Making the Most of Move-In Madness

Discover the best places to shop, eat, and celebrate during move-in. From Penn Bookstore essentials to family dinner spots near campus - your complete move-in guide.
College move-in day at the University of Pennsylvania is more than just hauling boxes and setting up dorm rooms. It's a milestone moment for students and families that deserves to be celebrated. Whether you're a first-year student or returning to campus, these five University City destinations will help you make the most of your Penn move-in experience.
1
shop
Apparel
Books
Address

3601 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

Start your move-in day at the official Penn Bookstore, located right in the heart of campus. This isn't just any college bookstore - it's your one-stop shop for everything Penn.

Here you'll discover official Penn apparel and accessories to show your Quaker pride, textbooks and school supplies for the upcoming semester, and Penn-branded bags perfect for navigating campus. Don't miss the Starbucks on the second floor for your essential caffeine fix during unpacking. Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and fuel up with coffee before the heavy lifting begins.

 

2
shop
Furniture
Specialty
Address

3661 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

Transform your dorm room or apartment from bland to brilliant at Hello World, a beloved University City home design shop. For 20 years, owner J has been curating midcentury-modern furniture and unique décor pieces you won't find anywhere else. This local University City shop specializes in one-of-a-kind wall art from local Philadelphia artists, space-saving furniture ideal for small dorm rooms, unique kitchen essentials for apartment living, and conversation-starting décor pieces. This local gem ensures your college living space reflects your personality while supporting the Philadelphia community.

 

3
dine
Dine
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Snacks
Address

3401 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

Moving is hungry work, and Franklin's Table Food Hall is the perfect solution for feeding your entire move-in crew. This popular University City dining destination houses multiple food vendors under one roof, making it easy to satisfy everyone's cravings. Featured vendors include Pitruco for authentic pizza, Goldie for fresh falafel and Mediterranean favorites, and DK Sushi for Japanese cuisine and bento boxes. No need to debate what type of food to get - everyone can choose their favorite while staying together as a group.

 

4
shop
Specialty
Lunch
Address

4001 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

No move-in is complete without a fully stocked mini-fridge. ACME Markets in University City is your neighborhood grocery store, conveniently located near campus with everything students need. Find grab-and-go meals perfect for busy class schedules, natural and organic food options, local Philadelphia products, and dorm-room snacks and beverages. The friendly staff and convenient location make this grocery store a reliable resource throughout your time at Penn.

 

5
dine
Dine
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Address

3611 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

After a long day of moving and unpacking, celebrate your successful move-in at Louie Louie Bistro & Bar. Located on the first floor of the Inn at Penn, this French-inspired restaurant provides the perfect setting for a family farewell dinner. Families love Louie Louie for its upscale French bistro atmosphere with art nouveau and 70s-inspired décor, family-owned restaurant warmth and welcoming service, signature dishes like duck breast, steak frites, and crème brûlée, plus comfortable booth seating perfect for groups. Toast to this major milestone in your student's life with a memorable meal steps from campus.

 

Move-in day represents the beginning of an incredible college journey. By incorporating these five University City destinations into your move-in schedule, you'll transform a potentially stressful day into quality family time and lasting memories.

From essential shopping at the Penn Bookstore to a celebratory dinner at Louie Louie, these local businesses understand the importance of the college move-in experience. Take advantage of their proximity to campus and expertise in serving the Penn community.

University of Pennsylvania Bookstore

Hello World

Franklin's Table

ACME Markets

Louie Louie Bistro & Bar