Things To Do
Royal Sushi & Izakaya
Royal Sushi & Izakaya is one of our favorite spots in the city - and it’s also quietly one of the best restaurants in North America. Led by Chef Jesse Ito, Royal has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand (which means incredible food at reasonable prices), was ranked #32 on North America’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2025, and Chef Ito has been a multi-time James Beard Award finalist. Despite all that recognition, it still feels like a cozy neighborhood gem. Courtney and Lee snag a table or seats at the bar every Thursday (it’s walk-in only - no reservations) order some favorites, sip sake, and watch anime playing on loop on the projector. Don't miss the Ebi Shumai or Nasu Dengaku or you WILL be hunted down. If you’re up for world-class sushi without the formality, this is your spot. Just get there early - and maybe save us two seats at the bar.
Buffalo Billiards
If you’re in the mood for a little friendly competition, Buffalo Billiards is your spot. Tucked in the heart of Old City, it’s the perfect place to duck in between sightseeing, grab a cold beer, and show off your skills at the pool table. Not a pool shark? No problem. There’s shuffleboard, arcade basketball, pinball, darts, and plenty of laid-back fun to go around.
Independence Hall
Located in the heart of Old City, Independence Hall is one of the most historically significant landmarks in the United States and the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. It’s a favorite area for Lee and Courtney to walk through, explore, and bring visiting friends and family when showing off Philadelphia. The beautifully preserved 18th-century building and surrounding Independence National Historical Park offer a chance to step directly into the country’s founding story while enjoying some of the most charming streets and green spaces in the city. Guided tours are available throughout the day, and the site sits alongside the Liberty Bell, museums, and dozens of great cafes and shops, making it an easy and rewarding stop for anyone visiting Philadelphia.
48 Record Bar
48 Record Bar is a cozy, music-centric cocktail lounge tucked above the iconic Sassafras bar in Old City, Philadelphia. It’s built around a simple mission: “To get people together to listen to records.” The space pairs a high-fidelity vinyl sound system and thoughtfully curated records with creative cocktails and a relaxed, living-room vibe. With room for about 35–45 guests, themed listening nights, deep-listening events, members’ nights where you can bring your own LPs, and even Sunday morning sessions with coffee and pastries, it’s a favorite spot for music lovers and anyone who enjoys great drinks and ambiance.
Reading Terminal Market
Reading Terminal Market is one of Lee and Courtney’s favorite places to explore in Philadelphia - a go-to spot for fresh ingredients, great meals, unique teas and spices, and unexpected finds. It’s also one of the oldest continuously operating public markets in the country, dating back to 1893, and a true Center City institution filled with dozens of independent vendors serving everything from classic Philly roast pork sandwiches and Amish baked goods to fresh seafood, international cuisine, handmade chocolates, and local coffee. It’s equal parts food hall, cultural landmark, and people-watching paradise. Housed inside a National Historic Landmark building, the market features more than 80 merchants, including Bassetts Ice Cream, the oldest ice cream company in America. It’s open daily, generally from 8am to 6pm, and located steps from the Convention Center, City Hall, and many major hotels, making it an easy and memorable stop while you’re in town.
SkyHigh Restaraunt
Perched atop the Four Seasons Hotel on the 60th floor, SkyHigh delivers some of the best panoramic views in all of Philadelphia. It's definitely on the pricier side so the recommendation is to just grab a drink at the bar or lounge so you can soak in the views and see the entire city all in one swoop! Open daily in the heart of Center City, it’s an ideal stop for guests who want excellent food and drinks paired with an unforgettable view of Philadelphia.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the country’s premier art museums, home to an expansive collection spanning centuries, cultures, and artistic styles from around the world. Perched at the top of the iconic Benjamin Franklin Parkway and famous for its grand steps featured in the movie Rocky, the museum offers both world-class exhibitions and sweeping views of the city. Admission is free, making it an easy and accessible stop for visitors. Lee and Courtney are both members and love spending time exploring the galleries and special exhibits throughout the year. It’s a great destination for art lovers, architecture fans, and anyone looking to experience one of Philadelphia’s most recognizable landmarks.
Angelo's Pizzeria
When you're in town for the wedding and want a true Philadelphia cheesesteak experience, this is absolutely worth the stop. Just be warned: there’s often a line, and it moves on Angelo’s schedule - but trust us, it’s part of the experience, and the payoff is 100% worth it.
Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square is one of Philadelphia’s most beautiful and lively neighborhoods, centered around a historic park that dates back to the early 1800s, making it one of the oldest public squares in the country. The tree-lined green space is perfect for strolling, relaxing, and people-watching, and is surrounded by elegant townhomes, boutique shopping, acclaimed restaurants, and charming cafés that blend classic Philadelphia architecture with vibrant modern energy. A highly recommended stop nearby is Parc, a classic French brasserie overlooking the square that’s not only one of Lee and Courtney’s favorites, but also widely considered one of the best dining destinations in the city for lunch or dinner. Located in the heart of Center City, Rittenhouse Square is an easy and enjoyable stop for visitors looking to experience one of Philadelphia’s most iconic neighborhoods.
Ridley Creek State Park
Just outside Philadelphia, Ridley Creek State Park is where Lee and Courtney have spent hundreds of hours hiking, exploring, and enjoying the outdoors - and it’s also where they got engaged and where the wedding will take place. Spanning more than 2,500 acres of rolling hills, wooded trails, open meadows, and scenic creek views, the park offers far more than you could ask for in hiking and outdoor activities. It’s a beautiful escape from the city and a favorite destination for anyone who loves nature, fresh air, and wide-open space. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk, a longer hike, or simply a chance to enjoy the landscape, Ridley Creek is a special place that means a lot to them and captures the natural beauty of the region.