Spruce Hill

Type	Neighborhood
Location	West Philadelphia
ZIP code(s)	19104
Boundaries	Roughly Market Street to Woodland Avenue, 40th Street to 46th Street
Adjacent	University City, Cedar Park, Walnut Hill
Major streets	Spruce Street, Baltimore Avenue, 42nd Street
Transit	SEPTA trolleys (Routes 13, 34), Market-Frankford Line (40th Street Station)
Landmarks	Victorian architecture, Clark Park

Spruce Hill is a residential neighborhood in West Philadelphia known for its Victorian architecture and proximity to the University of Pennsylvania. The neighborhood is home to Clark Park, one of West Philadelphia's most beloved green spaces, and features tree-lined streets with elegant 19th-century homes.

History

Spruce Hill developed in the late 19th century as Philadelphia expanded westward. The Victorian homes attracted middle-class and wealthy families seeking space outside Center City while maintaining transit access.

Clark Park

Clark Park is the neighborhood's centerpiece:

9-acre urban park
Farmers market (Saturdays)
Concerts and events
Playground
Dog-friendly areas
Community gathering space

The park features a statue of Charles Dickens, the only public monument to Dickens in the world.

Character

Architecture

Victorian single-family homes
Large houses on spacious lots
Tree-lined streets
Some apartment conversions

Community

Mix of families and professionals
University-affiliated residents
Active civic association
Progressive character

Living in Spruce Hill

Victorian homes (single-family and converted)
Higher prices than outer West Philadelphia
Family-friendly
Strong schools interest

Getting There

Market-Frankford Line: 40th Street Station
SEPTA Trolleys: Routes 13, 34 along Baltimore Avenue
Walkable to Penn campus