Theodra & Sidney
Things To Do
Independence Hall
Get your history on! Independence Mall includes the Liberty Bell, the Constitution Center, the American Philosophical Society, and many other historic landmarks. The free tours are informative and worth it. Bonus: The Museum of the American Revolution and the Jewish History Museum are right around the corner.
Cherry Street Pier
One of the newer additions to the Philadelphia scene! This refurbished public space offers both a beautiful venue to explore, and a collection of craftspeople and artists from across the city. If you are in the mood for arts and crafts from locals, this is an excellent addition to walking around Old City.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Gorgeous museum of fine art infamous for the "Rocky Steps". Come for the novelty, stay for the marvelous collection. Theodra's favorite room is Cy Twombly's "Fifty Days at Illium", and Sidney's favorite is the "Temple of Transforming Wisdom" in the Asian Art Wing. One ticket is good for two days of visits, and includes admission to the Rodin Museum and the art deco Perleman Building as well.
Eastern State Penitentiary
Full of spookiness and radical history, this is the first modern prison in the world. Now a museum to incarceration-- with a great guided tour narrated by Steve Buscemi-- it is worth the visit for those who are history nerds or social justice-inclined. This is Theodra's favorite spot in Philadelphia. Be sure to also check out the wonderful independent bookstore Bookhaven down the street.
Philadelphia City Hall
This gorgeous building is at the center of it all. Full of history and intimate architectural details, a visit to Philly would be incomplete without a turn through its open arches.
Reading Terminal Market
A lovely and vibrant market full of produce, crafts, and delicious food of every culinary background. A favorite lunch spot for all office workers within walking distance, this old train station is also conveniently close to both the Convention Center and Philadelphia's Chinatown. This is Sidney's favorite spot in Philadelphia. Ever the sweet-tooth, he recommends the Beiler's Donut stand or Bassett's Ice Cream.
Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
This adorable little spot is a unique art gallery and a bastion of the South Philly community. Once lambasted as a neighborhood eyesore, this whimsical mosaic-covered house has persevered against multiple attempts to tear it down, and is now one of Philadelphia's most-visited destinations. The mosaic designs have even expanded into the neighborhood itself, becoming a part of the Mural Arts Program's protected spaces. Theodra and Sidney spent hours deciphering the walls one memorable afternoon for our six-month celebration.
Kawaii Kitty Cafe
If you are in the mood to do something unique and are missing your furry companions at home, this is a great little spot to spend an hour or two. Theodra and Sidney spent their first Valentine's together here, and enjoyed both the kittens and the delicious milkshakes.
Schuylkill River Trail
From South Street to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and beyond, this is a lovely walking trail in the heart of the city for those who are inclined to explore the outdoors. Enjoy the well-paved trail over parts of the Schuylkill River (pronounced skOO-kle by the locals), and along its banks, with sloping laws and plenty of benches to enjoy the view.
Spruce Street Harbor Park
This seasonal favorite adds beauty and fun to the banks of the Delaware River. Featuring a beer garden, hammocks, food trucks, rope lounges over the water, and lawn games, Spruce Street Harbor Park is a wonderful place to relax and cool down after a day of exploring Old City or to mark as a destination all its own. Theodra and Sidney have spent many afternoons here reading, drinking, and enjoying the weather.