I am going to philly in a month, is university city a safe place to be?

Question

I am just a small town Texas guy but my wife is from Philly so we are going to go up there and check it out for the first time. We are staying in an area called City Center/University City. Is that a good area to be in?

Answer 1

Center City is NOT the same as University City.



Center City is the "downtown" section of Philadelphia. It runs from river to river and like any urban central district has nicer parts and seedier parts. But it is the centre of business, commerce and tourism for the city. The historic district is in (or overlaps) Center City. In general Center City is the busiest, most crowded. most eclectic and safest part of the City.



University is is sort an 'artificial" neighborhood that grew up around the University of Pennsylvania, and later Drexel University. It is on the other side if the Schuylkill river fro Center City. The neighborhoods surrounding the universities had become run down and poverty ridden. One of the most dangerous parts of the city is there. But, the actual "University City" area is trendy, diverse and relatively safe, being patrolled by both city police and two university police departments.



You can make out fine in either one. Just don't act like rube. Bad guys find targets even in the nicest neighborhoods. Philadelphia for some reason has terrible reputation, but it is undeserved. Only people who are involved in the Thug life have much to worry about in most of the city. Tourism and universities are both big revenue sources for the City, so anywhere where there are tourists or students is usually very safe.

Answer 2

Yes, University City is a vibrant neighborhood. A lot of students live in that area, and there are always lots of people around even at night. Several of the universities also have their own police forces which patrol in addition to the Philly cops. Center City is what we call our downtown, and it is also busy and safe. Just be aware of your surroundings, be confident, and you'll be fine.

Answer 3

Philly is a big city with parts to it. West North and South then Center City. The "east" Would be the airport. Center city is rather safe and it's pretty cool down near Penns landing. If you want to go to the suburbs and act high and mighty then you'll fit in.

Answer 4

Yeah, University City is pretty good.

Answer 5

That's not a high crime area, but like all big cities, there is crime and you need to pay attention to your surroundings.

Answer 6

center city is nice, you'll have lots to see and eat.

Answer 7

Don't worry just be smart, friendly (but not stupidly) and wherever you are there you'll be safe.