4 Best Ways Spend a Day in University City

University City and it’s surrounding area referred to as Spruce Hill, have the some of Philadelphia’s most hidden gems. And the best part? You don’t need to be a student at Drexel or University of Pennsylvania to enjoy them. There are plenty of fun ways to spend a day in University City with places to shop, eat, and unwind. Whether your a student looking for something fun to do off campus or a someone who wants to see what the area has to offer, we’ve got a list of must-dos for your next visit. Plus, all of our picks for University City are a short walk from each other so you can be sure to visit them all in one day!

1. The Last Word Bookshop

? Four Square

There’s nothing quite like perusing the isles of a charming used bookstore to make you feel like you’re the main character in a movie. This tiny shop on South 40th Street is easy to miss but we promise you it is worth a stop. Located in the heart of UPenn’s campus, The Last Word Bookshop is the perfect place to fill your tote bag with good reads at a low price. All of their books are gently used and very affordable. Plus, who doesn’t love saving the planet with a recycled book? All of the staff are incredibly helpful and friendly. With a surprisingly wide selection from the classics, to nonfiction, to textbooks, you will be sure to find something to help you reduce your screen time for 2022.

2. Visit Clark Park

? Wikipedia

Now that you’ve got a bag full of new books to read, grab a picnic blanket and hammock because we are heading to the park! If you ask any University City or Spruce Hill native what their favorite part about living there is, no doubt they’ll mention Clark Park. This adorable park has it all: chess boards, bistro tables, occasional live music and flea markets, a playground and so much more. There is always lots of dogs to pet and people to see. Clark Park is one of our favorite places to go to read in the shade or journal on a weekend morning. Best of all; in the warmer seasons Clark Park hosts outdoor movie nights!

3. Order a Specialty Pizza at Clarkville

? Clarkville

Everyone knows that Philly has the best pizza. Sure, we may be biased, but Clarkville adds some validity to that claim. Directly across from Clark Park, Clarkville serves lunch, dinner, and brunch on weekends. While you can’t go wrong with ordering anything on their delicious comfort food menu, we HIGHLY recommend getting one of their specialty pizzas. Specifically the Honey Pie: white pizza with brussels, bacon, cheese, shaved red onion, and sriracha honey. We are drooling just thinking about it (and we’re sure you are too.)

4. Vegan Treats at Grindcore House

? Grindcore House

Let’s be real: vegan food gets a bad rap. Especially vegan desserts. People seem to think their cupcakes, brownies, and cookies will be tasteless and inedible if they aren’t made with milk and eggs. Grindcore House is here to change that. This vegan coffee house will quickly become your new favorite place for fresh to-go breakfast and vegan baked goods made by Crust Bakery. Though Crust Bakery’s main storefront is located in Manayunk, their tasty treats are ready to order at Grindcore House! We absolutely LOVE their Maple Walnut Scone and their double chocolate cookie. Grindcore House is the sweetest way to end a day of exploring in University City.

How To Spend a Day in University City

1. The Last Word Bookshop

2. Visit Clark Park

3. Order a Specialty Pizza at Clarkville

4. Vegan Treats at Grindcore House

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How To Spend a Day in University City

1. The Last Word Bookshop

2. Visit Clark Park

3. Order a Specialty Pizza at Clarkville

4. Vegan Treats at Grindcore House

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Karleigh Lopez