West Parkside

Stunning architecture is a highlight of West Parkside. Local developers have salvaged these masterpieces and block-by-block renovations and rehabilitations are bringing the area back to its glory.

The 1876 Centennial took place across the boulevard in Fairmount Park. The area is on the National Historic Register. Because of this designation, tax credits and other funding resources are available to revitalize the housing stock.

At the Mann Music Center is the summer home of the Philadelphia Orchestra. It is also home to the Zoo and the Please Touch Museum. Nearly two million visitors frequented these institutions in 2010.

The Microsoft High School brings bright student from the region to its facilities.

It is a relatively quiet community of middle-to-working class African Americans.

In 2008, the Park West Town Center, a major shopping center opened with a supermarket, home renovation store, and clothing stores. Built with $52 million in a private/public partnership, the mall is leased to capacity.

Transportation is good with bus routes connecting to major arteries.

West Parkside is a very historic neighborhood located in West Philadelphia. It is bound by Penn-Central Railroad tracks, 38th Street, Girard Street and Belmont Avenue.
The neighborhood is both vibrant and diverse in its architecture and residency. African Americans, Caucasians, Hispanics, Indian Americans and Asian Americans all call Parkside home. The houses and other buildings in this area are very beautiful and are elaborately decorated with brightly colored paint and unique adornments including large bay windows.
West Parkside’s main shopping attraction is Park West Town Village Shopping Center, located along North 52nd Street. It includes national tenants such as Lowe’s Home Improvement, AJ Wrights, McDonald’s and Shop Rite.
One of West Parkside’s famous residents was rapper Schooly D, who often referred to the neighborhood in his songs.
Despite the notorious reputation the neighborhood got because of Schooly D, it still maintains a rather peaceful environment. Some corners of West Parkside can be dangerous, but there has been an effort to clean up the neighborhood in recent years.
West Parkside is becoming an appealing place to live thanks to its affordable housing options, close-knit community and newly built shopping center. It is an up-and-coming neighborhood that will continue drawing in new residents.