Lori & Mickey
Local Attractions
Philadelphia Museum of Art
You can't visit Philly and not see the Philadelphia Museum of Art! This huge gorgeous roman inspired building rests at the end of Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The museum features a vast array of artwork from different places and time periods. I personally like the Japanese room and garden, Mayan Temple and "The Moorish Chief" painting. The amount of detail is astounding. The PMA also has rotating exhibitions throughout the year. Even if you are not an art buff the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a fantastic building architecturally and a Philadelphia icon. Additionally many visitors enjoy climbing the "Rocky Steps" and having their picture taken with the "Rocky" statue.
Wonderspaces Philadelphia
Wonderspaces is one of our favorite museums and attractions in the Philadelphia area. This modern art museum is filled with a variety of interactive exhibitions and virtual reality experiences. This museum usually takes 1.5-2 hours to explore and is located in the heart of downtown Philadelphia near the Reading Terminal Market, shopping and Chinatown.
Rodin Museum
Nestled on Benjamin Franklin Parkway not far from The Philadelphia Museum of Art is the Rodin Museum. The Rodin Museum is a small museum with a beautiful outdoor space that features several of Rodin's sculptures. Most people spend 1-1.5 hours here.
The Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute has something fun for everyone! There are various exhibits that are interactive and relate to science, history and art. The planetarium is my favorite part! The Franklin Institute is kid and family friendly.
Reading Terminal Market
The Reading Terminal Market is an indoor food market that sells fresh, local handmade goods. This bustling scene is great for people watching and getting really good food. The fresh baked cookies are exceptional!
Old City
Many visitors like to enjoy Philadelphia's rich history most of which is in Olde City. Visit the Liberty Bell, Indepndence Hall, Christ Church and National Constitution Center. I personally like the horse and buggy rides where each group has their own private guide to offer stories and interesting facts about the city.
Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square Park and the surrounding area is one of my favorite places to simply experience! Rittenhouse Park is a great place to people watch, sketch, talk or walk through. The park is across from Barnes & Noble and Anthropologie and blocks away from all the novelty and clothing shops on Walnut Street. Overlook the park while you dine at Parc-a french brasserie with outdoor seating and Rouge-a small but elegant french restaurant with great food and quiet ambiance. For a more casual option get gelato from La Gran Cafe L' Aquila and enjoy it in the park.
Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
We went here for our first date!
Penn's Landing
Beautiful riverfront boardwalk.
Race Street Pier
North of Penn's Landing, the pier has a great view of the Ben Franklin Bridge and the Delaware River.
Friday Saturday Sunday
I took Mickey here for a birthday surprise dinner and we both LOVED it! The new American style cuisine is unique and delicious, service is stellar and there are beautiful murals painted on the walls. This restaurant is upscale and elegant but does not feel pretentious. Friday, Saturday, Sunday is walkable from Rittenhouse Square and my favorite street in Philadelphia Delancy Street between 18th-20th.
Zahav
Zahav is a must for adventurous eaters and serious food lovers! Zahav features Israeli cuisine and a remarkable level of service. If you are hungry try the tasting menu. It's unique and offers great variety. Please make a reservation as far in advance as possible as they fill up very quickly (like 2 months)
Double Knot
Fantastic Japanese cuisine, mostly tapas. Definitely one of the best restaurants in the city!
Yakitori Boy
Yakatori Boy is a fun and affordable Asian fusion restaurant in Chinatown with a very eclectic menu. They offer great sushi, unique appetizers and exotic dishes as well as great cocktails and beers. It's a great place to bring friends or a date. They also have karaoke upstairs if that's your thing.
Indeblue Restaurant and Bar
Delicious upscale and affordable Indian food with great cocktails!
Oyster House
Oyster House is a must go for all seafood lovers! The atmosphere, food and service are all exceptional! The Tuna Poke Bowl and Red Snapper entrée are exquisite!
Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar - Philadelphia
We've been to Cuba Libre numerous times with different people and it's always been a hit! The environment is super fun with Latin music and the food is delicious! The prices are reasonable and the location is perfect for touring Old City. The croquettes, ceviche, empanadas, caipirinha's and mojitos are really good!
Chanticleer, a pleasure garden
An absolutely gorgeous botanical garden! It's a must-do if you like flowers and trippy landscapes!
Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania
One of the most peaceful parks we have ever visited, we highly recommend strolling slowly, stopping at every bench, and taking in the atmosphere!