Manayunk aka "Where we go to drink"

Manayunk was originally named Flat Rock because of its location next to the Schuylkill River. In 1824 the name was changed to Manayunk which comes from the Lenape Indian word "manaiung" which means "where we go to drink", very fitting for today's Manayunk.

Manayunk is home to one of the first canals in the United States. Construction began on it before the others but due to budget issues, it was not completed first. The canal not only promoted development, but also made water power available for manufacturing businesses, helping to make Philadelphia one of the primary industrial cities of the time.

Many people immigrated and settled in Manayunk from England, Ireland, Italy, and Poland. They made Manayunk their home, working and raising their families here. Generations of these original immigrants are still in the area.

With the opening of the King of Prussia Mall in the 1960s, Manayunk took a hit economically. It wasn't until about 20 years later that Manayunk began the gentrification process and started to come alive again. Now, years later, Manayunk has a thriving Main Street with everything from popular chain stores and restaurants to unique and one-of-a-kind places to dine and shop. In more recent years Manayunk has become home to a younger crowd, from college students to young professionals, who rent or buy homes in the area. Living in Manayunk offers them walking distance to shopping, nightlife, and public transportation making it easy to get to Center City or to the suburbs for work/school.

Manayunk provides a great place to go day or night. Whether you're looking to do some shopping and grab a bite to eat, get a little exercise on the bike trail, or enjoy the night out, Manayunk has it all. Just minutes from Center City, Manayunk has a great deal to offer.