Wissahickon

The Wissahickon is a tributary to the Schuylkill River. Located in the northern west portion of the city, a visit to Wissahickon might envision forestry and hikes. The fall season is especially beautiful with the leaves that are changing colors.

It is on America’s list of 600 National Natural Landmarks.

Deep within the park is the Wissahickon Valley Green restaurant with lovely porches and gracefully appointed dining areas. It welcomes runners and hikers as well as those in their Sunday best for brunch.

Homes along the Wissahickon are comprised of row homes and single family dwellings. The
Lincoln Drive is known for its stone mansions and large yards. It is a major roadway to the Schuylkill Expressway and can become quite crowded during rush hours. Buses are rarely available and trolleys and subways are non-existent.

Writers Edgar Allan Poe and John Greenleaf Whittier have been known to derive literary inspiration from the area. Poe wrote “Morning on the Wissahiccon.” Whittier describe the journeys of Johannes Kelpius in his poem, The Pennsylvania Pilgrim.

The Lenni Lanape Indians first discovered the area and the named the creek the Wissahickon which signifies catfish or “stream of yellowish color.”

Wissahickon is a neighborhood located in the Northwest section of Philadelphia. It is adjacent to the neighborhoods of Mt. Airy, Germantown and Fairmount Park. Most of the neighborhood is located on a summit.
Wissahickon is a very unique neighborhood and is home to a large mix of ethnicities including African Americans, Asians, Latinos, Italians and Irish Americans. The area offers multiple housing sections including classic Philly brick row homes and also single and double-family houses.
The main draw to the area is Wissahickon Creek, one of the largest creeks that is located in Philadelphia. It runs for about 23 miles before emptying into the Schuylkill River. There are many parks that are centered around Wissahickon Creek and give the area a more rural feel. Residents can enjoy hiking, biking, jogging, and exploring the forests and creek-beds of the area.
Another of Wissahickon’s features is the Roxborough Branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia.
Wissahickon is a very hilly neighborhood, so take precaution when you are parking your car and be sure to leave the emergency brake on so it does not slide.
There are a couple of decent bars and restaurants in the area, but they are few and far between. Most residents head over to Fairmount to get their daily dose of fun.