Nearby Neighborhoods: Franklintown, Brewerytown, Center City, West Poplar
Known for: The famed Philadelphia Art Museum, leafy trails along the Schuylkill River, historic architecture and tree lined streets.
Often neighborhoods in Philly go by multiple names, and this one is no different. Referred to as either the Art Museum or Fairmont neighborhood by locals, many define the borders of the area to include Franklintown by extending the North/South from Vine to Girard Ave. Wherever you draw the line in the sand, or whichever name you prefer, it is a neighborhood that many local Philadelphians and tourists alike enjoy.
Signature landmarks reign, with breathtaking architecture of the The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Rodin Museum, The Franklin Institute, the main branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia and the Barnes Foundation prominently surround The Ben Franklin Parkway. Many parades, concerts and city events such as Made in America, various art installations, and movies in the park are held in and around Oval Square.
Although new construction and classic row homes are the main architecture of the area ducking down a side street will delight! With tiny streets that feel straight out of a European village. Keep your eyes on the architecture and don’t be alarmed when you cross the massive gargoyles found around the Eastern State Penitentiary on the main drag of Fairmont Avenue. You will find many restaurants and bars along Fairmount Ave with residents soaking in the sun from the sidewalk seating.
Locals flock to East Fairmount Park. With trails that wind throughout where joggers, dog walkers and bikers enjoy the outdoors. Everywhere you look along the Schuylkill River is a beautiful view. Be sure not to miss Fairmount Water Works and picturesque Boat House Row .
The Fairmount Civic Association brings the community together by organizing neighborhood cleanups and providing neighborhood updates and “town hall” meetings. This neighborhood isn’t just for visiting tourists, it is a central neighborhood to put down some well planted roots.