Welcome to
South Philly
The best cheesesteaks, the Italian Market, and the heart of real Philadelphia
About South Philly
Why visit South Philly?
It's simple: this is where Philadelphia's character is loudest. Walk the row-house
blocks and the 9th Street Italian Market, smell fresh bread and roast pork, and feel a
neighborhood built by generations of families and immigrant communities.
Whether it's grabbing a cheesesteak, eating your way down East Passyunk Avenue, or
catching the Mummers strut on New Year's Day, South Philly offers an authentic and
unforgettable taste of the real city.
Main Tour of The Neighborhood
Welcome to the main tour of South Philly, a neighborhood where old-school tradition meets a new wave of food and culture on every corner. South Philadelphia offers a unique blend of historic row houses, the buzzing 9th Street Italian Market, and an ever-evolving restaurant scene. Whether you're here to hunt down the perfect cheesesteak, explore East Passyunk's BYOBs, learn the story of the Mummers, or feel game-day energy at the South Philly sports complex, this tour will take you through the most iconic and flavorful spots the neighborhood has to offer. Get ready to dig into the history, traditions, and grit that make South Philly truly special!
Events
Welcome to the Events page, your guide to the festivities and traditions that fill the streets of South Philly all year long. From the legendary Mummers Parade on New Year's Day to the 9th Street Italian Market Festival, sidewalk sales, block parties, music nights and food fairs along East Passyunk, there's always something happening here. Throw in a Phillies or Eagles game at the stadiums and you've got a neighborhood that knows how to celebrate. Dive into the heart of South Philly and discover what makes this place truly one of a kind!
Creed here, your one and only source for discovering the sights of South Philly
My name is Creed, and I was born in North Carolina, USA. Throughout my life, I've traveled extensively, and every new place has left an unforgettable mark on me. Today, I call South Philly home. Here, I've found a neighborhood where the past and the present meet on every block, where family-run shops and corner taprooms sit right next to the newest BYOBs on East Passyunk. When I'm not showing people around the neighborhood, I love cooking, working out, teaching English and enjoying music from all genres. South Philly has opened my eyes to new flavors and cultures, and I'm excited to share this experience with you. I also speak English and a little Italian, so we'll always find a way to communicate. If you're ready to discover South Philly – a neighborhood full of surprises, history and serious food – I'd be happy to help you see it from a new perspective. Join me on one of my tours and let me show you South Philly through my eyes – a place that's as unique as the people who live here!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the must-see attractions in South Philly?
South Philly has many highlights, including the 9th Street Italian Market, East Passyunk Avenue, the iconic Pat's and Geno's cheesesteak corner, the Mummers Museum, FDR Park, and the South Philadelphia Sports Complex (Citizens Bank Park, Lincoln Financial Field and the Wells Fargo Center).
What local dishes should I try in South Philly?
Don't miss the classics: a cheesesteak, a roast pork sandwich with broccoli rabe and sharp provolone, a proper hoagie, Italian water ice, a soft pretzel, and tomato pie. And, of course, grab a cannoli from the Italian Market!
Is South Philly safe for tourists?
The main visitor areas of South Philly are generally safe and walkable. As in any big city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in quieter areas or at night.
How do I get around South Philly?
The easiest way to see the neighborhood is by foot, since South Philly's grid is compact and
walkable.
Public transportation is run by SEPTA: the Broad Street Line subway runs straight down
Broad Street to the sports complex, and buses are affordable and accessible.
The SEPTA website and SEPTA app
are great for planning routes, with real-time tracking and schedules. Ride-hailing apps like
Uber and Lyft are also widely available.
What currency is used in South Philly?
The currency used is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, though it's handy to carry some cash for the Italian Market and smaller cash-only spots.
Are there any day trips from South Philly worth taking?
Yes! Popular day trips include Atlantic City and the Jersey Shore, the artsy river town of New Hope, historic Valley Forge, and the Brandywine Valley with Longwood Gardens.
Do I need a visa to visit the USA?
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin. Many visitors from the EU and other eligible countries can travel under the Visa Waiver Program with an approved ESTA for up to 90 days, while others will need a US visa. Be sure to check the specific requirements before you travel.
Where to stay near South Philly?
South Philly is mostly residential, so many visitors stay nearby. Options include the Live! Casino & Hotel by the stadiums, hotels near the sports complex, and plenty of choices a short ride away in Center City, plus cozy apartments and short-term rentals around the neighborhood. Booking.com and Priceline.com are great platforms to find the perfect place to stay.
Where to eat in South Philly?
South Philly is one of the best eating neighborhoods in the country. For cheesesteaks, hit the famous Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks corner; for a legendary roast pork sandwich, try John's Roast Pork. When you want something more refined, East Passyunk Avenue is packed with celebrated BYOBs and restaurants.
Join Me
