Emily & Matt
Things To Do & Eat
Independence National Historical Park
The park represents the founding ideals of the nation, and preserves national and international symbols of freedom and democracy, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. The Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were both debated and signed inside Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nearby attractions also include the National Constitution Center, Benjamin Franklin's grave, and the First Bank of the United States.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Museum’s holdings encompass more than 240,000 works spanning 2,000 years, including pieces from the ancient world, medieval times, the Renaissance, the Impressionist movement and modern day. Don't miss running up the famous steps or taking a picture with the Rocky statue!
Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
A non-profit organization, folk art environment, and gallery space on South Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. To date, it is the largest work created by mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar. The Magic Gardens spans three city lots, and includes indoor galleries and a large outdoor labyrinth.
Museum of the American Revolution
Uncovers and shares compelling stories about the diverse people and complex events that sparked America’s ongoing experiment in liberty, equality, and self-government. Emily's cousin Clare McCabe works at the museum!
Penn's Landing
Area along the Delaware River waterfront is home to year-round attractions like Independence Seaport Museum; stunning open spaces like Cherry Street Pier and Race Street Pier; and restaurants like the Moshulu. Throughout the year, happenings and events like farmers markets, concerts, art exhibitions and more take place throughout the spaces at Penn’s Landing.
Rittenhouse Square
With a bevy of high-rise residences filled with top-end luxury apartments and some of the best fine dining experiences in the city, residents can marvel at their options, while also enjoying the luxury retail shopping in the area, all of which surrounds the handsome tree-filled park.
Love Park
Philadelphia’s iconic John F. Kennedy Plaza — better known as LOVE Park — is most famously the home of Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE statue, which has resided in the space almost continuously since 1976. The park also affords great views of City Hall, one of Philadelphia's most beautiful buildings.
Elfreth's Alley
Elfreth’s Alley is an “exceptional example of early American structures built between 1720 and 1830” according to the historic marker designated in 2016. The Elfreth’s Alley Museum (located at houses 124 and 126) celebrates the working class of America who helped build this country through sweat and commerce.
West Chester, PA
For those wishing to get out of the city, consider the 45 minute drive or train ride (via SEPTAs Paoli Thorndale Line) to Emily's hometown! Nestled in the heart of the Brandywine Valley, downtown West Chester reflects the small-town charm and cosmopolitan tastes that prompted The Philadelphia Inquirer to call West Chester “. . . one of the world’s most perfect small towns.”
New Hope, PA
For those wishing to get out of the city, consider the 45 minute drive to the town the DeJonge's called home from 2010-2021! Home to eclectic shopping, riverside restaurants and cultural attractions, New Hope is a scenic small town located directly adjacent to the Delaware River. There is plenty to see and do on this marvelous Main Street that has been highlighted in countless publications, like Travel + Leisure and USA Today!
Reading Terminal Market
One of America’s largest and oldest public markets, housed since 1893 in a National Historic Landmark building, the Market offers an incredible selection of locally grown & exotic produce, locally sourced meats and poultry, plus the finest seafood, cheeses, baked goods, and confections. You’ll find everything you need to create a memorable meal, from cookbooks, to table linens, to kitchenware, to fresh cut flowers, and more. Plus the widest variety of restaurants under one roof.
Wawa
Part of life in Philadelphia and environs for generations, Wawa is the greatest convenience store chain in America. Order on the Wawa App or peruse the largest Wawa store in the universe next to Independence Hall. Options include breakfast sizzlis, pastries, coffee, hoagies, hot sandwiches, soups, salads, burgers, chicken, tacos, and more. Emily & Matt highly encourage at least one trip to Wawa!
Sonny's Famous Steaks
Known for its authentic, award-winning Philly Cheesesteaks and its friendly service. Located in the heart of historic Old City, Philadelphia and just a five-minute walk from Independence Hall, The Liberty Bell, and the Constitution Center. One of Emily's favorites and a regular stop on her commutes home from Camden, NJ when she interned there in 2017.
Campo's Philly Cheesesteaks
A family run sandwich shop that has been making Philly's best cheesesteaks, hoagies, and specialty sandwiches since 1947. Campo's offers a great beer selection from local breweries, as well as several vegan, gluten free, and dairy free alternatives to their hometown classics. One of Emily's favorites and a regular stop on her commutes home from Camden, NJ when she interned there in 2017.
Independence Beer Garden
Expansive 20,000 square-foot, all-American beer garden overlooking the Liberty Bell and Independence National Historic Park. Decor' features reclaimed timber, distressed metals, tivoli lights, and games creating intimate moments throughout the sprawling space. A menu of American favorites will go well with the 40 taps of regional and domestic craft beers offered.
The Franklin Fountain
Serves up handmade ice cream in an astounding number of flavors including standards like vanilla bean, chocolate and Franklin mint chip along with a few creative options including Green Tea, banana, and Teaberry Gum. The friendly staff at the fully restored soda counter offers 25 different flavors of soda, ice cream sodas, egg creams and milkshakes. On a hot day, quench your thirst with a Thirst Ade made with pressed, whole fruit.