Southwest Philadelphia
Southwest Philadelphia is a notably distinct and often overlooked part of the city that stretches from Baltimore Avenue in the north down to the Philadelphia International Airport in the south, between the Schuylkill River and the city’s western boundary defined by Cobbs and Darby Creeks. Despite being one of Philadelphia’s largest regions, Southwest Philly is sometimes known as “far Southwest” and remains one of the city’s lesser-known areas, even among locals. Rich in industrial history, natural landscapes, and diverse communities, Southwest Philadelphia plays a crucial economic and cultural role in the metropolis.
Historical Overview
Originally called Kingsessing Township, Southwest Philadelphia was first settled by Swedish colonists in 1646. Over the centuries, it transitioned from vast farms and meadows into a vibrant neighborhood that saw waves of European immigrants including Germans, Irish, Lithuanians, Poles, Italians, and Jewish populations—many of whom planted roots for generations. The area developed major industrial zones and was home to important factories and shipyards, including the world’s largest shipyard on Hog Island during World War I.
Southwest Philly’s historical identity has also been shaped by its natural geography, consisting of floodplains, creeks, and islands in the Schuylkill Delta. Bartram’s Garden, founded in 1728 by botanist John Bartram and America’s oldest surviving botanic garden, remains an anchor of botanical science and community stewardship within the region. The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum preserves vital wetlands and waterways for wildlife and offers nature programming for residents and visitors alike.
While the 20th century witnessed large industrial and airport developments that overshadowed residential needs at times, recent decades have seen growing efforts dedicated to improving neighborhood quality of life, infrastructure, and economic opportunity for the local residents.
Key Neighborhoods and Features
Kingsessing
Kingsessing, often regarded as the southwest’s heart, blends historical significance and community resilience. Once predominantly Irish and German, today it features a large African American population along with growing immigrant communities, including Liberian and West African groups. The neighborhood retains many mid-century homes mixed with essential local businesses along Kingsessing Avenue, known for its neighborhood markets and eateries.
- Bartram’s Garden (5400 Lindbergh Blvd) anchors the community as a place for education, relaxation, and green space.
- Popular Eats: Woodland Village Pizza (6234 Woodland Ave) offers traditional cheesesteaks and hearty American fare, while New Olympia Restaurant (6015 Elmwood Ave) provides classic diner breakfast and lunch plates.
Elmwood Park
Elmwood Park unfolds as a diverse, working-class neighborhood straddling busy commercial corridors such as Elmwood and Woodland Avenues. Boasting a blend of older homes and growing immigrant businesses, the area is known for its accessibility and community spirit.
- Recreation spaces like McCreesh Playground and Connell Park serve as hubs for youth programs and sports.
- Food favorites include Golden Lake Chinese Restaurant (6312 Elmwood Ave) and Nigerian Kitchen (6525 Elmwood Ave), representing the area’s multicultural taste.
Eastwick
Eastwick lies at the southern edge of Southwest Philly, bordering natural preserves and the airport. It is characterized by a combination of postwar suburban housing, wetlands, and industrial zones. The nearby John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge draws visitors for birdwatching, hiking, and environmental education.
- Dining: Island Taste Cuisine (8080 Lindbergh Blvd) offers Caribbean flavors, while the Penrose Diner (2016 Penrose Ave) serves classic American breakfast for locals and travelers.
Paschall and Angora
Paschall comprises mostly residential streets populated by working-class families with strong neighborhood ties. Angora, a small cluster within Southwest Philly, is known for its welcoming atmosphere and local parks such as Buist Park.
- Angora Turkish Kebab (6015 Chester Ave) has built a reputation for authentic Middle Eastern meals.
Bartram Village
Centered near Bartram’s Garden, Bartram Village combines community housing with historic and natural points of interest.
- Bartram Village Recreation Center (5404 Bartram Ave) anchors community services.
- Bartram Pizza & Grill (5543 Bartram Ave) provides quick, neighborhood-friendly eats.
Other Areas
Southwest Philadelphia includes several other neighborhoods such as Clearview, Mount Moriah, Paschall, Southwest Schuylkill, Penrose, and Hedgerow. The area is also marked by its proximity to the Philadelphia International Airport, which influences local economy and infrastructure.
- The Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum (6825 Norwitch Dr) in Southwest Philly holds one of the world’s finest collections of historic racing cars.
Recommended Eateries Across Southwest Philadelphia
- Woodland Village Pizza – 6234 Woodland Ave
- New Olympia Restaurant – 6015 Elmwood Ave
- Golden Lake Chinese Restaurant – 6312 Elmwood Ave
- Nigerian Kitchen – 6525 Elmwood Ave
- Island Taste Cuisine – 8080 Lindbergh Blvd
- Penrose Diner – 2016 Penrose Ave
- Angora Turkish Kebab – 6015 Chester Ave
- Bartram Pizza & Grill – 5543 Bartram Ave
- Simeone Foundation (events & cafe) – 6825 Norwitch Dr
Southwest Philadelphia carries a layered legacy—its arrival as Philadelphia’s first European settlement area, its pivotal industrial contributions, and its present efforts balanced with natural wonders and community pride. Its vibrant neighborhoods offer a unique blend of history, cultural diversity, and emerging revitalization, providing a quiet yet powerful counterpoint to the city’s more famous cores and a welcoming home to thousands of diverse residents. Exploring its parks, museums, and eateries is a journey into an often hidden but essential chapter of Philadelphia’s story.