Header photo: Mature trees, walking paths and benches in Rittenhouse Square in autumn in Philadelphia. Photo: Daderot — Rittenhouse Square - autumn - IMG 6570.JPG. Public domain. Photo/source date: 2010. Cropped and color-adjusted.
Start with a walk around the square, then let yourself explore a little farther. Rittenhouse offers homes with very different personalities, from brownstones to buildings with views and services close at hand. We'll help you find the one that feels right when you come home.
Explore this guide
At a glance
Homes: Historic townhouses, brownstones, boutique condominium conversions and full-service residential towers.
Getting around: Compare the route to work, daily shopping and transit from the actual building entrance.
Worth weighing: Building fees, parking and maintenance responsibilities can change the total cost substantially.
Family life in Rittenhouse Square
Time in the square can be a lovely part of a family day here. Think about the other stops you'd want nearby, too: a playground, childcare, school and somewhere to pick up groceries. Try putting a few of those trips together from a building or house you're considering.
A full-service building may simplify some tasks, but examine the unit itself: bedroom separation, storage, laundry and room for shared time. In a townhouse, compare those benefits with the stairs, entrance and exterior maintenance you and your family would manage.
Schools and childcare
Use the School District of Philadelphia enrollment and school finder resources for the exact home address. Confirm assignment and enrollment details with the district, including any application process for another school option.
Use Pennsylvania's COMPASS child care search to start a provider search. Contact providers about age groups, hours, availability and pickup arrangements, then try the trip from the home.
Finding the right home here
Look beyond the amenity list at association finances, planned work, included services and parking rights. For a historic townhouse, understand the condition of roofs, masonry and systems as well as the interior finishes.
Want a closer look at the homes themselves? Read our Philadelphia rowhome buying guide.
Daily life, parking and getting around
Enjoy the square, then spend a few minutes outside the building where you might live. Notice nearby restaurants, deliveries and which way the windows face. Visit again when you'd normally be home, so you can get a feel for a park-facing home and a side-street one alike.
Use SEPTA's current trip planner for the journey and travel time you expect to keep. If you drive, verify parking terms and access for the specific home.
Places to explore
Rittenhouse Square Park
Walnut Street
Surrounding residential side streets
Check facilities and current activities through the City's parks and recreation finder or the individual operator before planning your visit.
For shops, restaurants and neighborhood events around the square, browse Rittenhouse Row.
Come spend some time here
Walk through the square and the surrounding residential streets.
Test an ordinary grocery, childcare or transit trip from a building you like.
Revisit the unit or block in the evening to get a feel for activity and sound.
There’s no need to rush. Bring the stroller if you use one, leave time for an errand and take the walk you’d make from home. A weekday visit and another in the evening can help you get a feel for the neighborhood.
A few more neighborhoods to explore
Fitler Square: Take a look at a smaller residential area with river access.
Logan Square: Explore condominium options closer to the Parkway and library.
Washington Square West: Get to know townhouses and smaller-building alternatives.
Let’s find your place here
Curious about making a home in Rittenhouse Square? Send us a few listings you like, or tell us what you’re hoping to find. We’re Eric and Melanie, and we’d love to help you get to know the neighborhood, talk through the homes and figure out your next step.
Picture yourself here.
Have a home in mind, or still getting a feel for the area? Tell us what you’re looking for. We’d love to help you explore.
Keep exploring
Fitler Square Take a look at a smaller residential area with river access.
Logan Square Explore condominium options closer to the Parkway and library.
Washington Square West Get to know townhouses and smaller-building alternatives.
Explore our current listings
Here are a few homes we currently have listed around the area. Each card shows its location.
