explore

I got to spend 28 hours in Philadelphia over the weekend. I caught the train to Philly from New York on Friday at noon. I arrived in the city at 2pm on Friday and left the following day at 6pm via BoltBus (only $10 – totally worth it!).

Philadelphia is a colorful city rich in history, culture and unique in character. Despite the brief trip, I managed to pack in quite a few of the major attractions of the city, to my surprise. Within 28 hours,  I was able to (aka my recommendations):

1. Enjoy a campus tour of the University of Pennsylvania: I was fortunate to have been given a tour of UPenn by a family friend who is currently pursuing his PhD here. This Ivy League school was founded by Benjamin Franklin and is one of the first universities in the U.S.
2. Visit Liberty Bell: The Liberty Bell is an iconic symbol of American independence.
3. Check out Independence Hall: Independence Hall is where both the United States Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were debated and adopted.
4. Catch a glimpse of Magic Gardens: Although I didn’t make it inside the gallery space, I got to view some of the unique and quirky mosaic art work from the side walk. Magic Gardens is a gallery space on South Street in Philadelphia. It is the largest work created by mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar.
5. Eat Cheesesteak at Jim’s Steaks: I had cheesesteak for dinner at one of the highest rated cheesteak places in Philadelphia. Although the dish was filling and greasy, it was most definitely delicious!
6. Ice Skate at Rothman Ice Rink: Despite my lack of ice skating skills, I had alot of fun. This rink also provides amazing views of the Philadelphia skyline.
7. Get Cultured at Philadelphia Museum of Art: This museum was made famous by Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone)’s famous run up the front steps, now widely known as the “Rocky Steps”. In addition to the great architectural views, I got to check out the International Pop art exhibit which is currently running. The exhibit showcases Pop art’s emergence as an international movement, migrating from the UK and the US to western and eastern Europe, Latin America, and Japan.
8. Indulge my senses at Reading Terminal Market: Philadelphia’s historic public market is home to a wide variety of food stalls, offering baked goods, fresh meats, seafood, southern food, icecream and more.

Trainride from New York to Philadelphia

Colorful street art makes me happy

Liberty Bell: The symbol of American independence

Independence Hall

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Philadelphia Museum of Art: Rocky Steps

International Pop Art Exhibit

Reading Terminal Market

Pine Street

Despite the brevity of my trip, I had a wonderful time exploring this city for the first time.  Whether you’re a history buff, culture junkie, self-proclaimed foodie or simply in need of a weekend getaway, you’re bound to have a great time in Philadelphia 🙂