How long does it take to walk through Fishtown?

The main walking route through Fishtown takes about 90 to 120 minutes. This includes time to stop for a coffee at La Colombe or a quick photo at Penn Treaty Park, covering a distance of roughly 1.5 miles.

Is Fishtown Philadelphia safe to walk at night?

Yes, Fishtown is a very active neighborhood at night with many people out visiting bars and restaurants. Stick to well-lit main streets like Frankford Avenue and Girard Avenue for the best experience.

Can I do this self-guided walk with kids?

Yes, the walk is family-friendly, especially during the day. Frankford Hall and Penn Treaty Park are popular with families, though the breweries become more adult-oriented in the late evening.

Are there many hills on this Fishtown route?

No, this is an easy, flat walk. The terrain in Fishtown is very level, making it accessible for most walkers and those using strollers or wheelchairs.

What are the highlights of Fishtown?

Key highlights include the historic Penn Treaty Park, the massive La Colombe coffee workshop, and the vibrant beer gardens like Frankford Hall. The area is also famous for its street art and repurposed industrial architecture.

Where can I find the best coffee in Fishtown?

La Colombe on Frankford Avenue is considered the flagship coffee experience in the neighborhood. It is located in a massive repurposed warehouse and offers a unique 'workshop' atmosphere.

How do I get to Fishtown from Center City?

The easiest way is to take the Market-Frankford Line (the blue line) eastbound and get off at the Girard Station. From there, you are just a few blocks away from the start of the main Frankford Avenue corridor.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Fishtown is the beating heart of Philadelphia’s modern renaissance, a neighborhood where the grit of an industrial past meets the vibrant energy of a creative future. Once defined by the shad fishing industry and heavy manufacturing, this area has transformed into a premier destination for nightlife, dining, and art. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the layers of history visible in the red-brick warehouses and repurposed factory spaces that now house some of the city's most iconic venues. You will witness how industrial relics have been reimagined as world-class music halls, legendary coffee workshops, and communal beer gardens. The route primarily follows the main artery of Frankford Avenue, showcasing the best of Philadelphia’s culinary innovation and craft culture. This neighborhood stroll is designed for independent explorers who want to see the city through a local lens. Along the way, you’ll encounter The Fillmore Philadelphia, a massive venue housed in the former Ajax Metal Company building, and Johnny Brenda’s, a cornerstone of the neighborhood’s revival that helped spark the current boom. The journey isn't just about the buildings; it is about the spirit of a community that values craft—whether it is a perfectly pulled espresso at the La Colombe flagship or a uniquely named pint at Evil Genius Beer Company. This walking tour Philadelphia experience concludes at the serene Penn Treaty Park, where the city’s history with the Lenape people began centuries ago. It is an easy, flat walk that is perfect for an afternoon exploration or an early evening wander before settling into one of the many local bars. By the time you reach the Delaware River, you will have a deep appreciation for the industrial heritage and the modern-day pulse of this unique district. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

The Fillmore Philadelphia’s stunning industrial-chic architecture

Johnny Brenda’s, the legendary pub that sparked the Fishtown revival

A visit to the massive La Colombe coffee flagship and workshop

The lively, German-inspired atmosphere of Frankford Hall

Quirky craft brews at the Evil Genius Beer Company

Historic riverfront views and local legends at Penn Treaty Park

Tour Stops (6)

The Fillmore Philadelphia

Start your self-guided walk at The Fillmore Philadelphia, a premier music venue that perfectly encapsulates the neighborhood's industrial rebirth. This massive complex is housed within the former Ajax Metal Company building, a structure that dates back to the early 20th century. Look up at the towering brick walls and steel beams; while it once echoed with the sounds of metal fabrication, it now hosts some of the biggest names in music. The renovation preserved the 'industrial-chic' aesthetic, using reclaimed materials to maintain the building's soul. It’s part of a larger complex known as Canal Street North, which has turned a formerly derelict block into a buzzing entertainment hub. Even if there isn't a show tonight, the exterior stands as a testament to how Philadelphia breathes new life into its historic skeletons.

Johnny Brenda's

Walking up Frankford Avenue, you arrive at Johnny Brenda’s. This isn't just a bar; it is a Fishtown institution. Long before the neighborhood was a trendy destination, Johnny Brenda’s was a pioneer, opening its doors to locals and sparking the revitalization of the Frankford Avenue corridor. The venue occupies a turn-of-the-century building that once served as a neighborhood taproom. Today, it is famous for its commitment to local agriculture and the regional craft beer scene, serving only brews from the tri-state area. Upstairs, there is an intimate, world-class music venue with a balcony that feels like a step back in time. It remains a symbol of the neighborhood’s DIY spirit and its dedication to keeping things local and authentic.

Frankford Hall

Just a short distance away is Frankford Hall, a massive German-style beer garden that transformed a former industrial warehouse into a communal social space. Created by renowned restaurateur Stephen Starr, this spot is a key player in the neighborhood's nightlife scene. The design intentionally leaves parts of the original structure exposed, featuring open-air courtyards, fire pits, and long wooden trestle tables. It’s a place where the old industrial footprint has been adapted for modern leisure. The atmosphere here is often lively, especially on weekends, reflecting the neighborhood's shift from a quiet manufacturing zone to a premier social destination. It is a great example of how large-scale industrial spaces can be repurposed to foster community interaction.

La Colombe Coffee Workshop

Continue your neighborhood stroll to the La Colombe Coffee Workshop. This is the flagship location for the world-renowned coffee roaster, and it is housed in a sprawling 12,000-square-foot former warehouse. The scale of the interior is breathtaking, with soaring ceilings, exposed brick, and custom-made industrial furniture. Here, you can see the coffee-making process as a form of modern craftsmanship, mirroring the neighborhood's history of making and doing. Note the mural work and the massive roasting equipment on-site. This location serves as more than just a cafe; it is a workshop, a bakery, and a distillery. It represents the 'new' Fishtown: sophisticated, high-quality, and deeply rooted in the aesthetic of the city’s industrial past.

Evil Genius Beer Company

A few blocks further north, you will find Evil Genius Beer Company. This brewery is located in a 19th-century carriage house, another example of the neighborhood’s architectural recycling. Evil Genius is known for its quirky, pop-culture-themed beer names and its experimental flavors. The 'Lab,' as their taproom is called, maintains the high ceilings and brickwork of the original structure while adding a playful, nostalgic vibe with 90s-themed decor. This stop highlights the creative side of Fishtown’s rebirth, where small-batch production and irreverent branding have replaced the heavy industries of the past. It’s a popular local favorite for those looking for a relaxed, unique atmosphere away from the main bustle of the lower avenue.

Penn Treaty Park

Conclude your walking route at Penn Treaty Park, located right on the banks of the Delaware River. This green space holds immense historical significance; it is believed to be the site where William Penn signed a peace treaty with the Lenape people in 1682. While the 'Treaty Elm' that once stood here is long gone, the park remains a symbol of peace and community. From here, you can look out over the river and see the remains of the industrial piers that once drove the city's economy. The park offers a peaceful contrast to the high-energy streets you just walked, providing a space for recreation and reflection. It’s the perfect spot to end your journey, connecting the neighborhood's deep colonial roots with its industrial era and its modern-day role as a vibrant urban park.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk along Frankford Avenue is the best way to see Fishtown. This route covers approximately 1.5 miles and includes iconic stops like The Fillmore, La Colombe, and Penn Treaty Park, showcasing the neighborhood's industrial transformation.