REDISCOVER
We all need breaks now and then refuel, recharge, and to feel refreshed. See our choices for where to go if you’re seeking a quiet spot in nature, a cozy coffee shop for a quick treat or caffeine boost, or a massage or spa treatment. However you define refreshment, West Philadelphia has you covered!
Alif Brew and Mini Mart
Part convenience store and part takeout restaurant, this café, recently named one of the top 50 restaurants in the region by Philadelphia Magazine, removes the stress of figuring out breakfast or lunch with its Ethiopian coffee and food offerings.
Our tip: Visit on a Tuesday to experience Alif's take on tacos, made with the classic Ethiopian flatbread injera and healthy ingredients.
Cornerstone Bed and Breakfast
Philadelphia's only hotel to earn Select Registry, Distinguished Inn of North America status, Cornerstone mixes modern flare and Victorian charm in a prime Powelton Village location.
Our tip: When booking, consider a package for romance, babymoons, or our personal favorite, the massage/spa package.
Grindcore House West
Vegan coffee shop offering caffeinated creations, sweet treats, and savory sandwiches.
Our tip: Bring the vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free people in your life for a wide range of baked goods to enjoy.
Green Line Cafe
West Philadelphia-based small chain of coffeeshops serving fairly-traded coffee and quick bites in a welcoming atmosphere since 2003.
Our tip: It's all about the coffee at Green Line, and you can't go wrong with any of their micro-batch roasted blends.
Hair Vyce
Make an appointment at this locally-owned salon staffed by friendly stylists who specialize in the latest hair care trends and products.
Our tip: When booking your appointment choose from services ranging from colorings to cuts to natural stylings.
Hand and Stone
Relax and pamper yourself at this outpost of the popular massage and facial spa chain located at the intersection of the Penn and Drexel campuses.
Our tip: Stop by for a one-off massage or rejuvenating facial, or earn access to additional treatments and perks through their membership program.
Locust Walk
Explore the beautiful pedestrian artery of the University of Pennsylvania to uncover four city blocks of manicured walkways, meeting areas, and sculptures.
Our tip: Grab a bite from nearby food trucks, including many set up on 37th Street, and find a shady bench to sit and enjoy underneath a canopy of trees.
Metropolitan Bakery
Founded nearly 30 years ago to offer European-quality breads and pastries in Philadelphia, Metropolitan provides baked goods, coffee, and more sourced from local farmers and artisan producers.
Our tip: When stopping into their West Philly location for a coffee, tea, or treat, make sure to grab a loaf of the same breads served at some of Philadelphia's finest restaurants.
Stomping Grounds Social Justice Cafe
Stomping Grounds Social Justice Cafe serves lattes, coffees, cappuccinos, and more, but what’s most refreshing is its mission to provide an authentic experiential learning opportunity to its staff. The cafe was planned and coordinated by YouthBuild Philly, a charter school that since 1992 has helped former high school dropouts reclaim their education be empowered to become self-sufficient leaders of their community and earn a living sustaining wage.
Our tip: If you can visit the café in person, you can support their mission by donating on their website.
Transfiguration Hair Studio
Go bold with a new style from trendy Transfiguration, a shop specializing in gender-neutral cuts and colorings, plus astrology readings.
Our tip: Come prepared for a hair consultation with photos of styles and colors to help your haircrafter get you that perfect look.
The Woodlands
Don't be put off by the tombstones at this sprawling 54-acre oasis, offering walking paths, historic trees, bird-watching, and seasonal events.
Our tip: Be on the lookout for "Cradle Graves," or small gardens once planted and maintained by families of the deceased that are now adopted and maintained by a community of volunteer "Grave Gardeners.”