Dog Walkers in Girard Estates

Girard Estates is a historical neighborhood in the heart of South Philadelphia. Featuring homes set along tree-lined streets, a peaceful park, and a central shopping area, Girard Estates is suburban paradise. Many residents see it as a secluded area of its own away from the bustling city life. The retail and dining establishments are pushed to the western part of the neighborhood. A shopping area sits just south of the southern border and this is where you'll find pet supplies and a veterinary hospital. A short walk east of the neighborhood brings you to Simmons Animal Hospital which is another great option. 

With such idyllic streets not seen in many other parts of Philadelphia, Girard Estates is the perfect spot for a relaxing walk with your pup. However, the weather might be a deciding factor in how short or long you make your walk. Philadelphia summers are hot and humid while the winters bring dramatic changes.

Girard Estates offers an easy walk through a quiet neighborhood. Many of the streets are one-ways with less traffic than other busy streets in the city. Trees lining the sidewalks offer shade during hot days as well as benches in case you need a rest. This residential region mainly features duplex homes and blocks of housing and many of the houses feature historical architecture. A walk along West Shunk Street will take you past beautiful buildings, part of the Girard Estate Historic District. 

The neighborhood is bordered by two major roadways: Passyunk Avenue to the north and West Oregon Avenue to the south. The western part of the neighborhood is bordered by the Schuylkill Expressway. Try to avoid that area while walking your pet, especially if you're looking for a more peaceful, quiet neighborhood stroll. While there are wide sidewalks, always be aware while walking near busy roads and be careful crossing the street.

While you won't find a lot of green space walking throughout the neighborhood, Girard Estates does have a sprawling park in its west-central region. Stephen Girard Park, aptly named after the man who developed the area, is a four-acre grassy space featuring a walking path set away from the roads and surrounded by trees and other foliage. 

If you're looking for a bigger area to romp around, head southeast out of the neighborhood to Marconi Plaza. This large greenway features two playgrounds and plenty of paths and places to sit in the shade. The park is bisected by South Broad Street, a major Philly road, so be cautious when walking near there. Unfortunately, there aren't any dog parks close by, but the playgrounds and small parks to the north and southeast of Girard Estates offer plenty of green space waiting for your pup to explore while you stroll at their side.