From Frankford Hall’s massive German beer garden with fire pits and steins of craft beer, to Yards Brewing Company’s spacious taproom just a 6-minute walk from 200 Spring Garden St, and The Fillmore’s nationally recognized live music stage, Northern Liberties packs some of the best things to do in Philadelphia into a highly walkable neighborhood.
Visitors can enjoy brunch at Jerry’s Bar in a restored 19th-century building, bowl and play arcade games at North Bowl, or unwind in the community-run Liberty Lands Park.
This guide ranks the Top 10 Things to Do in Northern Liberties Philadelphia for 2025, highlighting nightlife, breweries, family-friendly parks, murals, and local cafés that’s all within 5 to 15 minutes on foot. Travelers staying at Hyatus’s Boutique Retreat in Old City at 200 Spring Garden St will find Northern Liberties attractions steps away.
Northern Liberties History and Neighborhood Vibe
Northern Liberties began as one of Philadelphia’s earliest industrial districts, powered by German, Polish, and Ukrainian immigrants who opened breweries, tanneries, and factories along 2nd and 3rd Streets. By the late 1800s, the area was known as a “workshop of the world,” producing everything from beer to textiles.
While industry declined in the mid-20th century, artists and entrepreneurs reclaimed its warehouses in the 1980s and 1990s, converting them into galleries, lofts, and performance spaces.
This creative influx transformed Northern Liberties into one of Philadelphia’s first post-industrial revival neighborhoods, paving the way for landmarks like The Piazza Alta, Yards Brewing Company, and the Fillmore Philadelphia.
Today, NoLibs combines its gritty brick-and-factory backdrop with lively beer gardens, community green spaces like Liberty Lands Park, and vibrant street murals, making it both a historic district and one of Philadelphia’s most walkable cultural hubs.
The Top 10 Best Things to Do in Northern Liberties
Below are the must-visit attractions and experiences, ranked for 2025.
#1 – Frankford Hall: Best for Beer Lovers 🍻
What It Is: A massive German-inspired beer garden with communal tables, fire pits, and open-air fun.
Pros:
- Huge selection of German and local craft beers
- Outdoor seating perfect for groups
- Lively, social vibe with ping-pong and games
Cons:
- Gets very crowded on weekends
- Outdoor focus makes it less ideal in winter
Perfect for casual nights out, group gatherings, and anyone who loves a festive atmosphere.
#2 – The Piazza Alta & The Piazza: Best for Events 🎉
What It Is: A mixed-use plaza at the center of Northern Liberties featuring shops, cafés, and frequent public events.
Pros:
- Free events like markets, concerts, and outdoor movies.
- Excellent people-watching spot.
- Surrounded by restaurants and boutiques.
Cons:
- Quieter on weekdays if no event is scheduled.
- Food options skew more trendy (and pricey).
Ideal for daytime exploring or catching a local festival. For a similar creative energy, explore Callowhill, another Philadelphia neighborhood transformed by art and culture.
#3 – Jerry’s Bar: Best for Brunch 🍳
What It Is: A restored 19th-century bar offering hearty comfort food, cocktails, and weekend brunch.
Pros:
- Stylish yet cozy setting with neighborhood charm.
- Great brunch menu with locally sourced ingredients.
- Friendly staff and welcoming vibe.
Cons:
- Can be a wait for tables on weekends.
- Smaller space, so reservations are smart.
Best for a sit-down meal with friends or family.
#4 – North Bowl: Best for Nightlife 🎳
What It Is: A retro bowling alley turned nightlife hub, with two floors of fun.
Pros:
- Bowling, arcade games, billiards, and a full bar.
- Quirky, colorful décor adds to the fun.
- Famous tater tots menu item.
Cons:
- Wait times for lanes on busy nights.
- Not the cheapest bowling in town.
Great for groups, date nights, or mixing nightlife with entertainment.
#5 – Yards Brewing Company: Best for Craft Beer Enthusiasts 🍺
What It Is: Philadelphia’s iconic hometown brewery, now located in a spacious Northern Liberties facility.
Pros:
- Wide selection of Yards classics plus limited releases.
- Brewery tours available.
- Large indoor and outdoor dining areas.
Cons:
- Weekends can feel packed.
- More of a large-scale brewery feel, less intimate.
A must-visit for anyone who loves Philly’s craft beer scene. If you enjoy exploring local breweries, you might also love the growing food and drink scene near our Providence furnished homes.
#6 – Liberty Lands Park: Best for Families 🌳
Pros:
What It Is: A community-managed, two-acre park with gardens, playgrounds, and events.
- Family-friendly atmosphere.
- Hosts summer festivals and movie nights.
- Green space in the middle of the city.
Cons:
- Limited facilities (small bathrooms, basic seating).
- Best during warm weather.
#7 – Random Tea Room & Curiosity Shop: Best for Unique Vibes 🍵
What It Is: An eclectic tea house and shop with a bohemian vibe, offering a wide selection of teas and curiosities.
Pros:
- Huge variety of teas from around the world.
- Cozy, unique atmosphere perfect for relaxing.
- Hosts events like poetry readings and workshops.
Cons:
- Limited seating, can feel crowded.
- Not ideal for a quick grab-and-go.
Perfect for a relaxing afternoon or a unique cultural experience.
#8 – One Shot Café: Best for Coffee & Remote Work ☕
What It Is: A popular neighborhood coffee shop with a cozy, rustic-chic vibe, serving coffee, pastries, and light fare.
Pros:
- Excellent coffee and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Great spot for remote work or studying.
- Delicious food options, including breakfast and lunch.
Cons:
- Can get busy, making it hard to find a table.
- Limited power outlets for laptops.
A local favorite for a caffeine fix or a productive work session.
#9 – Street Murals & Galleries: Best for Art Lovers 🎨
What It Is: Northern Liberties is home to a vibrant street art scene and numerous art galleries, showcasing the work of local and international artists.
Pros:
- Free and accessible art for everyone to enjoy.
- A great way to explore the neighborhood on foot.
- Constantly evolving with new murals and exhibitions.
Cons:
- Murals can be spread out, requiring some walking.
- Gallery hours may vary.
Discover the creative soul of Northern Liberties through its public art and galleries.
#10 – The Fillmore Philadelphia: Best for Live Music 🎶
What It Is: A premier live music venue that hosts a wide range of concerts and events, from big-name artists to emerging acts.
Pros:
- Excellent acoustics and a great concert atmosphere.
- Hosts a diverse lineup of musical genres.
- Multiple bars and a spacious layout.
Cons:
- Ticket prices can be high for popular shows.
- Can get crowded, especially for sold-out events.
Catch a show at The Fillmore for an unforgettable live music experience.
Northern Liberties Attractions at a Glance
| Attraction | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Frankford Hall | Beer Lovers | $$ |
| The Piazza Alta & The Piazza | Events | Free – $$ |
| Jerry’s Bar | Brunch | $$ |
| North Bowl | Nightlife | $$ |
| Yards Brewing Company | Craft Beer Enthusiasts | $$ |
| Liberty Lands Park | Families | Free |
| Random Tea Room & Curiosity Shop | Unique Vibes | $ |
| One Shot Café | Coffee & Remote Work | $ |
| Street Murals & Galleries | Art Lovers | Free |
| The Fillmore Philadelphia | Live Music | $$$ |
Where to Stay Near Northern Liberties Philadelphia
For travelers who want both convenience and comfort, the Hyatus Boutique Retreat in Old City at 200 Spring Garden St is the perfect choice. Located just steps from Northern Liberties, this thoughtfully designed apartment blends modern style with five-star amenities. Guests enjoy easy access to attractions such as The Piazza, Yards Brewing Company, and The Fillmore.
The retreat offers upscale comforts that make every stay memorable. Each apartment is deep-cleaned before arrival and includes complimentary gourmet coffee, fresh linens, and premium bathroom essentials. Inside, guests will find a designer kitchen with GE stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops, a spacious living area with 9-foot ceilings and full-height windows, and in-unit laundry for convenience.
Beyond the apartment, visitors can take advantage of coworking spaces, a conference room, and private lounges. These spaces are ideal for both remote work and relaxation after a day of exploring. The building also provides outdoor grills, a dog run, and curated local art installations that create a unique community feel.
While the building does not have on-site parking, guests can choose from several nearby garages. Options include the Rivermark South Garage and 81 Spring Garden St, both available through SpotHero and within a short walking distance.
Read More: Hyatus Philadelphia
Whether staying for a weekend getaway or a longer visit, Hyatus offers the perfect mix of luxury, comfort, and city convenience. It is the ideal home base for exploring Northern Liberties and the rest of Philadelphia.
Northern Liberties Philadelphia Highlights
- Vibrant Nightlife: From lively beer gardens to retro bowling alleys and premier music venues, Northern Liberties comes alive at night.
- Thriving Food Scene: The neighborhood is a foodie paradise, with everything from cozy brunch spots to trendy restaurants and craft breweries.
- Rich History and Culture: Explore the area’s industrial past, vibrant street art, and unique local shops.
- Walkable and Accessible: With its compact layout and proximity to other popular neighborhoods, Northern Liberties is easy to explore on foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Northern Liberties known for?
Northern Liberties is known for its vibrant arts scene, lively nightlife, and rich industrial history. It’s a popular destination for foodies, beer lovers, and music fans.
Is Northern Liberties a good neighborhood for families?
Yes, Northern Liberties is a family-friendly neighborhood with parks, playgrounds, and a variety of activities for all ages.
How do I get to Northern Liberties?
Northern Liberties is easily accessible by public transportation, including the Market-Frankford Line and several bus routes. It’s also a short walk or bike ride from Center City and other nearby neighborhoods.
In addition to Old City, Hyatus offers stays in New Haven furnished apartments and Providence furnished homes, making it easy to enjoy stylish retreats across the Northeast.
What are some free things to do in Northern Liberties?
There are plenty of free things to do in Northern Liberties, including exploring the neighborhood’s street art, relaxing in Liberty Lands Park, and attending free events at The Piazza.
