Fabric Workshop and Museum Philadelphia
Contemporary art
The Fabric Workshop is one of the best places in Philadelphia to see contemporary art, a central but overlooked gem! Around the corner from Chinatown and Reading Terminal, this is a must-see if you enjoy the art of now.
Though first created in the 70s as a home for the creation and display of textile art, the museum's focus has expanded over the decades to embrace all media. Rotating exhibits feature video art, painting, and sculpture as well as fiber art. Installations often feature the works of the museum's talented artists in residence. Their shows tend to be experimental and conceptual in nature.
The Fabric Workshop does much to support and foster arts education, from sponsoring international artists in their space to sponsoring educational outreach to local schools.
Because the museum is small and rarely crowded, I enjoy ducking in for short visits when I am in the area for lunch or errands. Exhibits are spaced out on multiple floors, and staff are usually happy to talk to you about the exhibit and answer questions.
The galleries are welcoming, and the Fabric Workshop's shows are always thought-provoking, whether they feature weavings, mixed media, or experiential installations where visitors interact with the artist's vision. Step into this small museum and step out of the ordinary.
About this spot
Find your way with 156 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Philadelphia
The Percy Street Project
An electric light mural
"The Percy Street Project" is a public art installation in Philadelphia planned to span the entire 1300 block. Come at night to see 'The Electric Street'.
by
Holly
Miller
Nunu
Creative Asian fusion food and cocktails
"Nunu" is an Asian fusion bar/restaurant in Philadelphia. I love it best on a cold day when I'm craving a cocktail and warm snacks. Perfect for dates!
by
Holly
Miller
Philadelphia Insectarium & Butterfly Pavilion
FUN
My favorite thing about the "Philadelphia Insectarium & Butterfly Pavilion" by far is that it's very community-focused: I was toured by a local 4th grader!
by
Holly
Miller
Vault & Vine
Cafe, greenhouse, handmade gifts
"Vault & Vine" in Philadelphia is a cafe inside a greenhouse. Whoever came up with this idea is a genius. I come here almost every weekend with my pug...
by
Holly
Miller
Suraya
Exquisite Levant-inspired dining & market
"Suraya" just might be the best restaurant in Philadelphia right now. If you love the flavors of the Levant, that you're going to love it, too...
by
Holly
Miller
Spruce Street Harbor Park
Pop-up summer park
"Spruce Street Harbor Park" is a true gift of the city of Philadelphia to its citizens, an ode to summer itself... I'll be there in a hammock!
by
Cara
Jo Castellino
Navy Yard Food Truck Lineup
Food trucks
The "Navy Yard Food Truck Lineup" in Philadelphia appears every Tuesday & Thursday, come rain or shine! Great opportunity to try a few of them at once...
by
Cara
Jo Castellino
Interstate Draft House
New American/Southern
"Interstate Draft House" is a Philadelphia neighborhood bar. I highly recommend ordering the Fishtown Tea cocktail there, similar to a Long Island Ice Tea.
by
Cara
Jo Castellino
Lloyd
Whiskey, cocktails, & fine fare
"Lloyd" Philadelphia is my bar of choice when I need a stiff scotch (80+ types) or a finely crafted cocktail. The style definitely makes me feel at home.
by
Cara
Jo Castellino
Tuna Bar
Japanese raw bar in Old City
Tuna Bar near the Ben Franklin Bridge is my go-to raw bar in the Old City in Philadelphia for exciting sushi rolls and Japanese-style appetizers!
by
Holly
Miller
Long in the Tooth Record Store
High fidelity
"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
Bronwyn
Lepore
Abstract Mural Callowhill
Artist Tim McFarlane
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
Bronwyn
Lepore
Heading to Philadelphia?
156 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 156 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Philadelphia
Get to know our other Spotters from Philadelphia
As featured on:
