Nearby Neighborhoods: Society Hill, Bella Vista, Center City, Chinatown
Known for: The Gayborhood, Antiques Row, intimate restaurants and world renowned medical facilities
Located East of Rittenhouse/Center City and West of Society Hill you will find the area referred to as Washington Square West. It is actually the convergence of three neighborhoods in one; referred not only to Washington Square, but also the Gayborhood and Midtown Village.
Washington Square West was defined in the late 1950’s and early ‘60s when undergoing Edmund Bacon’s plan of rejuvenating the City. This area is now a hip, trendy neighborhood that truly has something for everyone. You will find an endless array of restaurants, bars, cafes, boutique shops, small neighborhood businesses, and of course, Antiques Row!
Individual 2 to 4 story row homes and mid-rise condos/apartments, are commonly found in Washington Square West. The Washington Square West Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. This includes the Clinton Street Historic District, Roberts-Quay House, and Portico Row. Amongst the homes of this neighborhood you’ll find Pennsylvania Hospital - now part of the University of Pennsylvania Health System - is the oldest hospital in the country and includes facilities in both centuries old homes as well as a spanking new medical tower at 8th and Walnut Streets. In the neighborhood is also housed the world-renowned Wills Eye Hospital and teaching facility as well as the educational and medical facilities associated with, Thomas Jefferson University - also a leading regional medical university and health care center. These facilities draw new and established medical residents and professionals from all over the world. Families, young professionals, and hip city dwellers are all neighbors in this vibrant neighborhood. Washington Square West Civic Association supports residents with initiatives such as street cleaning, community gardens, volunteer opportunities and other neighborhood news.
