Neighborhood Guide

Did You Know?

The video footage above is actual real-life footage from the streets of Manayunk (it can give you a great feel for the area).

8.1 Miles to City Center

Manayunk is the #1 most loved neighborhood in entire the state of Pennsylvania and Top 5 in the entire nation (Zillow). Just why is this neighborhood so loved?

Check out our comprehensive Manayunk Neighborhood Resource below to find out.

Distinctly Manayunk

Located in Northwest Philadelphia, Manayunk has a historic Main Street filled with 100+ local restaurants, shops, cafes, bakeries, and fitness classes boutiques.

It also has unprecedented access (walking distance) to some of the largest parks and trails in Philadelphia – and is located just 15 minutes away from Center City Philadelphia – with generally more affordable prices, more space, and a quieter atmosphere.

Moving to Manayunk?

Are you thinking about moving to Manayunk?

Not sure which Philadelphia neighborhood to move to, but are considering options?

Whether you’re looking to rent, buy, or simply visit, you’ve come to the right place.

Read the entire guide or jump around with the table of contents.

Manayunk Highlights

On The Water
Residential Neighborhood
100+ shops, restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and small businesses
Historic and Quaint Main Street
Festivals and Community events (year-round)
Foodie Town (Nationally Ranked for Best Small Town Food Scene – Top 10)
Hiking, Walking, Biking, Running, Canoeing, Horse-Back Riding – walking distance
Boutique Gyms and Fitness Classes (about 10 different concepts)
Ultra Pet-Friendly Town
Art-based community (murals, gallery shops, largest annual art festival, theatre)
Kids’ Playground (Pretzel Park)
Tons of nearby kid-friendly activities
15 Minutes to Center City Philadelphia
15-25 Minutes to virtually all Main Line Suburbs such as Bala Cynwyd, Gladwyne, Bryn Mawr, Ardmore, as well as areas like Conshohocken, King of Prussia, and more.
Good Public Transportation (train station)

Manayunk vs. Center City

Feature	Manayunk	Center City
Cost of Housing¹
Larger Apartments
Cost of Parking²
More Greenery³
Proximity to Major Park⁴
Proximity to Trails
Pet-Friendly Vibe
Outdoor Lifestyle
Yard or Deck Likely
Close to Main Line Suburbs
More Small-Town Feel
More Offices and Business HQ
Quiet and Peaceful
More Local Businesses Per Street
Lowest Historical Crime Rate ⁵

(1) approximately 20% more affordable per analysis run using Costar data. Can vary by building.

(2) Typical parking in Center City about $350/month for covered space vs. about $150/month for covered space in Manayunk (varies slightly by building)

(3) Tree canopy coverage, a benchmark by the USDA forest service is generally defined as the coverage provided by branches, stems, and leaves when viewed from above. This is a benchmark or proxy for greenery and has been adopted by cities across the nation. Per 2018 report, Manayunk (19127) zip code was in higher range compared to many Center City zip codes (i.e. 19107). Moreover, the immediate surrounding area in Roxborough (19128) had among the highest greenery in the City.

(4) There are 3 major parks in City of Philadelphia (Pennypack, Wissahickon, and Fairmount Park). From Manayunk you are very close to Wissahickon Park and Fairmount Park. From Center City and University City, generally speaking you are much further away from the nearest major park, especially when considering traffic.

(5) No area is ever crime free and no one can guarantee safety. Historical crime rates can be measured and should be researched as part of the area you want to live in. You can check out data from the Philadelphia Inquirer. It publishes crime data looking back 30 days. As of the date this article was first written, the property crime rate in Center City was 280% higher than Manayunk.

Did You Know?

Most of Manayunk’s Main Street (including shops and restaurants) are local, independently owned businesses.

The Manayunk "Vibe"

From the moment you walk down Main Street, you’ll see an area reminiscent of a small European Coastal Town. Main Street is adorned with historic storefronts, trees, murals, hills, and is located along a canal and river.

Residents enjoy the “city” experience of having the essentials easily accessible, but with small-town charm, a quieter atmosphere, more greenery, and an outdoor lifestyle.

With year-round neighborhood events such as Stroll the Street and Halloween in Manayunk, geographic proximity to both Center City and the Main Line, a quaint Main Street, dog-friendly vibe, and a location right on the water, it’s no wonder residents love it.

Manayunk is no longer a local secret.

National Recognition:

How locals describe Manayunk:

“…There is something for absolutely everyone. The food scene appeals to me the most, but I also love the retail offerings and all the festivals and events that go on throughout the year. Manayunk is just super welcoming to all walks of life…” -Kate (via Manayunk.com)
“It is so accessible. I feel like I don’t have to get in my car to go somewhere. I can just walk down the street and go to the corner store or get groceries. Also, the train is here. I work in the city so I can just jump on the train and go right there. It’s perfect!” – Charlene (quote via Manaunk.com)
“I think that it's comfortable, very safe; and so vibrant!” – Renee (quote via Manayunk.com)
[Compared to the rest of Philly] “We’re a little more art obsessed and have a little of a neighborhood vibe. We’re a little more community based and a little more small-business supported” -Noel B Manayunk Mag article

Did You Know?

Much of the buildings on Main Street are on the National Register of Historic Places

Housing

Single Family for Sale – Manayunk is known for its picturesque smaller attached row homes, Victorian architecture, and rolling hills. Each home is unique. Most of the housing stock is older and dates back to the early 1900s. Some homes come with a small yard and driveway which is a nice feature compared to Center City living. Parking can be tight so see if your home will come with parking.

Cost

Home Rentals – There are usually several options for home rentals. Most of the home rentals tend to be older (built in 1900s). Some are renovated and some are not. Again, parking is rare but can be important if you have a car.

Apartments – There are several apartment buildings in Manayunk. Most of the apartment buildings would be classified as mid-rise style or low-rise.

Just like any area, apartments vary based on quality, amenities, and location.

Check Us Out

We may be biased, but if you’d like to learn more about us at The Roe at Manayunk: our Luxury Manayunk Apartments and Townhomes (coming soon) have it all, ultra high-end finishes, excellent location in heart of Manayunk, parking on-site, gym, pet-spa, and more. Check us out and come by and say hello.

Housing Tips

Transit

Public transportation in the greater Philadelphia area is operated by Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). There is a SEPTA train stop in the heart of town called the Manayunk Train Station.

Train

Station Name: Manayunk Station (note: name of train line is: ‘Manayunk/Norristown’ Regional Rail line).
From this Manayunk station, you can go directly into the heart of Center City Philadelphia (Jefferson Station). Additionally, you can go to Temple University, Suburban Station (also in heart of Center City), 30th Street Station, Penn Medicine Station (close to Upenn and CHOP), among other stops.
Alternatively, if you head in the other direction, you can go to Conshohocken or Norristown.
Train Commute Time From Manayunk to Center City: 19 minutes approximate.

Amtrak

Ardmore Amtrak Station – The Ardmore station is about a 12-minute drive from Manayunk. Once at Ardmore Station, you can take the luxury Amtrak train directly to New York City Penn Station. They offer multiple stops a day. This can be a great option if you have friends/family in New York City (NYC) or simply want to visit NYC.

30th Street Station – From 30th Street Station, you can get on Amtrak to go to New York City, Baltimore, Washington D.C., Boston, and more.

Bus

Car

Airport

Did You Know?

In 1824, the residents of Flat Rock held a town meeting and changed the name of the area from ‘Flat Rock’ to ‘Manayunk’, the Lenape word for river mëneyung or manaiung (“where we go to drink”) (location on the river).

The spelling was changed to make it easier to pronounce.

Local Eats & Essentials

There are tons of restaurants and shops on Manayunk’s Main Street. Most are independent locally owned and operated, providing a quaint small town experience. We have listed some of the places to eat in Manayunk below, but there are many others, from restaurants, cafes, galleries, boutique shops, and more. Just one of the many reasons Manayunk is such a loved Philadelphia neighborhood.

Below is an artist illustration of all the great restaurants, shops, and cafes in Manayunk. To see a real-time interactive map of all the restaurants, shops, and cafes check out our location page.

You can also read more in the list below in this section of our Manayunk Neighborhood Guide.

Map Key

Restaurants

Coffee Shops & Cafes

Bakeries

Sandwiches & Delis

Ice Cream & Dessert

Shopping

Shopping Centers

Gym & Fitness

Grocery Stores

There are several grocery stores in Manayunk, as well as some great options minutes away on Ridge Avenue in Roxborough.

Palm Tree Market 4366 Cresson St. – Great for the quick essentials
Mason’s Grocery 353 E. Lyceum Ave – Great for the quick essentials
Pretzel Park Farmers’ Market – usually 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays from mid-May through mid-November (check schedule in advance)
Main Street Market By Winnie's -4250 Main St - Quick grab and go sandwiches and fruit
ACME Markets - 5927-59 Ridge Ave – Full grocery store, minutes away
ShopRite of Roxborough - 6901 Ridge Ave. – Full grocery store, minutes away
Target Grocery – 7162 Ridge Avenue – Full Target plus Target Grocery
CVS Manayunk – 3780 Main street - Great for c-store needs
Dollar Tree – 7106 Ridge Avenue
Family Dollar – 6138 Ridge Avenue

Banks

There are several ATMS in the area and many full banks options as well:

Post Office & Shipping

Just like everything else in Manayunk, the Post Office is very close by on Main Street. There’s another location close by as well in Roxborough. We will also include some of the UPS and shipping options.

Services

Lots of hair salons, nail salons, spas, and more.

*To see an interactive map of all the near by restaurants, shops, cafes, and more check out our location page.

Did You Know?

Two U.S. Navy Ships were named U.S.S. Manayunk

Activities

There are nearly endless things to do near-by – whether trails & parks, community events, arts, sports and more.

Trails & Parks

All the parks and trails offer an active, lifestyle. Walk, bike, run, hike, or go Horseback riding.

Manayunk Tow Path – Part of the larger Schuylkill River trail (SRT), The Manayunk Tow Path/SRT trail leads to a connection that runs all the way to Valley Forge and beyond. Take the Manayunk Tow Path on the other end and after a short break in the trail, you can go all the way to Center City Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Art Museum.
Manayunk Bridge Trail – This is a fairly new trail that opened in 2016, and stretches across the iconic Manayunk bridge connecting Manayunk to Bala Cynwyd and the Cynwyd Heritage Trail. The Manayunk side sits on Dupont Street and includes a free public parking lot for all trail access (limited spots if driving, but you can likely walk here).
Cynwyd Heritage Trail – Another trail. Once you get over the Manayunk Bridge trail, it will lead you into the Cynwyd Heritage trail and you can enjoy this quiet 1.8 mile beautiful picturesque trail.
Wissahickon Valley Park – With over 50 miles of trails, Wissahickon Park is a massive park and one of the largest urban parks in the country. There are multiple access points, and a variety of different trails, depending on what kind of terrain and activity you are looking for.
The Schuylkill Nature Center – Located In Roxborough, the Nature Center features camps, after school programs, adult classes, and special events.
Fairmount Park – One of the largest urban parks in the world, Thousands of acres and miles of trails for cycling, horse-back riding, and hiking. Also home to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, Philadelphia Zoo, and Boathouse Row. This is a truly massive park, with a lot of culture and things to do.
Fountain Street Steps – Visit a mosaic and mural at the Fountain Street Steps (located at Fountain and Umbria Streets) with beautiful greenery connecting to the Canal Tow Path.
Pretzel Park – local neighborhood park only a few blocks away, frequent place of many events. Now features a brand new playground. There is also a dog park here.
Gorgas Park – a very large park off Ridge avenue, for recreation, concerts, and other events.
Rolling Hill Park - Less than 10 minutes away, in Gladwyne, is the beautiful Rolling Hill Park consisting of trails, open space, and natural beauty.
Morris Arboretum - About 15 minutes away, on the other wide of Wissahickon lies this beautiful natural area called Morris Arboretum. It is owned by University of Penn (though located nowhere near the University). Enjoy beautiful flowers, trees, and exhibits year around.
Andorra Meadow – At the Northwestern tip of the Wissahickon Valley Park is a breathtaking 4 mile loop and meadow to hike, enjoy trails, birdwatching and the changing of the seasons.

Water Activities

Community Events

One of the most unique elements of Manayunk, is the number of neighborhood events, most of which are organized by the MDC year-round including:

Check MDC website for up-to-date information on events, schedule, etc.

Art & Theatre

There’s a great art scene.

Art Festival – One of the largest art festivals in the region is held in Manayunk featuring hundreds of artists.
Jazz Sessions - Check out Jazz Jam sessions on select days a Manayunk Brewery.
Venice Island Performing Arts – A 250 seat theatre in the center of Main Street featuring concerts, community plays, lectures, young performers theatre event, and special events.
Manayunk-Roxborough Art Center – They have exhibitions, classes, and events, fostering the creative community with a goal of “Artists bringing people together”, there’s lots of things to do.
Philadelphia Woodworks – Get classes or private instruction to make beautiful wood products including salt and pepper shakers, butcher blocks, serving trays, picture frames.
Movie Theatre – There’s not many movie theatres in Philly but Manayunk has its own movie theatre. A great perk for movie buffs and cold winter nights alike.
Mural Tour – Run your own private mural tour. Manayunk is known for famous art murals.
Near By: Bryn Mawr Film Institute – a place to learn, relax, and enjoy movies, guest speakers, and film courses.
Near By: Ardmore Music Hall – in the nearby town of Ardmore, check out this live music event for the latest concerts and events.
Gorgas Park – Lots of live music at Gorgas Park and concerts throughout the year.

Farmer's Markets

There are lots of Farmer’s markets in the area:

Pretzel Park Farmer’s Market (4300 Silverwood) – from May to Mid-Dec rain or shine (10am to 2pm) Saturday. Here you will experience food and non-food vendors. Check their Facebook Page for Current Information.
Weaver’s Way Farm Market (7095 Henry Avenue) – brand new in 2021, Weavers Way seasonal farm market is at Saul Agricultural high school in Roxborough
East Falls Farmers’ Market (4100 Ridge Avenue) – from May to November, ever Saturday 10am to 2pm.
Chestnut Hill Farmer Market (Germantown Ave and Winston Lane) – 9am to 12pm on Saturdays at Germantown Avenue and Winston lane. Seasonal.
Clover Market (twice a year, Chestnut Hill and Bryn Mawr) are closest locations. 100+ vendors.

Dog Haven

Manayunk is very dog friendly. In fact, there is an event in the summer honoring the furry friends. See below for a full list of dog-friendly amenities in Manayunk.

Sports and Recreational Centers:

Fun, Adult Sports:

Whether you are a former high school or college athlete, or just looking to have some fun, there’s a variety of specialty and recreational athletic options when living in Manayunk.

Soccer

Basketball

Ice Skating

Adult Rec Leagues

Golf

Padel Ball

Tennis

Rock Climbing

Squash

Horse Back Riding

Youth Sports

There’s no shortage of year-round youth sport options in the area. Whether you are looking for soccer, basketball, hockey, indoor baseball training, or just plain fun, some of the best and largest indoor facilities in the greater Philadelphia area are in or near Manayunk.

Soccer

Ice Skating

Basketball

Squash

Multiple

Did You Know?

You can take the Tow Path to Valley Forge National Park.

Manayunk has lots of public art and murals along Main Street murals and sculptures.

Employment

About 90% of people who live in the Manayunk/Roxborough area do not work in the area. Source: Center City District Report.

Most live in Manayunk because of its central location to almost the entire greater Philadelphia area’s job network. That is…you can easily access virtually all the area’s major job networks – both Center City and the Main Line / King of Prussia.

There are lots of opportunities for employment in Manayunk/Roxborough area but also in the nearby major job markets of Center City Philadelphia, East Falls, Conshohocken, Bala Cynwyd, King of Prussia, and more.

For couples, partners, and roommates who have one person working in Center City and another working in King of Prussia or Main Line, then Manayunk can be the perfect “middle ground/fair split” in commute time.

Near-By Medical and University Employers:

Near By Hospital Employers For Doctors and Nurses and Other Healthcare Workers:

In terms of Doctors, Nurses, and Administrative Health Staff, Manayunk is uniquely close in proximity to virtually all of the Philadelphia Metro Major hospitals including those working at:

Roxborough Memorial Hospital (5 minutes away)
Einstein Medical Old York Road Location (15-17 minutes from Old York Road)
Temple University Hospital Main Campus (15 minutes away)
Lankenau Medical Center (17 minutes away)
Bryn Mawr Hospital (20 minutes away)
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) (15-20 minutes away)
Children’s Hospital of King of Prussia (15-20 minutes)
Einstein Medical Elkins Park (about 27 minutes away)
Einstein Medical Center Montgomery (about 30 minutes away)

UNIVERSITY EMPLOYERS – VERY CLOSE TO

In terms of major Philadelphia area universities that are near by and large employers for professors, visiting professors, administrators, and more, you have:

UNIVERSITY EMPLOYERS – PRETTY CLOSE

Other Major Employers Near By:

Whether you work in Philadelphia, Blue Bell, Conshohocken, Norristown, King of Prussia, or the Main Line, you are likely no more than a 35-minute drive. There are many other employers that are close by to Manayunk, including:

Philadelphia Area Employers

Blue Bell Area Employers

Conshohocken Area Employers

King of Prussia Area Employers

Wayne Area Employers

Of course, this is just a sampling of some of the larger employers and jobs in the area. There are lots more.

Did You Know?

M Night Shyamalan’s Unbreakable was filmed in part at Manayunk’s Pretzel Park.

Schools (Public and Private)

Manayunk offers a variety of school choice options for families moving to the area.

This section covers the public schools, and the section proceeding discusses private school options.

Public Schools

Manayunk is served by the School District of Philadelphia.

Find your assigned (or neighborhood) public school in the District.

Charter Schools

Philadelphia is home to 87 brick-and-mortar charter schools.

Charter Schools are independently operated public schools that are funded with federal, state, and local tax dollars. These schools are established to provide families with more educational alternatives for their children.

…[C]harter Schools operate independently of the School District of Philadelphia and of each other, with a few exceptions…

Since Charter schools are still public schools, they are also tuition-free. One disadvantage, however, is that there is no guarantee of admission. Students must apply directly to the charter school they are interested in enrolling (with few exceptions).

Although Charter schools are not a part of the School District of Philadelphia, they are still required to offer services to students with disabilities and special education needs, and similarly cannot refuse enrollment to any student based on a disability.

Some Charter Schools in the area include:

Renaissance Charter Schools – “A Renaissance Charter School is a neighborhood school that is operated as a public charter school and can only enroll students from the neighborhood, also known as a catchment zone.” “As of 2020-21, there are 21 Renaissance Charter Schools. “

School District Citywide and Special Admission Schools

District citywide schools are also free to attend and open to students from any part of Philadelphia. Most citywide schools are high schools. Students apply to these schools through the School District of Philadelphia or with help from a counselor at a district elementary school, and students are usually admitted by lottery. Learn more about choosing a public high school.

District special-admission schools (or magnet schools) are middle and high schools that require an application process. Students from any part of Philadelphia can apply to these schools, but they have requirements based on grades and attendance.

Some of the nearby district citywide and special admission schools include:

Nearby Private Schools

Living in Manayunk provides close and easy access to some of the top-rated private schools in the entire state and country. Of course these schools cost money, but provide a great option for those otherwise considering private school.

Pre K-12 Grade

William Penn Charter School (10 minutes) - East Falls
Germantown Friends (12-13 minutes) – Germantown
The Shipley School (14 minutes) - Bryn Mawr
AIM Academy (15 minutes) *grade 1 through 12 only – Conshohocken
The Baldwin School For Girls (15 minutes) – Bryn Mawr
The Haverford School for Boys (15 minutes) – Bryn Mawr
Friends’ Central School (15 minutes) – Wynnewood
Germantown Academy (25 minutes) – Ft Washington
Waldorf School of Philadelphia (9 minutes) *grade 1 to 8 only

High School Only

Please Note: About School Information.

You are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of this information and that the information meets your needs.

The schools listed have different grade levels, religious affiliations, and restrictions. Be sure to check out each school and conduct your own research on them and other schools to learn more. Read Full Disclaimer.

Street Boundaries

The heart of Manayunk is Main Street. The area is roughly bound by Manayunk Avenue to the North, Leverington Avenue to the West, Shurs Lane to the East, and Main Street. Of course this is just an approximation and, everyone defines neighborhood boundaries differently.

One of the largest appeals of Manayunk is its central location. Manayunk is virtually equidistant between Center City Philadelphia, and the Main Line Suburbs such as Bala Cynwyd, Ardmore, Wynnewood, Penn Valley, Gladwyne, Bryn Mawr, Haverford, and more.

Did You Know?

Adam Sandlers’ Movie Hustle was filmed partially in Manayunk

Appendix

Parking

See if your house or apartment comes with parking. If not, there might be street parking. If your area doesn’t have street parking, there might be an opportunity to get monthly parking passes offered in the following Manayunk Development Corporation owned lots that are run by Parkway Corporation:

Easy Drive, Fun Activities From Manayunk:

Looking to stay in Manayunk for long term or just activities during your short term or furnished housing stay, below are just a few examples of easy close by driving itineraries from Manayunk to help inspire day trips.

Perhaps start with a great brunch on Main Street, and then there’s a lot of possible activities within a short drive.

For the Outdoor Enthusiast

For the Family

Pretzel Park playground
Venice Island Recreation Center has a great splash pad to cool off in warmer months and a playground
Main Street Manayunk
Morris Arboretum
Rolling Hills Park
Schuykill Center nature preserve
Manayunk Roxborough Arts Center
Germantown Historical Tour
Parks (see list above)
Kids at Play in East Falls (2.8 miles)
Visit Historic Germantown and see 16 early American sites (3.5 miles)
Chestnut Hill
Kith and Kin Indoor Play Space (5 miles)
Please Touch Museum in Center City (5.3 miles)
Philadelphia Zoo (6.5 miles)
Franklin Institute in Center City (7.3 miles)
Franklin Square (8.5 miles)
Betsy Ross House / Historic Philadelphia (9.1 miles)
Independence Seaport Museum (10.7 miles)
Legoland (11.6 miles)
Elmwood Park Zoo (13.5 miles)
Camden Aquarium (11.2 miles)
Plymouth Meeting Mall (11.6 miles)
King of Prussia Mall (12 miles)
Sesame Place (34 miles)
Dilworth Park (8 miles)

For the Sports Enthusiast

Walnut Lane Golf Course (1.4 miles)
Umbria Golf Center (1.7 miles)
South Philadelphia Sports Complex is home to Philadelphia 76ers games (basketball), Philadelphia Eagles games (Football), Philadelphia Phillies Game (Baseball), Philadelphia Flyers Games (Hockey) (12.2 miles)
Palestra at University of Pennsylvania (7.4 miles)
Penn Relays (once a year event)
Head of Schuylkill Regatta (once a year event, one of the largest rowing competitions in the world)
Philadelphia rock gym east falls

For the Art Enthusiast

For the History Buff

For the Shopper

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Legal Disclaimer

All information including, all content, activities, restaurants, maps, gyms, schools (collectively, “Content”) is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered advice, legal advice, or professional advice of any kind. We make no representations or warranties of any kind as to accuracy of Content or whether such Content will be useful to you.

You are responsible for ensuring i) the accuracy of such Content, ii) that such Content meets your needs, and iii) that such Content is up to date.

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Before deciding on any activities, you should carefully evaluate and assess whether any activities are suitable for you and understand any potential risks, including, among other things, health risks, safety risks, and physical condition.