An adventurers guide to the sights and history of a city that gave birth to a nation through revolutionary ideas along the path to freedom for all . . .
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Philadelphia is without a doubt one of the most historic cities in The United States. There is so much to see and do here, going far beyond the typical educational experiences that immediately come to mind. From monuments and museums to cemeteries and even a haunted prison, this town is a must for every curious traveler.
A Guide to "The City of Brotherly Love"For my first-time trip to Philadelphia, I chose to stay at Apple Hostel. The price and location can't be beat, as it was very affordable and located only a couple blocks away from the nearest subway station. Just around the corner are many historic locations including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Museum.
Taking a short walk north brings you to the neighborhood where you will find the Betsy Ross House and the grave of Benjamin Franklin. It has become a custom for visitors to leave a penny on Franklin's grave. This seems strange considering that it is Lincoln who is found on the coin, but it was Franklin who minted the first U.S. currency.
If you stroll a little further to the northeast, you may just run into Paddy's Irish Pub. This lively local watering hole served as inspiration for the bar in the popular television show It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
Let's Get to the Museums
If you know me, then you know that I am crazy about museums. Maybe it's my anthropology background, but I basically live to travel and explore the realms of human history. This is just a sample of the many museums that Philadelphia has to offer.
The Mütter Museum
The Mütter Museum is what I consider to be Philadelphia's museum of physical anthropology, though some would think of it as more of a museum of death. Inside you will find a vast collection of human skulls along with jars containing various body parts and organs. Unfortunately, no photography is allowed inside the building, but the outside does have a very photogenic botanical garden with many unusual specimens.
Penn Museum
This is Philadelphia's anthropology and archaeology museum hosted by the local university. It is an absolute must for every fan of ancient history. Inside you will encounter many exhibits of cultural significance, as well as artifacts and ecofacts collected from all around the world. Be prepared to spend some time here.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
This is where you will find those famous steps from the original Rocky film. As you approach you will immediately notice the fictitious boxer's statue celebrating his triumphant victory. Aside from its pop culture status, the museum contains a vast amount of art that will take all day to thoroughly explore.
Philadelphia Magic Gardens
This impressive walkthrough display was created by artist Isaiah Zagar. It is basically a giant mosaic museum that was created from otherwise discarded items. At one point developers planned for its demolition, until the community pulled together to save it. What was once thought of as an eyesore, is now a local treasure.
Eastern State Penitentiary
Opened in 1829, this prison represents the origin of the penitentiary concept. Here inmates were to be exposed to rehabilitation over punishment. Its design alone is designed to be part of the deterrence process. Behind those colossal walls you will find countless bits of history begging to be explored.
I was so impressed by the tour of this historic prison that I decided to dedicate an entire article to
Eastern State Penitentiary
Keeping with the Scary Theme -
The Philadelphia Ghost Tour
A couple of nights each week, Apple Hostel hosts a Ghost tour of the surrounding neighborhood. After meeting in the lobby, we would spend the next hour strolling through the historic district in search of ghosts, ghouls, and good times.
I didn't see any actual ghosts, but my camera did pick up some strange orb activity, or maybe it was just the reflection of a street light. (Come on, don't ruin it for me). Even if you do not experience anything supernatural on this tour, the history is amazing.
Don't Forget Chinatown
No anthropologist's trip to Philadelphia would be anywhere near complete without visiting Chinatown. From quirky shops to flavorful restaurants, this neighborhood is very much alive with the vibrant cultural themes of the far east. I have collected photos of friendship arches from multiple cities and countries, and this is one of my favorites.
While in the Chinatown area, you should also check out the Reading Terminal Market. This large indoor market hosts a variety of fresh goods that you won't want to miss. Throughout my travels, I have been to many others that are similar, but this one is a top notch experience. While we're taking a break, let's have a bite to eat.
If all this walking seems a bit much, you can always take the BigBusTour
The Foods of Philly
Most who follow my adventures know that I could write an entire blog on just food.
So this section is dedicated to my fellow foodies.
1) A Tale of Two Phillys:
My very first culinary mission in this town was to sample the legendary Philly Cheese Steak sandwich. It was at Sonny's Famous Steaks that I had my first taste of this local delight. Apparently, I made a massive faux pas here. When I posted the first one to social media, I was immediately flamed on my choice of white cheese, though some did come to my defense. I later corrected this by getting another one at Jim's South Street - this time with the traditional yellow cheese sauce. Leave a comment and let me know what kinds of toppings you like on your Philly.
2) Breakfast Delights:
Great breakfast locations are also found all around Philadelphia. My first morning I enjoyed an enormous plate of huevos rancheros at the Luna Café just two blocks north of my hostel. Only a block to the west, Café Square One serves one of the best egg and avocado sandwiches imaginable. If you are looking for more of a bacon, eggs, and gravy kind of experience, then I recommend heading south to the Morning Glory Diner.
3) Snackin Around:
Philadelphia also has no shortage of pizza by the slice places, and I sampled many. However, if you're in the mood for something sweet, you really need to try T- Swirl Crepe located in nearby Chinatown. They offer a nice variety of crepe cones with ingredients ranging from fruit and nuts to chocolate.
Back to the History
Like I mentioned so many times before, Philadelphia is absolutely packed full of history. Unfortunately, there was much that I did not have time for. I would love to have visited the Museum of The American Revolution, but many attractions close early. This means that you must plan your time accordingly to fit in all desired destinations.
The Tomb of The Unknown Soldier of The American Revolution is a monument you won't want to miss while in the neighborhood of Washington Square Park. Even at night, its eternal flame burns brightly in this beautiful garden setting. And for my recently departed grandfather, I felt it necessary to pay a visit to The Korean War Memorial.
Before you are completely exhausted, there are a few more places that you should check out while in the area. The Irish Memorial is dedicated to all of those who perished in The Great Famine, as well as those who made their way to a new land in search of liberty and prosperity. In a similar manner, the nearby Monument to Scottish Immigrants consists of a group of bronze statues representing a Scottish family also making their arrival.
One of the historic highlights of my trip was when I spent my final evening at the nearby city tavern. Now I know what you are thinking. Why would sitting at a bar be so important? The City Tavern was the original hangout of the founding fathers of this country. Once inside, you will be greeted by characters in colonial attire, and served beers that were brewed from the personal recipes of people like Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson. It was unusually awe inspiring to think of what conversations must have taken place in this very location, and to the tune of these same libations.
Philadelphia is without a doubt one of my favorite cities in the United States. From food and history to entertainment and art, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So take my advice and add The City of Brotherly Love to your bucket list.
If you enjoyed reading about my adventures in Philadelphia, then check out my visit to Washington D.C.
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Author :Chris J. Baxter "Siege" is an experienced world traveler with a B.A. in Anthropology, a background in healthcare, and an unquenchable thirst for adventure. 
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