Blending the urban energy of Main Street with more outdoor space than anywhere else in Philadelphia, Manayunk has emerged as one of the city’s top neighborhoods to live and play, writes Sandy Smith for Philadelphia Magazine.

Manayunk first began shedding its forlorn reputation in the 1980s, sparked by the first U.S. Pro Cycling Championship, when cyclists sped up Main Street toward the Manayunk Wall. Following the increase in its profile, developers soon started converting its historic mills into apartments and office spaces. Meanwhile the once-empty storefronts began to come alive with shops, cafes, and restaurants, turning the once declining area into a thriving urban community.

Now thanks to its artistic flair, Manayunk is ideal for exploring shops such as Jinxed, which has vintage home finds, the Little Apple, that has a range of gifts for all occasions, and Cupid’s Bookshop, a must-visit for romance enthusiasts. In addition there is Manayunk Timber, a sustainable lumberyard, that includes a showroom, artist community, coffee stand, and bakery on its grounds.

Manayunk offers many appealing dining options, including Jake’s & Cooper’s Wine Bar, and Yanako for Japanese cuisine. Artesano, which features custom ironworks, a design and art gallery, and a café, also boasts an outdoor terrace beneath the Manayunk Bridge.

Read more about the many things Manayunk has to offer in Philadelphia Magazine.

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