Historic Philadelphia for the first-time visitor

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.

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.

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:

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:

The Constitution Center in Independence National Historical Park is an excellent place to begin a tour of Philadelphia’s historic area. The Center explores the Constitution through history in multimedia displays. Be sure to look for traveling exhibitions here as well.

Description:

The Constitution Center, built in 2000, occupies the northwestern end of Independence National Historical Park (also called Independence Mall). The Center offers visitors a multimedia exploration of the Constitution and its meaning and significance throughout American history. The Center offers interactive history for children and adults, and it is an excellent place to begin a visit to historic Philadelphia. The Constitution Center's traveling exhibitions have been notable; anyone planning a visit to Philadelphia should definitely visit the website and check for special exhibits.

Description:

This award winner in historic Old City occupies its rightful position at the forefront of Philadelphia seafood dining. The restaurant's continually evolving menu showcases its cutting edge talents with expertly prepared fish, dazzling sauces & striking presentations. A full bar, well crafted wine list & seasonal outdoor dining are also offered.

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.

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.

Description:

The All Wars Memorial to Colored Soldiers and Sailors was commissioned in 1927 by Pennsylvania's African-American legislator, Samuel Beecher Hart. Created by Swiss sculptor J. Otto Schweizer, the memorial was to be a tribute to African American war heroes, but was originally relegated to a remote location in Fairmount Park, where it remained virtually unseen for many years. The Philadelphia Arts Jury and the Committee to Restore and Relocate lobbied elected officials until it was finally relocated to its current location in November 1994.

Description:

The only monument dedicated to honor the memories of unknown Revolutionary War soldiers was originally used as a Potter's Field, where the poor and indigent were buried. Although Philadelphia is not known as a battleground, this section of Washington Square became the final resting place of thousands of soldiers as the barracks near the Square received the sick, wounded and dying of the war. By 1825 the site was no longer used as a cemetery and in 1954 a memorial honoring George Washington and an Unknown Soldier was erected.

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:

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:

The PHLASH runs shuttle routes to entertainment centers on South Street and Columbus Blvd., Center City restaurants, and museums on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Tours of the Old City/Independence Park area are also given. Purple buses arrive at stops every ten minutes seven days a week. These modern buses are a great way to get a taste of the city's cultural, shopping, and historical districts without spending a fortune on cab fare.

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.

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.

Our Local Expert Says:

While Poe only inhabited this house for a short period of time, any fans or literary types will appreciate a visit to the unfurnished house and imagine the surroundings that spurred Poe’s imagination.

Description:

Though Edgar Allan Poe only lived in this house for a year or two, his six years in Philadelphia were quite productive, and it might have been here that he wrote "The Tell-Tale Heart" or first thought of the raven about which he would later write. The small house was made a historic landmark in 1980 and has been left unfurnished, as any furniture belonging to Poe and his family has been lost. The house is just a few blocks north and west of the heart of Old City, and a quick trip here will satisfy any tourist with a literary bent.

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:

Discover the city streets that won The Boss an Academy Award! The free self-guided tour covers all the major historical sites of Philadelphia, encompassing over 30 sites including the memorable locations where the Declaration of Independence and The United States Constitution were put together. Those who are not familiar with the history may avail of the guided tours given during the months between Memorial Day and Labor Day, which traverse 20 sites in 75 minutes. There are also MP3 Audio and cell phone guided tours, which are offered year round. There is also a cell phone guided tour available as a year round option. Visit the web site for details on ticket pricing.

Description:

Restaurant entrepreneur Steven Starr has been offering tapas-style dining in this restaurant and martini bar for over five years. The trendy and hip Continental attracts patrons of a wide range of ages to its neo-diner atmosphere. In fact, it used to be a diner; now, giant martini-olive lamps hang over the booths, while Latin and lounge music plays softly. The restaurant's contemporary cuisine includes outstanding sushi-grade pan-seared tuna and miso glazed Chilean sea bass. Follow dinner with a martini, including such exotic variations as chocolate and the Hawaii 5-O.

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 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:

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:

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:

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.

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.

Description:

If you've got Cuban cuisine fever mixed with a slight fetish for 1940s film sets, this restaurant should be on your hit list. Cuba Libre even has a salsa floor to groove on when the food takes its time to come. Go easy on the drinks; there's a good chance to overdo the drinking bit with such a variety. From the drinks to entrees to desserts - it's all delicious and original. Get an authentic feel of being in Cuba without the hassle of getting a visa - nice way to travel, isn't it?

Description:

Old City's spacious Irish pub is a cozy place to kick off a night. Sit by the fire, chill out with a Harp, and watch as the 20-something crowd packs the bar, two, three, then four deep. Tall sidewalk tables offer nice vantage points for people-watching. Sunday afternoon, Irish musicians perform.

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.