A visit to South Philly and West Passyunk would make anyone want to move to Philly. It’s a fun and fast-growing area that’s perfect for anyone on the go. In this series, we’ve invited a few of our Philadelphia Family Members to connect us with a local family they’ve served to explore why they love where they live — and why you will, too.

Meet the Guarnieri-Kaufmann family. They can’t wait to share why they love South Philly and West Passyunk.

What’s Great About South Philly and West Passyunk?

The adjoining neighborhoods of South Philly and West Passyunk are vibrant and fun. But they have their own unique character and attractions. South Philly is known for its Italian-American heritage and sports culture. West Passyunk has a more diverse population and a growing restaurant and business scene.

South Philly and West Passyunk offer a mix of residential and commercial areas. Enjoy easy proximity to free Philly family-friendly events. These Philly neighborhoods offer parks, community gardens, a lake, and golf. Neat boutiques and unique restaurants make it a go-to destination.

Interview with a South Philly and West Passyunk Family

What do the Guarnieri-Kaufmann family have to say about the place they consider “home.” From shops to restaurants to parks, these two neighborhoods offer plenty of family fun.

Which Philly neighborhood do you call home and why?

“South Philly and West Passyunk. We enjoy being close to our neighbors and having easy access to some of the best restaurants in the City. Our go-to spots for walks are Girard Park and FDR Park. We also love John Heinz Wildlife Refuge.”

What was the most important thing you considered when picking your kids’ school?

“Our son is in daycare, but we looked for proximity to home and strong references from people we trust.”

What does a typical weekend look like for your family?

“Weekends usually involve one or more nice walks, eating something delicious, and spending quality time with friends and family who live close by.”

South Philly has plenty of boutiques. What is your go-to shop for kids’ birthday gifts?

“Tildie’s Toy Box (1829 East Passyunk Ave.) on Passyunk Ave and The Nesting House (542 Carpenter Ln.) in Germantown.”

What is your favorite local kid-friendly restaurant?

“Anywhere our stroller can fit. Cafe Nhan (1606 W. Passyunk Ave.) is around the corner, and we love taking our son there.”

What is the best piece of parenting advice you’ve received?

“Give yourself grace.”

You have friends visiting from out of town. What are your must-do local attractions?

“Pastries at Machine Shop (1901 S. 9th St.), the Southeast Asian Market at FDR Park and a nice walk in the Meadows (while it exists), a visit to the Philadelphia Art Museum and Boathouse Row, dinner at an Italian restaurant (our favorite is L’Angolo), [and] ice cream at Franklin Fountain (116 Market St.).”

Making West Passyunk and South Philly Home

There are all kinds of things to do and love about South Philly and West Manayunk. From Philly indoor play spaces to pocket parks and sprawling playgrounds, no family will lack something new to do. These neighborhoods make it easy to access everything the city offers.

This story supports the Philly Family Community. Collaborate with Us.
Photos by Rachel Utain-Evans Photography, as seen in the Moving to Philly Guide.