Welcome Mount Airy
An up-and-coming, peaceful community in the Philadelphia suburbs
Bounded on the northwest by Cresheim Valley, which is part of Fairmount Park, Mount Airy is nestled between Wissahickon Gorge and Germantown, enjoying a prime location among the neighborhoods of Philadelphia. This central spot ensures all residents a short commute to anywhere in the city, made even more enticing by the dappled shade thrown by tree-lined streets and rolling hills.
Once included in Germantown township, Mount Airy derives its name from Colonial Pennsylvania’s Chief Justice, William Allen. After he built a gorgeous estate on the land in 1750, it was dubbed Mount Airy. The name eventually came to be attributed to the neighborhood as a whole, though the stylish, historical atmosphere never left.
Today, Mount Airy boasts a population of around 13,000 and a wealth of nature within its borders. Known for its green spaces and urban-suburban feel, Mount Airy is home to styles ranging from Victorian, Italianate, Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival, and more architectural styles dating from the mid-1700s to housing developments from the 1920s. Brimming with history, stunning architecture, natural spaces, and a growing restaurant scene, Mount Airy appeals to anyone from young professionals to retirees looking to escape the center of Philadelphia.
Things to Love
- Famously and historically open-minded and diverse
- Access and proximity to acres of incredible parks
- Peaceful eateries, cafes, and more
People and Lifestyle
Mount Airy is known for its uniquely peaceful and green neighborhood atmosphere. Bordering Fairmount Park as well as other well-known parks, trails, and green spaces, the area teems with small-town energy and fine residential landscaping, creating a charming, popular mood. As a majority of residents are highly educated and own their homes, this suburb is perfect for families and others seeking to relocate.
Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment
Though Mount Airy enjoys proximity to the center of Philadelphia, its historic cobblestone businesses, restaurants, and cafes offer a wealth of options right in the neighborhood.
Find adventure within the pages of a book at Big Blue Marble Bookstore, a favorite whimsical location of Mount Airy locals. To spice up the wardrobe with unique and regularly updated outfits, stop by Artisans on the Avenue, a premier women’s clothing boutique. Of course, no new nursery is complete without checking out The Nesting House, a store for baby gifts, essentials, and more.
To relax after a long day of shopping around the neighborhood, be sure to enjoy the locally sourced and quality meats and seafood of CinCin Restaurant. Stop at Asian House for some casual, family-friendly Asian cuisine before wrapping up the night with a delicious cold drink at Iron Hill Brewery, McNally’s Tavern, or the Mount Airy Tap Room.
Things to Do
Mount Airy is proud to put the community first, which becomes obvious when considering activity options in and around the area.
One of the most important days in the Mount Airy community is, perhaps unsurprisingly, Mount Airy Day. Complete with local vendors, food, crafts, and entertainment, everyone from children to grandparents enjoy stepping outside with their community to partake in the great shops, eateries, and live music of the neighborhood.
As for constant activity, check out the farmer’s market at Weavers Way Co-op or consider getting in on the planting business yourself by joining up! The whole family will fall in love with Lovett Library & Park, a one-stop shop for reading, enjoying nature, and spending time with your friends and family. The Wissahickon Valley Park offers numerous trails and outdoor activities, and the local Fairmount Park is a must-see, as it’s the largest park in all of Philadelphia.
Schools
Mount Airy is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
- Emlen Elementary School
- Wissahickon Charter School
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