tender Tibetan dumplings called Moma are the not to be missed item. Pair with one of the creative and delish veggie sides. We guarantee before the meal is over, you’ll be marking your calendar for your next visit.
New Ridge Brewing Co. - (temporarily closed due to fire but doing pop-ups where they can) Not your typical pub food, New Ridge Brewing offers delightful bites that are locally focused (veggie options too!). A seasonally rotating menu is enhanced by beers brewed in PA and cocktails shaken with PA spirits. Dine alfresco in the pocket park!
These are only a few of the small businesses and local joints. Go forth and explore further! Be sure to fill us in on your favorite hot spots!
Greater Philadelphia is getting noticed as a destination for empty nesters and retirees. In addition to all the area has to offer, it’s a bonus that pensions, social security benefits, and retirement account withdrawals are not taxed in Pennsylvania. Here are three options that may be considered when looking at Philadelphia as an option if you are approaching retirement age.