Duh!
Most underrated historical site in the park.
The most significant building in American history. Tickets are free, and we HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you book in advance if you *for sure* want to go. Click the link to book, registration in advance costs $1 per ticket.
Another underrated historical site. You can access it by going through Independence Hall security.
Interesting off-the-beaten-path historical site. Fun fact: was the tallest building in America for a long time!
Less impressive than the new one, still historical though :)
Second largest portrait gallery in America.
A nice spot to walk along the Delaware Riverfront.
You're probably thinking about this museum. It looks nice on the outside, but is incredibly dense war history inside. Just know what you're getting into. Meredith is a Daughter of the American Revolution, so if war isn't your thing, just ask her!
This neighborhood has the most colonial architecture of any in the United States. Fun to walk around.
Oldest continually inhabited street in America. Breeze by the Betsy Ross House and check this out instead.
Great park for an autumn walk. Beware the unmarked graves beneath... it's Halloween!
Following restaurant news in the city is a favorite pastime. What you'll see below is just a glimpse, and one driven more by proximity than anything else (with a few standout favorites). Feel free to reach out if you are looking for something specific to eat or a certain vibe. I'd be happy to chat about it.
This is not just a drinking city, but a maker city. Why just order a beer when you can get it from the source? If you like going to breweries, you can pretty much throw a dart on a map and end up within a mile of a handful of breweries. Need a place to start? We like ARS, Human Robot, Triple Bottom, Yards, and Fermentery Form,
I love getting small batch local coffee. We love starting days out in the city by picking a neighborhood and getting drinks there before TCB. My favorites are: ReAnimator, Herman's, Ultimo, Elixr, Blind Tiger (sold at Lost Bread Co. and Rally), and Peddler.
It's a little touristy, but you're a tourist, aren't you? Popular stalls: DiNic's, Beiler's, Tambayan, 4th St. Cookies.
My favorite lunch spot from tour guide days, now a regular spot for both of us.
Best place to go for locally roasted coffee and tea in the area. There's also a location inside the Bourse.
This isn't the Bourse you remember from your 4th grade field trip! Good for a quick bite and a taste of local liquor and beer without having to travel far.
In the greatest sandwich city in the world, this is Sam's favorite place to get one. Breakfast or lunch.
I usually recommend going to Chinatown to eat to folks visiting Old City. We, and the best man, like this place best for dim sum. Groomsman Josh prefers Dim Sum Garden, which is a couple blocks away. Nan Zhou is good too, but really you can't go wrong. Everyone's got their own spots!
Had to give a shout out to the only place in the city where they know me by name. Hoagies, tomato pie, salads, snacks... they've got it all. If you want to stick to Philly classics but want them done perfectly, let Matt, Christina, and the crew at LK take care of youse.
Wawa is a staple in the region and this one is fancy for some reason, so check it out!
This, or Franklin Fountain next door, are Philadelphia institutions. There will be a shorter line here. Mere says there has to be ice cream on the list.
This is our favorite restaurant group in the city, and they just combined two locations. Now, you can get noodles, soups, sushi, and Japanese inspired small plates all under one roof. This is also where the groom's drink comes from. If you are in South Philly, you can't go wrong with sister restaurant Bing Bing Dim Sum.
We are bagel people through and through. It may not be Teaneck Hot Bagels (nothing can ever compare), but this is our go to.
This new restaurant opened in a former Jiffy Lube and is an incredible addition to the dining scene. Inspired by the Chinese neighborhood in Mexicali, you can't go wrong here when it comes to food, drink, and vibes.
The iconic neighborhood in South Philly where you can get a lot more than just standard Italian fare. If you want to honor the Pillarella side of the family, we recommend just showing up and walking around until you find something you like. Planning takes away some of the magic. Also of note: the world famous South Philly Barbacoa for the best tacos in America.
Looking to explore outside of Old City? Take the El or a car to Fishtown, especially if you're looking for the heart of the dining scene. Recommendations: Pizzeria Beddia, Lazer Wolf, Suraya, Liberty Kitchen, Stock, Da-Wa, Weckerly's, Hello Donuts, Reanimator Coffee, Eeva.