20 minute drive from hotel - minimal traffic - easy parking - low fee - great for kids Luke proposed to Theodora in the fern room at Morris Arboretum. This is a beautiful, large botanical garden which we highly recommend for families. There's a train exhibit, a canopy walk, and a fairy garden.
10 minute drive from hotel - minor traffic - some parking - free - great for kids Boathouse Row is a section of a long walking trail along the Schuylkill River. This beautiful area offers some of the most recognizable Philadelphia scenery, with the skyline, river, and museums along the way. The path leads right next to the Philadelphia Museum of Art (though you may have to ask a local how to get to the museum). You can visit the Rocky statue in front of the famous museum steps if you're willing to take a 20-30 minute walk around this part of the city. Or, just sit on a bench and look at the water.
15 minute drive from hotel - traffic - minimal parking - free This large, grand old library is a great place to take shelter from the elements and explore the history of the city. It's on the southern end of the museum parkway, with a fountain square out front and many cafes and restaurants nearby.
15 minute drive from hotel - traffic - some parking - $30, free for kids The PMA is HUGE and there is something for everyone. We guarantee you can't see everything here in one visit. The famous Rocky training steps out front also provide a great view of the city from the top of the hill. We also love the Rodin Museum, a small free collection of statues set in a gorgeously designed building, and the Barnes. All three are within a walk of each other, along a lovely green parkway.
20 minute drive from hotel - heavy traffic - difficult parking - free The famous Love statue is in a public square just north of City Hall. Both iconic locations are right in the heart of Philadelphia. Plus, there's a Trader Joe's!
20 minute drive from hotel - some traffic - some parking - mid-price Two of our favorite restaurants, within a few blocks of each other, in Rittenhouse Square. Both owned by Stephen Starr. If you know, you know.
20 minute drive from hotel - traffic - some parking - free- great for kids If you'd like to learn more about the history of Quakers in Philadelphia, check out this peaceful, out-of-the-way spot next to the main attractions of Old City. Independence Mall (the Constitution, the Liberty Bell) is right around the corner. In this neighborhood you can also find the nation's first fire department, many founders' houses, and more historical treasures.
40 minute drive from hotel - heavy traffic - difficult parking - low cost - not for kids This brewery is where Luke and Theodora met, and it's right on Passyunk Ave - a beloved corridor of restaurants and shops in South Philadelphia. Check out the low-key atmosphere, and imagine how this very nervous boy met this overly confident girl five years ago. Note, they do not sell food but they allow you to bring it in from somewhere else.
40 minute drive from hotel - heavy traffic - difficult parking - medium cost - not for kids While out of the way, this trip is worth it if you have the time. Bok Bar offers the most expansive skyline view of the city you'll ever get, at an affordable price. The vibe is not fancy, since it's set in an old vocational school building, but it feels like luxury to be here on a beautiful day. Could be busy on Saturday night. Closed Mon-Wed.