Are you moving to Philadelphia, PA, and looking for the right neighborhood to call home? Packer Park, Philadelphia, in the popular South Philly area, is one of the best neighborhoods in Philadelphia for young professionals and families. Many people find hiring a Philadelphia moving company helpful when settling into this vibrant part of town. You’ll love living in Packer Park, Philadelphia, next to the city’s famous FDR Park and within walking distance of the Sports Complex. Here’s what you should know before moving to Packer Park!
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Where Is Packer Park in Philadelphia?
Packer Park is a neighborhood in the South Philadelphia area in Pennsylvania. It’s bounded by Broad Street to the east, Packer Avenue to the north, S 20th Street to the west, and FDR Park and Pattison Avenue to the south. Just north of Packer Ave is I-76. It’s surrounded by the neighborhoods of Girard Estates, Melrose, Lower Moyamensing, and Point Breeze.
The Schuylkill River is just southwest of the neighborhood, along with Girard Point Bridge which carries I-95. The Schuylkill empties into the Delaware River about half a mile south of the bridge.
Packer Park is just seven miles south of Center City.
While living in Packer Park, you will be served by SEPTA’s Broad Street Line (BSL) and the NRG Station. It’s also served by bus routes 4 and 17.
Packer Park, Philadelphia Map
Packer Park History & Overview
The history of Packer Park dates back to its initial development in the mid-20th century. Originally established in the 1950s, the area featured around 1,000 homes across two main builder developments: Packer Park and Brinton Estates, which emerged later in the 1990s. Its design and architecture reflect the suburban aspirations of the post-war era, blending residential comfort with proximity to the urban environment of Philadelphia.
In its evolution, Packer Park became one of four residential communities marked for its significant contribution to the local identity, sharing neighborhood ties with the adjacent Sports Complex. Over the years, Packer Park has not only evolved as a residential area but also as a hub for community organization, fostering a strong sense of belonging among its residents. This enduring community spirit is frequently reflected in local events and initiatives, making Packer Park a vibrant part of South Philadelphia’s urban landscape.
Today, Packer Park, Philadelphia, is home to about 5,000 residents.
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What Is It Like Living in Packer Park, Philadelphia?
The neighborhood is characterized by its spacious cul-de-sacs, large backyards, and a strong sense of community, making it particularly appealing for families and young professionals alike. Living in Packer Park offers more living space than most urban communities in the area and peaceful, tree-lined streets despite its proximity to the South Philadelphia Sports Complex.
The proximity to Philadelphia’s Sports Complex provides ample entertainment options, including major sports events and concerts, while I-76 offers quick access to the wider metropolitan area for commuters. Local amenities, such as shops and dining options, are conveniently located within a short drive or bus ride, ensuring that everything needed for daily life is within reach.
Community engagement is also a cornerstone of life in Packer Park. The Packer Park Civic Association (PPCA) upholds civic pride and improves living conditions for residents of Brinton Estates, the Reserve, the Villas, the Regency, Renaissance Estates, Siena Place, and the original Packer Park development. The PPCA received the Recognized Community Organization (RCO) in 2012.
With its rich history, family-friendly atmosphere, and active community, Packer Park stands out as a great place to call home.
Things to Do in Packer Park, South Philadelphia
Packer Park is a vibrant neighborhood that offers a variety of activities and attractions suitable for all ages. One of its prominent landmarks is the American Swedish Historical Museum, which showcases the rich contributions of Swedish immigrants to American culture and society. Nestled within FDR Park, this museum is not just a repository of history; it also features beautiful gardens and a quaint café, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely visit.
The exhibits range from art to historical artifacts, reflecting the Swedish influence on various aspects of American life. Special events and educational programs are frequently held, attracting both locals and tourists who seek to dive deeper into the cultural heritage of the area.
Adjacent to the museum is FDR Park, a sprawling oasis that offers an extensive range of recreational activities. Comprising over 348 acres, the park features walking trails, sports facilities, and serene picnic spots. Families can enjoy the playgrounds, while fitness enthusiasts can make use of the jogging paths and sports fields.
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During the warmer months, the park is a fantastic venue for local festivals, outdoor concerts, and community gatherings, promoting a strong sense of belonging among its visitors. Birdwatching is also a popular activity in FDR Park, as it is home to various species of migratory birds, adding another layer of enjoyment for nature lovers.
The Novacare Complex adds another dimension to the recreational landscape in Packer Park. This state-of-the-art facility is the training home for the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles. While it’s primarily utilized for team practices, it also serves as an entertainment hub that occasionally opens its doors to the public for special events, youth clinics, and fitness classes.
For fans of the Eagles and football enthusiasts, attending events at the Novacare Complex provides a unique opportunity to glimpse behind the scenes of a professional sports team.
Lastly, the South Philadelphia Sports Complex is a major attraction just a stone’s throw away from Packer Park. Home to several professional sports venues, including Citizens Bank Park (home of the Philadelphia Phillies) and Lincoln Financial Field (home of the Philadelphia Eagles), this complex attracts thousands of fans throughout the year.
Major concerts and events are frequently held at the Wells Fargo Center, which adds to the area’s dynamic atmosphere. After a game or concert, visitors can also enjoy the dining options available at Xfinity Live!, which features a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a perfect spot for group gatherings.
Packer Park is part of the Sports Complex Special Services District (SCSSD). The district hosts free community events for residents, including the Children’s Halloween Party held every year at the American Swedish Historical Museum and Dinner & Movie Nights at Xfinity Live!.
There are a few eateries popular with locals. Chickie’s & Pete’s is a bustling sports bar known for its crab-based dishes and Crabfries. Philadium is your neighborhood bar where you can grab a drink, watch the game, and enjoy pub fare.
Nearby, you’ll spot the Walt Whitman Statue, created in 1939 by sculptor Jo Davidson and cast in 1957. The statue was a gift to Philadelphia from the Association for Public Art. It sits at the intersection of Broad Street and Packer Avenue, close to the Walt Whitman Bridge approach.
Packer Park is a community rich in activities that cater to history buffs, sports fans, and families alike. Whether enjoying the serene landscapes of FDR Park, delving into cultural experiences at the American Swedish Historical Museum, or engaging in the excitement of professional sports, residents and visitors to Packer Park have no shortage of things to do.
Where to Find Everything
- American Swedish Historical Museum, 1900 Pattison Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145 (215) 389-1776
- FDR Park, 1500 Pattison Avenue &, S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19145 (215) 683-3600
- Novacare Complex, 2 Novacare Way, Philadelphia, PA 19145 (800) 321-9999
- South Philadelphia Sports Complex, 3300 S 7th St STE 1, Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 271-1701
- Chickie’s & Pete’s, 1526 Packer Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145
- Philadium, 1631 Packer Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145 (215) 271-2337
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Schools in Packer Park
Families living in Packer Park are served by the School District of Philadelphia (SDP). There are two local catchment schools as well as nearby criteria-based schools.
- F. Amedee Bregy School (K-8), local catchment school serving Packer Park
- South Philadelphia High School (9-12), catchment high school
- Girard Academic Music Program (5-12), criteria-based acceptance program
- Creative and Performing Arts High School (9-12), a criteria-based high school with programs for theater, vocal music, visual arts, creative writing, and more
Considering a private education? Philadelphia Classical School offers a classical Christian education in the neighborhood for K-12 students.
Students are also served by the Free Library of Philadelphia Thomas F. Donatucci, Sr. Branch (formerly the Passyunk Branch) serves Packer Park.
Is Packer Park, Philadelphia Safe?
Thanks to its active civic association and tight-knit community, Packer Park is a safe place to live. However, like many large cities, Philadelphia does have an above-average crime rate. Packer Park has about 856 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, about 18% below average for Philadelphia.
The Philadelphia Police Department offers an interactive map of crime in the city. You can explore crime by neighborhood and type of offense to learn more about your risk of being a victim of crime after moving to Packer Park.
Packer Park, Philadelphia Real Estate
The median price of Packer Park homes for sale is $540,000 or $438 per square foot. You’ll find three-bedroom homes starting in the $300s. Overall, the median home price in the city is $280,000.
You can explore homes for sale in Packer Park, Philadelphia, to see what you can get within your budget.
The area is known for its urban townhouses with common green spaces, driveways, and large backyards. In the rest of the city, densely packed townhouses on grid streets are far more common. There are many housing developments in the community to choose from.
The Reserve at Packer Park, also known as the Renaissance Estates, is a triangular development of 230 homes built between 2003 and 2007. The luxury townhome community was created by Barbara Capozzi, the daughter of the original Packer Park developer who designed the townhomes for families, and developer John Westrum.
In 2008, a 313-unit luxury townhome development called Siena Place expanded the neighborhood further. The community sits on 30 acres with private garages, plenty of street parking, and open green spaces. Homes have a traditional three-story brick design, each with unique features.
The Enclaves at Packer Park is a Lindy Community and rental property. If you’re looking for Packer Park apartments, The Enclaves is a great choice. The gated community offers one- and two-bedroom apartments with amenities like a swimming pool, social club, and fitness center. It won first place in Overall Excellence and Maintenance Excellent from the Pennsylvania Apartment Association in 2023! Apartments start at $1,790 for one bedroom and $2,045 for two bedrooms.
Moving to Packer Park? Call Suburban Solutions for a Free Quote
Is moving to Packer Park, Philadelphia, in your future? With close proximity to the South Philadelphia Sports Complex and Center City, it’s a great place to live for sports lovers, families, young professionals, and more. Call the Philadelphia movers at Suburban Solutions today at (610) 314-6868 to get started with your free moving estimate!
