Germantown is a neighborhood in the northwest section of the city, rich in historic sites and buildings from the colonial era.
Germantown is lively and diverse, with people of many backgrounds, races, and income levels. It has a long history and a strong sense of community and still retains its cobblestone streets. The boundaries of Germantown borough at the time it was absorbed into the city of Philadelphia were Wissahickon Avenue, Roberts Avenue, Wister Street, Stenton Avenue, and Washington Lane. Today, the next neighborhood to the northwest, Mount Airy, starts around Johnson Street, although there is no universally recognized exact boundary. Nicetown lies to the south and Logan, Ogontz, and West Oak Lane lie to the east.
A Story by Matt and Kristin.
48 West Queen Lane | Represented by Kristin McFeely.
How long have you lived in Germantown?
20 years.
What drew you to the neighborhood?
Its diversity, character, rich history, and proximity to the Wissahickon.
What is your favorite thing about the neighborhood now?
The things that drew us here still make the top of the list. We've been excited to see new additions to the already rich fabric of Germantown.
What was your first experience of your neighborhood?
Being warmly welcomed by all of our neighbors.
How would you describe your neighborhood?
Eclectic, diverse, friendly, engaging, young, and old.
What's your favorite part of the neighborhood? Why?
Our block, of course.
A day spent running around the neighborhood: what's your first stop and last stop?
Germantown Kitchen Garden for local, farm fresh goodness in the morning, lunch at Salam Cafe, and beer, friends, and a food truck at Attic Brewing to end the day.
Some favorite coffee shops?
Germantown Espresso Bar and Uncle Bobbie's Coffee and Books.
Some must-see attractions in the area?
Historic Germantown attractions and Howell Park.
Some favorite local stores?
Popular shops are Merzbacher's Bakery, Bargain Thrift, Pomelo (for plants), Whosoever Gospel Mission (thrift shop), Perfectly Flawless Boutique, Tranzilli's Water Ice, Lily of the Valley Cupcakery.
What is the community like?
The neighborhood is active and vibrant. We know many of our neighbors and always feel a strong sense of community and support. The neighborhood has many active community groups including The Friends of Howell Park and Penn-Knox Neighborhood Association.
What type of home do you have? Is this typical of the neighborhood?
We live in a converted warehouse. It was built in the late 1890s to store furniture and upholstery. There is a lot of creative reuse happening with buildings in Germantown but this one is pretty unique! (Check it out here!)
