Things to do in Fishtown

Fishtown, the charming neighborhood of Philadelphia, is a great place to explore. From its vibrant arts and culture scene, to its delicious restaurants, to its bustling nightlife, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Fishtown.

Overview of Fishtown

Fishtown is a vibrant and dynamic neighborhood in Philadelphia located just east of the Delaware River. It is historically known for its Irish, German, and Polish immigrants who worked in the city’s many factories and shipyards. The area was once home to many of the city’s major breweries and distilleries, which have since been replaced by boutique stores, trendy restaurants, and cozy coffee shops.

In recent years, Fishtown has become a popular spot for young professionals looking for an affordable place to live. The area offers excellent public transportation options and is conveniently located near downtown Philly. It has also become a cultural hub, with numerous galleries, music venues, and performance spaces that host a variety of events from plays to festivals.

Fishtown has been recognized as one of Philadelphia’s most diverse neighborhoods, with over 20 different languages spoken there. The area is home to many different ethnicities and cultures, which can be seen in its unique restaurants, shops, and festivals. With its thriving nightlife scene, Fishtown is the perfect destination for an adventure-filled weekend or a relaxing getaway.

Culture & Arts

Fishtown is known for its vibrant culture and art scene. There are numerous galleries, performance spaces, and music venues that showcase the work of local artists. The area also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including plays, dance performances, music festivals, and art exhibitions.

One of the most popular places to explore in Fishtown is the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Located just south of Fishtown, the museum is home to over 200 galleries featuring artwork from around the world. Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of Impressionist and Modern art, as well as its impressive collection of American art. The museum also hosts special exhibits throughout the year that highlight the work of both contemporary and historic artists.

Another must-visit cultural destination in Fishtown is the Painted Bride Art Center. This nonprofit performance space hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions. The center also hosts classes and workshops that focus on creating art and exploring different cultures.

Food & Drink

Fishtown is home to a variety of delicious restaurants, bars, and cafes. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, there’s something for everyone in this lively neighborhood.

For a taste of Philadelphia’s classic cheesesteak sandwich, head to Larry’s Steaks. This restaurant has been serving up delicious cheesesteaks for over 40 years, and their sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and perfectly melted cheese.

If you’re looking for something more upscale, check out Kensington Quarters. This restaurant features a seasonally-driven menu of contemporary American cuisine with influences from around the world. They also offer an extensive selection of craft cocktails and wines.

For a unique drinking experience, check out Johnny Brenda’s. This bar and music venue has been a neighborhood staple since 2003 and offers an extensive selection of craft beers and creative cocktails. In addition to the drinks, the bar also hosts live music performances throughout the week.

Going Out

From lively bars to cozy coffee shops, there are plenty of places to go in Fishtown for a night out on the town.

For a fun night out, head to Frankford Hall. This beer garden offers an extensive selection of craft beers on tap, as well as German-style pretzels that are perfect for sharing with friends. The venue also hosts live music performances throughout the week.

If you’re looking for something more laid-back, check out Wine & Wealth. This cozy wine bar offers an extensive selection of wines from around the world, as well as small plates perfect for sharing. The atmosphere here is perfect for a relaxed evening with friends or a date night.

For a cup of coffee or tea on the go, stop by ReAnimator Coffee. This cafe offers locally-roasted coffee blends as well as handmade specialties like cold brews and nitro coffees. They also offer an array of teas and pastries perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Outdoor Activities

Fishtown is located just minutes away from the Delaware River waterfront and offers plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

For those looking to explore the great outdoors, take a stroll along the riverfront at Penn Treaty Park. Here you’ll find views of the river and plenty of green space perfect for picnics or reading in the sunshine. There are also several trails that are great for taking in some fresh air and getting some exercise.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, rent a kayak or canoe from Philly Paddle Co. This company offers rentals for both single person kayaks and multi-person canoes so you can explore the river at your own pace. They also offer guided tours so you can learn about the history of the area while paddling through it.

Popular Tours

Fishtown is a great place to explore on your own or with a guided tour. Here are two popular tours that will give you an insider’s look at this vibrant neighborhood:

Historic Fishtown Tour

This two-hour walking tour will take you through Fishtown’s historic sites and landmarks while providing insight into the area’s past and present. You’ll learn about the history of this neighborhood and how it has evolved over time. You’ll also see some of Fishtown’s unique architecture and visit sites like Penn Treaty Park and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This tour is perfect for those who want a deeper understanding of this fascinating neighborhood. Book a Historic Fishtown Tour here.

Fishtown Food Tour

This two-hour culinary adventure will take you on a journey through Fishtown’s ever-evolving food scene. You’ll visit some of the neighborhood’s most beloved restaurants where you’ll sample classic dishes like Philly cheesesteaks and traditional German sausages. This tour is a great way to get an insider’s look at the culture and cuisine that make Fishtown so special. Book a Fishtown Food Tour here.

Fishtown is an exciting neighborhood with plenty to explore – from its vibrant culture and art scene to its delicious restaurants and bars. Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled weekend or just want to relax in one of its cozy cafes, there’s something here for everyone in Fishtown. And with two popular tours available – Historic Fishtown Tour or Fishtown Food Tour – you can discover this unique neighborhood with ease!