Also known as "America’s Most Historic Square Mile," Independence Mall is the three-block section of Independence National Historical Park that includes iconic tourist destinations like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. This is a great place to take in the views. If you're interested in tours, it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance as the lines can be long in the summer.
Reading Terminal Market is one of the nation’s oldest and largest public markets. Here, you can enjoy eating a wide range of different cuisines, from soul food and Asian and Middle Eastern dishes to authentic Philly cheesesteaks and traditional Pennsylvania Dutch fare — all available from largely locally owned, family-run stands. While this is worth the adventure into Center City, there is another local market (Bourse Food Court) that is much closer to the hotels.
Spruce Street Harbor Park — named one of the best urban beaches in America — is an oasis on the Delaware River Front. The beloved seasonal park offers visitors the chance to lounge on colorful hammocks, enjoy Philly-inspired eats on floating barges, cool off with craft brews in the beer garden and play games — bocce, shuffleboard and more — along its waterfront boardwalk.
We went on many dates here and love the food.
Head to the BEAUTIFUL Benjamin Franklin Parkway - the home to some of the most notable Museums in the country including: The Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Barnes Foundation, Rodin Museum, Academy of Natural Sciences, Franklin Institute, and more!
These 72 steps have become an international destination (thanks to an entirely fictional character). Located at the base of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, you can start your trek up the stairs, pump your fists in the air, and cherish the spectacular view of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the city skyline. Cheesey? Definitely. Fun? Absolutely! To finish off the experience, head to the bottom of the stairs and snap a photo with the bronze statue of Rocky, originally created for Rocky III.
You can always call Lindsay and Andy for more recommendations. Or you can visit VisitPhilly.com for curated lists of "things to do" based on your interests.