About University City
Located just across the river from Philadelphia’s historic Center City, University City is located in West Philadelphia, and is home to two of the city’s major universities: The University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. The area was first given its name in the 1950s, largely due to Penn’s presence. Now a vibrant college town, the area features museums and popular local eats, such as Federal Donuts—a donut shop created by Philadelphia’s famed Michael Solomonov, owner of Zahav.
Fun Fact: The University of Pennsylvania was started by one of the nation’s founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin

Things to do in University City
- Take a tour at UPenn or at Drexel and get a feel of what it’s like to be a student in Philadelphia
- Enjoy the sun and a view of the city at Cira Green—you might even be able to catch a movie in the summer
- Get some fresh air and take a stroll along the river on the Schuylkill River Trail
- Can’t book a reservation at Zahav? Try another one of Mike Solomonov’s local eats at Federal Donuts
- Brush up on your history and take a visit to the Egyptian Section at the Penn Museum
Transit Options
- SEPTA: The Market-Frankford Line
- Trolley: Routes 11, 13, 34, 36
- Bus: Route 30
- LUCY: Green and Gold Loop
Luggage Storage in University City
Although there’s no shortage of things to do in University City, there are no storage options for your bags or luggage during the day. Use Bounce to store your luggage with one of our local partners and leave the extra weight behind.