Manayunk is a vibrant and hip town on the banks of the Schuylkill River about 8 miles outside of Center City. The buzzing energy can be traced back to the area’s come-up as a major player in the manufacturing and textile industries. The vintage Victorian-era establishments that housed these businesses – which earned Manayunk recognition as a National Historic District in 1983 – have been transformed into trendy boutiques and eateries that line the walkable Main Street. This inclusive community embraces diversity and creativity as murals, festivals and niche art galleries pour color over historic buildings and walkways. Artists might find inspiration from the scenic Schuylkill River Trail that runs right through town and attracts outdoor enthusiasts to the area. “It’s desirable for cyclists and joggers, too, because they can hop on the trail from Main Street,” says Jessa Eskin, a native Philadelphian who is now a Realtor with Compass. “So, there’s a mix of artsy residents and athletic residents. First-time buyers in their twenties and thirties, all the way to high-end buyers.”
Taqueria Amor serves of classic Mexican cuisine on Main Street Manayunk.
Hand crocheted art pieces add character to Manayunk streets during sunset.
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Indulging in the Main Street scene
Manayunk is known for its robust art scene and young, trendy population, with Main Street as the area’s main artery. Home to galleries and shopping boutiques, this commercial corridor also includes many popular restaurants and bars. Some residents prefer the burgers and atmosphere at Bar Jawn, while others claim that Lucky’s Last Chance has the best burgers in Manayunk. The Couch Tomato has been serving pizza for more than 20 years, and The Goat’s Beard locally sources their American cuisine. When in the mood for Mexican food, residents can dine in the colorful setting at Taqueria Amor, and when craving Vietnamese, head to Mi ‘N Tea. For after-dinner sweet tooths, Chloe’s Corner is the go-to ice cream shop. A bustling nightlife continues on Main Street, with options for any palate. Those who are feeling fancy might head to Jake’s & Cooper’s Wine Bar, and those looking for an Irish brew can stop into Ryan’s Pub. For a spacious brewery setting with patio seating overlooking the Schuylkill River, Manayunk Brewing Company is the spot. Furry friends don’t have to be left behind when residents head south to Bark Social, a new bar with an off-leash dog park.
Manayunks' walkable Main Street invites families to arts and dining during golden hour.
SOMO Manayunk is a new American eatery offering small plates, sandwiches & elevated entrees.
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Brick rowhouses and riverside condos
Many of the residential stone-paved streets feature brick rowhouses and contemporary townhomes. In some areas, Victorian textile mills from the 1800s have been converted into modern lofts and chic condos with riverfront views. More modest units in 1,000- to 2,000-square-foot rowhouses and twin homes are priced between $240,000 and $475,000. Newer townhomes and condos with attached garages, some with rooftop lounges and updated interiors, run anywhere from $550,000 to $1.5 million. Many of these million-dollar condos are on the desirable Venice Island, which comes with a flood warning due to its location between the canal and riverside.
Stone row homes in Manayunk sit 3 stores high and stand the test of time.
Take in the views along the Schuylkill River in Manayunk with condo living.
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Annual festivals from February through June
Foundational to Philadelphia's art scene, Manayunk hosts the Manayunk Arts Festival each June, the region’s biggest outdoor, juried arts festival that’s been running strong for more than 30 years. “I can remember going when I was young,” Eskin says. “My mom was an artist. Today, the galleries are more niche and high-end.” Community events also include Founders Philly Freeze in February, where ice sculptures line Main Street and beer flows from Founders Brewing Co. In April, The Manayunk StrEAT Food Festival showcases more than 50 food trucks and vendors accompanied by live music. “Local restaurants will set up pop-up tables for to-go meals,” Eskin says. “And the Main Street shops will have sidewalk sales.” Local musicians are showcased at the annual Sing Us Home Festival on Venice Island’s outdoor stage in May. “Venice Island used to just be a parking lot, and then they revamped it with performance space,” Eskin says.
The Manayunk StrEAT Food Festival brings live musical performances on two stages.
Manayunk celebrates 200 years strong with community activities like Manayunk StrEAT Festival.
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Creative inspiration on the Schuylkill River Trail
Named for the shape of its walking paths, Pretzel Park is a neighborhood park with play structures and green space that hosts the Pretzel Park farmers market on Saturdays. Towering over the south side of the park is St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, unmissable with its Gothic Revival architecture and distinctive turret clock. For a cityscape view, residents can walk the Manayunk Bridge Trail, which crosses over the Schuylkill River and connects to other trails. Before crossing the bridge, the trail links up with the 80-mile Schuylkill River Trail. Once over the bridge, walkers can stroll the 2-mile Cynwyd Heritage Trail. Venice Island is home to the Performing Arts Center, where concerts and plays take place. Athletes can take lessons and play games on the indoor PADELphia courts, or head outside for more court space.
The Manayunk Bridge Trail opened in late 2015 to great fanfare, and for good reason.
Walk the dog on the Schuylkill River Trail along the Manayunk Canal.
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Philly public and private education options
Public school students living in Manayunk can attend kindergarten through eighth grade with an 11-1 student-teacher ratio at James Dobson School, graded a C-plus from Niche. They can then progress to a 13-1 student-teacher ratio at Roxborough High School, graded a C-minus. A nearby private school option is William Penn Charter School, the oldest Quaker school in the world. Colloquially called Penn Charter, this school serves students from kindergarten through twelfth grade and receives an A-plus Niche grade.
The James Dobson Elementary School is an historic American elementary school in Manayunk.
Roxborough High School serves 841 students in grades 9-12.
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Taking the light rail into Philly
Residents can grab the light rail at the Manayunk station, and the SEPTA bus services the town. Vehicles are convenient, as the Schuylkill Expressway – or Interstate 76 – can be accessed just across the Green Lane Bridge.
Get to Center City Philadelphia on Septa Regional Rail from Manayunk Station.
Manayunk is centrally located just 15 minutes from Center City Philadelphia and King of Prussia.
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Written By
Mary Beth Greene
Video By
Ruo Zheng
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Suzie Swisher,
an experienced agent in this area.
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Welcome to this brand-new luxury residence in the heart of Manayunk. This thoughtfully designed home features 3 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, private parking, and nearly 2,600 square feet of elegantly finished living space. With a fully finished basement, expansive roof deck, and the benefit of a tax abatement, this property seamlessly blends modern convenience with elevated design. The
Welcome to 4547 Baker Street, a charming Manayunk home in an UNBEATABLE location! This home is right across the street from the beautiful Manayunk Bridge Trail which links to the Schuylkill River Trail, Cynwyd Heritage Trail and more! It is just a few blocks from Main Street Manayunk and walking distance to public transportation, including the regional rail. Parking is convenient on this permit
Welcome to this 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom 1,890 square foot home in the Manayunk section of Philadelphia that blends historic charm with room to grow. Built in 1900, the home offers three finished levels with brand new making it ideal for households needing extra space for guests, roommates, or remote work. The first floor features an open living and dining area which offers plenty of space. Each
Welcome to an exceptional luxury townhome on one of Manayunk’s most desirable blocks. Another project built by Finch Development and meticulously designed by Mishel Pareará, offering breathtaking views and uncompromising design at every turn. This 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath residence was thoughtfully curated with top-tier finishes, custom craftsmanship, and smart-home features throughout. The home
Welcome to a beautifully curated luxury townhome located on one of Manayunk’s most desirable blocksץ Another project built by Finch Development and meticulously designed by Mishel Pareará, offering elevated design, premium finishes, and exceptional indoor–outdoor living. This 4-bedroom, 4-bath residence delivers a refined, modern lifestyle in one of Philadelphia’s most vibrant neighborhoods. The
Welcome to 4618 Smick Street, a charming end-of-row home ideally located just steps from Leverington and Main Street in Manayunk. This thoughtfully updated property offers 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 full baths, with a smart and functional layout throughout. The first floor features a defined dining area, newer tile flooring, and a renovated kitchen with direct access to a full bath and convenient
Positioned along both the Schuylkill River and the Manayunk Canal, this five-bedroom, five-level townhome is one of only two buildings in the sensational Locks community with unobstructed dual-water views and approx. 5 Years Left on the TAX ABATEMENT. The home is wrapped in floor-to-ceiling, 8-foot windows that capture natural light and water views on every level. Wide-plank hardwood flooring
Reid RosenthalBHHS Fox & Roach At the Harper, Rittenhouse Square
Just steps from the energy of Main Street, this beautifully crafted 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath home blends modern design with everyday comfort in one of Philadelphia’s most desirable neighborhoods. With thoughtful updates, quality finishes, and an unbeatable location, it offers a rare chance to enjoy low-maintenance living in the heart of the city. A limestone façade and striking two-story bay window
Welcome to 123 Pensdale Street, ideally located in the heart of Manayunk, just one block from Main Street’s popular restaurants, bars, shops, and public transportation. This beautifully updated three-story, three-bedroom townhome offers the perfect blend of charm, comfort, and convenience. Step inside to an open-concept living and dining area featuring refinished hardwood floors, recessed
Manayunk Charm, Modern Luxury! Your Rare Single-Family Escape. Your Private Oasis Above the Hills! Should we go on? Rarely does a single-family home of this caliber hit the Manayunk market. From the moment you enter the tiled foyer’s two transom doorways, you'll feel the warmth of the natural light hitting the beautiful hardwood floors, the Open-concept floor plan with recessed lighting, and
Michael SantoleriRE/MAX Preferred - Newtown Square
Welcome to this beautiful 5 bedroom, 2 full bath home in the heart of Manayunk with breathtaking views of the Schuykill River! You will be greeted with a spacious open concept layout leading into the luxury kitchen which has brand new stainless steel appliances and a coffee bar. The second floor has 4 bedrooms with plenty of closets for storage. The third floor offers even more storage and an
*ARCHITECTURAL PLANS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST* Prime value-add opportunity in a rapidly growing neighborhood. This property has already started phases of renovation, making it an ideal project for an investor or end user ready to bring it across the finish line. Renovation plans and permits are available, providing clarity and confidence for the next owner. The home has framing, plumbing,
Available for February 1st Rental. This stunningly rehabbed Manayunk townhome has it all. Four bedrooms, 2-1/2 bathrooms, new kitchen, new bathrooms, new central air, and OFF STREET PARKING FOR FOUR CARS! Don't miss out on this gem! Convenient to everything!
Right smack in the heart of Manayunk, just off Main Street. This extra large one bedroom + den/office with enormous living/great room, modern kitchen and bath, den/office, bedroom and private fenced rear patio. Convenient to regional rail, all major arteries and everything Manayunk has to offer.
Stunning and huge 3 bedroom, 2-1/2 Bath townhome in historic Olde Manayunk!! Completely renovated a few years ago, and lovingly cared for ever since. Features include beautiful hardwood flooring throughout all three floors, beautiful kitchen with granite counters, a beautiful rear deck with solar lighting, and a very spacious fenced yard. The second floor has two large bedrooms with
Available for rent 04/01! Large 1 bedroom/1 bath unit walking distance from Main Street! This 3rd floor unit has hardwood floors, central heat/air, and microwave. Pets are welcome with an additional fee. Water is included in rent and tenant is responsible for gas and electricity. Schedule your tour today!
Krupa Patel
BHHS Fox & Roach At the Harper, Rittenhouse Square
Cute 2 bedroom Manayunk row home, with very private rear yard. Features hardwood flooring, good size rooms and closets, full basement with washer/dryer. Convenient to everything Manayunk has to offer.
Welcome to TRENT Manayunk, where historic charm meets modern living. Once a thriving textile mill, TRENT has been transformed into boutique apartments designed for today’s lifestyle. Each 1–2 bedroom home blends industrial character with contemporary comfort, featuring open layouts, high ceilings, in-unit washer/dryer, central air, and sleek finishes.Located steps from Main Street Manayunk,
Live easy in this newer gut-renovated single-family home located on a quiet, walkable block in the highly desirable Manayunk section of Philadelphia. Renovated in 2015, this well-maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers approximately 1,200 square feet of bright, modern living space with hardwood and tile flooring, abundant natural light, and a functional open layout that flows seamlessly
The Lofts at Chimney Hill are within walking distance of the picturesque 19th century Manayunk Canal and the Schuylkill tow path and recreational area. Biking, hiking, canoeing, and Main Street with boutique shops, trendy restaurants, and entertainment. There is easy access to all major transportation. Choose from a variety of spacious apartments with all the modern amenities, parking, and secure
Available April 1st — Live in the heart of Manayunk in this stunning 2BR/2BA residence within a boutique, custom 4-unit building. This bright, modern apartment offers an open-concept layout with an eat-in kitchen featuring stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, white shaker cabinetry, and stylish contemporary finishes throughout. Enjoy large windows with beautiful views, dedicated
Find your balance of urban living and small town charm at the Station at Manayunk. Choose from brand new one- or two-bedroom apartment homes nestled along the Schuylkill River and just minutes from historic downtown Manayunk. Stroll down Main Street for a mix of classic and contemporary retail, restaurants, and entertainment, or hop on SEPTA at the adjacent Ivy Ridge station for a quick ride to
Ready for the ultimate Manayunk lifestyle? This stunning 2-bed, 2-bath apartment puts you directly on Main Street while offering a cozy retreat. With nearly 1,000 square feet of bright living space and gleaming hardwood floors, this space is great for both entertaining and relaxing. The heart of the apartment is a chef’s kitchen featuring expansive granite countertops, a new 5-burner gas range,
Townhomes and Lofts Available! Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Apex Manayunk expertly blends three brand-new buildings with four historic textile mill structures to create one of the region's most exciting luxury apartment communities. With highly styled amenities and access to Philadelphia's finest restaurants and boutiques, Apex will be able to provide you with a luxurious and
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