Mount Airy
| Type | Neighborhood |
|---|---|
| Location | Northwest Philadelphia |
| ZIP code(s) | 19119, 19138, 19150 |
| Boundaries | North: Chestnut Hill, South: Germantown, East: Stenton Avenue, West: Wissahickon Valley Park |
| Adjacent | Chestnut Hill, Germantown, West Oak Lane, East Oak Lane |
| Major streets | Germantown Avenue, Stenton Avenue, Cresheim Valley Road |
| Transit | SEPTA Regional Rail (Chestnut Hill lines), Bus Routes |
| Landmarks | Wissahickon Valley Park access, Cresheim Valley, historic houses |
Mount Airy is a neighborhood in Northwest Philadelphia, nationally recognized as a model of successful racial integration. The neighborhood developed in the mid-20th century as one of the first American communities to intentionally promote and maintain integrated housing. Today, Mount Airy is known for its diverse population, Victorian architecture, progressive community activism, and proximity to Wissahickon Valley Park.[1]
History
Early Development
Mount Airy developed in the 19th century along the railroad lines connecting Philadelphia to Germantown and Chestnut Hill. Wealthy Philadelphians built Victorian homes in what was then a suburban retreat.
Integration Movement
In the 1950s and 1960s, as many American neighborhoods experienced "white flight" following integration, Mount Airy residents organized to maintain a diverse community:
- West Mount Airy Neighbors (founded 1959) - Promoted integration
- Homeowners committed to staying
- Active marketing to Black families
- Fair housing advocacy
Mount Airy became a national model, featured in academic studies and media coverage as proof that stable, integrated neighborhoods were possible.
Modern Era
Today, Mount Airy maintains its integrated character:
- Diverse population by race, income, and age
- Strong community organizations
- Progressive political identity
- Active community life
Geography
Mount Airy is divided into two sections:
West Mount Airy
- More affluent
- Larger Victorian houses
- Access to Wissahickon Valley Park
- Commercial corridor on Germantown Avenue
- Strong community organization (WMANA)
East Mount Airy
- More modest housing
- More diverse economically
- Along Stenton Avenue
- Own community identity
Character
Mount Airy has a distinctive character:
Architecture
- Victorian houses (stone and frame)
- Arts and Crafts bungalows
- Larger lots than Center City
- Tree-lined streets
- Some apartment buildings
Community
- Diverse by race, religion, and income
- Progressive political orientation
- Active neighborhood associations
- Community events and festivals
- Strong environmental consciousness
Atmosphere
- Quieter than Center City
- Family-friendly
- Access to nature
- Local shops and restaurants
- Intellectual and artistic community
Wissahickon Valley Park
West Mount Airy borders Wissahickon Valley Park:
- 2,000+ acres of urban wilderness
- Hiking and biking trails
- Historic Valley Green Inn
- Cresheim Creek access
- Multiple trailheads in the neighborhood
Germantown Avenue
The Mount Airy section of Germantown Avenue offers:
Dining
- Cedars House of Falafel - Middle Eastern
- High Point Cafe - Coffee and cafe
- Trolley Car Cafe*** - Neighborhood cafe
- McMenamin's - Pub
Shopping
- Independent shops
- Food co-op
- Bookstores
- Antiques
Services
- Banks and professional services
- Pharmacies
- Local businesses
Getting There
SEPTA Regional Rail
- Chestnut Hill East Line: Mount Airy Station
- Chestnut Hill West Line: Carpenter Station, Allen Lane Station
Bus Routes
- Route 23 along Germantown Avenue
- Route 77 along Stenton Avenue
Driving
- Lincoln Drive from Center City (scenic route)
- Germantown Avenue
- Stenton Avenue
Living in Mount Airy
Housing
- Victorian single-family homes
- Some duplexes and apartments
- Large lots by Philadelphia standards
- Moderate to high prices (less than Chestnut Hill)
Schools
- C.W. Henry School (public)
- Miquon School (private, progressive)
- Several other public and private options
Demographics
- Racially diverse
- Economically mixed
- Many families
- Professionals and academics
- Artists and activists
See Also
References
- ↑ "West Mount Airy Neighbors". West Mount Airy Neighbors. Retrieved December 22, 2025