I have been to Philadelphia 3 times for work in the past year and a half and have really enjoyed going to this city. There is so much to do and see and the sights are so pretty. When I wasn’t working and got some free time, I was able to explore the city a little bit. I was always walking around the city which is the best way to see everything. The last time I went I was able to go to some more restaurants that I had wanted to try. With it being one of the oldest cities in America there is so much history and culture here. The times I have gone have been in the winter and in the early fall. I personally loved the fall with the leaves changing colors, and it was still a nice temperature. With the sight seeing and some touristy places I have gone I wanted to share a little of my favorite things below.

To Eat/Drink

• Tony Luke’s (or any cheese steak place) – If you are going to Philly you have got to try the Philly cheese steak. Some people love this and some don’t. I am not a huge meat person but I do love cheese and thought this was good. I only had it one trip because it is a ton of food. You have to get one at least once though.
• Sabrina’s – This is the cutest little place with several locations around town. They have great all American food with portions that are huge. Their salads, sandwiches and really anything on the menu is great. Their brunch and breakfast on the weekends is popular and worth it!
• Federal Donuts – If you like unique donuts then this is the place for you. They are very flavorful and fun and taste very cake like. Perfect for a quick breakfast treat.
• La Columbe Coffee – A cute little coffee shop that has some very unique espresso flavors and some fresh baked goods. This is in a couple of other states too, but I loved it and had to put it on here. If you need a pick me up in the morning you need to head here. Their cheese croissants are amazing too.
• City Tavern – If you want to feel like you are back in the Benjamin Franklin era you have got to make a stop at this quaint restaurant. The servers dress up in pioneer attire and the food, decor, and place settings mimic what it was like back in the 18th century. It is located in the old city and is a reconstructed tavern that was built in 1773 and actually hosted the first 4th of July celebration!
• HoneyGrow – This is a fun restaurant that you basically build your own stir fry or salad. You order on a kiosk the meat, veggies, toppings and sauces. It is then made exactly to your liking. A great casual place that is easy and healthy.
• El Vez – At first I was extremely hesitant about visiting a Mexican restaurant that was not in Texas, but was surprisingly very pleased with this one. This place has great tacos and chips and salsa. The atmosphere seems always packed and the margaritas aren’t that bad either. A great must for dinner.

To Do

• Independence Hall/Liberty Bell – You can’t visit Philadelphia without going to this iconic historic landmark. This is where our forefathers met and signed the declaration of independence after all. They offer a little tour around the hall where you get to go in and see the exact area where the declaration was signed. You also get to read facts and see the liberty bell which is just right next door. It is so pretty to visit Independence Hall in the fall because the leaves and trees are so pretty around the area.
• Rocky Statue/Steps – If you are a Rocky movie fan then you know all about these famous steps in Philadelphia. The steps and statue are right outside the entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This is a photo op for sure. There are 72 steps to the top and running up them instead of walking is 10 times better. Just make sure when you get to the top that you put your hands up in the air just like Rocky did!
• Elfreth’s Alley – This is true Philadelphia architecture right here! Known as America’s oldest residential neighborhood, it is amazing to see all of the houses and the old cobblestone road. Also people still to this day live here.
• Reading Terminal Market – This is more of a foodie activity, but this market is a must see in Philly. You can get fudge, gourmet grilled cheese and everything in between at all of the great food stands. It is fun to just walk through the area and sample items too.