Northern Liberties

Northern Liberties is a historic and rapidly evolving neighborhood north of Center City, Philadelphia, along the Delaware River. Once an independent township and one of the largest U.S. cities in the early 19th century, it became part of Philadelphia in 1854. Once a major manufacturing hub, the neighborhood saw waves of European immigration, including German, Slovak, and Romanian settlers. Today, it has transformed into a vibrant hub for young professionals, artists, and entrepreneurs.

Boundaries & History

Modern Northern Liberties is bordered by Girard Avenue (north), Callowhill Street (south), North 6th Street (west), and the Delaware River (east). Historically, its southern boundary was Vine Street, and Cohocksink Creek served as its northern limit.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the district became known for breweries, mills, ironworks, and tanneries, as well as a red-light district. The area retained its working-class roots for much of the 20th century, home to the Christian Schmidt Brewing Company from 1860 to 1987. In 1985, the Northern Liberties Historic District was established to preserve its Federal, Greek Revival, and Italianate architecture.

Revitalization & Development

Since the early 2000s, Northern Liberties has undergone rapid gentrification, with rising property values and an influx of new restaurants, bars, boutiques, and creative industries. It is now considered one of Philadelphia’s most desirable neighborhoods, even earning a spot on Forbes’ list of “Hippest Hipster Neighborhoods” in America.

Major attractions include:

• Liberty Lands Park – A two-acre community-owned park and playground

• Orianna Hill Park – A neighborhood-run off-leash dog park

• Yards Brewing Company – A well-known Philadelphia brewery

• The Doughboy Statue – A WWI memorial landmark

Northern Liberties is well connected by SEPTA’s Market–Frankford Line, with stops at Spring Garden and Girard, and the Girard Avenue trolley.

Education

The neighborhood is served by the School District of Philadelphia, including:

• Kearny School (K-8) & Benjamin Franklin High School (south of Poplar St.)

• Ludlow School (K-8) & Kensington High School (north of Poplar St.)

• Other schools: Bodine High School of International Affairs, Laboratory Charter School

The Ramonita de Rodriguez Branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia serves the community.

A Thriving Urban Destination

Once an industrial powerhouse and later a struggling post-industrial district, Northern Liberties has reinvented itself as a trendy, creative neighborhood. With its unique blend of history, community-driven parks, and bustling nightlife, “NoLibs” remains one of Philadelphia’s most dynamic and sought-after areas.