It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia
Planning a visit to the first capital of the US? The city is filled with so much history and things to see and do-it’s definitely worth the trip! Follow my Philadelphia itinerary to make your trip feel like you’re in a live action recreation of National Treasure! I had an amazing time visiting Philly for 3 days on a work trip in late September! My co-worker and I had plenty of time between meetings to explore the city and dine like locals. We did lots of walking and the weather was beautiful. The locals were all very friendly and there were lots of tourist attractions to check out, most of which were tied to the founding of our country! From the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where we heard from a well-informed tour guide, to the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art where Rocky trained, we enjoyed every sight!
What to Do
Once you land at Philadelphia International, you’ll want to head into Center City. You’ll see the incredible architecture of City Hall and can stroll through the shops of the Reading Terminal Market. This converted space serves as a giant farmer’s market that goes on for a square city block. They have everything from various types of food and desserts, souvenirs, jewelry, fresh fruits/veggies and fresh cut flowers.
Philadelphia City Hall — 1400 John F. Kennedy Blvd
After we ate and shopped, we headed over to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. We had a hilarious tour guide who told us all about the significance of the bell. Did you know that when the bell was first made and sent to the colony it didn’t have any significance? It was simply how they alerted townsfolk that there was a news announcement. Hear ye Hear ye! That all changed when the ‘rebel’ groups decided to give it the name of Liberty and only ring it to signify the change they were trying to bring to the country. You probably know that the crack was an accident during a routine repair.. and the bell fell silent forever. Once our tour ended we decided to stroll through Washington Square and the replica of the President’s house. The gift shop right across the street was absolutely packed with American merch. Stuffed bald eagles, flags galore, tiny liberty bells and tons of rolled up constitutions… no need to go on a quest to steal one @Nicolas Cage 😁
Liberty Bell — 526 Market St.
The next day we headed down to Logan Square to visit the various museums on that side of the city and the Rocky statue, of course. Along the way we saw Love park with the famous I ❤️Philly sign and stopped in at Rodin Museum. The Thinker was stationed outside with all his ominous thought bubbles above his head. At the very end of the city sits Philadelphia Museum of Art with its tall staircase challenging you to run to the top. I can tell you the view of the skyline is worth it! It’s also a great workout…Rocky knew what he was doing! At the very top you’ll find steel footprints from the boxer himself and down in the garden to the left you can visit his statue. Snap a picture in both spots with his signature two-hand raised salute pose!
Rocky Statue at the Philadelphia Museum of Art — 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy
Rocky’s Footprints
While at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, make the famous run up the stairs and stand where Rocky stood for an incredible view of the city!
Where to Stay
The Logan Hotel is a very central up-scale place to stay in the heart of the city. Their rooftop bar, Assembly is a must-visit for the view alone, though the excellent cocktails are a plus! We spent hours on the rooftop and loved the 360 views of Logan Square and the Sisters Cities Park lined with museums around the huge fountain in the center. Other great places to stay are the Cambria in Center City, the Motto in Rittenhouse Square, the Warwick Hotel and Sonesta in Rittenhouse Square.
Rittenhouse Square view from Assembly rooftop bar — 1840 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy
Where to Eat
The best experience when visiting a new city is always trying the food they’re known for. In PA it was all about the Philly Cheesesteaks! We heard from many of the locals about the competing restaurants claiming to have the most authentic and best one. They take a lot of pride in this dish, as they should! Delicious!
Our favorite meal of the trip was at Giuseppe & Sons, an Italian restaurant with a speakeasy vibe. The restaurant was tucked beneath a deli/bakery on the street level. Downstairs and through a dimly light hallway, with every inch of the walls covered in photographs, is the bar and dining room. The fresh pasta was mouth-watering and the wine pairings were excellently matched. I’d definelty recommend visiting G&S.
On our last day, we had lunch at Angelino’s before heading to the airport. This was another great meal and a lovely place to stop in! This small Italian pasteria is hidden in a neighborhood not far from Logan Square. The waitstaff were so nice and after asking where we were from, they pinned Kansas City on the map on the wall! The penne alla vodka was delicious and was ready so quickly!
This trip definelty confirmed that it is always sunny in Philadelphia! Next time you’re on the east coast, go check out the city of brotherly love! Check out my itinerary below!
