A Philadelphian's Sense-ational Guide to Philly

Our Local Expert Says:

Philadelphia is famous for its murals. Take an informative walking or trolley tour for a sampling of the city's nearly 3,000 murals.

Description:

Philadelphia may be the world's mural capital, with over 2500 outdoor and indoor murals, most of them done since 1989, when the city's Mural Arts Program began. Mayor Wilson Goode began the program, then called the Anti-Graffiti Network, as an effort to dissuade graffiti artist from tagging and instead encourage them to create murals that would beautify the city. The program took off in the ensuing years, and its artists have painted Philadelphia's walls into modern history. The Mural Arts Program offers trolley tours of different neighborhoods of the city and the murals that beautify those neighborhoods.

Tours and Prices:
Trolley tour: Saturdays, Sundays, and Wednesdays at 10 am. Prices are as follows: Adults - $25, Seniors - $23, Children (under10) - $15. There is a daily walking tour at 11:30 priced at $17.

Description:

The country's largest daily outdoor market purveys fresh produce, meats and dry goods from the nexus of the Italian community in South Philadelphia. Distinctly Italian hams like Sopresseta, Prosciutto, and Capicolla; special olive oils, cheeses and other rare imported foodstuffs are available at the myriad of shops and stands. Giant sandwiches and the infamous "Philly Cheesesteak" are peddled from various eateries. The market's biggest claim to fame came when featured during a scene in the 1976 film "Rocky" where Sylvester Stallone embarks on his famous run, ending up on the steps of the Art Museum, a distance over seven miles.

Description:

There's a oldies song that asks "Where do all the hippest meet? (South Street, South Street)." That's still pretty true, except now instead of hippest, it's hipsters, as well as scenesters, college kids and young hippy-esque families. The non-chain stores, vintage clothing shops and unique art galleries bring in the younger generations in droves, giving them a break from the standard Gap and Abercrombie. Check out the Theater of the Living Arts for a nighttime concert or grab a drink at Paddy Whacks, but make sure to visit in daylight too, for a taste of famous Lorenzo's pizza and some unique shopping!

Description:

Bar Ferdinand is a bustling hangout for tapas and drinks. The walls boast of beautiful murals and art pieces. The wine list is definitely Spanish and the hot/cold small plates are innovative and reasonably priced. Worth trying are Pixin Con Panceta Pinchos and White Asparagus Flan. Feel free to use the separate dining room if visiting with someone special.

Description:

Silk City is actually two places joined together. The diner was built by the Silk City company in the 1930s. On the other side of the entrance is the lounge. It opens around 5pm for happy hour, and after 7pm there are DJ parties and the occasional live performance. Latin, hip-hop, 80s, disco; call for schedule. The diner stays open all night on Fridays and Saturdays. Try the grilled cheese, the catfish fingers, the meatloaf, or the pie. Or stay up for an early breakfast of huevos rancheros or eggs and scrapple.

Description:

The Alexander Inn is located in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, just blocks from Independence Hall and the Convention Center. The hotel is also within walking distance of the 12-13th and Locust metro stop, with convenient transit to most of Philadelphia's notable attractions. Guests enjoyed the quiet atmosphere and free continental breakfast, complete with fresh fruits and hard-boiled eggs. They were less impressed with the cramped and poorly equipped fitness center. Accommodations are smaller than average but immaculately clean, with old world décor and complimentary movie channels. The hotel also provides free wireless internet and discounted parking at a nearby garage.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you've never partaken in a Friends' Meeting, you have much to learn from the guides at Arch Street Meetinghouse. Not only will they explain the fundamentals of Quakerism to you, they'll also lead you through this beautifully serene house of worship.

Description:

This meeting house of the Quakers has been in existence since 1693. Built on the land Philadelphia founder William Penn gave to the devout Christian denomination, today it educates visitors about the history and beliefs of the Quakers. Guides are on hand to present a 15-minute slide show and give tours of the various Quaker artifacts and dioramas depicting William Penn's contributions and importance to the development of the region. (He was a Quaker himself.) Admission is free.

Our Local Expert Says:

The oldest continuously inhabited street in the nation -- definitely worth a visit!

Description:

The modern Benjamin Franklin Bridge shadows Elfreth's Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited street in America. Most of Colonial Philadelphia looked like this: cobblestone lanes between the major thoroughfares, small two-story homes, and pent eaves over doors and windows, a local trademark. Note the busybody mirrors that let residents see who was at their door (or someone else's) from the second-story bedroom. In 1700, most of the resident artisans and tradesmen worked in shipping, but 50 years later haberdashers, bakers, printers, and house carpenters set up shop. Families moved in and out rapidly, for noisy, dusty 2nd Street was the major north-south route in Philadelphia. Jews, blacks, Welsh, and Germans made it a miniature melting pot in the 18th and 19th centuries. The destruction of the street was prevented in 1937, thanks to the vigilant Elfreth's Alley Association and a good deal of luck. The minuscule, sober facades hide some ultramodern interiors, and there are some restful shady benches under a Kentucky Coffee Bean tree on Bladen Court, off the north side of the street.

Number 126, the 1755 Mantua Maker's House (cape maker), built by blacksmith Jeremiah Elfreth, now serves...

Description:

Penn's Landing is a great destination for activities and entertainment in Philadelphia. Formed in 1979, the idea of Penn's Landing was to give the city a place to experience festivals, events and recreation. It is a veritable wonderland with an ice rink, bustling waterfront, a nightclub, a museum and much more. If you're with kids, this is the ideal place to hang out. Check out the Duck ride, a one of a kind land and water ride. Or if you're just looking to have a good time, make your way down to Cavanaugh's River Deck. It offers a delicious Irish grill as well as live music and dancing. Otherwise, pop into Egypt, the landing's very own disco, which has three dance floors. There is very little you can't do at Penn's landing. Also, when you're there, remember to visit Christopher Columbus - all 106 feet of him. Over 1.5 million people visit Penn's landing, so go ahead and join the bandwagon!

Description:

Penn's Landing is a great destination for activities and entertainment in Philadelphia. Formed in 1979, the idea of Penn's Landing was to give the city a place to experience festivals, events and recreation. It is a veritable wonderland with an ice rink, bustling waterfront, a nightclub, a museum and much more. If you're with kids, this is the ideal place to hang out. Check out the Duck ride, a one of a kind land and water ride. Or if you're just looking to have a good time, make your way down to Cavanaugh's River Deck. It offers a delicious Irish grill as well as live music and dancing. Otherwise, pop into Egypt, the landing's very own disco, which has three dance floors. There is very little you can't do at Penn's landing. Also, when you're there, remember to visit Christopher Columbus-all 106 feet of him. Over 1.5 million people visit Penn's landing, so go ahead and join the bandwagon!

Description:

With stunning views of the Delaware River, Chart House offers unparalleled ambiance along with world-famous cuisine & impeccable service. The restaurant features a city view lounge & expanded riverfront dining. Since 1961, Chart House has been dedicated to providing the ideal dining experience. Chart House offers spectacular views & exceptional service that you're sure to enjoy. From top-of-the-catch seafood to succulent steaks, renowned chefs have tailored a menu to complement local cuisine while introducing a hint of the exotic. Choose from famous entrées such as Snapper Hemingway, Shrimp Fresca & slow roasted Prime Rib. They also offer a daily selection of fresh fish, an extensive collection of fine wines & whiskies, & decadent desserts like Hot Chocolate Lava Cake.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you're not going to a show here, the site is at least worth a walk-by. Philadelphia artist Isaiah Zagar, whose mosaics can be found on walls throughout the city (particularly around South Street), made the exterior of this building as noteworthy as the events that go on within.

Description:

The outside of the building indicates that patrons are in for a unique experience - and (thankfully) the inside lives up to the expectation. This visual art and live performance gallery has long been a revered institution for those looking to avoid the mainstream, and hosts the city's longest continually running Jazz series. Free admission to the gallery is available Tuesday through Saturday. Live performances inside the center's 250 seat theatre take place at various times.

Description:

The Alexander Inn is located in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, just blocks from Independence Hall and the Convention Center. The hotel is also within walking distance of the 12-13th and Locust metro stop, with convenient transit to most of Philadelphia's notable attractions. Guests enjoyed the quiet atmosphere and free continental breakfast, complete with fresh fruits and hard-boiled eggs. They were less impressed with the cramped and poorly equipped fitness center. Accommodations are smaller than average but immaculately clean, with old world décor and complimentary movie channels. The hotel also provides free wireless internet and discounted parking at a nearby garage.

Description:

Sabrina's may look like a diner, but the food is way beyond traditional diner food. Their vegetarian "cheesesteaks" are famous, as are their brunches, where every portion could easily serve two.

Description:

This 92-acre public garden is populated with rare, exotic and large trees presented in four different environments: The English Park, Rose Garden, Swan Pond and Japanese Garden all offer a multitude of species and phylum of plants specific to each area. The generally Victorian tone of the gardens radiates a sense of romance and natural splendor. University of Pennsylvania students conduct botanical experiments and studies that are also on display.

Our Local Expert Says:

While the famous lights of Boathouse Row can only be seen from across the river, the east side of the Boathouses provides an ever-popular path for joggers, bikers, strolling families, picnickers, and others. Half a mile past the boathouses lies a mid-century sculpture garden depicting the history of the U.S. For some exercise (and a view of the lights), follow the Kelly Drive path all the way to the Falls Bridge and head back on West River Drive, completing an 8-mile loop that ends in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Description:

The lights that illuminate the boathouses on Boathouse Row are a classic Philadelphia scene. Numerous painters have painted these lights, which even native Philadelphians stop to marvel at. The only difficulty is getting to a place where you can see the lights; they're on the river side of the boathouses, so they can only be seen from West River Drive or the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76), and only at night. If you have access to a car, try driving West River Drive, crossing the Falls Bridge, and coming back to the city on Kelly Drive. Alternately, the boathouses are quite lovely from Kelly Drive, even without the famous lights. Kelly Drive, which begins at the Art Museum and extends four miles northwest, is an ever-popular place for bikers, joggers, and picnickers.

Description:

Geno's Steaks has been a key member of the famous Philadelphia Cheesesteak triad (Geno's, Pat's, Jim's) for as long as memory serves. A typical topic of conversation among Philadelphians is which one of these masters of the rib eye reigns supreme. Some say Geno's sandwiches are bigger but Pat's are better. Truth be told, any of the three do justice to the city's signature sandwich. Located across from arch-nemesis Pat's in South Philadelphia near the Italian Market. Outside seating only.

Description:

A Philly tradition! Bar and nightclub presenting nightly entertainment. Named award-winning fun spot by Philadelphia magazine, Philadelphia Weekly, and City Paper, with a truly mixed crowd: young, old, black, white, gay, and straight.

Description:

The Alexander Inn is located in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, just blocks from Independence Hall and the Convention Center. The hotel is also within walking distance of the 12-13th and Locust metro stop, with convenient transit to most of Philadelphia's notable attractions. Guests enjoyed the quiet atmosphere and free continental breakfast, complete with fresh fruits and hard-boiled eggs. They were less impressed with the cramped and poorly equipped fitness center. Accommodations are smaller than average but immaculately clean, with old world décor and complimentary movie channels. The hotel also provides free wireless internet and discounted parking at a nearby garage.

Our Local Expert Says:

As one of the East Coast's premiere museums, the PMA is certainly worth a visit. Whether or not you have children with you, be sure to check out the vast collection of medieval armor.

Description:

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is notable for both its collection and its architecture. The museum's original home was a building in Fairmount Park, built in 1876 as part of the Centennial celebration in Philadelphia (the space is now home to the Please Touch Museum). The museum's current home was built in 1928. The grand staircase leading to the entrance offers a fantastic view of City Hall and the Ben Franklin Parkway. It also offers many tourists the chance to run up to the top in imitation of Rocky Balboa. The Museum's collection is extensive; highlights include Asian decorative arts, Rodin sculptures, Picasso and Duchamp paintings, and an extensive collection of medieval armor, which was donated to the Museum by Carl Otto Kretzschmar von Kienbusch.

Our Local Expert Says:

Fairmount Park is the nation's largest urban park, spreading throughout much of Philadelphia. It's definitely worth a trip to the historic houses or the Japanese Tea House within the Park.

Description:

This large expanse of grasslands, recreational facilities, streams and historical structures borders the northwest side of Philadelphia. The 8,700 acre ground include day camps, playgrounds, sporting fields, basketball courts and hiking trails. Special events include running events, bicycle and antique car races, walk-a-thons, regattas, and small and large picnics, including the Greek Picnic with over 100,000 participants annually from around the country. Tours are available of the historic mansions in the park. Also, the Horticulture Society maintains a Japanese Teahouse, and conducts tea ceremonies on weekends.

Our Local Expert Says:

While more well-known artists tend to head to bigger venues, the Mann continues to draw top-notch artists of many different genres. Bring a blanket if you want to sit on the lawn, and keep your eyes open as you pass through the western side of Fairmount Park on your way there.

Description:

The Mann Center for the Performing Arts is the only outdoor cultural arts venue in the Philadelphia region. The unique open-air theater has hosted some of the world's best-known artists and performers, ranging in genre from orchestra to opera and jazz to rock and roll. The Mann is a non-profit organization intent on giving back to the community.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is a wonderful museum for young children, offering interactive exhibits that they will never forget.

Description:

The Please Touch Museum offers a unique experience for children. Its exhibits are all hands-on, and young children can experiment with and understand things in the way that is most effective for kids - by manipulating and physically exploring them. In 2008, the Museum moved to Memorial Hall in west Fairmount Park. The Hall was built to house the centennial exhibition in 1876, and exhibits to engage children and adults include an 1876 train depot and a restored and functioning carousel.

Description:

Regarded as the best farmers' market in America (at least by Philadelphians), the Reading Terminal Market is a terrific place to sample all the culinary grandeur Philadelphia has to offer. Experience the traditional cheesesteak, a custom-made deli sandwich, or an authentic Pennsylvania Dutch hearty home cooked breakfast prepared by Amish farmers. Aside from the prepared foods, over 80 food merchants purvey fresh fish and meats as well as an assortment of exotic and local fruits and vegetables.

Our Local Expert Says:

Always a good place to go if you need some vacation reading. The Central branch on the Ben Franklin Parkway, though, is worth the trip even if you don't need a book. Walk inside the front doors and let the massive marble entrance hall and stairway awe you.

Description:

The Free Library of Philadelphia, established by Benjamin Franklin, encompasses 55 branches throughout the city so patrons can access the information they need. The neo-Greek architecture of the Central branch's building on Vine Street reflects the prototypical image of what one expects a magnificent library to look like. The Central branch has an excellent music collection and a rare book archive. (And the rooftop cafeteria is very inexpensive.) There is also Internet access, adult education classes, reader development and children's workshops in most branches.

Our Local Expert Says:

Thousands of people pass through this building every day (literally -- you can walk straight through the central courtyard), but few take the time to stop and notice the elaborate French-second-empire architecture or the historic statues that grace the grounds of the building. In December, walk through the archways on Market Street to view one of the biggest decorated Christmas trees on the East Coast planted firmly in the middle of the courtyard.

Description:

Gothic and neoclassical influences dominate the features of City Hall. The statue of William Penn that resides atop City Hall's clock tower remains a Philadelphia skyline marker-until the 1980s there was a "gentleman's agreement" that no Philadelphia building would be built higher than the rim of Penn's hat.

City Hall provides a majestic backdrop for shoppers and businesspersons alike as it is situated on the intersection of the city's two main arteries, Broad and Market Streets.

Description:

This little hollow across from City Hall is most noteworthy for Robert Indiana's 1978 "Love" sculpture. The piece has become a popular symbol for the "City of Brotherly Love" and its image is plastered all over the city. It's 20-foot-tall appeal lies in its simplicity: The letters L, O, V, E, stacked on top of each other. During a usual lunch hour the park attracts an odd combination of Armani clad businesspeople and skateboarders who skinny-dip their modes of transport in this concrete pond. They're actually fun to watch.

Description:

This popular bar and seafood restaurant has a spacious and modern interior of clean, white walls, yet a lively atmosphere and an open kitchen. On weekends, expect this place to be bustling! The menu has separate sections for poached, baked and grilled fish (most can be had either way) and of course the plateau de fruits de mer. Dishes range from fish soup to Beluga caviar. Don't leave without pairing the food with a selection from the extensive wine list and innovative cocktail menu. The restaurant is located just a short distance from Dam Square.

Description:

The Alexander Inn is located in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, just blocks from Independence Hall and the Convention Center. The hotel is also within walking distance of the 12-13th and Locust metro stop, with convenient transit to most of Philadelphia's notable attractions. Guests enjoyed the quiet atmosphere and free continental breakfast, complete with fresh fruits and hard-boiled eggs. They were less impressed with the cramped and poorly equipped fitness center. Accommodations are smaller than average but immaculately clean, with old world décor and complimentary movie channels. The hotel also provides free wireless internet and discounted parking at a nearby garage.

Description:

Known for its Ultimate Cheese steak; John's Roast Pork has been in business since 1930's. It is a favorite among the people of Philadelphia. Not for the health conscious; this eatery has been serving cheese steaks for over 70 years. The food is homemade, with a special flavoring used to season it. It was awarded with 'James Beard Foundation Award for Culinary Excellence' in 2006. A must order here is the namesake sandwich (a favorite among the locals), The Hoagies are simply sumptuous and worth a try too. Get there early so that you're not disappointed.

Our Local Expert Says:

While you may have to wait in line a bit, this is the essential place for a Philadelphia visit to begin. Learn about Philadelphia history and see some of the most important sites of the colonial era.

Description:

Independence Hall, completed in 1753, is known to many as the birthplace of America. This building is where the nation's founders issued the Declaration of Independence; where they drafted and signed the Constitution; and where, oddly enough, the new city's stray dogs were kept (in the basement). Independence Hall is located in the heart of the city's historic district and is an essential stop for anyone visiting the city's historic sites or hoping to learn about the founding of the United States.

Our Local Expert Says:

This beautiful landmark on Philadelphia's Avenue of the Arts is worth visiting just for the interior architecture and décor. If you're visiting in December, check out The Nutcracker, performed by the Pennsylvania Ballet and the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Description:

This has been the jewel of the Philadelphia culture scene since it opened in 1857. The simple brick Federalist exterior opens into an ornate interior - art deco lamps, velvet cushions, and possibly the largest chandelier on the East Coast. The Philadelphia Orchestra, the Pennsylvania Ballet, the opera and the occasional pop show have performed at the academy. There is some criticism about the acoustics and sight lines, but none of this matters. This is where the big shows are.

Description:

With over 10 billion combinations of Pitas available they guarantee satisfaction. You can either come in to the store (16th and Sansom) or order right from the webpage (www.phillypitapit.com). Let your imagination run wild when you choose from all of the delicious fresh meats and vegetables. The fusion of fresh, fun, tasty and quick nutritious food is here to stay in the City of Brotherly Love. They look forward to making your perfect pits as well as your entire day!

Description:

In addition to being a world class music venue, World Cafe Live also features extensive and eclectic menus both upstairs and downstairs with daily lunch specials, nightly chef specials, great music and the hottest Happy Hour west of Liberty Place.

Description:

The Alexander Inn is located in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, just blocks from Independence Hall and the Convention Center. The hotel is also within walking distance of the 12-13th and Locust metro stop, with convenient transit to most of Philadelphia's notable attractions. Guests enjoyed the quiet atmosphere and free continental breakfast, complete with fresh fruits and hard-boiled eggs. They were less impressed with the cramped and poorly equipped fitness center. Accommodations are smaller than average but immaculately clean, with old world décor and complimentary movie channels. The hotel also provides free wireless internet and discounted parking at a nearby garage.

Description:

This 1976 Claes Oldenburg sculpture carries the same bit of quirk found in many of his other works about the city. If you take a stroll through Philadelphia, you'll find it is not that odd to find a 20-foot tall, red clothespin in the middle of high activity areas. The Clothespin also provided the background for a scene with Jamie Lee Curtis and Dan Ankroyd in the film "Trading Places." There are other Claes Oldenburg sculptures around town, including the giant broken button on the Penn campus at 36th and Locust Walk.

Description:

In Short
This glass-enclosed sandwich hot spot is filled with hungry patrons looking for a big sandwich for a not-so-big price. Place your order, grab a table and take in the walls of fame: There's Robert Redford, Jerry Blavat with Nancy Sinatra and actor, boxer and singer-songwriter Tony Luke Jr., as well as a wall of wrestlers. Roasted pork, cheese steaks, roast beef, chicken cutlets and even the veggie sandwich all come on fresh bread.

Description:

Opened with tremendous fanfare in December 2001, Rafael Vinoly's dramatic glass-and-steel vault along the Avenue of the Arts encompasses Verizon Hall, a 2,500-seat cello-shaped concert hall built specifically to house the Philadelphia Orchestra; and Perelman Theater, a 650-seat hall for chamber music, dance, and drama with a turntable stage. Other features at Kimmel include an interactive education center; "black box" theater space; a daytime cafe and gift shop in the plaza along Spruce Street; and parking and restaurant facilities. Above all, there is space, acres and acres of it -- space designed to sparkle and amaze, unlike anything else in the area.

With its comfortable mahogany interior, four levels of seating, and excellent acoustics, Verizon Hall is a pleasure. Perelman's design is also nice, with a metal-clad exterior and light woods and warm fabrics within.

Most of the jewels in Philadelphia's cultural crown -- the city opera, orchestra, and ballet companies -- perform either at Kimmel or at the historic Academy of Music (which is affiliated with Kimmel and located 1 block north). Visiting talent in music and dance and an incredible jazz series presented by the Kimmel Center...

Description:

As winners of three Grammies, the orchestra has consistently maintained the renown they've earned for more than 100 seasons. This is the orchestra featured in Disney's film Fantasia.) Performances are held at the Academy of Music and, in the summer, outdoors at the Mann Center in Fairmount Park.

Description:

Striped Bass, a former brokerage house with 28-foot ceilings, offers comfortable & intimate surroundings reminiscent of a grand hotel in a foreign land. The full exhibition kitchen is visible throughout the restaurant. A spectacular 16' sculpture of a leaping Striped Bass turns the stainless steel kitchen into art and the open kitchen into a dramatic stage.

Description:

A long, narrow room with some of the best jazz in the country, the bar is always packed, and tables are at a premium in this mid-sized venue. Though it's a bit cramped, patrons are willing to sacrifice some elbow room for the jazz. Attached to what's left of the Ortlieb's brewery, this jazz venue serves the original recipe of this local favorite beer. Who ever thought Ortlieb's would come back as a microbrew? Paprika and chili-powder-laden crawdads, gumbos, and jambalayas are served along with a side of live jazz seven nights a week.

Description:

Chef Jose Garces had come a long way since his graduation from culinary school. The Latin cuisines he dabbles in draw inspiration from Flamenco. The eatery pays respect to this iconic Spanish tradition by organizing live music and dances once every week on the premises. The name of this restaurant means 'loved one' in Spanish and a lot of regulars will willingly vouch for it. Book in advance if you are interested in hosting a party or if you want to try the suckling pig.

Description:

North Third is eclectic mix of delicious bar food, tasty Asian-inspired dishes, neighborhood bar, and hipster hangout. The decorations will leave you wondering about the owner, who also owns Silk City. One thing that's for sure, though, is that he hires the right chefs and can cook up some delicious casual dining food. And he also knows how to create a fun atmosphere.

Our Local Expert Says:

In his lifetime, Albert C. Barnes gathered one of the most comprehensive collections of art in the world. What is most notable about this museum is the way Barnes arranged paintings and decorative pieces to highlight the forms and colors within the paintings.

Description:

The Barnes Foundation is a remarkable museum that reflects the genius of its founder, Albert C. Barnes. Barnes began displaying his collection in 1922 in order to "promote the advancement of education and the appreciation of the fine arts." The collection was meant to instruct, with paintings and decorative arts strategically grouped to enhance viewers' understanding of what Barnes believed to be the most important elements of the pieces. The collection focuses on Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, with an impressive number of holdings by Picasso, Matisse, Renoir, Cezanne, and others. The audio guide to the collection is quite useful, as the narration explains important pieces and the rationale behind Barnes' groupings of pieces.

Description:

The Wissahickon is one of the most beautiful parts of Fairmount Park. The woods extend along the Wissahickon Creek, which feeds into the Schuylkill River. Hiking trails abound, as do scenic views of the Creek and of Pennsylvania's native flora and fauna. For an easier walk, stick to Forbidden Drive, a wide gravel road that runs alongside the Creek and is open only to bikers, horseback riders, and pedestrians. If you're interested in hiking, search for maps of the trails online. Trails along the eastern side of the Creek include glorious sites like the Fingerspan Bridge (designed by Jody Pinto) and Devil's Hole, a popular swimming spot.

Our Local Expert Says:

The beautiful new home of the Philadelphia Phillies. The stadium offers an intimate baseball experience and an excellent view of the Philadelphia skyline.

Description:

Citizen's Bank Park was completed in April 2004 and boasts state-of-the-art design. With the goals of placing fans closer to the action and maximizing sight lines to the field, architects decided to combine "bowl" style seating with a field that is recessed 23' below street level. It's a design that places fans right above the action. The ballpark seats 43,500.

Our Local Expert Says:

This square is one of the best places in the city for people-watching. Grab an outdoor table at one of the upscale bar/restaurants lining the Square, and you'll be set for hours. Jane Jacobs even cited this Square as one of the most successful urban green areas in her classic book, The Death of Life of Great American Cities.

Description:

Rittenhouse Square was one of five squares (only four of which exist) in William Penn's original plan for the city, and it has always been the busiest and most happening square. Jane Jacobs wrote about it in The Death and Life of Great American Cities as an example of a truly successful urban green space. There is hardly a time of day or night when Rittenhouse Square isn't packed with nine-to-fivers taking a lunch break, loungers reading a book or newspaper, people watchers, children, dogs, squirrels, and sometimes a juggler or acrobat. Fashionable restaurants, coffee shops, bookstores, and high-end hotels surround the Square; a visitor to Philadelphia will have much to look at and explore in and around the Square.

Description:

The Johnson House, built in 1768, served as a stop for fugitive slaves who were making their way North on the underground railroad during the 19th Century. It is the only known structure of this type in Philadelphia that is currently open to the pubic. The Johnson House is presently owned and operated by the Germantown Historic Trust and offers interpretative programs in American history as well as supporting resources to the public.

Description:

Since 1939 this dining mainstay has been consistently rated as one of the area's best for having mastered the culinary art of creating authentic Philly cheesesteaks. Cheez Whiz, sautéed onions, mushrooms, and peppers are just a few of the extras that are always on call to top the thinly sliced rib eyes. Put them together on a long Italian torpedo roll and you have a sandwich masterpiece. The menu also offers several cheesesteak variations as well as soups and salads. Its late hours make it a favorite with the bar crowd.

Description:

In Short
White walls line the narrow space; a bank of ovens open and close their maws in tandem with diners. Outside, soiled and scattered white paper plates serve as a testament to the crowds. When you've just been swallowing buckets of brew or swaying to an act at the TLA, Lorenzo's giant slices are a godsend. Blackened, crisp crust holds the floppy thing together like a stroke of genius.

Description:

Though it doesn't actually sell lids, Lucy's Hat Shop, does provide intimate dining as well as a trendy socialite bar in Philadelphia's Old City. After beginning with, among others, the Grilled Quail over fresh red grapes, you can choose such contemporary dishes as the vegetarian Portobella steak or the N.Y. Strip Steak. After 10pm, the kitchen closes as locals convene in this converted millinery, filling up chairs, antique couches and floor space.

Description:

All you choco maniacs will dig this place. A café dedicated to chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate. Feast on the likes of Lemon-thyme burst, dark chocolate with an explosive, and tart and spicy liquid center. The frozen drinking chocolate is also quite a hit. So make Center City your haunt and keep looking for excuses, oops occasions to celebrate!

Description:

Noche Lounge, conveniently located in Center City, is the perfect restaurant and bar to relax with affordable drinks, amazing food and a friendly atmosphere. Noche´s wide-open space and second-floor location give guests a comfortable, cool experience. Noche invites the outdoors in with ceiling-high windows, through which guests can people-watch on Chestnut and 19th Streets. The large booths, lining the perimeter of the lounge, are covered in a plush cowhide cover. A pool table, jukebox filled with rock and roll favorites, and big-screen TV add sports feel to the bar.

Description:

The Legendary Blue Horizon was voted the best place to watch a fight and has showcased the talents of many up-coming boxers including Fast Eddie Chambers, Jose Reyes, Harry Yorgey, as well as many seasoned ones. The newly renovated venue also has two levels which are used for weddings, cabarets, receptions, parties, shows and films.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Franklin Institute is an ever-popular science museum for people of all ages. Its biggest draws are the Tuttleman Omniverse Theater (an IMAX theater), the newly renovated Observatory, and the room-sized replica of a human heart. Walk through the heart to get an educational and visual experience you will never forget.

Description:

The Franklin Institute is one of the country's premier science museums, with informative exhibits and activities for children and adults. The Institute's biggest draws are the model of the human heart, through which visitors can walk, the IMAX theater, and the Fels Planetarium, where visitors can study the night sky and get a lesson on constellations. Visitors can also learn about mechanics, trains, airplanes, Franklin's study of electricity, and other aspects of science that comprise the modern world. The Institute also offers an educational outdoor play space and an observatory. Check the website for temporary exhibits and IMAX films.

Our Local Expert Says:

A unique place to stay in West Philadelphia, convenient to University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University.

Description:

A magnificently restored Victorian mansion near the Universities. 10 elegant bedrooms, sitting rooms and dining room with an extensive collection of period antiques. A large wrap-around porch over looks the side yard and gardens. Free off-street parking. Easy access to the trolley line. Rooms are all air-conditioned, have cable television, private phones, vcr's, clock radios and cd players. Wireless DSL is accessible in all the rooms and there is a computer station in the hall for guest use. Refrigerator and microwave available in common area. Guests are asked to smoke outside only. Well behaved children are welcome but sorry no pets. Awards include: Historic Preservation Award and Philadelphia Magazine's "Best of Philly Award" "Best Urban Get-away." The Gables is featured in the holiday 2002 issue of Victorian Homes Magazine.

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Our Local Expert Says:

The only hostel in downtown Philadelphia, Apple Hostel offers cheap and clean accommodations right in the middle of the historic district.

Description:

Apple Hostel on Bank Street is the only hostel in downtown Philadelphia. It's located on a small street in the heart of Old City, surrounded by restaurants and nightlife and within easy walking distance to historic sites and anything else you might want to see in downtown Philadelphia. Accommodations are typical hostel style (bunk beds), but included with your stay are free wireless internet, free bed linens, laundry facilities, a guest kitchen, a billiards table, and a secure locker. You can also socialize with other travelers during the free pub crawl offered every Thursday night.

Our Local Expert Says:

The only "green" hotel in Philadelphia!

Description:

Philadelphia's first "green" hotel, the Palomar is located in a beautiful old building near Rittenhouse Square.

Description:

The Omni Hotel at Independence Park is widely regarded as one of the premier hotels in Philadelphia. Overlooking Independence National Historic Park, it is located within walking distance of top attractions such as the Liberty Bell and the Benjamin Franklin House. Guests rave about the elegant décor and comfortable furnishings of their clean and spacious rooms. They welcome the presence of prime amenities such as feather pillows, gourmet coffee makers and Jacuzzi bathtubs. Guests wishing to pamper themselves can book a massage, skincare or beauty treatment at the hotel's well-reviewed Lux Spa. Those seeking an excellent meal can enjoy contemporary American cuisine at the hotel's Azalea Restaurant. Room service is also available 24 hours a day.

Description:

Kanella offers authentic Cypriot food prepared by chef Konstantinos Pitsillides. The menu is simple and elegant, featuring free-range, organic, and local ingredients.

Description:

Easily the finest kosher/vegetarian Chinese Restaurant in Philadelphia, this family-owned operation offers scores of meatless dishes any diner would enjoy. Choose from the Chef's Specialty menu such items as Beef-slice Double Green, steamed Leek Dumplings, Scallion Pancakes, or one of the many delicious soups. Be forewarned, though, it's all vegan fare so don't ask jovial owner Peter Fong if there's any meat in your dish-unless you want a wisecrack reply.