Family fun

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.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is an educational museum with ever-fascinating exhibits to entertain people of all ages. Dinosaur Hall on the first floor has been a hit with children for decades.

Description:

The Academy of Natural Sciences is Philadelphia's natural history museum, founded in 1812. The Academy offers entertainment for children and adults, with information and live animals that instruct and entertain all visitors. The dinosaur hall, located right near the entrance to the museum, is its most famous draw. The large motorized skeletons will awe and amaze. The Academy often has fascinating temporary exhibitions as well, so be sure to visit the website before you plan your trip.

Description:

Conveniently located downtown near Suburban Station & Rittenhouse Square, Public House blends great food, fine spirits & good times. Public House boasts a sophisticated, yet unassuming crowd, spacious bar, private lounge & separate dining area featuring classic American cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Public House is the perfect place for a power lunch, a quiet dinner for two, or to socialize & unwind after work. For the sports fan, large HDTV plasma screens broadcast the big games. Private parties, large groups & special events are welcome, with private dining & event space available. Serving lunch, dinner & late-night menus. catering services, take-out & delivery available upon request.

Description:

Located at the Franklin Institute Science Museum (The), an Omnimax is the "wraparound" version of an IMAX film. Patrons feel a part of the heart-racing action as nature adventures such as the "Tropical Rainforest" and "Sharks" are projected onto a four-story, domed screen. Fifty speakers broadcast bone-shattering sound to enhance the experience. See their website for features and event times.

Description:

The Holiday Inn Hotel Historic District Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers seeking a trusted and familiar brand while visiting the city. It is perfectly situated near top attractions such as Independence Hall and the National Constitution Center. Guests are mostly very happy with their rooms, describing them as clean and comfortably furnished. They also enjoy amenities such as plush down comforters, large work desks and complimentary morning newspapers. Those visiting on business appreciate having access to the hotel's business center, which offers print, fax and copy services. They also welcome the availability of the hotel's five meeting rooms, the largest of which can accommodate as many as 500 people and all of which include complimentary high-speed Internet access.

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:

At nearly 100 restaurants nationwide, they serve authentic Italian dishes passed down from generation to generation. Many originate from the Southern region of Calabria, but they also offer Northern Italian favorites. Specialties include Fresh Mozzarella Caprese, Eggplant Parmigiana, Fettuccine Alfredo and Spaghetti with Homemade Meatballs.

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.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Liberty Bell stands out as one of the most important symbols of American freedom. Its prime location in Independence National Historical Park makes it an easy stop on a tour of historic Philadelphia.

Description:

The Liberty Bell, located in Independence National Historical Park, rang in 1776 as a summons to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was to be read publicly. What started as a small crack became an irreparable chasm, and the Liberty Bell never rang out again. While the Bell initially symbolized America's independence from Britain, abolitionists adopted it in the mid-19th century as a symbol of freedom for all Americans, no matter their race. Today, it represents different things to different people, but it is inarguably one of the most important symbols of our nation, and well worth a visit.

Our Local Expert Says:

Be prepared to encounter crowds at Philadelphia's most well-known tourist destination. View the Liberty Bell that only rang once, stand where the signers of the Declaration of Independence once stood, and read up on history in the newly built Constitution Center. When you're ready for some peace and quiet, take a horse and buggy ride around the site and through the cobblestone streets of Society Hill.

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:

Excellent pan-Asian food and an interesting décor make this Stephen Starr restaurant a must-visit.

Description:

This Pan-Asian nightspot centers around a 10½-foot gilded Buddha. Buddakan features glistening decor accented by wasabi-colored booths, two full bars, plenty of sofas for lounging, along with a 20-person community table where you can share food and conversation with friends. Chef Scott Swiderski has created a whirlwind tour of the Pacific Rim in menu form, from Garlic Grilled Shrimp with Long Life Noodle to Wok Smoked Salmon to Szechuan-crusted Tuna with wasabi sour cream.

Description:

Unlike many museums, the Liberty Museum addresses a current problem instead of documenting the past. Three floors of displays and multi-media presentations are intended to reflect America's roots in freedom and equality and how it can be used today to confront bigotry and hatred. Glass is the medium used in many of the works on display to reflect the delicate balance between freedom and persecution. The most notable piece of the art collection is "The Flame of Liberty," a 20-foot glass sculpture by Dale Chihuly. See their website for further information.

Description:

Initially chartered in 1791 to combat the debt the United States had incurred from the war with Great Britain, the First Bank of the United States created uniform currency for the 13 original states. This brainchild of then-Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton was erected in the neo-classical style to echo the democracy of Ancient Greece. However, Congress abandoned the use of a national bank in 1811; legislators of the time felt it made the federal government too centralized by not giving enough power to the states. The space is now a portrait gallery featuring the Signers of the Declaration of Independence. There are many fine portraits here, particularly by Charles Wilson Peale. Other exhibits chronicle early currency and the bank's importance in American history are on display. The bank is also one of the first historic sites to use the bald eagle as a national symbol.

Our Local Expert Says:

Anyone touring important U.S. history locales should stop here, where Betsy Ross sewed the flag that became the official flag of the United States. The house small brick house is a relic of old Philadelphia; nearly all of the buildings around it were torn down and replaced by factories.

Description:

The Betsy Ross House in Old City is where Betsy supposedly sewed the flag that became the official flag of the United States. The building at the time housed several small businesses, and Betsy's descendants claimed that she (and perhaps others) also lived there. The building might have been torn down in the late nineteenth century, as most others on the block were, had it not been for the efforts of concerned citizens hoping to preserve some of America's history. Today, the small colonial house is an anomaly in a neighborhood of large factory and warehouse buildings, just a few blocks away from Independence National Historical Park.

Description:

A Stephen Starr restaurant of pure mid-century American décor and cuisine

Description:

The Holiday Inn Hotel Historic District Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers seeking a trusted and familiar brand while visiting the city. It is perfectly situated near top attractions such as Independence Hall and the National Constitution Center. Guests are mostly very happy with their rooms, describing them as clean and comfortably furnished. They also enjoy amenities such as plush down comforters, large work desks and complimentary morning newspapers. Those visiting on business appreciate having access to the hotel's business center, which offers print, fax and copy services. They also welcome the availability of the hotel's five meeting rooms, the largest of which can accommodate as many as 500 people and all of which include complimentary high-speed Internet access.

Description:

William Penn founded Philadelphia in 1682 as the capital of the Pennsylvania colony. This park was named after Penn's ship, the Welcome. The statue of Penn in the middle of the park is a miniature of the one atop City Hall that was designed by Alexander Milne Calder. The Friends of Independence National Historical Park built Welcome Park in 1982 to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the founding of Pennsylvania. It is located on the site of the Slate Roof House, Penn's residence in Philadelphia from 1699-1701, across the street from the City Tavern.

Our Local Expert Says:

There's never a shortage of sights at the Italian Market. Come here to buy meat, cheese, vegetables, and delicacies, or come just to observe the sounds and smells of the crowded marketplace. Don't leave without sampling some cheese at DiBruno's and a fine Italian dessert from Isgro's.

Description:

As the name suggests, this tour takes you through the stalls and shops of the oldest ethnic market - the Italian Market. Get acquainted with Italian cold cuts like Sopresseta and Prosciutto and sample Italian savories. Guests receive discount cards for shopping and authentic, traditional Italian recipes. Find cheeses, oils, and other imported items displayed in a riot of colors. Students and groups receive discounts. Reservations are necessary. Tour groups must have at least four people.

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:

There's never a dull moment at this zoo. Watch sea otters play, giraffes graze, and lion cubs learn from their parents.

Description:

The Philadelphia Zoo, in operation since 1874, is the oldest zoo in the United States. Frank Furness designed the beautiful Victorian gates and gatehouses, still standing grandly at the entrance. The zoo has nearly 1500 animals in various habitats, including a small mammal house, a reptile and amphibian house, a prairie dog field, and "African Plains." Kids and parents will enjoy the children's zoo with animals to pet, a ride on a camel's back in the African Plains, and a trip around the zoo on the monorail.

Description:

Experience the American Revolution, as it happened, where it happened – through state-of-the-art technology at the Lights of Liberty Show, the first ambulatory sound and light show of its kind in the world.  As you journey through Independence National Historical Park, the story is told through beautiful hand painted images that are projected up to 50 feet high onto the buildings where the events actually took place over 230 years ago.

Description:

The Holiday Inn Hotel Historic District Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers seeking a trusted and familiar brand while visiting the city. It is perfectly situated near top attractions such as Independence Hall and the National Constitution Center. Guests are mostly very happy with their rooms, describing them as clean and comfortably furnished. They also enjoy amenities such as plush down comforters, large work desks and complimentary morning newspapers. Those visiting on business appreciate having access to the hotel's business center, which offers print, fax and copy services. They also welcome the availability of the hotel's five meeting rooms, the largest of which can accommodate as many as 500 people and all of which include complimentary high-speed Internet access.

Description:

This is one of the original squares that Ben Franklin planned for the city. It has had multiple uses over the years and has only recently been converted to a family-friendly park and playspace.

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.

Description:

Located on the ground floor of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, this restaurant specializes in offering a 'tailor-made' menu to its visitors. Executive Chef Tracey Hopkins expertly presents 'exhibit-related' dishes for the restaurant's guests. So if you have already been to a Parisian exhibition on the first floor, you know which cuisine to expect downstairs. Moreover the restaurant also provides a regular American cuisine with some local specialties - try the 'inventive' seasonal soups and meaty crab cakes. Reservations are necessary, as the restaurant is always bustling with the 'museum crowd'.

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.

Description:

Judy Wicks opened the White Dog in an old brownstone on the Penn campus and then kept knocking down walls until she had a spacious, well-lit restaurant that's popular with everyone. The sidewalk tables and front bar are small and cozy, with a light menu. The spacious rooms in back carry the full menu, everything from Grilled T-bone Steak with Bleu Cheese Shallot Butter to Balsamic Roasted Organic Portobello Mushroom on Baked Parmesan Polenta sauteed broccoli rabe, with roasted garlic, grilled onions, toasted pine nuts and oven-dried tomatoes. There's a piano lounge for late evening coziness. Senior citizens have lunch at half price on Saturdays.

Description:

There is no city in America that is more historic than Philadelphia, and what better time to explore the haunts of this famous city than at night? Join costumed tour guides for a leisurely stroll through Society Hill in America's most historic and most haunted city! This candlelight walking tour is based on the book "Philadelphia Ghost Stories" by Charles J. Adams III. Listen to tales of the unknown as you walk in the footsteps of famous men and women. These ghost stories are sure to delight the entire family.

Description:

The Holiday Inn Hotel Historic District Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers seeking a trusted and familiar brand while visiting the city. It is perfectly situated near top attractions such as Independence Hall and the National Constitution Center. Guests are mostly very happy with their rooms, describing them as clean and comfortably furnished. They also enjoy amenities such as plush down comforters, large work desks and complimentary morning newspapers. Those visiting on business appreciate having access to the hotel's business center, which offers print, fax and copy services. They also welcome the availability of the hotel's five meeting rooms, the largest of which can accommodate as many as 500 people and all of which include complimentary high-speed Internet access.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is an excellent way to view the historic sites of old Philadelphia. Tour guides will lead you through the distinctive sites and beautiful cobblestone streets of Philadelphia's most historic neighborhood.

Description:

There's no better way to see historic Philadelphia than to see it from a horse-drawn carriage, operated by 76 Carriage Company. Drivers wait for passengers at 5th and Chestnut Streets, right by Independence National Historic Park, and offer tours of varying lengths. Carriage drivers are well versed in Philadelphia history. They'll take you down the cobblestone streets, of Society Hill, pointing out and explaining important historical sites as they go. The carriages operate year-round, with blankets to keep you warm in the winter.

Description:

This Famous 4th Street Delicatessen has lived up to its moniker by remaining a staple of Philadelphia local cuisine since 1923. This deli is primarily known for traditional Jewish cold cuts and sandwiches like corned beef, roast beef, roasted turkey and brisket. Fish is also available, from lox to gefilte to whitefish. Finish your meal off with an award-winning chocolate chip cookie. Sometimes they give you a cookie as a treat when you're paying your bill. Delivery available. The cookies are also available in the Reading Terminal Market, 13th and Arch streets.

Our Local Expert Says:

Valley Forge National Park is a wonderful place for some Revolutionary War history, a challenging bike ride, or a relaxing picnic.

Description:

Valley Forge, 22 miles northwest of Philadelphia, was the site of George Washington's army's winter camp in 1777-1778. The army camped here as they prepared to fight the British, who were threatening to march on Philadelphia, the colonial capital. Visitors can enter the log cabins that sheltered Washington and his men, imagining the cold and wet winter that the army spent there; bike or walk the trails that wind their way through the Park; or enjoy a picnic in the scenic hills of the Park.

Description:

Buckingham Valley Farm is a 42-stall full service equine facility nestled in the heart of beautiful Bucks County, PA. The 25 acre property boasts a large 170-'x70' indoor arena and a 100'x300' all-weather footing indoor ring. Quality horse care is a priority, including daily turn-out in screening paddocks and seasonal grass field turnout. The knowledgeable and caring staff provides professional training and excellent instruction.

Description:

Pod has a fun, futuristic decor (molded rubber, sculpted plastic, and video displays punctuated by a glass exterior curtain wall), generous portions, and a great selection of sushi. The young waitstaff is clad in what looks like Star Trek outfits, and the bathrooms resemble airplane loos. You can self-select the color of your "pod" (a curved semiprivate seating area) from nine different pastels, depending on your mood. Another gimmick is the conveyor belt that carries sushi or small, delectable Japanese dishes like crab spring rolls, vegetable pot stickers, and gingery pork dumplings around an oval seating area with stools that light up when you sit down. (Dishes revolve unclaimed only 20 min. before they're whisked away.)

Description:

The kids will bug you to take them to the Philadelphia Insectarium, a fascinating museum that is designed to educate the public about the wonderful world of insects. The goal of the museum is to show the critical role that insects play in the balance of nature, the environment, and our economy. There are two floors of live and mounted insects from around the globe, a tank inhabited by glow-in-the-dark scorpions, a working beehive, and a live termite colony. The big hit with kids is a glass-enclosed kitchen crawling with thousands of cockroaches.

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.