Philadelphia, a city steeped in history and brimming with vibrant urban life, is known for many things: the Liberty Bell, cheesesteaks, and its passionate sports fans. But in recent years, a more niche yet intriguing trend has been turning heads the rise of the Philadelphia sidecar. Whether you’re thinking of a vintage motorcycle with a side-mounted seat cruising down Broad Street or a refined cocktail being stirred in a candlelit bar, the term “Philadelphia Sidecar” evokes a unique blend of craftsmanship, culture, and cool.
In this in-depth guide, we explore everything there is to know about Philadelphia sidecars — from the retro motorcycles and their customizations to the sophisticated cocktail scene and the bars where the Sidecar is celebrated as a work of art. If you’re a local or planning a visit to Philly, and you’re curious about how this trend is redefining urban exploration and mixology, this article is your ultimate resource.
What Is a Sidecar? A Brief History of a Classic Icon
The word “sidecar” originated from the world of motorcycling. A sidecar is a one-wheeled device attached to the side of a motorcycle, designed to carry an extra passenger or cargo. Originally introduced in the early 1900s, sidecars became particularly popular during and after World War I and II, used for military and postal services before transforming into a symbol of freedom and adventure.
In Philadelphia, however, the sidecar has taken on multiple meanings. Beyond the mechanical realm, it is also a classic cocktail — a mix of cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice — that’s found a dedicated following in the city’s vibrant bar scene. The Philadelphia sidecar, therefore, represents a rich dual identity: part rugged mobility, part sophisticated indulgence.
The Rise of the Motorcycle Sidecar in Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s urban sprawl and historic charm make it the perfect place for the resurgence of motorcycle sidecars. Not only are they a head-turning alternative to typical transportation, but they also provide a nostalgic nod to vintage Americana. Local enthusiasts have been investing in vintage sidecars, often customizing them with modern parts while retaining their classic aesthetic.
Custom Builds and Local Shops
If you’re searching for custom sidecars in Philadelphia, you’ll find several workshops dedicated to restoring and modifying vintage motorcycles. Shops like Liberty Vintage Motorcycles in Fishtown and Revival Cycles offer full-service custom builds. These shops work with brands like Harley-Davidson, Ural, and BMW to bring old-school charm into the modern world.
Many local builders focus on retro-futuristic design, integrating modern tech (like digital speedometers, USB charging ports, and GPS) into vintage motorcycles with sidecars. The result is a timeless machine that captures Philly’s working-class grit and artistic soul.
Exploring the Streets of Philly with a Sidecar
A sidecar motorcycle ride through Philadelphia is an experience like no other. Imagine cruising along the Schuylkill River, riding past the art museums, or weaving through Old City’s cobbled streets with the wind in your hair. It’s more than just a ride it’s a statement of style and an expression of the city’s love for functional art.
Tours and Rentals
Thanks to rising interest, several tour companies and local businesses now offer sidecar experiences in Philadelphia. These include guided tours where experienced drivers take visitors around major landmarks, food tours with sidecar pitstops, and even themed rides such as Prohibition-era storytelling tours complete with 1920s costumes and music.
Some popular options include:
- Sidecar Philly Tours
- Vintage Rides Philly
- RetroCycle Adventures
These services offer everything from one-hour city rides to half-day excursions, making the sidecar an exciting new way to experience Philadelphia’s culture and architecture.
The Sidecar Cocktail: A Philadelphia Classic Reimagined
While the mechanical sidecar roars down Philly’s roads, another version is being shaken and served in the city’s trendiest bars the Sidecar cocktail. Traditionally made with cognac, triple sec, and fresh lemon juice, the Sidecar is a Prohibition-era cocktail that’s seen a revival in Philadelphia thanks to its timeless flavor and adaptable profile.
Origin of the Sidecar Cocktail
The Sidecar cocktail dates back to the early 20th century, believed to be created either in Paris or London. Its name supposedly comes from an army captain who rode to a Paris bar in a motorcycle sidecar. The drink quickly became popular across Europe and America, standing out as a refined yet simple combination of citrus and spirit.
Philadelphia, known for preserving history while innovating, has embraced the Sidecar and elevated it with modern twists and local flair.
Best Places to Get a Sidecar in Philadelphia
If you’re wondering where to try the best Philadelphia sidecar cocktail, you’re in luck. The city’s bar scene is a mix of swanky lounges, rustic taverns, and hidden speakeasies, each adding its signature spin on the drink.
Top Bars Serving Sidecar Cocktails:
- The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co.: A speakeasy-style bar known for its historical vibe and precise mixology. Their take on the Sidecar includes aged cognac and house-made orange liqueur.
- Sidecar Bar & Grille – Graduate Hospital: With a name like this, it’s no surprise they serve a top-notch Sidecar cocktail. Their version blends traditional ingredients with seasonal citrus infusions.
- Vesper – Center City: Known for its Prohibition-style decor and craft cocktails, Vesper puts a Philly twist on the Sidecar by using local spirits.
- The Ranstead Room – Rittenhouse: Hidden behind a door near El Rey, this romantic cocktail bar serves a sidecar that’s both bold and balanced — a perfect mix of sweet and sour.
- Hop Sing Laundromat – Chinatown
- One of the most mysterious and highly-rated bars in the city, Hop Sing’s take on the Sidecar includes rare cognacs and exotic citrus elements.
Sidecar-Inspired Philly Events and Pop Culture
The fusion of motorcycle and cocktail culture in Philly has even inspired events and media. From sidecar rallies to cocktail competitions, Philadelphia’s sidecar scene brings together people from all walks of life.
Sidecar Socials and Rallies
Annual events like the Philadelphia Sidecar Festival showcase custom bikes, live music, vintage gear markets, and street food. Riders gather to show off their custom builds while bars serve signature Sidecar drinks to festival-goers.
You’ll also find pop-up speakeasies and sidecar-themed parties happening during Philly Beer Week and local food festivals. These events often pair rides with tastings, offering a dynamic way to experience both the classic vehicle and the iconic cocktail.
How the Sidecar Reflects Philadelphia’s Soul
What makes the Philadelphia sidecar truly special is how it mirrors the city’s identity. Both the motorcycle and the cocktail are steeped in history yet constantly evolving. They reflect values of independence, style, and creativity the same qualities that define Philadelphia’s people.
In a city where colonial architecture meets street art, and gritty alleyways lead to fine-dining spots, it’s no surprise that a sidecar whether motorized or served in a glass has become a local emblem of cool.
Customizing Your Own Philadelphia Sidecar Experience
If you’re inspired to create your own Philadelphia sidecar journey, there are a few ways to go about it:
- Buy or Customize a Sidecar Motorcycle: Start by browsing vintage marketplaces or contacting custom builders in the city. Local motorcycle clubs can also offer guidance on legality, safety, and restoration.
- Mix Your Own Sidecar Cocktail at Home: Use 2 oz of cognac, 1 oz of orange liqueur (like Cointreau), and ¾ oz fresh lemon juice. Shake with ice and strain into a sugar-rimmed coupe glass. Garnish with a lemon twist for that perfect Philly touch.
- Book a Sidecar Tour and Bar Crawl: Combine both meanings of “Philadelphia sidecar” by booking a motorcycle ride followed by a visit to the city’s top cocktail spots.
Conclusion: The Spirit of Philadelphia in a Sidecar
The Philadelphia Sidecar is more than just a motorcycle attachment or a Prohibition-era cocktail ita a symbol of the city’s identity. In one word, it captures Philadelphia’s unique ability to blend heritage with innovation, grit with elegance, and everyday life with unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re revving through cobblestone streets in a vintage sidecar or sipping a perfectly balanced cocktail in a dimly lit speakeasy, you’re engaging with a culture that values craftsmanship, storytelling, and authenticity. This isn’t just about transportation or taste it’s about connecting with a city that thrives on movement, history, and personal expression.
So whether you’re a curious traveler, a local enthusiast, or a business looking to tap into something distinctive, the Philadelphia Sidecar offers a ride and a lifestyle like no other. It’s not just an experience. It’s Philadelphia, reimagined.
