Explore Philadelphia

Sep 1, 2009 11:53 AM

Philadelphia is known as the “City of Neighborhoods” and there are indeed many in City Center to check out during your stay.

Waterfront/Historic District
Cobblestone streets and iconic buildings abound in Independence National Historical Park. Here you can see the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall. The National Constitution Center is also nearby and you can also take a stroll along Penn’s Landing on the Delaware River.

Old City
Between Independence National Historical Park and Penn’s Landing is Old City, with a decidedly modern atmosphere. Old City features contemporary art galleries and shops housed in historic buildings alongside trendy, upscale clubs and restaurants. While you’re in the area, check out Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited street in America.

Convention Center District
No doubt you’ll spend a lot of time here, but if you get away from the Convention Center, venture to Chinatown at 10th and Arch streets, through Friendship Gate. It is the third-largest Chinatown in the nation, first settled in 1845. Then visit the Reading Terminal Market. For more than 115 years, this market has been a place hungry people come to dine on down-home food. Vendors also sell housewares, books, crafts and gifts.

Parkway/Museum District
This grand thoroughfare extends northwest from City Hall to Fairmount Park. Here you will see the “Rocky steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and interactive exhibits at The Franklin Institute of Science Museum and The Academy of Natural Sciences.

Avenue of the Arts
If you’re looking for theaters, museums, concert halls and performing arts, this is the place to be. Visit the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, presenting everything from world music to classical, and salsa to ballet. Also make sure to see the American art collection at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, just steps from the Convention Center. Head south on Broad Street to see the historic Academy of Music.