Living in Bella Vista, PA
Bella Vista, Pennsylvania officially joined Philadelphia in 1854, and since then, this neighborhood southeast of Center City has welcomed many people, notably the Italian community that flocked to the area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, Bella Vista retains much of its Italian heritage through established eateries and new bocce leagues that meet at Bardascino Park.
Things to Do in Bella Vista
The cozy and compact area of Bella Vista, Philadelphia features cultural institutions, like Philadelphia's Magic Gardens, a museum that showcases urban trash-to-treasure art in its famous outdoor installation, and the Fleischer Art Memorial, a church dedicated to hosting new galleries for all residents to enjoy. Festivals and outdoor concerts make Bella Vista a lively place in the warmer months of the year.
Residents mingle with curious tourists at the 9th Street Italian Market, the oldest open-air marketplace in the country, which offers scores of fresh food stands and ethnic cuisine stalls to bring the community together for great eating and people-watching. Elsewhere in the neighborhood you'll find restaurants ranging from fine dining to small cafes and independent eateries that are operated by longstanding members of the community. The best spots can be found along 9th Street, but there are new restaurants to explore on Washington Avenue as well.
Bella Vista Real Estate
Homes for sale in Bella Vista can be hard to come by, since the neighborhood is just five blocks in either direction. Options range from million-dollar condos in the gated community of Queen Village to brick row homes and smaller condos carved out of one level of a townhouse. Renters, on the other hand, have more luck, with traditional apartment buildings, row homes and condos often available for rent. Prices increase on the northern end of the neighborhood thanks to its easy access to Center City and the nightlife attractions of action-packed South Street, but more affordable options can be found closer to Washington Avenue.
Getting Around the City
Bella Vista residents can reach the subway on Broad Street, just a few blocks west of the neighborhood. They can also hop on the PATCO rail line that runs through the neighborhood. SEPTA buses make the trip to Center City in under 15 minutes, and many residents find this option more convenient than a car, since parking can be tricky on narrow city streets. Living in Bella Vista puts iconic Philly locations, like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, within easy reach, making it a popular choice for young professionals and families.
