A Guide to Fishtown Philadelphia

Fishtown is a vibrant, historic, and unique neighborhood located on the northeastern part of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is known for its cool shops, art galleries, and nightlife as well as its rich history as a former fishing and industrial district. It is home to many of the city’s top attractions, such as the iconic Paine’s Park skate park and the acclaimed Fishtown Music Festival. From the iconic Paine’s Park skate park to the Fishtown Music Festival, this unassuming neighborhood is home to a range of attractions that make it a must-visit location for tourists.

History of Fishtown

Fishtown has been a part of Philadelphia since its founding in 1683. The neighborhood was originally known as the “Little Norway” settlement and was primarily composed of immigrants from Germany and Scandinavia. This population eventually grew to include Irish and Polish immigrants as well. The area was initially an industrial hub that was home to several factories, shipyards, and breweries. It was also where many of the city’s fishermen worked, giving rise to its current name.

In the late 19th century, Fishtown experienced an influx of Polish immigrants. This influx led to the area being dubbed “Polish Town” by some locals. Over time, the area transformed from its industrial roots to a more residential district with many small businesses and shops.

Today, Fishtown is one of the most popular areas in Philadelphia for visitors and locals alike. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, unique shops, and artistic community. The area is home to many popular attractions and events, such as the annual Fishtown Music Festival and the iconic Paine’s Park skate park.

Things To Do in Fishtown

Fishtown offers a wide variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular things to do in Fishtown:

Explore Local Art Galleries

Fishtown is home to a thriving arts scene with many galleries showcasing local artists. The area has a number of independent galleries that offer a diverse range of artwork from up-and-coming local artists. Some of the most popular galleries include Vox Populi, Little Berlin, and Fleisher/Ollman Gallery. Each gallery offers its own unique array of artwork and exhibitions that provide insight into the current art scene in Fishtown.

Shop at Local Boutiques

Fishtown is also home to a number of unique boutiques that offer items from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry and furniture. These boutiques offer a great opportunity for visitors to find unique items from local artisans and designers. Some of the most popular boutiques in Fishtown include Lost + Found Vintage, Liberties Vintage, and Lineage Goods.

Enjoy Delicious Food & Drinks

Fishtown is known for its great food and drinks scene. The neighborhood is home to many popular restaurants and bars that offer a wide range of cuisines from all around the world. Some of the top restaurants in Fishtown include Suraya, Wm Mulherin’s Sons, and Loco Pez. There are also many great bars in the area that offer craft beers, cocktails, and live music.

Visit Paine’s Park

Paine’s Park is an iconic skate park located in Fishtown that offers great views of the city skyline. It is a popular spot for skateboarders and BMX riders from all around the city. Paine’s Park offers an array of ramps, rails, and obstacles for skaters of all skill levels. It also hosts various events throughout the year such as competitions, concerts, and film screenings.

Attend The Fishtown Music Festival

The Fishtown Music Festival is an annual music festival that takes place in Fishtown every summer. The festival features a wide range of musical acts from different genres including hip-hop, rock, pop, soul, jazz, and more. The festival also offers food vendors, art installations, and activities for the entire family.

Popular Tours

In addition to all the attractions and activities mentioned above, Fishtown also offers several popular tours that provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history and culture of the area. Here are two popular tours to consider when visiting Fishtown:

Fishtown Historical Walking Tour

The Fishtown Historical Walking Tour provides visitors with an overview of the history and culture of this unique neighborhood. Visitors will learn about Fishtown’s fascinating past as well as its current status as one of Philadelphia’s most popular neighborhoods. The tour visits several historical sites in the area such as St. Michael’s Church and the historic Paine’s Park skate park. Guests will also get an insider’s look at some of the area’s most popular shops, restaurants, and attractions. This tour is a great way to learn more about this vibrant neighborhood and gain a better understanding of its culture and history. Book a Historical Walking Tour here.

Fishtown Food & Drink Tour

The Fishtown Food & Drink Tour provides visitors with an insider’s look at some of the area’s best food and drink spots. Guests will get to sample some of the best dishes from local restaurants and bars as well as learn about their unique histories. The tour visits several popular spots such as Suraya, Loco Pez, and Wm Mulherin’s Sons. Guests will also get to visit some of the area’s top breweries and distilleries to learn about their craft beer and spirits offerings. This tour is a great way to sample some of Fishtown’s best food and drink offerings while learning about its history and culture at the same time.Book a Food & Drink Tour here.

Conclusion

Fishtown is one of Philadelphia’s most vibrant neighborhoods with plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. From exploring local art galleries to attending the annual Fishtown Music Festival, there are plenty of things to do in this unassuming yet charming neighborhood. There are also several popular tours that provide visitors with an in-depth look at the area’s history and culture as well as its best food and drink offerings. Whether you’re looking for things to do or looking for a unique experience, Fishtown has something for everyone.