A fixture on Philly's famous South Street since 1968, the Eye's Gallery, was created by Julia Zagar and her husband Isaiah. Famous for his tile and glass mosaic art throughout the architecture of Philadelphia, Isaiah brings a unique design element to this location. The Eye's Gallery imparts feeling of arrival into an otherworldly place and time.
Brightly colored walls are covered by folk art from 15 different countries. Vintage items, gifts, toys, flags, statues, masks, and decorations flood the entire building.
Ageless clothing with classic and funky details fill racks near the front counter. In and surrounding the counter are jewelry cases packed with sterling silver and gemstone rings. Onward the mirrored stairway to the second floor is covered in tin cutouts of hearts and suns.
The second level has a room full of handmade instruments that are fun to play. This level is beautifully hand decorated by Isaiah Zagar, and I suggest walking toward the front of the building to peek up at the beautiful skylight.
Below the first floor, winding stairs lead down to the basement where stacks of imported tiles, ceramics, tableware, and so many other tidbits fill the space.
This is an exotic and inspirational shop that I can't stop myself from popping into whenever I happen to be near by.
Explore Philadelphia like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Philadelphia guide.
Philadelphia’s Mural Arts has helped create literally thousands of gorgeous murals all over. I'm in love with the new abstract mural by Tim McFarlane...
By
"Long in the Tooth Record Store" in Philadelphia is a family-owned business that reminds me of one of my favorite films, High Fidelity...
By
The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park in Philly (known by locals as the Bio Pond) was University of Penn’s first botanic garden. Makes for a romantic date...
By
"Stina Pizzeria" in Philadelphia offers an enticing blend of pizza but also the best spanakopita I've ever tasted and other Mediterranean-inspired dishes...
By
"The Modern Republic" in Philadelphia is a midcentury modern home decor shop that is colorful, ebullient, high-ceilinged, and tastefully curated!
By
"Lil Nas X Mural Gayborhood" in Philadelphia is 36-feet-large and portrays the early 21st-century LGBTQ+ icon that's conquered the world...
By
When you see it for the first time you are struck by its size.
By
"Contrafuerte" in Philadelphia is Miguel Antonio Horn's latest sculpture which comprises of eight entangled nude bodies holding a small concrete bridge...
By
Beer lovers have lots to celebrate in Philadelphia! Enter "ARS Brewery", a South Philly Garage Brewery (complete in an old garage and visible distillery).
By
These old farm ruins outside Northern Philadelphia are covered in graffiti and belong to a now-abandoned prison...
By
"Two Persons Coffee" in Philadelphia is in a building that used to be a public vocational school, and its furniture was salvaged to complement the cafe...
By
My favorite building in Philadelphia is the Merchant Exchange, conveniently located across the street from my favorite movie theater...
By
156 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 156 Insider Tips from our local Spotters