All About Manayunk

Alexandra Sauer
All Things Philly
Published in
2 min readDec 12, 2017

Manayunk is a Native American word meaning, “where we go to drink.” The term references the neighborhood’s location next to the Schuylkill River. While the river helped shape Manayunk’s identity, so do the hills and what was once one of the city’s hottest industrial centers is now one of its hottest neighborhoods, with plenty of places where people can go to drink.

Manayunk’s past and present is tied to the riverfront and the Manayunk Canal. Visitors can stroll the Main Street Historic District, or take a walking tour of the Manayunk Canal where remnants of manufacturing recall the neighborhood’s starring role in the Industrial Revolution.

The heart and soul of the community is Main Street, a place with dozens of restaurants, boutiques, bars and galleries. The night life is filled with foodies scoping out new menu additions at restaurants, dancing and live music. Manayunk’s art scene is a popular subject for the town, its galleries are filled with fine art and a focus on local artists. Artists fill the town with colorful paintings all through out the streets.

Another thing Manayunk is known for is its outdoors. Bikers and walkers like the challenge of Manayunk’s hills, particularly the “Manayunk Wall” at Levering Street. Outdoorsy types can hike or bike the Canal Towpath or the Manayunk Bridge that looks out on the town of Manayunk from a birds eye view. Local cycling shops also organize rides that challenge various skill levels.

Manayunk’s calendar is usually jammed packed, cheering crowds fill the streets for giant neighborhood parties and sporting events. There are constantly times for the community to get together to enjoy live music, art festivals, food festivals and outdoor movies. If you are looking for something to do with the family, a great date idea, or a reason to gather with friends, Manayunk is the perfect place.

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