Philadelphia’s University City neighborhood gets its name honestly. Home to some of the state’s most prestigious universities such as the U of Penn and Drexel U, this West Philadelphia community also provides plenty of employment opportunities thanks to these institutions as well as Children’s Hospital, Amtrak’s 30th Street Station, and the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.
Teeming with a mix of professionals, students, and families, University City’s appeal continues to grow year after year. If you’re thinking of relocating to University City in Philadelphia, we have a few inside tips to help you acclimate to the neighborhood.
The Best Way to Get Around Town
There are plenty of ways to travel throughout University City. It’s ideally designed for residents to walk or peddle a bike. However, there’s one form of transportation the community really loves: the LUCY bus!
The cornerstone of a partnership between SEPTA and University City District (UCD), the LUCY (short for Loop through University City) bus is the most convenient and affordable way for residents to travel from 30th Street Station to all of the neighborhood’s major employers and destinations.
Running continuously every weekday from 6:00 AM until 7:00 PM (except holidays), LUCY is free for Penn students and University of Pennsylvania Health System, University City Science Center, and Children’s Hospital employees. SEPTA passengers can use their train or bus passes and transfers to ride the LUCY bus for free, while all other passengers simply pay a $2.50 fare!
The Ultimate Restaurant Resource
As well as being home to some of Philadelphia’s major employers, University City is also known for its many fabulous restaurants! If you relocate to this neighborhood, two of your biggest challenges will be deciding which place to eat next and keeping track of all the new places that continue to pop up. Luckily, there’s a really handy resource for all your restaurant needs.
Whether you’re trying to find a new place to eat or directions to a recommended restaurant, UCD’s online restaurant guide is the place to turn. You can easily find your next favorite restaurant by name, cuisine type, or location thanks to the detailed map. The guide also features links to each restaurant site to learn more about their offerings or to see a menu. When you’re ready to make a reservation, the guide provides a phone number for you. Be sure to bookmark this helpful page when you move to University City.
Nightlife Best Bets
When the school or workday is done, University City invites you to enjoy its thriving nightlife scene. From wine bars to craft beer breweries to sports stadiums to live music venues and performing arts centers, there’s always something special to enjoy during your evening. When you move to the neighborhood we recommend catching a game at the Palestra, rockin’ out to a local or national band at World Cafe Live, and checking out the many interesting acts featured at the Rotunda.
If you’re interested in relocating to University City in Philadelphia, perhaps the best tip we can offer is choosing the apartments at 3737 Chestnut for your new home. Conveniently located near all of the neighborhood’s universities and employers, the apartments at 3737 Chestnut feature roomy floor plan options, popular amenities, and first-rate resident services.
If you’re ready to relocate to University City, contact us today to schedule a tour and learn more about our community.
