3 Things about the City I love

           

            If you were traveling to Philadelphia and had one day to explore, I would recommend visiting these three sites. The Historic District, the Reading Terminal Market, and Rittenhouse Square Park.  I can say with confidence you would leave with a well-rounded perspective of Philadelphia culture.
           Philadelphia's rich and colorful history is the first reason why I love this city.  Philadelphia has done a wonderful job preserving much of its original architecture, beautiful parks, and historic streets. This can be seen in the Historic District/Old City area. Every time I stroll down the cobble stone roads, I can feel the energy that was once “old Philadelphia”. Elfreth's Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited street in America is a perfect example. I imagine the horse drawn carriages hauling goods and passengers, people selling their wares on the narrow crooked alleyways, or even Benjamin Franklin walking late at night under the candle lit street lamps. If I had to suggest only one building to visit in this area, that would be Independence Hall. Home to the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. 
            The Historic District is walkable, affordable, and easily accessible from any part of the city. Although there are always tourists, mid week is the best time to go. If you have the time, walking tours and ghost tours are available.  After you have been walking all day, you're going to be hungry. Take advantage of the delicious food Philly has to offer-all in one place.

            Philadelphians love to eat and we're known for it. The second reason why I’m crazy about this city. Some of the tastiest foods are Tastykakes, strombolis, scrapple, hoagies, Peanut Chews, soft pretzels and Herr’s chips.  But the most famous of all is the cheese steak. It starts with fresh baked bread, then perfect lean meat, topped with fried onions and cheese wiz.  Yes, cheese wiz. If you want to find all of this plus some of the cities oldest and most excited new creations, head over to the Reading Terminal Market. And not only will you find everything I mentioned above, but also 80 merchants selling everything from poultry, fish, baked goods, vegan food, fresh candy, ethnic food, and much much more. The smells are overwhelmingly delicious.  And the sights are a treat for the eyes.  As you slowly make your way through the market, your mouth will water.  There’s just too much to choose from.  Once you finally pick that perfect meal, sit down in one of the many seating lounges and enjoy your surroundings. 

            Lastly, the third reason why I love Philadelphia is Rittenhouse Square Park.  It’s amazing that such a beautiful piece of land can be located in the middle of the hustle and bustle of a major city.  The park boasts live music, artists, dog walkers, people relaxing in the grass and anyone else looking to take a moment to themselves.  After a long day of site seeing and eating, it’s important to relax and reflect on your travels.  Take a seat on a bench nestled under a tree and watch the interesting people that gather here, take a few notes in your travel journal, and of course snap a few pictures.  Enjoy this time to yourself before you head home, it's well worth it.

            Come visit Philadelphia and see what I mean for yourself.  Enjoy what I mentioned plus the hundreds of other things you can do.  The city of Brotherly Love Welcomes you!