We Explore The Up And Coming Super Cool City of Philadelphia

If you’re searching to discover your next city break, you might want to consider travelling all the way to the USA, to the city of brotherly love of sunny Philadelphia – reknown for its diverse culture and artistic fashion, the city is bursting with energetic vibes and filled with historic character. Here is your latest guide to show you where’s fabulous to eat, where to stay and the best places to go if you’re travelling with friends, family or a loved one. A dynamic destination that offers all of the excitement of a big city, with the quintessential charm of a small town. As the cobblestone streets of the old city make way for the modern skyscrapers of the thriving financial district. The rolling hills of the countryside may be just a short distance away, but the city still embraces outdoor living with its parks, gardens and outdoor café culture. Known as one of the most historic and beautiful cities in America, Philadelphia is easily explored by foot, so there’s not getting lost on trains or subways. Combine historical sites like the Liberty Bell with world-class dining, arts and entertainment and an abundance of tax free shopping.

WHERE TO STAY
The Sonesta Hotel: ★★★★
(1800 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19103)
This three star hotel is worth looking into, located right next to the hustle and bustle of the city streets and inner city charm – the hotel is close to all amenities from local bars to independent cafes. The hotel rooms are clean, spacious and the beds are beyond comfortable. Perfect boudoir to rest your tiresome head after a day of exploring the city. What makes this budget price hotel a gem is the roof top pool, and the fantastic Art Bar, that create delicious cocktails any time of the day. The Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is less than ten miles away, and only a few blocks from Amtrak’s 30th Street station.

The Rittenhouse Hotel: ★★★★★
(210 West Rittenhouse Square Philadelphia, PA 19103)
Nestled between scenic tree-lined streets, The Rittenhouse Hotel in Rittenhouse Square is a destination in itself. You could also take your next inner-city escape by heading to one of their inviting rooms or suites. In this hotel you can also enjoy the very finest cuisine and beverages in one of the highly regarded restaurants and lounges, all from an unmatched Centre City Philadelphia hotel’s location. The Rittenhouse is arguably the most pet-friendly hotel in Philadelphia as well, so you can also take your pooch, or even your cat. At the weekend you are also a stones throw away from the independent Farmers Market, where you will find fresh produce and local artists displaying their latest creations.

WHERE TO EAT
Morimoto Restaurant: ★★★★
(723 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106)
If you fancy dining out for dinner this restaurant looks expensive, yet it’s extremely affordable, specialising in Japanese food, and delicious beverages you are given a simple menu once seated ranging from Miso Soup to Katsu chicken. The food is absolutely divine and has plenty of flavour, the servers make you feel extremely welcome with their little touches of making sure your food is well once it’s arrived and your drinks are flowing. The experience from this restaurant is something you will not forget and the food is something to boast about to all your friends.

Red Owl Tavern: ★★★
(433 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106)
If you’re feeling ravenous and want to start your day feeling refreshed then head over to the Red Owl Tavern, not only does this place offer amazing coffee; the breakfast and brunch menu has to offer is simple and again, very affordable. This bar literally corners the cradle of liberty. Uniquely situated across from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, this American eatery features soaring windows that bring Philadelphia’s energy inside. But it’s the restaurant’s superior details — cocktails hand-crafted with fresh squeezed juices, house-cured charcuterie, butcher shop cuts of steak – that also make it a neighbourhood respite. Red Owl has the roots of a true tavern – so ideas can be exchanged over a great meal and a cold drink. It manages to be old, new and free-thinking. Just like Philly.

WHAT TO DO
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens:★★★★★
(1020 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147)
This place will have you absolutely mesmerised. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens (PMG) is a mosaicked visionary art environment, gallery and community arts centre that preserves, interprets, and provides access to Isaiah Zagar’s unique mosaic art environment and his public murals. The Magic Gardens site, Zagar’s largest artwork includes a fully tiled indoor space and a massive outdoor mosaic sculpture garden that spans half a block on Philadelphia’s famous South Street. Inside, visitors can view folk art statues, bicycle wheels, colourful glass bottles, Zagar’s handmade tiles and thousands of glittering mirrors. The installation pays tribute to Zagar’s artistic influences, along with community and personal experiences.

Philadelphia Sight Seeing Open Top Tour Bus: ★★★★★
You’ll be torn to where you look once you’re sat on one of these tour buses, and this is far from boring – you’re actually on a ride of your life, make sure you pick a hot day, then admire the gorgeous views panoramic style from the top of the bus. The 1:45 journey consists of not only viewing the architectural, historic buildings but you also have an expert local guide commentator, who will also tell you all about the fun facts of this beautiful city. There are 27 stops and it’s a Hop/On-Hop/Off Service – and your ticket lasts for the whole day so you can really explore your new surroundings and the most popular attractions.

WHERE TO SHOP
Philadelphia Premium Outlets: ★★★★
(18 West Lightcap Road Limerick, PA 19464)
Philadelphia Premium Outlets is more than just a great collection of the finest designer labels and brands at a massively discounted price, but it’s a fantastic day out – emphasising on the day part. Warning: You need to spend a full day at the outlet. The mall includes a shopping stop during your next trip to the area. Located approximately 35 miles northwest of downtown off Route 422 in Limerick, it is a bargain hunter’s haven. You will discover designer shops from Calvin Klein, stocking items from as little as $16 to Tommy Hilfiger – snapping up treasures from just $7.

Scout Salvage And Vintage Rescue: ★★★★★
(21 N 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106)
If you love all things vintage and independent then we recommend you go and visit Scout Salvage And Vintage Rescue – they’re an oddball vintage store for people who think rehab is for furniture and stripping is for paint. They believe cowboy boots should be purchased worn-in, the Old West never got old, and that plaid would make a kick-ass flag for any country crazy enough to put them in charge of such things. Their roots trace back to the ye olde days of 2010, when what started as a humble Brooklyn Flea stand in Williamsburg snowballed into a cross-country, farm foraging, mountain-roading quest to find anything uniquely cool, weird, useful, pretty or even ugly. Prior to starting Scout Salvage and Vintage Rescue, owner Elizabeth Cassel spent 15 years pouring drinks and listening to patrons’ stories. The shop inside is uniquely decorated and stocks other delights such as beauty cult label, Meow Meow Tweet.

WHERE TO DRINK

Melograno: ★★★★★
(2012 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19103)
If you want to spend the evening with with friends in an intimate atmosphere, this restaurant and bar is the place to visit. Sitting just blocks from Rittenhouse Square, Melograno is a BYOB where guests can enjoy authentic Italian fare, artfully prepared by Roman-born Chef Gianluca Demontis. Melograno was recognised with three bells by noted Philadelphia Inquirer food critic Craig Laban, and has been featured in The New York Times and Bon Appetit Top Tables – you’re guaranteed to enjoy your evening.

Mixto: ★★★★
(1141 Pine St, Philadelphia, PA 19107)
Mixto’s cuisine is a mixture of Cuban, Latin American, and Caribbean flavoured food so if you get peckish over drinks, you’re in for a surprise. They are known for their traditional dishes such as, Paella, Argentine Churrasco and Rotisserie Pernil. They are also known for their large portions. The atmosphere of Mixto is warm and traditional, which represents their Latin culture. The restaurant and bar is very welcoming you will enjoy a true and memorable experience.

To read more information about Philadelphia, to see their outstanding itineraries and the latest hotel deals, or to download the official visitors guide, be sure to click on the Discover PHL website here.

*Fly to Philadelphia with British Airways and enjoy the comfort and convenience of award-winning service. On your way, sit back and relax with our complimentary food and bar service and the latest in-flight entertainment, so you can start your American holiday the moment you step on-board.