Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: History and Hidden Gems
The center of American history that still has a beautiful and walkable downtown!
For Braden’s birthday trip this past year, we decided to spend a weekend in Philadelphia! With it being a couple hour train ride from NYC it was a fun weekend away! What a weekend of American historic, hidden charm, and yummy food!
All of these recommendations (and more) can be found on my FREE Thatch Map!
Things to Do-
The Usual Places
The Liberty Bell
Probably the most iconic bell in the world! Make sure to set time aside to wait in line. We didn’t the first time we visited so only got a photo on the outside! While it seems long it will move quickly! It is a quick walk through exhibit with the bell as the star!
Independence National Historic Park
Right across the street from the Liberty Bell is another piece of American history! Make sure to make a reservation for a tour in advance or you will not be able to enter the buildings.
Betsy Ross House
Fairly standard historic site. We didn’t pay to go inside but enjoyed walking through the gift shop and courtyard with several historic plaques.
The LOVE Sculpture
One of the most iconic outdoor art sculptures in the US! We really did it because of all the hype… though we’re not sure if it was worth it. The line can be long but it is a cute photo!
Things a Little Off the Beaten Path
Eastern State Penitentiary
This is hands down our favorite experience in Philadelphia. It is the world’s first penitentiary! It housed famous mafia bosses like Al Capone and was a filming location for one of the Transformers movies. The highlight is the extensive audio tour that goes over all of these details narrated by Steve Buscemi (who I had to look up, but Braden could tell from the second we hit play). You may not see this on very many lists, but I cannot speak more highly of it!
Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site
While this is a bit out of the way from the downtown area, we thoroughly enjoyed this historic site. Set in the actual house where he lived while in Philadelphia, it was cool to see the rooms where he lived. Highly recommend the self-guided walking tour, make sure to ask the docent about it!
Spruce Street Harbor Park
Independence Seaport Museum- Braden enjoyed this museum! It includes tours of Cruiser Olympia which is one of two ships that is still around from World War 1!
In the summer months, make sure to try some water ice! As a shaved ice connoisseur, I was a big fan!
Food to Eat
You can’t say that you have been to Philadelphia without trying a Philly Cheesesteak, at least according to Braden. We have tried three places so far and have not been disappointed. Still have not tried the famous rivalry of Pat and Ginos, but we have tried Sonny’s and Campo’s (which are next door to each other and in downtown) and loved comparing them! We were told adding cheese whiz originated in WWII shortages, and ended for locals with the war. The best way is with provolone.
The Ploughing & the Stars
The place to get world class Irish food! Braden was very happy to end the day with a pint of Guinness and a plate of Fish and Chips! And the Shepherd's Pie was heavenly! More of a rowdy crowd, but a great place to sit with a group.
Shane Confectionery
If you want a fantastic historic treat spot in downtown look no further than Shane Confectionery! It feels like you are stepping back in time with this place. We loved picking a box of assorted chocolates! They also have fantastic hot cocoa for the colder months.
Reading Terminal Market
This is both an attraction and place to eat. And boy does it get busy! I don’t have any pictures because I get a little overwhelmed by the amount of people there! But love seeing all the food and things to sample!
Things I still need to try!
Here are a couple things that have been recommended for me to try on a future trip… let me know if there is anything else to add to the list!
The Pat and Geno great philly cheesesteak competition
Revolution House (ask for a table upstairs in the greenhouse)
JJ Bootleggers (crowded dancing)
Independence Beer Garden
Need a Place to Stay?
We have stayed at both of these Airbnb’s and would recommend!
Are you looking for something that is in the heart of downtown on a budget? This place has been renovated but it is not the height of luxury… but you can’t beat the price and location!
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/798584413924272096?source_impression_id=p3_1697738985_Zu7ocQFKhkWAINyb
OR
Are you looking for something a bit more elevated? Beautiful renovated and one of the best mattresses I have slept in for an Airbnb. It is a bit out of the downtown area, but super close to the convention center and Reading Terminal Market.