By Megan Douress
We asked, and you answered! Millennials, empty-nesters, and recent college grads alike all responded to our call when we asked what our readers love about living in Manayunk. The answers varied, from the trails, to the locally-sourced food and beer, and the personal relationships with neighbors. Here’s what our readers had to say.
“My husband and I call it our little mountain town with a big city zip code. It’s funny, I didn’t grow up here, but I’ve never felt more at home anywhere I have lived. This being the most densely populated place, we always get small town vibes bumping into people we have met, whether just out for a walk, at the park, or on a hike. You really get to know your neighbors and they become like family.” – Morgan, age 28, resident for 3 years
“We have many favorites here, obviously. Manayunk Tavern is our favorite “corner pub” spot for great food, cheap drinks, and friendly staff- and possibly the best location for people-watching on Main Street on the corner. We always take a stroll down Main and visit some of our favorite shops: the Little Apple is always fun to stop in for fun gifts, and so is Latitudes & Longitudes. If it’s the weekend, we’ll definitely browse the Farmer’s Market at Pretzel Park on Saturdays. And lately, renting an electric bike from Pedego on Main has been a really fun way to explore the Towpath/SRT or go into the city.” – Zach & Hugh, age 30, residents for 4 years
“Some of my favorites include brunch at Winnie’s, drinks by the river at Manayunk Brewing Company, and burgers at Lucky’s Last Chance.” – Karen, resident for 48 years
“I love the sense of community here. I also love all there is to do and the convenience of being able to walk everywhere.” – Bethany, age 37, resident for 11 years
“Manayunk is unlike any other Philadelphia neighborhood we have ever lived in. It’s a place where, no matter how long you’ve lived here, you instantly feel connected to your community. Neighbors get to know one another here and it makes it feel like home, no matter if you’re a renter or a homeowner.” Kait, age 29, resident for 3 years; Rory, age 30, resident for 7 years
“There is something for everyone — not just college kids. The sense of community is unrivaled. “ – Sam, age 37, resident for 4 years
“We like to go for a walk along the canal and the pedestrian bridge to Lower Merion, bar crawl to some of our favorite restaurants on Main Street, try to go to the farmers market on the weekend, and hit up Crust Vegan Bakery for some baked goods.” – Donald, age 30, resident for 5 years
“There’s nothing better than hopping on the towpath and following it to Main Street, and bumping into friends along the way!” Glynis, age 30, resident for 3 years
“It’s filled with friendly neighbors and easily accessible activities. Everything from going out to dinner, clothes shopping, doing a grocery run, and enjoying the park is just a short walk away.” Jamie, age 31, resident for 8 months
“My husband and I moved from the suburbs when we became empty nesters. We never had a chance to speak to some of our neighbors because they drove right into their garages. I used to ride my bike on the sidewalk because there weren’t any pedestrians. In contrast, we have met so many friendly people (some of whom have become friends) while they were playing banjo on their porch or grilling pulled pork for the Eagles game or out walking their dogs and in the mood for conversation.” – Sheryl, age 60, resident for 1 year