10 Reasons Why Philadelphia Is Underrated
There's More to the City of Brotherly Love Than Bells and Sandwiches
Philadelphia may often be overlooked as a destination, but there are so many reasons why it is underrated. It’s a city with a rich and unique history, a lot of heart and more street art than you can shake a perfectly created cheesesteak at.
At first glance, you may wonder what all the fuss about one of the most populous cities in the USA is about, but this is precisely where the magic of Philly lies. Discover free art on street corners, uncover hidden historic spots and bring your own bottle to eclectic eateries. From craft beers to comfort food, and Rocky to tax-free shopping, explore the many reasons to visit these Pennsylvanian streets.
1. It’s the birthplace of America
And the first World Heritage City in the country
Ideal para: História, Foto, Econômico
As the birthplace of America, Philadelphia proudly houses the Liberty Bell, which rang out for the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8, 1776. Located in the Liberty Bell Center, just across from Independence Hall, and free to admire, this glorious 2,080-pound (943-kg) bell is truly something to see. And where else are you going to get such a perfect #belfie?
With 67 National Historic Landmarks, Philly gained a hot new status as the country’s first World Heritage City in 2015. Explore the city and keep your eyes peeled for the blue signs dotted all around; they highlight the uniquely historical reasons that make Philly so special.
Localização: 526 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
Abre: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm
Telefone: +1 215-965-2305
It’s the birthplace of America
2. The Rocky Steps
A selfie with the man himself
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico, Aventura
You can almost hear the theme music as you approach the iconic Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. You may have to wait in line to gear yourself up for that oh-so-famous run, but boy, it’ll be worth it.
Definitely one for movie fans, embrace your inner-Balboa as you snap a couple of sly selfies with the main man himself (or, at least, his statue) and relive the intoxicating moment you’ve been waiting for so long. Be sure to visit the art museum afterwards and check out the surrounding grounds. Take a stroll around behind the museum for beautiful river views.
Localização: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USA
Telefone: +1 215-763-8100
The Rocky Steps
3. Craft beer
Raising a glass to Philly’s finest brews and local spirits
Ideal para: Alimentação, Econômico
For those who enjoy craft beer, Philly is the ideal spot to sit back and savour a good drink. Craft beers have been rising in popularity in recent years, becoming a firm favourite in the city. Join the Philadelphia Craft Beer Trail to experience major craft breweries such as Sly Fox and Victory before visiting the more mainstay brewpubs such as Dock Street.
When you’re not enjoying the easily accessible craft beer, you can sip on creative cocktails made with spirits from local distilleries like Stateside Vodka and Red Brick Craft Distillery. With such a vibrant drinking scene, Philadelphia offers something for every palate.
Craft beer
4. You can bring your own bottle
A creative solution to tough local liquor restrictions
Ideal para: Alimentação, Econômico
Surprisingly enough, you’ll be thankful for those hard-to-get Pennsylvania liquor licences, as they have made it possible to bring your own bottle to many of the delicious Philly restaurants. From the French flavours of June BYOB to the Italian dishes of A Mano, over 300 restaurants in Philly have embraced the challenging times with the introduction of a Bring Your Own Bottle (BYOB) policy.
This approach is very good if you’re hitting the Philly streets on a budget. Even if you just like good food, you couldn’t be in better hands as chefs are free to focus on serving up only the finest of food while you put your own spin on boozy brunches, long lunches and enjoyable evening meals.
You can bring your own bottle
5. Tax-free shopping
Need we say more?
Ideal para: Compras, Econômico
If you’re looking for a new pair of shoes to walk through the streets of Philly, or a brand new outfit, take advantage of Philly’s tax-free shopping. Even if you’re not looking to bag those bargains, you can still stretch those exploratory legs and bask in the glow of tax-free clothing and footwear options to take back home.
Firstly, make your way to the boutiques of Liberty Place for brand names and quality threads. Then, head to Reading Terminal Market in the city’s beating commercial heart to browse through a whole range of tax-free apparel. For a more bohemian vibe, discover the Northern Liberties neighbourhood, located north of Old City, and enjoy a shopping workout that’s anything but taxing.
Tax-free shopping
6. You can walk through a human heart
The Franklin Institute is a must-visit
Ideal para: Famílias, Foto
Open up your heart and mind as you walk through a human heart at The Franklin Institute in the Greater Philadelphia area. As well as being an education staple on the Philadelphia school kids’ field trip list, the Giant Heart exhibit and unique world of learning is a must-do for new city explorers.
Crawl through a giant artery, watch open heart surgery and truly celebrate the wonder of the human heart. While this might be the star attraction, after going through this rite of passage, there’s so much more to be discovered. Enjoy science stories, escape rooms and even try out a flight simulator that takes visitors of all ages to dizzying new heights.
Localização: 222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA
Abre: Daily from 9.30 am to 5 pm
Telefone: +1 215-448-1200
You can walk through a human heart
7. Street art
The messages will make you smile
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico, Viagens alternativas
Philadelphia has become a hotspot for street art, with vibrant pieces lurking on every corner. In 1984, the locally-based arts organisation Mural Arts began reaching out to graffiti writers in order to ‘redirect their energies into constructive public art projects’. In other words, they got a free pass to spread their art around the city.
While some works of art are situated in slightly more downtown areas, you don’t necessarily need to delve into its graffitied depths. Walk the streets of Chinatown and City Hall or jump onto a Segway art tour to uncover these powerful murals. Don’t miss the Transformations mural of B Street Bridge and West Philly’s mural, Dreams, Diaspora, Destiny, at 5300 Lansdowne Avenue.
Street art
8. Cheesesteaks and soft pretzels
Best to give the diet a day off
Ideal para: Famílias, Alimentação
Cheesesteaks and soft pretzels are a must when visiting Philly. While eateries dish out the indulgent cheesesteak delicacy all over the city, authenticity here is key. Head to comfort food favourites like Jim’s South Street and Pat’s King of Steaks, the original inventor of this iconic sandwich. Enjoy thinly sliced beef and melted Cheez Whiz cheese served in a hoagie roll, with a dill pickle on the side if you like.
The indulgence doesn’t stop there. Pretzel vendors on every corner fill the air with the sweet smell of these super-soft snacks. Try the famous Philly Pretzel Factory for pretzel twists, dogs and the ultimate combo: the pretzel cheesesteak.
Cheesesteaks and soft pretzels
9. Vibrant neighbourhoods
From Fish Town and Queen Village to Passyunk Square
Ideal para: Foto, Alimentação, Econômico
Get your tax-free walking shoes on and explore the authentic streets and vibrant neighbourhoods of Philly. The beauty of Philadelphia lies in its local residents, thriving businesses and mix of urban and rural offerings. Start with downtown Center City, where you’ll find a real mix of city culture and historical neighbourhoods from Rittenhouse Square to Chinatown.
Then venture north, south or west of the downtown core. Take to the leafy stretch of Queen Village and stroll around hip art galleries before admiring the street art and vegan treats in trendy Fishtown. Breathe in the fresh air of lush green spaces in Passyunk Square before dining in the eclectic spots of East Passyunk’s award-winning foodie streets.
Vibrant neighbourhoods
10. Sports
Sporting events are happening all over the city
Ideal para: Aventura, Famílias
Philadelphia is one of the very few cities that can proudly say that it has a professional franchise in 5 major league sports, from baseball to football. It also hosts some of the best sporting events around, including famous marathons, top-tier regattas like the annual Schuylkill Regatta and the world’s oldest relay meet, the Penn Relays.
The city also boasts some of the most dedicated fans in sports. From the resilient supporters of the Philadelphia Phillies, who have faced more losses than any other sports franchise in the country, to the passionate fans of the Philadelphia Flyers, these loyal fans show unmatched dedication. Embrace the rush, feel those high-5s and experience the sporting highs and lows in this ultra-supportive city.
Sports
Este artigo inclui opiniões da equipe editorial dos Go Guides. A Hoteis.com remunera os autores dos textos publicados neste site, o que pode incluir custos de viagens e outras despesas.