University City is West Philadelphia’s major educational, medical, research, and employment district. The area includes university campuses, hospitals, laboratories, offices, high-rise residences, historic rowhomes, restaurants, shops, and public spaces immediately across the Schuylkill River from Center City.

The University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University are two of the district’s defining institutions, alongside major medical and research centers. 30th Street Station provides Amtrak, SEPTA Regional Rail, subway, and trolley connections, making the area one of Philadelphia’s largest transportation hubs. The Schuylkill River Trail and numerous cultural destinations are also nearby.