New York
Washington D.C.
Boston
Miami
West Palm Beach
Philadelphia
Los Angeles
London, UK
Alexandria
celebrating our second century
AKA University City

University City Neighborhood Guide

Explore Philadelphia’s Innovative Urban Center

Globally renowned medical centers,  a flourishing life science sector, and some of the nation’s most prestigious academic institutions define the landscape of Philadelphia’s University City. The University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) are all less than a 15-minute drive from the bustle of Center City. Over the years, the student influence here has cultivated a vibrant bar, restaurant, and arts scene. Base yourself in the University City neighborhood and enjoy exploring Philadelphia’s creative, dynamic and innovative culture.

Where to Eat in University City

Staying at AKA University City, you’ll have exquisite dining options just steps from your residence. Located in the Cira Centre complex, Walnut Street Café serves New American cuisine and artisan cocktails. A few blocks away sits City Tap House, a neighborhood-favorite gastropub with an extensive beer selection and elevated pub dining. You’ll also enjoy elevated comfort food and tasty beverages at Misconduct Tavern, while Louie Louie offers the timeless grandeur of a European café inspired by popular French cuisine.

Walnut Street Cafe

2929 Walnut Street

Franklin’s Table Food Hall

3401 Walnut Street

Sally

2229 Spruce Street

White Dog Cafe University City

3420 Sansom Street

Distrito Philly

3945 Chestnut Street

Louie Louie

3611 Walnut Street

Caribou Cafe

1126 Walnut Street

University City Museums and Art Galleries

Keeping with the area’s progressive nature, University City is home to the city’s Institute of Contemporary Art, one of Philadelphia’s most celebrated cultural institutions. See iconic, thought-provoking works by Andy Warhol, Robert Mapplethorpe, and other modern masters. You can also discover emerging artists by browsing the student exhibitions and collaborations at University of Pennsylvania’s Charles Addams Fine Arts Gallery. The nearby Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Franklin Institute, and the Penn Museum are also nearby.

Institute of Contemporary Art

118 S 36th Street

Charles Addams Fine Arts Gallery

200 S 36th Street

Penn Museum

3260 South Street

The Franklin Institute

222 N 20th Street

Philadelphia Museum of Art

2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Outdoor Activities in University City

You’ll be staying steps away from Cira Green, Cira Centre’s stunning one-acre park elevated 90 feet above the city. You can also head outside and enjoy invigorating walks, runs, and bike rides through Schuylkill River Trail, a picturesque 10-mile-long path that runs through the center of the city. We also recommend catching a game at Franklin Field, the University of Pennsylvania's stadium for football, track and field, and lacrosse.

Franklin Field

235 S 33rd Street

Cira Green

80 S 30th Street

Schuykill River Park

300 S 25th Street

Medical Centers

AKA University City is a home away from home for patients and families seeking uncompromising comfort near the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Penn Presbyterian Medical Center. Located just steps from the University of Pennsylvania and minutes from Center City, our spacious suites offer plush beds, separate living areas, and fully equipped kitchens that will help you feel right at home during weekly or monthly stays.

Local Activities and Points of Interest

AKA University City
2929 Walnut St., Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
Phone: 215.372.9000

Become an Aka insider

Sign up to receive guaranteed best rates and exclusive offers.