People & Lifestyle

Ranked as two of the best places to live in Philadelphia, Rittenhouse and Fitler are particularly popular with young professionals and families. Streets like Walnut and Chestnut in Rittenhouse are home to some of the best clothing boutiques the city has to offer, interspersed with eclectic cafés and cultural attractions. Mixed with the dense, busy streets are quieter pockets for casual strolls and neighborhood gastropubs. Home to Philly's elite, Rittenhouse is the pinnacle of refinement.

Neighboring Fitler is more family-oriented and attractive to graduate students and families. With more of a community feel than Rittenhouse, Fitler is within walking distance of the commercial district and the Schuylkill River, where you'll find a myriad of nature trails.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Reminiscent of the culturally and artistically rich Belle Époque era in Paris, Parc is a posh bistro in the center of Rittenhouse Square that’s perfect for al fresco dining. Savor first-rate French cuisine while overlooking the verdant park and observing the daily happenings of the square.

Nestled inside an intimate bi-level brownstone, Vernick Food & Drink is a stylish New American eatery serving upscale dishes alongside handcrafted cocktails. A casual bar inhabits the first floor, while the second floor is where you'll find the formal dining room. Award-winning Chef Greg Vernick executes his creative vision by allowing his culinary muse to decide his menu's direction, refusing to limit himself to any particular theme or focus.

The Love is a two-level oasis in Rittenhouse Square with an upper-level loft, a central dining and bar area, and outdoor seating along 18th Street. Acclaimed duo Aimee Olexy and Stephen Starr designed this relaxed charmer of a restaurant.

Shopping in Rit-Fit doesn't get much better, or more refined, than globally-renowned department store Boyds Philadelphia. Nationally-recognized as one of the country's premier independent luxury fashion stores, Boyds caters to apparel for women and men, along with offering personal shopping services.

Things to Do

Surrounded by ornate sculptures and featuring a reflecting pool at its heart, Rittenhouse Square Park is a hotspot for visitors and residents looking for a quiet place to stroll or relax. This historically significant park was one of five original squares planned by Philadelphia founder William Penn in the 17th century.

Its central location makes it a desirable spot for many local events and festivities, such as the Rittenhouse Square Spring Festival. Thousands of people attend the festival every year to soak in the sights and sounds of the square. With incredible food, showstopping performances, and a bevy of arts and entertainment, the Rittenhouse Square Spring Festival is the social event of the season.

During the fall, artists from across the country gather for the Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show, also known as "Circle the Square." Come winter, the square serves as the perfect backdrop for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting.

Schools

Students from kindergarten through eighth grade attend Albert M. Greenfield School and Benjamin Franklin High School from ninth through twelfth grade. The Philadelphia School, a private independent, interdisciplinary, nonsectarian institute for preschool through eighth grade, is located nearby, as is the private conservatory, The Curtis Institute of Music.