Unveiling a delightful assortment of captivating shops and fashionable dining establishments, this district has perpetually held its status as one of the most sought-after locales in the city for an evening outing. Amplifying the allure are the pulsating nightclubs and an array of the city’s finest bars, culminating in a recipe for an extraordinary night on the town. However, whether referred to as Midtown Village or The Gayborhood, this area has far more to offer, awaiting exploration.
A Glimpse into Midtown Village and The Gayborhood
Inquiring about the nomenclature of the neighborhood sandwiched between Rittenhouse Square and Old City would likely yield three distinct responses. Aptly named “Midtown Village,” this rectangular segment of Center City, spanning from 11th to Broad Street and from Market to Spruce Street, derives its appellation from its central location. Furthermore, it encompasses the widely renowned Gayborhood, a bustling epicenter for LGBTQ+ nightclubs, bars, and community centers.
A single word that encapsulates the essence of this Philadelphia district would be “vibrant.” Midtown Village brims with an abundance of the city’s most popular restaurants, bars, and small businesses, rendering it an ideal locale to savor the pinnacle of Philly’s nightlife.
Fascinating Figures
- Population: 5,033
- Median age: 30
- Median rent: $1,845
- Median home value: $550,048
Geographical Location
Midtown Village spans from Market to Spruce Street, stretching from north to south, while its eastern and western boundaries extend from 11th Street to Broad Street. Gayborhood-affiliated establishments primarily congregate toward the southern extremities within these delineations.
History
While Midtown Village exudes a contemporary ambiance, it is steeped in rich history, ranging from its remarkable architectural gems to its deep connections with the LGBTQ+ community. Midtown Village, along with the Gayborhood, is encompassed by a broader area known as “Washington Square West,” a name that gained official recognition in the late 1950s as part of an extensive urban revitalization plan.
During the 1970s, the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority purchased and subsequently demolished numerous buildings in the neighborhood. However, due to a significant reduction in federal funding, the area was left partially demolished.
Nonetheless, as the Gayborhood of Washington Square West gradually took shape in the 70s and 80s, the neighborhood experienced a slow resurgence, eventually earning a place on the esteemed National Register of Historic Places in 1984.
In its historical context, what is now known as Midtown Village and the Gayborhood was originally referred to as “The Gayborhood” as early as the 1930s, serving as a haven for the LGBTQ+ community. Therefore, the community’s endeavor to rebrand this historically significant landmark as “Midtown Village” has faced some resistance over the years.
Whether you prefer to identify it as Washington Square West, Midtown Village, or the Gayborhood, this continually evolving neighborhood offers a lively atmosphere that appeals to artists, night owls, and history enthusiasts alike.
Must-See Attractions
Indulge in the culinary and cultural delights of one of Philadelphia’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
Sites of Interest
Historical Society of Pennsylvania – Established in 1824, the Historical Society of Pennsylvania is home to an impressive collection of approximately 600,000 printed items and over 19 million manuscripts and graphics. It houses extensive archives documenting the history of Pennsylvania and the surrounding region, some dating back to the 17th century.
Witherspoon Building – This architectural marvel, designed by Joseph M. Huston for the Presbyterian Board of Publications and Sabbath School Work, proudly stands at the intersection of 13th and Walnut Street, soaring to a height of 11 stories.
Pride & Progress Mural – Celebrating Philadelphia’s achievements in advancing civil rights for the LGBTQ+ community, the Pride & Progress Mural adorns the entire western wall of the William Way Center, a community hub for LGBTQ+ individuals. The vibrant mural captures the spirit of a colorful gay pride festival.
Beyond the Bell Tour – Delve into the intricacies of Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ heritage with the informative Beyond the Bell Tour, which uncovers the historical foundations of the Gayborhood.
Culinary Delights
Barbuzzo – Immerse yourself in the delectable flavors of the Mediterranean at Barbuzzo. Indulge in fresh and savory bites that are expertly crafted, all within the cozy and romantic ambiance of the restaurant. For a truly decadent finale, savor their renowned salted caramel budino!
Little Nonna’s – An exquisite Italian dining experience infused with the warmth and authenticity of a family-owned establishment, Little Nonna’s is a beloved gem within Philadelphia’s vibrant Italian food scene. The Sunday gravy special is nothing short of legendary.
Tria Cafe Wash West – Immerse yourself in the quintessential ambiance of Tria, an ideal destination for pre-dinner drinks. Indulge in a carefully curated selection of natural wines and artisanal cocktails, complemented by delectable small bites such as warm poached figs adorned with gorgonzola and prosciutto di parma.
Chatayee Thai – For a delightful happy hour fix, venture to Chatayee, where you’ll discover generous portions of authentic Thai cuisine that will satisfy your cravings.
Alpen Rose – Step into a world of elegance and fulfill your speakeasy fantasies at Alpen Rose, a sophisticated steakhouse nestled in the heart of the city. Conclude your evening with their legendary baked Alaska, a true culinary masterpiece.
IndeBlue – Prepare to be enchanted by IndeBlue, an Indian restaurant that dares to offer brunch. Renowned as one of the top 10 Indian restaurants in the United States, IndeBlue impresses with its unbeatable dishes and exceptional service.
Talula’s Garden – Delight in the freshness of farm-to-table ingredients while basking in the gentle glow of twinkling lights and floral arrangements at Talula’s Garden. This enchanting venue is the perfect setting to celebrate a special occasion, with the option to indulge in a chef’s tasting menu.
Oloroso – Indulge in top-notch tapas at Oloroso, an ideal destination for lovers of Spanish cuisine. Whether it’s a romantic date night or a group outing, make sure to reserve a table and savor the culinary delights on offer.
Sampan – A neighborhood favorite, Sampan captivates with its hip atmosphere and delectable Asian fusion cuisine. Take advantage of their generous happy hour menu, available Monday through Friday, for an excellent value that won’t disappoint.
Strangelove’s – Combining the charm of a dive bar with the trendy vibes of a hipster cafe, Strangelove’s offers a mouthwatering burger that will leave you craving for more. Don’t miss out on their Sunday brunch specials or the excitement of Tuesday Bingo night!
Cogito Coffee – Discover a sleek and contemporary space at Cogito Coffee, where you can indulge in exceptional coffee and savor small bites on the go.
Writer’s Block Rehab – Calling all book enthusiasts! Immerse yourself in the literary-themed ambiance of Writer’s Block Rehab, a three-story upscale bar that serves cleverly named artisanal cocktails. It’s the perfect setting to stimulate your creativity and enjoy a refined drinking experience.
Woody’s – No visit to Gayborhood is complete without stepping foot into Woody’s at least once. Prepare yourself for a night of dancing and vibrant energy that defines the essence of this iconic establishment.
Voyeur Nightclub – Brace yourself for an exhilarating and undeniably fun experience at Voyeur Nightclub. With its lively music and potent drinks, this venue is sure to keep your spirits high. Arriving a little early is advisable to avoid a steep cover charge.
Vedge – Indulging in the delectable vegetarian and vegan delights at Vedge doesn’t require you to be an herbivore! Immerse yourself in a remarkable dining experience accompanied by exceptional service and a delightful atmosphere. Explore our comprehensive Vedge review for all the details.
El Vez – Prepare to be astounded if you consider yourself a connoisseur of guacamole, for El Vez will undoubtedly exceed your expectations. Delight in the remarkable Mexican cuisine and tantalizing cocktails while surrounded by vibrant and funky decor, setting the perfect mood.
Charlie was a sinner – Another extraordinary establishment catering to our plant-based friends. Picture a cozy ambiance with dim lighting, dark wood accents, and a tempting selection of tapas-style vegan delicacies. Not to mention, it houses one of the city’s finest cocktail bars.
Graffiti Bar – Sampan’s outdoor patio, known as Graffiti Bar, is a small space that emanates infectious energy. Despite its size, the ambiance is captivating, and you can savor delectable dishes from Sampan’s kitchen as you revel in the atmosphere.
Bud & Marilyn’s – A beloved Midtown Village gem renowned for its upscale comfort food, perfect for weary travelers. Prepare to have your culinary world transformed by their Nashville hot chicken buns and divine cheese curds. It’s worth noting that they also have a location at the airport.
Vintage Wine Bar – Experience the fusion of French and American cuisine at this exquisite bistro, boasting an impressive international wine list featuring over 60 options by the glass. While the wine is exceptional, the share plates are even more extraordinary.
Shops and Establishments
Open House – Allow yourself ample time to leisurely explore the extensive gift shop that is Open House. Discover an array of amazing trinkets, tumblers, and bags, ensuring there’s something for everyone on your shopping list.
Duross & Langel – Take a moment to indulge in the aromatic ambiance of this store, as it smells absolutely divine. Immerse yourself in their hand-crafted, natural soaps, bath bombs, and fragrances. You’ll leave smelling even better than when you arrived.
Giovanni’s Room – Although slightly beyond the neighborhood boundaries, Giovanni’s Room deserves a special mention. This iconic bookstore and secondhand clothing store holds a prominent place in the gayborhood. Their expansive selection of LGBTQ+ literature is a treasure, complemented by charming storefront decor.
Lucky Strike – Whether you reserve a lane or two or decide to throw a company event or birthday party, Lucky Strike’s bowling alley bar has ample space to accommodate your needs. And don’t forget to indulge in their delightful ice cream sundaes!
Arader Galleries – Step into the world’s leading dealer and auction house specializing in rare maps, prints, books, and watercolors from the 16th to 19th centuries. Take the opportunity to explore and marvel at their remarkable collection.
Where to Stay Alexander Inn – Immerse yourself in luxury accommodation at this highly-rated boutique hotel, conveniently situated within walking distance of Philadelphia’s finest attractions. As a historical artifact, the Alexander Inn offers a unique experience, having been constructed between 1890 and 1900 as an upscale apartment hotel.
Canopy by Hilton – Unparalleled luxury awaits at Canopy by Hilton. Not only do they provide complimentary bikes for leisurely city exploration, but you’ll also find the mouthwatering delights of Federal Donuts within the same building. Canopy truly stands out in terms of opulent accommodations and proximity to Center City.
DoubleTree by Hilton – Positioned directly on Broad Street, the DoubleTree offers breathtaking views of the cityscape. Furthermore, it’s just a stone’s throw away from the Kimmel Center
Loews Philadelphia Hotel – Loews is dedicated to offering guests a contemporary and luxurious experience. The accommodations at Loews are characterized by their ample space, pristine cleanliness, and utmost comfort, all while providing stunning panoramic vistas of the mesmerizing Philadelphia skyline.
Getting There
To reach Midtown Village and the Gayborhood effortlessly, you can conveniently utilize the SEPTA Broad Street line at Walnut Street or opt for the Market Street line at 13th. While bike lanes are available, it is advisable to exercise caution due to the high volume of pedestrians in this bustling area.