Share in the brotherly love
America’s original capital is sometimes known as New York’s sixth borough, such is its popularity with commuters. In truth, the City of Brotherly Love comfortably holds its own against the Big Apple and it’s easy to see why. Philadelphia is crammed with fascinating historic sights, world-class museums and galleries, parks bursting with civic pride, and a lively food and drink scene. All this is set in an eminently walkable city that has retained its sense of small-town charm.
Follow in the hallowed footsteps of the Founding Fathers and tick off attractions like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall (where the Declaration of Independence was signed), the National Constitution Center and the Museum of the American Revolution. See how the Old City comes alive at night - treat yourself to Royal Boucherie's charcuterie selection, hole up in legendary corner bar Rotten Ralph’s, raise a glass in McGillin’s Olde Ale House - the city’s oldest pub and catch a band at the Khyber Pass Pub.
Take a leisurely stroll down Benjamin Franklin Parkway, a thoroughfare modelled on Paris’ Champs-Elysees and home to the Franklin Institute. Then get lost in charming cobblestone lanes like Elfreth’s Alley, America’s oldest residential street, which dates from 1703 and is only six feet wide in places. Jog up the famous Rocky Steps – stopping for a selfie by the statue - to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, crammed with so many treasures that your entrance ticket’s valid for two days. Make time for the Barnes Foundation, with its huge collection of Impressionist art. The Mummers Museum celebrates Philly’s colourful New Year’s Day parade and PhilaMOCA is an avant garde art space in a former mausoleum showroom. It’s in an area dubbed Eraserhood in homage to filmmaker David Lynch, who once lived there. Grab your flights to Philadelphia and see what all the fuss is about.
