Washington Square West Neighborhood Guide
By Todd Hovanec on May 10, 2020
Located in the heart of Philadelphia’s downtown area, Washington Square West is one of the standout neighborhoods in the city. With a mix of historic homes and high rise apartments, this trendy neighborhood offers something for everyone - including eclectic restaurants, shopping, and modern coffee joints.
Named after the park in the northeastern corner of the neighborhood (one of five original parks planned by Willam Penn), Washington Square West is a historic part of colonial Philadelphia, but also an open-minded, welcoming, and modern community.
The neighborhood includes Midtown Village and the Gayborhood - an endearing term for a section of Washington Square West courtesy of the many LGBT-friendly shops, restaurants, and more recent rainbow-colored street signs.
Where is Washington Square West in Philadelphia?
Washington Square West is situated west of Society Hill, east of Rittenhouse Square, north of Bella Vista, and south of Center City. When looking at a map, Washington Square West is bounded by S Broad Street on the west side, S 6th Street on the east side, Walnut Street on the north, and South Street on the south.
Architectural Appeal
The neighborhood comprises two, three, and four story rowhomes with several condominium and low-rise apartment buildings spread throughout. As one of the oldest neighborhoods in Philadelphia, Washington Square West shows off the original city grid put in place by William Penn. The combination of one-lane roads and pedestrian-only paths give this area of the city an extra level of charm.
Browse homes for sale in Washington Square West
Getting Around Washington Square West
You can easily access Washington Square West by public transportation. The area is serviced by bus lines 21, 401, 406, and 47, as well as light rail 36 and subway MFL.
Drinking & Dining
A farm-to-table restaurant celebrating the ingredients, Talula’s is a must visit for brunch with friends or dinner with fellow foodies. The menu elevates mid-Atlantic favorites with a combination of high-quality meats, fishes, and vegetables from local purveyors. For brunch, check out the Buttermilk Biscuit Benedict. For dinner, be sure to try the Chicken & Dumplings.
Craft beers and eclectic pub fare, Strangelove’s menu offerings range from kielbasa corn dogs, to smoked tempeh banh mi, or a buffalo chicken sandwich. A perfect spot for a low-key catch up with friends, no matter what you are craving, you’ll find something tasty to enjoy with your favorite style of beer.
- CHeU Noodle Bar
CHeU Noodle Bar is where the cool kids go! Graffiti covered walls, hip vibe, and a menu that showcases ramen and asian bites makes this Philadelphia spot a fun attraction for a relaxed date night or friendly dining at the bar. Make sure to taste the Shrimp Dan Dan Noodles.
Upscale Italian fare in a cozy setting, Mercato is sure to please with its perfectly-executed, classic pastas. From the Garganelli Pesto to Ricotta Gnocchi, Mercato’s dishes would make an Italian grandmother nod with approval. And be sure to leave room for dessert - the restaurant has a great Tiramisu.
Things to Do
Celebrate LGBT culture…
Every year, the Washington Square West neighborhood is host to OutFest, celebrating LGBT culture in Philadelphia. The celebration is a party spanning 10 city blocks featuring live entertainment, outdoor bars, and a sense of community. In 2020, the event is currently scheduled for October 11th.
Visit Philadelphia’s Antique Row…
Pine street is home to Philadelphia’s largest cluster of antique shops and boutiques. Stretching from S. 9th Street to Broad Street, the section of shops is the oldest, continuously-operated antique district in the entire country.
Take in a show…
Walnut Street Theater is located on the corner of S. 9th Street and Walnut. Founded in 1809, the Walnut Street Theater is the oldest theater in the United States. Nowadays, the site welcomes fans of plays and popular musicals throughout the year. Philadelphia theater buffs can also sign up for seasonal subscriptions.
Market Snapshot
Thanks to a mix of historic Philadelphia rowhouses and high-rise condos, Washington Square West offers one of the widest and most diverse selections of housing inventory for a relatively smaller neighborhood footprint.
Here are 4 properties for sale in Washington Square West that caught our eye:
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