Philadelphia has a long tradition of social clubs. Some are great for cheap beers, others serve sumptuous cuisine. Some even stay open later than public alcohol-serving establishments. But it takes knowing someone to get in.
The new Fitler club, which includes boutique hotel amenities and a 30,000-square-foot fitness space, is a place to meet people in the city. Let’s dive deep into Philadelphia social clubs for like-minded people.
Boldt Castle
When George Boldt purchased Heart Island at the turn of the 20th century, he was determined to build a castle that would remind him of the ones he’d seen in Prussia. He enlisted hundreds of workers to help him realize his dream and construction was well underway. But tragedy struck in 1904, and he telegraphed the island asking that all work be halted. His wife had died suddenly and Boldt was heartbroken.
Visitors today can tour the ruins of the castle and see what the site looked like before it was abandoned. They can also go on a boat ride and learn more about the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority, which now owns the property.
The second floor of the castle is now a museum, featuring a gift shop and a theater that shows a video about the castle’s history. Guests can also check out the bedrooms of the Boldt family, which are still in their original condition. The third floor of the building features a billiards room and a dining area that can seat 18 people. Visitors can also see the gold-framed wedding portrait of Louise Boldt.
The Fitler Club
The Fitler Club is a members-only club located in Center City Philadelphia. It offers world-class social, fitness, dining and business offerings. Its unique location, high-end design and museum-worthy art collection are all part of the experience. The club also features a variety of indoor and outdoor activities for guests to enjoy.
Designed by David Gutstadt, the Fitler Club is a modern urban country or social club that attracts entrepreneurs and those working in creative industries. The club also aims to bring Philly’s “new Philadelphians,” who have been heralded as the group that will change the city for the better, together under one well-designed roof.
This new type of club has a lot to offer, from a high-end fitness center to a bar and lounge area. Its sleek style is complemented by dark colors and fierce edges. The design of the club is intended to evoke a sense of luxury and power. The club’s restaurant is led by Philly Chef Marc Vetri. Its menu includes everything from oysters to Honeynut Squash Cappellacci and Roasted Black Cod with trumpet mushroom riesling.
Membership at The Fitler Club is expensive, but it is worth it if you are looking for an exclusive place to hang out in Philadelphia. It costs $225 a month for members under 30, while those over 50 pay $400 a month. There are also a number of benefits and perks that come with membership, including discounts and access to special events.
Palizzi Social Club
Amid a narrow corridor of South Philly row homes, a secretive social club keeps its doors closed to everyone but members. But the place, named for painter Filippo Palizzi and founded in 1918, has a long and storied history. It cranked along quietly behind the heavy metal door for nearly a century, serving as a time-warp hangout for immigrants from the Italian town of Vasto (Philly is home to a large population from that region).
The club’s heyday came in the 1930s when it opened a dining room and bar. But by 2016, membership had dwindled, and the place was run down. Then Chef Joey Baldino came along and revived it.
He’s now releasing the club’s storied past in his new cookbook, “Dinner at the Club.” It includes a century of local recipes that he learned from the cooks who worked there over the years. The book features dishes like escarole, stromboli, and spaghetti with crabs, as well as desserts such as Mom’s ricotta cheese pie.
Only club members (or up to three guests of a member) are allowed inside, and membership costs $20 a year. But even without a card, you can still enjoy the evocative atmosphere and dine on the club’s savory fare by making a reservation. It’s worth it. The space is small and fills up quickly, so call ahead for a table.
Ruba
This century-old club features jaw-dropping decor and is a great venue for hosting alluring dance parties. Its upper level has a charming ballroom and vintage theater. The lower level hosts burlesque, comedy, rock bands and open-mic nights. The club also has a cabaret-style bar and a stage. It also holds events like birthday celebrations and wedding receptions. The membership fee is fairly affordable and you can even hire the space for private events.
The club is known for its after-hours scene and usually fills up around 2 a.m. The venue offers cheap beer and cocktails for an interesting crowd. The club is located in the northern part of Philadelphia and has an infamous reputation for being a safe place to party until 3 a.m. The club has its own dance floor, pool tables and a variety of other entertainment.
Philadelphia is home to many exclusive social clubs and events. Besides the Union League, there are several other clubs that cater to a variety of tastes. Some offer a more relaxed atmosphere than others, and some are even open to the general public. In addition to these clubs, the city is also home to many other upscale venues that host special events. These include the Society for the Sons of St. George and the Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick – mutual aid societies for English and Irish men who were elite Philadelphians, including Constitutional signatories and Revolutionary War commanders.
