Manayunk

Manayunk is the place to be if you want both city energy and suburban charm. Many recent grads and young couples opt for Manayunk as an alternative to Center City living; the cost of living is more affordable than downtown Philadelphia, but Center City is only a 20 minute train ride away.

Manayunk is known for its Main Street, which is full of shops, restaurants and bars that appeal to a 20 to 30-something crowd. Many hot spots are independently run, which gives the area a quaint, eclectic vibe. Friday and Saturday nights can get very rambunctious on the main drag, but once you travel a few blocks away from the nightlife, it becomes a much quieter, residential experience.

As for the occasional city-goer, the Manayunk and Ivy Ridge train stations are both located in the area. There are also a number of buses that run from Main Street and local apartment complexes into the city. You will find a large percentage of Manayunk residents commute into the city daily for work and school. Although public transit is aplenty, the commute can be time-consuming. It is convenient to have an alternate mode of transportation, such as a car or bike. Most high-traffic streets have bike-friendly lanes, but the area is very hilly which may pose a problem to the novice bicyclist. The hills are also not ideal for street parking or severe weather – flooding becomes a major issue in heavy rain and snow.

There are very few families, since there is a limited number of schools and daycares in the area. Overall, Manayunk is a great transition town for the younger crowd between college and settling down. The result is a large number of renters and fewer settled residents.

Manayunk sits on the banks of the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia. This small town inside of the city is where everyone is welcome and there is never much time for boredom. The neighborhood has a relaxed and uptempo feel all at the same time This can be accredited to the infamous Main Street with the Schuylkill River in the backdrop.

Along Main Street in Manayunk, you can find all kinds of boutiques, art galleries, cafes, housewares stores, fitness centers, and restaurants to choose from. Many of the shops are independently owned, which adds to the uniqueness of your shopping finds. The nightlife isn't too shabby either. There are bar & grills and pubs around the area to make for a nice night. While it's a nice place to be, Main Street does allow for a lot of foot traffic.

Another cool place to be is beyond Main Street. There lies a trail used by locals, as well as visitors, to walk, run or bike. Also, along the Schuylkill River, there is kayaking and boating. And just in case you're a dog owner, Manayunk is said to be a great place for dog lovers.

Aside from having an awesome strip and recreational aspect, Manayunk also acts as a median for going back and forth between the city and the suburbs. Whether you drive, take public transportation or you decide to bike, the neighborhood serves as a "director of traffic" in and out of the city.

The homes in Manayunk range in styles from lofts and townhouses to Victorian row homes. The architecture accents the small town feel of the neighborhood with a variety in its subtlety. However, Manayunk is filled with hills, so that is something to keep in mind.

Manayunk is a cozy neighborhood perfect for college kids and growing families. There is always something to do and everybody knows your name.

If you up for an in-town weekend then Manayunk is your spot. The city has its own San Francisco with hilly residential streets rising above Main Street. Shopping, bar hopping, and exotic restaurant faire are all available along Main Street. Jewelry and antique purveyors appeal to the wealthy.
Manayunk is a Lenape Indian name and is where the first canal in the United States was started.

Manayunk was settled by German, Polish and Irish immigrants as well as a large number of African Americans. Located on the banks of the Schuylkill River, there is an island frequented by residents in the middle of the river. Two Naval ships have been christened the USS Manayunk.

Gentrification is the atmosphere prevalent today. Old world charm abounds with cobblestone streets and quaint flower gardens. The area is usually the first to shut down with cancelled public transportation at the slightest snow. Each June, an international bike race takes on the challenging hills and brings loads of tourist to the area.

Most of the working class residents who worked in nearby manufacturing plants have sold their homes and moved on. What remains are small row homes that young professionals have embraced and renovated. Alongside are many students who have chosen to commute.

Today, if you are visiting Manayunk make sure your wallet is filled.