Graduate Hospital

 

Brimming with artistic energy and undeniable charm, the Graduate Hospital neighborhood is one of Philadelphia’s most dynamic up-and-comers. A recent wave of revitalization has washed over Graduate Hospital, resulting in beautifully restored historic homes, as well as sleek new construction builds designed by of-the-moment architects. Hip boutiques and chef-driven restaurants line eclectic South Street, and a rich festival life keeps residents entertained. The sound of laughter takes the place of traffic noise as locals fill the streets for Bloktoberfest and the Odunde Festival, two of the area’s most beloved events.

 

Originally named for the landmark medical center that once occupied the area in the 1970s, Graduate Hospital continues to carry the moniker, although nicknames for this highly sought-after spot abound. Affectionately referred to by residents as South of South and Center City South, the area certainly is at the heart of it all. Walkable to the trendiest restaurants, Graduate Hospital is also close to the prestigious University of Pennsylvania and the notable Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Seamlessly blending old-school grit, a vibrant sense of urbanity, and the charm of a small town, Graduate Hospital is like the effortlessly cool older sister you want to hang out with every night.

 

• Hip culinary scene
• Luxe condos and historic homes
• Pedestrian-friendly
• Proximity to the University of Pennsylvania and CHOP 

Graduate Hospital sports a fresh new sheen while happily tipping its hat to times past. The pretty, tree-lined spot provides the tranquility of a traditionally residential neighborhood, along with the convenience of vibrant downtown living. The mix of born-and-raised families, young, affluent professionals, trendy gourmands, hip urban artists, and the kiddo crowd contribute to the community’s flair and personality. You’re just as likely to see designer suit-clad sophisticates meeting at a stylish spot for cocktails as diaper bag-toting, stroller-pushing parents out for a walk with the kids.

 

The highly walkable streets of Graduate Hospital were made for strolling from cafe to boutique to bistro to bar and back again. Set in the sumptuous dining room of the reimagined Royal Theater, Rex at the Royal transports you to the sultry setting of Charleston and Savannah. The stunning Lowcountry cuisine offers bold Southern classics, like crawfish pot pie, shrimp and grits, and fried green tomatoes.

 

Stylish design and artfully plated New American fare are the hallmarks of Pumpkin. Cozy and intimate, this BYOB bistro showcases the region’s best farms and freshest seafood in a seasonal three-course daily menu. A retro, kitschy vibe sets the mood for laid-back fun at Loco Pez Taqueria. Enjoy a lazy Sunday here with the scratch-made brunch, or stop in for a lively dinner of enchiladas and signature waffle fries. Seasonal, farm-to-table specialties are on the menu at the bustling Pub and Kitchen. This European-inspired tavern offers low-key delights, like cheese curds and housemade pretzels, as well as creative concoctions like pastrami banh mi French dip and lioni burrata with rhubarb.

 

With a hip lineup of bars and festivals, Graduate Hospital will keep your dance card full night after night. Soak in the vibrant energy of South Street as you explore the countless bars and boutiques. Stop for dinner at one of the trendy restaurants, catch an up-and-coming band, and get a tarot reading, all in the same place. Athletes can head over to the Marian Anderson Recreation Center for a game of basketball or a dip in the pool. Named for the local resident who went on to become a world-famous opera singer, this three-acre park features a pool, athletic fields, a boxing gym, and even a dojo. 

 

Graduate Hospital sets the bar for street festivals. A beloved neighborhood event for almost 50 years, the Odunde Festival has become the national model for cultural street fairs. Honoring Oshun, the river goddess, this charismatic celebration is a nod to the Yoruba people of Nigeria and showcases an authentic African marketplace. Autumn in Graduate Hospital brings Bloktoberfest, where residents connect over craft beer, gourmet food truck fare, and live music.

 

As part of the School District of Philadelphia, Graduate Hospital families have access to the top-ranked Chester A. Arthur School, which teaches students in kindergarten through eighth grade.