Rittenhouse Square (Philadelphia) Travel Guide - Free

Explore Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia with Evendo's free guide. Find the best shops, historic streets, restaurants, and gems on web or mobile.

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Rittenhouse Square
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Discover Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia's elegant heart, where historic charm meets modern luxury amidst lush green spaces and vibrant cultural scenes.

Rittenhouse Square is one of Philadelphia's most beloved neighborhoods, known for its historic charm, vibrant culture, and lush green spaces. Named after the prominent American astronomer, David Rittenhouse, this area is a blend of the old and the new, offering tourists a unique glimpse into both the city's past and its modern-day allure.
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At the center of the neighborhood lies the iconic Rittenhouse Square Park, a beautifully maintained public space that serves as a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city life. The park is surrounded by stunning pre-war architecture, high-end boutiques, and some of the best dining options in Philadelphia. As you stroll through the square, you will find locals and visitors alike enjoying picnics, reading books, or simply taking in the beauty of their surroundings.
The area is also a cultural hub, with galleries, theaters, and museums all within walking distance. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation, while those seeking a bit of history can explore the historic homes and buildings that line the streets. Rittenhouse Square is not just a place to see; it is a place to experience, offering a perfect blend of sophistication, history, and urban green space.

Best landmarks in Rittenhouse Square

Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is a historic neighborhood filled with an array of landmarks that showcase the city's rich history and vibrant culture. From iconic buildings to charming parks, each landmark in this area offers a unique glimpse into the past and present of Philadelphia. Explore these significant sites to truly immerse yourself in the heart of Rittenhouse Square.

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Explore Rittenhouse Square on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Rittenhouse Square, mapped for you.

Best restaurants in Rittenhouse Square

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Best bars in Rittenhouse Square

Rittenhouse Square is a bustling neighbourhood in Philadelphia that offers a vibrant nightlife scene for visitors to enjoy. From upscale cocktail bars and trendy lounges to lively nightclubs and cozy pubs, there is something for everyone to experience. Whether you're looking to sip on craft cocktails, dance the night away, or simply relax with a drink in hand, Rittenhouse Square has a diverse array of options to choose from, ensuring a memorable night out in the city.

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Best shops in Rittenhouse Square

Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia offers a unique shopping experience, blending upscale boutiques with trendy shops and quaint cafes. Visitors can explore a variety of high-end fashion retailers, luxury department stores, and independent art galleries. From designer clothing and accessories to handcrafted jewelry and one-of-a-kind home decor, there is something for every shopper's taste and budget. After a day of shopping, visitors can relax and unwind at one of the many chic cafes or cocktail bars in the area, making Rittenhouse Square the perfect destination for a day of retail therapy and leisurely exploration.

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Rittenhouse Square essentials

Getting There
Rittenhouse Square is centrally located in Philadelphia, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. If you are coming from Center City, it’s a short walk or a quick ride on the Market-Frankford Line to 15th Street Station, followed by a short walk. From Old City, take the 5 or 33 bus routes heading west. If you're coming from University City, the 34 or 42 trolley routes will take you to the area. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.
Getting Around
Rittenhouse Square is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, and many attractions are within walking distance. The area is served by the SEPTA subway, with the nearest stop at 15th Street and City Hall on the Market-Frankford Line. Buses and trolleys provide additional public transport options. Biking is also popular; consider using a bike-sharing service like Indego, with several stations nearby. Parking can be limited, so using public transport is recommended.
Safety
Rittenhouse Square is generally a safe neighborhood, but it's wise to remain cautious. Avoid wandering alone late at night, especially in less populated areas. While violent crime is rare, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded places. Areas surrounding the square are typically safe, but it is best to avoid the outskirts of South Philadelphia and parts of North Philadelphia after dark, as they may have higher crime rates.
Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Hospitals such as Pennsylvania Hospital and Jefferson University Hospitals are nearby. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies in the area where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress casually but stylishly; Rittenhouse Square has a chic vibe. Don't wear overly formal attire unless dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do be respectful at the nearby churches and synagogues. Public Transport: Do keep your belongings close; don’t engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile; don’t assume familiarity. Eating & Drinking: Do enjoy outdoor dining at the square; don’t litter or eat in public transport areas.
Local Tips
To experience Rittenhouse Square like a local, spend time in the park, especially on weekends when it’s bustling with activity. Visit local coffee shops like La Colombe or Elixr Coffee Roasters to enjoy a brew and people-watch. For shopping, explore the boutiques on Walnut Street. Don’t miss the Rittenhouse Farmers’ Market on Thursdays, where you can sample local produce and artisanal goods. Engaging with locals is encouraged; they often share great insights about hidden gems in the area.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHey there[hey th-air]
GoodbyeCatch you later[kach yu lay-tur]
YesYeah[yeh]
NoNah[nah]
Please/You're welcomeSure thing[shur thing]
Thank youThanks a lot[th-anks uh lot]
Excuse me/SorryPardon me[p-ard-un me]
How are you?What's up?[wh-ats up]
Fine. And you?Doing good. You?[d-oo-ing g-ud. yu?]
Do you speak English?You speak English?[yu speek ing-lish]
I don't understandI'm lost[am lost]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?[kan eye see th-uh menu]
I don't eat meatNo meat for me[no meet for mee]
Cheers!Cheers![cheers]
I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please[ch-ek, please]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Help![help]
Go away!Go away![go away]
Call the Police!Call the cops![call th-uh cops]
Call a doctor!Get a doc![get uh doc]
I'm lostLost[lost]
I'm illFeeling sick[feeling sik]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...[eye wanna buy]
I'm just lookingJust browsing[just bro-zing]
How much is it?How much?[how much]
That's too expensiveToo pricey[too pr-eye-see]
Can you lower the price?Can you do better?[kan yu do bet-ur]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?What's the time?[wh-ats th-uh time]
It's one o'clockIt's one[its w-un]
Half past (10)Half past (10)[h-ah-f past (10)]
MorningMorning[morning]
AfternoonAfternoon[afternoon]
EveningEvening[evening]
YesterdayYesterday[yest-ur-day]
TodayToday[t-uh-day]
TomorrowTomorrow[t-uh-mor-ow]
11[w-un]
22[t-oo]
33[th-ree]
44[f-or]
55[f-ah-v]
66[s-ix]
77[s-ev-en]
88[ayt]
99[n-ine]
1010[ten]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Where's the...?[wh-airz th-uh]
What's the address?What's the address?[wh-ats th-uh address]
Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?[kan yu show mee (on th-uh map)]
When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?[wh-ens th-uh next (bus)]
A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)[ay tik-et (to)]

History of Rittenhouse Square

The Origins of Rittenhouse Square

Rittenhouse Square was originally part of a larger tract of land granted to William Penn in 1682. The area was designed as part of Penn's vision for a city of brotherly love, incorporating green spaces into urban planning. The square itself was named after David Rittenhouse, a prominent American astronomer and clockmaker, who played a significant role in the early development of Philadelphia.

19th Century Urban Development

During the 1800s, Rittenhouse Square began to transform from a park into a vibrant urban center. As Philadelphia grew, the surrounding area became a desirable residential neighborhood for the affluent, leading to the construction of grand homes and cultural institutions. The square became a place for social gatherings, artistic expression, and political discourse.

The Emergence of Cultural Institutions

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Rittenhouse Square saw the establishment of several cultural landmarks. Notable institutions such as the Philadelphia Art Alliance and the Curtis Institute of Music contributed to the area’s reputation as a cultural hub. The square itself became a canvas for public art and performances, reflecting the artistic spirit of Philadelphia.

A Hub for Social Movements

Rittenhouse Square has historically been a gathering place for social movements and public demonstrations. From anti-war protests to civil rights marches, the square has served as a backdrop for citizens advocating for social change. This aspect of its history highlights the square's significance not only as a recreational space but also as a platform for civic engagement.

Modern Day Rittenhouse Square

Today, Rittenhouse Square is a vibrant urban park surrounded by high-end shops, restaurants, and luxury residences. It hosts various community events, including farmers' markets and art fairs, while maintaining its role as a place of relaxation and gathering. The square continues to reflect the dynamic culture of Philadelphia, blending historical significance with contemporary urban life.

Rittenhouse Square in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

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Neighbourhoods near Rittenhouse Square

The closest neighbourhoods to Rittenhouse Square, if you have time for more than one stop.

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Philadelphia
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