Discover West Oak Lane in Northwest Philadelphia

Close to everything, yet far from the hustle and bustle, the neighborhoods of Northwest Philadelphia groove to their own surprising rhythms.

By day, families stroll tree-lined streets that feature affordable, attractive housing. Children romp in grassy parks and focus on their studies in high-quality schools. Business people and entrepreneurs cater to their many customers in revitalized commercial, districts.

By night, Northwest Philadelphia pulses with activity as those in the know flock to our new restaurants, galleries and attractions. And each summer, OARC throws one of the city’s biggest, best parties—the West Oak Lane Jazz and Arts Festival.

And every day, OARC’s community outreach and reinvestment programs create even more housing, green spaces, educational opportunities, shopping and business opportunities, and cultural and entertainment activities.

So come, you're invited to discover the Northwest’s rhythm, its roots, and its soul.

In the Northwest, there are:

  • 7 Museums and Cultural Institutions
  • 14 Historic Houses
  • 2 Arboretums
  • 12 Bed & Breakfasts

We are also home to:

  • A well-traveled hiking trail centered around Wissahickon Creek
  • Home of the stone statue of the Kneeling Warrior, Chief Tedyuscung of the Lenni Lenape tribe.
  • The wooden desk used in 1688 by the Quakers for the signing of the First Protest against Slavery document. The desk is located in a Mennonite Church in Germantown. The actual document is being preserved at Haverford College, less than 10 minutes away.