A mixture of art, history and parks makes Northwest Philly a diverse area for community activities and events. Check out the community treasures of the Northwest.
Woodmere Art Museum
This 19th-century Victorian mansion sits on six acres of land in Chestnut Hill. Once the home of Charles Knox Smith, an oil and mining businessman, the site is now home to over 3,000 works of art (above). With lectures, movie nights and holiday events, this museum has something for everyone.
Morris Arboretum
Nestled in Chestnut Hill lies the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania, the official arboretum of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Explore the family-friendly plant collecting expeditions and learn horticultural practices from experts. Thousands of visitors frequent the arboretum for research, learning and uncovering natural beauty.
Johnson House Historic Site
First owned by a family of Quaker abolitionists, the Johnson House Historic Site helped to free enslaved African-Americans during the 19th century. Located on Germantown Avenue, the historic house not only serves as a staple in American history, but also provides tours and educational programs for kids and adults alike.
Settlement Music School
The Settlement Music School is not just of value to Philadelphia, but to the nation. The school is the largest community school of the arts in the country. Despite its elite nature, the school awards nearly $2 million annually in financial aid and scholarships, thus being able to reach kids from lower income neighborhoods. The school also offers music, art and dance/movement therapy that have been proven to lead to improved self-esteem, increased coping skills and relaxation.
Center in the Park
Senior citizens are not forgotten when it comes to activities in Northwest Philadelphia. Center in the Park was founded in 1968 specifically as a community resource to fit the needs of the older residents of the Northwest. Located on Germantown Avenue, the center hosts trips and events, including trips to Atlantic City.
– Text and images by Paulina Jayne Isaac and Maryrose Kelkis
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