Things To Do
If you are travelling with kids:
Please Touch Museum – Hands-on fun for kids of all ages. The Franklin Institute – Science exhibits, planetarium, and interactive displays. Philadelphia Zoo – America’s first zoo, with over 1,300 animals. Adventure Aquarium (Camden, NJ) – Just across the river, fun for little ones too.
If you want to experience all Philly sports:
Philadelphia Phillies – Check the schedule here: https://www.mlb.com/phillies/schedule/2026-04 Xfinity LIVE! – A lively sports complex with restaurants and bars near all the stadiums.
If you want some good food:
Emei – Delicious Chinese cuisine. Namwah – Classic Philly Chinese. Reading Terminal Market – Iconic indoor food market with local favorites. Dellasandro’s Cheesesteaks – The ultimate Philly cheesesteak experience. Other notable options: Zahav (award-winning Israeli cuisine), Suraya (Lebanese), Federal Donuts, or Pizzeria Vetri. Dante & Luigi’s – Classic Italian dishes and a Philly institution.
If you never heard of a Speakesasy...shhhh - don't tell anyone!
Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co. – More inclusive, a short walk from most hotels. Hop Sing Laundromat – Hidden gem in Chinatown; very exclusive, we tried twice and couldn’t get past the doorman!
If you want to see where Ale studied:
University of Pennsylvania Campus – Walk around historic buildings, green spaces, and enjoy the campus energy.
If you want to recreate some of Brad & Ale's special dates:
Barcade (Fishtown) – Vintage arcade meets craft beer—one of our first date spots. Kayla | Thai Restaurant (Fishtown) – James Beard award-winning Thai cuisine. Benjamin Franklin Parkway Walk – Stops include the Rodin Museum and Philadelphia Museum of Art. Eastern State Penitentiary – Historic prison; Al Capone’s cell included. The Mutter Museum – Fascinating (and sometimes creepy) medical history. Brad enjoyed this, and Ale not so much... It is a medical history museum that is part of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia.
If you want to visit Brad's neigborhood from when he met Ale:
Manayunk – Quaint streets, great coffee shops, and scenic river views.
If you already stayed long enough in Philly and want to explore surrounding areas:
All within ~2 hours by car or train: New Jersey beaches: Ocean City and Wildwood — classic boardwalk fun Atlantic City: Casinos and nightlife Longwood Gardens, PA: Stunning botanical gardens with seasonal displays, fountains, and walking paths The Poconos: Mountains, hiking, and lakes New Hope, PA: Art galleries, unique shops, riverside walks, and excellent dining New York City, NY: Iconic landmarks, Broadway, museums, shopping, and world-class food (about 2 hours by train) Lancaster, PA: Experience Amish country — farms, markets, and charming small towns Washington, D.C.: National monuments, Smithsonian museums, and vibrant neighborhoods (just under 2.5 hours by train or car)
If you love art:
Philadelphia Museum of Art – Iconic steps and amazing collections. Rodin Museum – Sculpture garden and indoor exhibits. Magic Gardens – Mosaic wonderland by Isaiah Zagar. Barnes Foundation – Exceptional collection of Impressionist and Modern art.
If you want to learn some American history:
Independence Hall – Birthplace of the Declaration of Independence. Liberty Bell Center – Iconic symbol of freedom. Betsy Ross House – Where the first American flag was sewn. Valley Forge National Historical Park – Explore the Revolutionary War encampment and learn about the hardships and heroism of Washington’s army. Gettysburg National Military Park – Visit the site of the pivotal Civil War battle and tour the museum and monuments (about 2.5 hours from Philadelphia). Elfreth’s Alley – Oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the U.S.
If you want to enjoy nature in the city:
Fairmount Park System – Largest park system in Philadelphia. Wissahickon Valley Park – Brad especially enjoys the Wissahickon Park for hikes (and there is a nice restaurant you can hike to or drive to). The restaurant is Valley Green Inn, and be sure to check the hours online before going. Schuylkill River Trail – Perfect for walking, running, or biking.
Want more suggestions? Reach out to Ale and Brad directly and let us know what you're looking for!
Philadelphia is full of surprises. Reach out to Brad & Ale directly — we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for, from hidden gems to local favorites.
