South Street

Overview

South Street is Philadelphia's most eclectic commercial corridor, stretching from the Delaware River to the Schuylkill. Once the southern boundary of colonial Philadelphia, today it's a colorful strip of vintage shops, tattoo parlors, restaurants, and nightlife.

Highlights

• Diverse Retail: Vintage clothing, indie bookshops, and punk rock boutiques line the street.
• Jim's Steaks: One of the city's legendary cheesesteak spots (though Pat's and Geno's debate rages on).
• Nightlife Strip: Bars and clubs come alive after dark, especially between 2nd and 7th Streets.

History

South Street was planned as a highway in the 1960s, but community resistance saved it. The abandoned storefronts attracted artists and misfits in the 1970s, giving the street its counterculture identity. Today it balances bohemian roots with commercial development.

Visitor Tips

• Evening visits showcase the street's full personality with live music and nightlife.
• Walk east to west for the most interesting progression of shops.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.