Philadelphia- History and Hidden Gems
Philadelphia- History and Hidden Gems
Hayley Taggart
Available for hire
Some of the famous spots and some places off the beaten path in the center of American history!
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The Iconic Places
Independence Hall
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Right across the street from the Liberty Bell is another piece of American history! Make sure to make a reservation for a tour in advance or you will not be able to enter the buildings.
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Liberty Bell
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Probably the most iconic bell in the world! Make sure to set time aside to wait in line. We didn’t the first time we visited so only got a photo on the outside! While it seems long it will move quickly! It is a quick walk through exhibit with the bell as the star!
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Betsy Ross House
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Fairly standard historic site. We didn’t pay to go inside but enjoyed walking through the gift shop and courtyard with several historic plaques.
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LOVE sign
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One of the most iconic outdoor art sculptures in the US! We really did it because of all the hype… though we’re not sure if it was worth it. The line can be long but it is a cute photo!
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Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps
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See if you are in shape enough to make the trek made famous by Rocky!
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Spruce Street Harbor Park
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Independence Seaport Museum- Braden enjoyed this museum! It includes tours of Cruiser Olympia which is one of two ships that is still around from World War 1!
In the summer months, make sure to try some water ice! As a shaved ice connoisseur, I was a big fan!
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Things a Little More Off the Beaten Path
Eastern State Penitentiary
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This is hands down our favorite experience in Philadelphia. It is the world’s first penitentiary! It housed famous mafia bosses like Al Capone and was a filming location for one of the Transformers movies. The highlight is the extensive audio tour that goes over all of these details narrated by Steve Buscemi (who I had to look up, but Braden could tell from the second we hit play). You may not see this on very many lists, but I cannot speak more highly of it!
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Edgar Allan Pоe National Historic Site
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While this is a bit out of the way from the downtown area, we thoroughly enjoyed this historic site. Set in the actual house where he lived while in Philadelphia, it was cool to see the rooms where he lived. Highly recommend the self-guided walking tour, make sure to ask the docent about it!
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Franklin Court Printing Office
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Daily printing press talks done by very knowledgeable guides! Plus you can purchase the papers you watch them make for a minimal price
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Bourse Building
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Part food court and part local shopping in a tucked away historic building!
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Food I Recommend
You can’t say that you have been to Philadelphia without trying a Philly Cheesesteak, at least according to Braden. We have tried three places so far and have not been disappointed. Still have not tried the famous rivalry of Pat and Ginos, but we have tried Sonny’s and Campo’s (which are next door to each other and in downtown) and loved comparing them! We were told adding cheese whiz originated in WWII shortages, and ended for locals with the war. The best way is with provolone!
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The Plough & the Stars
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The place to get world class Irish food! Braden was very happy to end the day with a pint of Guinness and a plate of Fish and Chips! And the Shepherd's Pie was heavenly! More of a rowdy crowd, but a great place to sit with a group.
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Shane Confectionery
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If you want a fantastic historic treat spot in downtown look no further than Shane Confectionery! It feels like you are stepping back in time with this place. We loved picking a box of assorted chocolates! They also have fantastic hot cocoa for the colder months.
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Reading Terminal Market
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This is both an attraction and place to eat. And boy does it get busy! I don’t have any pictures because I get a little overwhelmed by the amount of people there! But love seeing all the food and things to sample!
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Menagerie Coffee
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Great latte and loved sitting by the front window and people watching!
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Bookstores
Bookhaven
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This store is floor to ceiling books! Generally organized, but still a place you will need to spend some time searching. Make sure to check out the second floor and the cute cats!
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Book Corner
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This huge used bookstore had great deals! And all the proceeds benefit public libraries which is great. It is mostly organized and you can find some good gems for a great deal.
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Where to Stay
Beautiful renovated and one of the best mattresses I have slept in for an Airbnb. It is a bit out of the downtown area, but super close to the convention center and Reading Terminal Market.
The center of the historical district and an boutique experience
Independence Park Hotel
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We loved our stay! The location could not be better and the include breakfast was standard but with a lot of options!
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Close to the Convention Center (and Reading Terminal Market!)
Hampton Inn Philadelphia Center City-Convention Center
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Things I Need to Try Someday
Here are a couple things that have been recommended for me to try on a future trip… let me know if there is anything else to add to the list!
JJ Bootleggers
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Revolution House
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Independence Beer Garden
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Pat's King of Steaks
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Geno's Steaks
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hayley Taggart
Available for hire
Hey it's Hayley !!
Latte enthusiast, used bookstore connoisseur and huge fan of walkable neighborhoods
Having spent at least one day and night in 42 states and counting my specialty is traveling within the USA. I grew up in Southern California, lived for six years in Utah, had a brief stint in Orlando and now on year 2 in New York City.
Want to know the cheapest times and places to fly? My day job is a flight attendant based in NYC!
Trains more your speed? I once spent a month backpacking from Utah to Boston using Amtrak!
Love a long road trip? I have driven across the country three times!
After years of travel planning for my friends and family I thought I would share my resources with the world wide web :) I enjoy planning the trips more then actually leaving for the trips so this is the perfect place for me.
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