My thoughts on Philadelphia

I had two full day’s to explore Philadelphia with my mom, one of brother and his kids and some of their friends. I had previously never thought much about Philadelphia except when watching National Treasures or eating a Philly Cheesesteak. But other than that the city never really crossed my mind.

Now that I have had a taste of the history and the thriving newer culture as well as the mouthwatering food, I would truly love to go back and dive more into it for a longer period of time. I will say that it is an industrial city so the smog is heavy and the majority of the city could be considered dirty. But thats most major cities so this is no different.

As you drive though the streets of Philadelphia, you will notice there is an abundant amount of murals across many buildings. This has been going on since the 1980’s when the graffiti writers were at an all time high and the city was more than done with seeing it all. Underage teenagers could no longer legally buy spray paint so Jane Golden, the founder and director of Mural Arts Philadelphia encouraged these young people to pick up a paint brush and learn mural work rather than graffiti. Thats why the majority of the murals are not defaced with graffiti now days because there is a respect between both kinds of artists.

Philadelphia Historic Site’s

Independence Hall

Is open 9-5 and currently doesn’t require tickets. Its first come first serve. Tours begin every 15 minutes. You will have a well versed historical Park Ranger talk all about the history of Independence Hall, the men who signed the Declaration of Independence and how it forever shaped our world.

The Liberty Bell Center

Is open 9-5 with no tickets required. Only 20 people are allowed in at one time. The building is small but the bell is big! But maybe not as big as some might think. If you only have a short amount of time, I would personally not recommend waiting in line to see the bell unless you have a real desire too see it.

The Presidents House

Here you can see the site where George Washington and John Adams lived. This is also now a commemoration for enslaved people. It is an open air Historical site that is open 24/7 and is within walking distance of Liberty Bell Center.

Penn’s Landing

Here you can see ships of all shapes and sizes. It was just a bit after 7am when we visited with coffee in hand and the cold breeze from the river sending shivers through our bodies. It was a lovely morning! The walk to Penn’s Landing is beautiful and there is a lot of historical buildings to see along the way. And the SeaPort Museum is right there on the river as well!

Historical District

There is so much history around every corner! Getting a map is important so you don’t miss anything! But there is an online suggestion trail if you would like to follow that here. But I would encourage you to take time to stop and see places like Elfreth’s Alley, Christ Church, and the Franklin Court Printing Office.

Philadelphia Eateries

Now lets talk about something we all love…FOOD! If I had more time I would have likely gotten multiple meals or snacks from all sorts of vendors!

The Bourse Food Hall

This artisan shopping and food market is a must! This 105 year old Victorian historic building is as unique on the outside as it is in the inside!
Here you can find food from all over the world. Walking through the market with all the different mouthwatering aromas will make you 10x hungrier than you were before you walked in. Take time to walk around and try different things but know that every place has a decently long line.

Reading Terminal Market

Want to talk about a maze! This market is quite large with all sorts of goodies available with every step you take! There is even an interactive map so you don’t get too lost. We did not get to explore for very long because it was closing within half an hour of us getting there. its opened 8am-6pm.

Pat and Geno’s War on Philly Cheese Steaks

This rivalry is known by just about anyone who comes to Philadelphia or anyone who enjoy’s food tv shows. For those who don’t know, Pat’s came first making their debut in 1930 with the first ever Philly cheesesteak. 36 years later Geno’s built their shop directly across the street and claimed they are now the masters of the cheesesteak. So who’s is better? Thats for you to decide!
Both are always PACKED! Make sure you don’t come too hungry because you will be here awhile between trying to find parking and standing in each line. If you are traveling with someone then tag team it each get one from each. Good tip to know is they only take cash! And having exact cash is easiest and faster.

Pat’s King of Steaks
Geno’s Steaks

Other Important Stops

The Franklin Institute

This interactive science and educational experience is outstanding!
Open 10-5 on weekdays and 10-6 on weekends.
$23 per adult, $19 per child, Military and senior are $21.

Here you can watch live science experiment shows, explore a giant heart, gaze upon the stars in the planetarium, use your body to complete an electrical circuit, and even witness the striking of lighting up close!

This family fun filled institution is a gold mine for kids and adults!

If you get a chance to explore Philadelphia like I did, let me know your favorite place or thing you got to experience and if there is something I need to explore next time myself!

Delight yourself in something new!
Until next time friends!
Dass