Things To Do
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Whether you want get a picture flexing on the legendary Rocky Steps, or you want to spend all day looking at some of the finest art in the world, the art museum is a must-see when in Philly.
Independence Hall
If you're a history buff, be sure to go check out where our Declaration of Independence was signed and where the Constitution was born! Be sure to take a peek at the Liberty Bell while you're over there.
Reading Terminal Market
Philadelphia's largest indoor open air market is full of great restaurants and shops where you can buy (but mostly eat) local. We recommend getting here early because it can get swamped on weekends.
Boathouse Row
For those of you feeling well enough to go on a run Saturday morning, this is one of our favorites. Take Spring Garden St. from Center City, past the Rocky Steps and into Fairmount park. Here you'll find one of Philly's famous landmarks, boathouse row. This also is a great spot to check out at night if you want to see it fully illuminated.
Breakfast/Brunch Restaurants
Breakfast/Brunch: La Colombe - for coffee & quick bites. The Fishtown location is one of the coolest coffee shops you'll ever see. Honey's Sit-N-Eat (no reservations) (cash only) - We recommend these biscuits to soak up your hangover. Talula's Garden (reservations available) - Higher end brunch in a beautiful setting on Washington Square Park. Suraya (reservations available) - Swanky mediterranean spot in a hipster neighborhood. Hungry Pigeon (reservations available)- Get the James Beard award winning breakfast bread basket. Middle Child: Unassuming jewish-ish deli serving breakfast plates, breakfast/lunch sandwiches . Bottomless coffee and a incredibly unique sandwich options (surfer, phoagie, etc.)
Dinner Restaurants
These are some of our favorite dinner spots and also require advance reservation. Zahav: Recently named the best restaurant in the Country at the James Beard awards. $$$$. Sampan/Double Knot: These energetic spots share the same kitchen, but different Asian inspired menus. Sate Kampar: For spicy food and cheap alcohol, check out this BYOB spot in a quaint neighborhood. Pizzeria Beddia: World renowned pizza restaurant in new digs. WM Mulherin's Sons: New age Italian food in a "date night" environment.
Casual/Late-Night Restaurants
South Philly Barbacoa: Famous chef in a hole in the wall. Ironically placed in the middle of the Italian Market. Sweetgreen: Healthy salads and grain bowls on the go. Dim Sum Garden: Traditional Dim Sum spot in the Chinatown neighborhood if you've got a big appetite. Wait will get very long but will go quickly. Goldie: Vegan mediterranean food. Best Falafel in town. Get the tehini milkshake too. Jim's or Joes Cheesesteaks: Roll through one of these spots after you leave the bar. Don't do Pats/Genos. WAWA (any location): best for late night hoagies/sandwhiches; if you're feeling wild, get Nathan and Tara's favorite-the meatball bowl atop mashed potatoes (weird, I know)
Watering Holes
Independence Beer Garden: Unique outdoor drinking with lawn games. McGillins: For a rowdier vibe, sing-alongs, and cheap drinks, check out Philadelphia's oldest bar. El Vez: Modern Mexican and margs in an energetic environment. PHS Pop Up Gardens: Seasonal, pop-up beer gardens located throughout the city. Morgan's Pier: Outdoor drinking on the water. Show up here before 5 to relax and after 5 if you're feeling aggressive.