Shop Penn

The best kind of Saturday begins alarm free. When you’re good and ready, amble over to 40^th & Locust Streets for the opposite of your Monday through Friday, tepid-by-the-time-you-get-back-to-it black coffee. Smile back at the barista, scoot up to the bar, and say hello to a ‘pep talk’, ‘liquid courage’ or a ‘go-getter’ espresso coffee roast. You may even pair your coffee with a fresh and delicious pastry or brownie. New flavors are announced every Wednesday. This is where you slip your phone back into your pocket, soak in all the cozy coffee shop vibes, savor your beverage, and see what the day might hold.

A short stroll down Walnut will bring you to Hello World, a home decor and lifestyle shop specializing in midcentury-modern furniture and gifts not easily found everywhere else. Hello World has a host of glowing Yelp reviews, and it’s not hard to see why. J, the owner and buyer, has been connecting the Philadelphia community to quality merchandise at a great price for over 20 years. And they’ve recently incorporated a gallery of local artists’ work to check out in a nook of the store.  Dogs are equally welcome to poke around — bring yours in for a chance to appear on the boutique’s Instagram account!

For those seeking a hands-on creative experience, Cork and Candles offers the perfect blend of crafting and relaxation in University City. This BYOB candle-making studio invites you to bring your favorite bottle while designing custom scented candles in a laid-back, social atmosphere. Choose from dozens of premium fragrance oils, mix your perfect scent combination, and pour your own one-of-a-kind creation to take home. Whether you're planning a casual get-together with friends, a unique date night, or simply want to unwind with a new skill, this interactive workshop provides a memorable addition to your Saturday explorations. Reservations are recommended but walk-ins are welcome when space allows.

University City isn’t all retail shops and restaurants — keep your eyes peeled and you’ll see world-class museums, galleries and sculpture tucked in among the storefronts and scenic parks. Give your credit card a break and pop into the Arthur Ross Gallery. Located at the heart of the University of Pennsylvania, the gallery has featured art and artifacts from all over the world. It is an intimate space that provides thought-provoking exhibitions of art across cultures, media, and time. Exhibitions change throughout the year, so come early and come often. 

When your explorations spark an appetite for something more substantial, make your way to Louie Louie Bistro & Bar. This vibrant American bistro with French flair offers a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience that's perfect for elevating your Saturday. Settle into the stylish interior or claim a spot on the spacious outdoor patio to enjoy seasonal dishes crafted with classical flavor combinations.

Nothing caps off a great day out like a sweet treat. Take a stroll down Locust Walk to Ben & Jerry's on 40th and enjoy a delicious cone. Enjoy any of Ben & Jerry's unique flavors like Americone Dream, Chunky Monkey, and Phish Food. You can even grab some pints to bring home with you to stick in the freezer for later.