I have a very protective guard over this American city for many reasons. It’s home to my most treasured friends and for an American city it is steeped in ‘modern’ history. Philadelphia is situated on the East Coast of the USA in the State of Pennsylvania (PA) with New York City to the North and Washington DC to the South.   

Philadelphia City Hall

In amongst all the great cities within the United States this features in my Top 5. It’s a city I have become very familiar with. For many years I used to work for an American Carrier which entitled me to travel between The UK and Philadelphia for business and pleasure, and from this travel, I accrued so many great American friends who I remain in contact with to this day despite my change in career. I have not only explored this historic city as a tourist but have also gained great local experiences.

A SHORT HISTORY

Philadelphia, or abbreviated to Philly, is crammed with history.

It was the ‘Original’ Capital City (1790-1800) of the newly formed United States after British America became independent from The UK. 

Betsy Ross Flag courtesy of Google

Philadelphia during the British Colonial Era was the largest city in British America and the second largest city in the British Empire after London and just in front of Melbourne, Australia and the Asian cities of Delhi, Singapore and Hong Kong.

The city hosted the First Continental Congress before the American Revolutionary War; the Second Continental Congress which signed the United States Declaration of Independence, during the war; and the Constitutional Convention (1787) after the war. Several battles were fought in and near Philadelphia as well.

WHAT CAN PHILADELPHIA OFFER?

As Philly is a major centre for the modern day history of the USA most attractions involve museums.  There are so many to visit and numerous City Walk tours are available, some are free.

INDEPENDENCE PARK AND THE HISTORIC DISTRICT

This is an area part of the Historic Quarter that is home to everything regarding the Revolutionary War of Independence.

Stroll around and you will see storied buildings in which the seeds for the Revolutionary War were planted and the US government came into bloom. You will also find beautiful shaded urban lawns dotted with plenty of squirrels, pigeons and costumed actors.

Benjamin Franklin Museum

In the courtyard south of Market St, underground, is a museum dedicated to Benjamin Franklin’s storied life as a printer (he started the nation’s first newspaper), inventor (bifocals) and statesman who signed the Declaration of Independence.  In the same courtyard don’t miss the newspaper office where Franklin worked – park rangers demonstrate the printing press.

Independence Hall

The ‘birthplace of American government’, a modest Quaker building, is where delegates from the 13 colonies met to approve the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. 

Even without a ticket you can pass through to see Congress Hall where the congress met when Philly was the nation’s capital. Take the time to wonder the building and its grounds.

The Liberty Bell

This iconic figure is housed in a glass building protecting it from the elements. You are able to peek from outside or you can join the queue to go inside the museum reading the history of the bell along the way. No ticket required to enter and is free.

The gist of the story:  the bell was made in 1751 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Pennsylvania’s constitution.  Mounted in Independence Hall it tolled on the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence.  The bell developed a crack in the 19th century and it was retired in 1846.

Original Presidents House

Located in Independence Park you can visit the foundations of the original Presidents House from 1767 that offers an insight to the history of this area.

Christ Church Burial Ground

Christ Church is an old American cemetery in Philadelphia. It’s most famous resident in the grave yard is the tomb of Benjamin Franklin, one of the founders and signatures of the Declaration of Independence, and his wife Deborah.

You can see the gravestone of Benjamin Franklin from a gap in the cemetery wall on Arch Street.

Elfreth’s Alley

Named after Jeremiah Elfreth who was a blacksmith over 200 years ago. Located in the Historic District it’s the oldest habitable street in Philadelphia since 1702.

House of Betsy Ross

Betsy Ross was an upholsterer born 1752 who was credited for making the very first stars and stripes banner. Here you’ll find her home and a small museum/cafe.

CITY HALL

Completed in 1901 City Hall takes up a whole block, and at 548ft, not counting the 27 ton bronze statue of William Penn, it’s the worlds tallest structure without a steel frame. The view from the observation deck near the top of the tower takes in most of the city.

The hall is home to the city council. Tours are available at US$35 (GB£28) that includes a tour of the building and to ascend the tower.

LOVE PARK

If all those city interests have still not satisfied your craving for more why not check out Love Park (aka JFK Plaza).   Here you can take in the beauty of the stone granite steps and lush fountain with a big attraction: the ‘LOVE’ statue.   Why not spend some time walking around the Fairmount Park centre and gift shop or stop for a bite to eat?

LOGAN SQUARE

Navigate to Logan Square and you will discover the infamous Philadelphia Museum of Art.   You will need to feel fit as the entrance to the Museum has 72 stone steps to climb.  

These steps have become famous for another reason and are known as Saviours, or the “Rocky Steps” as a result of their appearance in the Rocky films.

FOOD AND DRINK

Philadelphia is array of eating and drinking venues so you will be spoilt for choice. However, if in Philadelphia you have to try the Philadelphia Cheesesteak sandwich. It’s served pretty much everywhere. It’s a long sandwich filled with steak, cheese, onions and sauce.

In the historic District there is a venue named Campo’s, located at 214 Market Street, that had been recommended that serve one of the best Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches. The venue opened in 1947 and has been serving them ever since.

STREET FOOD STANDS

Dotted all over the city you will find stands at the side of the road serving all kinds of fast food and beverages from hot breakfast bagels to burgers, from corn dogs to breaded pretzels.

MCGILLANS OLD ALE HOUSE

Located at 1310 Drury street is the oldest continuously operating ale house in the city and dates back to 1860. It offers a plethora of independent ales and bar food.

READING TERMINAL MARKET

This is a sensory overload. It’s a food and drink market selling all sorts from gifts and trinkets to meat butchers, fruit and vegetables to cakes. Many of the stalls have a dine-in section too.

One of my favourite stalls named Hatville Deli who specialise in delicious Corned Beef Sandwiches.

RED OWL TAVERN

Located at 433 Chestnut Street (opposite Liberty Bell Centre) forms the bar/restaurant of the Kimpton Hotel. It’s a relaxed bar that offers bar food and drinks.

DANDILION PUB

Located at 124 S 18th Street near Rittenhouse Square is a small venue with the taste and style of an old London pub. Food is reasonably priced and offers typical English food such as fish and chips.

GAYBOURHOOD DISTRICT

Philadelphia’s LGBT visitors looking for a night on the town can choose from a range of lively bars and clubs in the city’s Gaybourhood district.

The area runs from 11th to Broad streets and from Chestnut to Pine streets. The Gaybourhood lays in the heart of Midtown Village and distinguishes itself with rainbow street signs throughout the area.  You will also find fun rainbow crosswalks at 13th and Locust streets.

FINAL NOTE

 I have a soft  love for Philadelphia.  It always feels like ‘home’ to me when I visit the USA.  I think it partially comes down to my group of incredible American friends who have always welcomed me with an open embrace.   There is a lot to do in this city.  Expect to walk lots and be prepared with your camera.  The architecture in this city is stunning and it is great to feel a US city that actually has some significant history enveloping its streets.

​​​If you wish to find out more on this historic city then click on the link HERE to the official city tourist site.

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