I already miss Philly and it’s on the top of my list to go back. I had 20 days total there and still didn’t see everything I wanted to – but got a good start. Beyond working with truly one of the best teams in hospitality, this trip had the perfect mix for me. Food, culture, history, and art – plus being one of the most walkable downtowns I have been to. The weather cooperated well, and most evenings & weekends – I got my steps in for me and a few others. My hotel location could not have been more perfect, at the Residence Inn, Philadelphia City Center.
Being from Hoosier Hospitality land, I was unprepared for how welcomed and at home I felt there from day 1. I loved just walking in one direction there and seeing everything I could, then setting off the next day in a different direction with no set destination in mind. My favorites? Let’s start with the sites, as the food pictures will distract you from anything else, trust me. The Reading Terminal is a must see for all foodies, very crowded, so many options – you could probably spend all day there. It makes both categories since it is a tourist attraction that you can eat your way through.
Rittenhouse Square was easily the best place to enjoy a Sunday. Surrounded by restaurants, this park had everything, and I could see why people would pack up the kids, dogs, significant other and spread out a blanket to enjoy. One corner had people dancing, one had a chess tournament and another live music. And while I was content with people watching, I also may have gotten a dance lesson. It is that kind of community place, that doesn’t let you simply be an outsider.
The museums…I have to make a return visit as I only got to a few but the Ben Franklin museum was a favorite and I almost walked by it on my walk to Penn’s Landing. But it’s a must see and I realized how much I didn’t know. It’s interactive for kids and interesting for adults who think they know a lot of history.
I also visited The National Museum of American Jewish History, The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Chinatown, Logan Foundation and more.
It’s easy to walk 5-8 miles a day there and still not see everything. Next – where did I eat to keep my strength up? Everywhere it seemed but I will keep the list to my favorites.
Top spot goes to Max Brenner’s where Mike and Rizzo went above and beyond to make sure I had an exceptional experience. Starting with a toffee chocolate covered strawberry, then to the cheese steak waffle sandwich, and ending with the peanut butter hot chocolate – sweet dreams were guaranteed.
I also have fond memories of Luke’s Lobster which was one of the first places I went to and it set the bar high.
The Thai chicken salad at The Continental had me thinking about going multiple times and if the weather cooperated – I would have had it on the rooftop
I got my chicken n waffles fix at the City Tap, and the craft beers on tap made for difficult decisions.
Sunday Brunch was dangerously good at Tir na Nog Irish bar, starting off right with an Irish coffee to ease into French toast and rashers.
I will end this on a sweet note with the Godiva chocolate creme brulee at Con Murphy’s. I have thought about this easily every day since then. Not ashamed, it was that amazing.
What’s next? I am already on my next assignment, and New York City is definitely becoming a favorite as well. Join me in May, for more exciting experiences.
Happy travels,
Jill
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