Old City District

The Old City District in Downtown Philadelphia occupies several blocks between Front and Sixth Streets, bounded by Vine Street to the north and Walnut Street to the south. In terms of architectural style and historic significance, Old City remains one of the most important parts of the city. The neighborhood features well preserved historical buildings and homes on narrow cobblestone streets that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Many of the iron-facade building are now loft-style condos, and, alongside these historic structures are modern buildings and high-rises. Old City has popular restaurants, hipster bars and lounges, and the largest concentration of contemporary art galleries in Philadelphia

Old City is part of the original 1682 plan of the City of Philadelphia, which was laid out by Thomas Holme, surveyor for the province’s proprietor, William Penn. Independence Hall is located in this district and can be considered the birthplace of the United States of America. It as it was here that the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. Within its walls the Declaration of Independence was adopted and the Constitution of the United States was debated, drafted and signed. Across the street from Independence sits the Liberty Bell in a new glass pavillion. It is “the symbol of liberty” is one of Philladelphia’s most popular attractions.