Philadelphia, or Philly, is a bustling city located in the eastern part of the United States. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food. Whether you are a local or a tourist, spending a day in Philly can be an exciting and fulfilling experience. In this article, we will explore how to spend a perfect day in Philly.
Morning:
To start your day in Philly, head to one of the city’s many coffee shops. La Colombe is a popular choice for locals and visitors alike, with its strong and delicious coffee. The coffee shop has several locations throughout the city, including one in Fishtown, which is known for its vibrant and hipster scene. If you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, head to Old City Coffee. Located in the heart of Old City, this coffee shop has been roasting its beans for over 30 years and is a favorite among locals.
After enjoying your coffee, head to the iconic Reading Terminal Market, which is located in the center of the city. Here, you will find over 80 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Be sure to try a Philly cheesesteak from either Pat’s or Geno’s, two of the city’s most famous cheesesteak joints, or a soft pretzel from Miller’s Twist.
Afternoon:
After lunch, take a stroll down South Street. This vibrant street is known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and bars. Stop by Jim’s Steaks for another delicious Philly cheesesteak or indulge in some delicious Mexican cuisine at Copabanana. Be sure to check out the Magic Gardens, a mosaic art installation created by artist Isaiah Zagar. The gardens are located on South Street and are a unique and beautiful sight to see.
After exploring South Street, head to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The museum is one of the largest art museums in the country and houses an impressive collection of over 240,000 works of art. Be sure to run up the museum’s famous “Rocky Steps,” made famous by the iconic scene from the movie “Rocky.”
Evening:
As the day starts to wind down, head to one of Philly’s many rooftop bars for a stunning view of the city. The Assembly Rooftop Lounge, located atop the Logan Hotel, offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and delicious cocktails. If you prefer a more casual atmosphere, check out Bok Bar, located on top of an old vocational high school in South Philly. The bar offers stunning views of the city and a fun and laid-back atmosphere.
For dinner, head to Zahav, an award-winning restaurant that serves modern Israeli cuisine. The restaurant’s dishes are full of flavor and are perfect for sharing with a group. Be sure to try the hummus, which is made fresh daily and is considered some of the best in the city.
After dinner, take a stroll along the Schuylkill River Trail. The trail runs along the Schuylkill River and offers stunning views of the city skyline. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike and ride along the trail for a unique and fun experience.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, spending a day in Philly can be a fun and fulfilling experience. From enjoying a delicious Philly cheesesteak to exploring the city’s many museums and rooftop bars, there is something for everyone in Philly. Be sure to take in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture as you explore all that Philly has to offer.
If you have more time in Philly, there are many other things to explore and experience. Here are some additional activities to consider:
Independence National Historical Park: This park is home to many of the city’s most historic sites, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the National Constitution Center. Take a guided tour to learn more about the city’s rich history.
Franklin Square: This public park is located in the heart of the city and offers fun activities for all ages, including a mini-golf course, a carousel, and a playground.
Eastern State Penitentiary: This former prison is now a museum that offers tours and exhibits on the history of the American prison system. It is also known for its spooky Halloween attraction, Terror Behind the Walls.
The Barnes Foundation: This museum houses an impressive collection of post-impressionist and early modern art, including works by Renoir, Cezanne, and Matisse.
Fairmount Park: This large park is located in the western part of the city and offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing.
Philadelphia Zoo: This zoo is home to over 1,300 animals from around the world, including rare and endangered species. Be sure to check out the Zoo360 animal exploration trail, which allows animals to explore outside their habitats.
South 9th Street Italian Market: This market is the oldest and largest continuously operating outdoor market in the country. It offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and specialty foods, as well as restaurants and cafes.
Mutter Museum: This museum is home to a unique collection of medical oddities and artifacts, including preserved body parts and surgical instruments.
Spruce Street Harbor Park: This seasonal park offers fun and unique activities, including a boardwalk, hammocks, and floating gardens.
Philadelphia Eagles game: If you’re a sports fan, be sure to catch a Philadelphia Eagles game at Lincoln Financial Field. The team has a passionate fan base and the games are always a fun and exciting experience.
No matter what your interests are, there is something for everyone in Philly. From history and culture to food and entertainment, this vibrant city has it all. So if you have the chance to spend more than just a day in Philly, take advantage of all the amazing experiences the city has to offer.