Philadelphia. The city of brotherly love. The city that I have lived outside of my entire life. The city that I always thought was one of the most boring...until I did some research. I always thought Philadelphia was the most lackluster city. It has an amazing history, but other than that, what is there really to do? I was so wrong! After doing some reading, I have come to find that there are some seriously awesome things to do in Philadelphia.
1. Visit World Cafe Live
World Cafe Live is a multilevel music venue located in University City. It is designed to give people the best live music experience possible. Different floors in the venue provide for different sized audiences. One floor might be good for a 100 person crowd, while another is built for a larger, standing crowd. According to their website, Adele had one of her first US performances here. How cool is that!? They even host some free shows, perfect for broke college students!
2. Check out Painted Bride Art Center
Painted Bride Art Center sounds seriously cool. It serves as an arts venue that gives recognition to artwork from members of marginalized groups. It houses artwork created by gay people, people of color, women, and people with disabilities. In other museums, when you think about it, a lot of the work is created by white men, which is fine, but this place devotes itself entirely to recognizing other types of artists. This unique gallery is all about celebrating diversity and creativity and is sure to be a one-of-a-kind art experience.
3. Take a Big Red Pedal Tour
When I was in Nashville I took a Pedal Tour and it was one of the most fun things I've ever done. It's basically just a huge communal bicycle riding around the city. I had no idea they had them in Philly as well, but this one sounds even better. Not only does Big Red Pedal Tours offer a pub crawl tour, but they have history and food tours as well. So whatever age or whoever you're with, there will be a tour that will be interesting. And it would be awesome to learn more about some of the best places in Philly.
4. Indulge in sweets at Capogiro Gelato Artisans
This Chestnut Street find has been featured in The Oprah Magazine, The New York Times, National Geographic and Every day With Rachael Ray (to name just a few) as one of the best gelato shops in America. Who knew it would be located in Philadelphia!? You'll be taking a trip to Italy when you step inside this quaint Italian eatery. They even have vegan options!
5. Explore the National Liberty Museum
There are lots of historical monuments and museums in Philadelphia, but this one I had never heard of before. This museum is all about celebrating diversity and inclusion and according to their website is "dedicated to preserving America’s heritage of freedom by encouraging people to find their own place in the story of liberty." The website also states that their "primary art form is glass art, as it makes the point that freedom is as fragile as glass." It sounds like an amazing place to go to feel inspired that anyone can make a difference.
6. Feel fancy AF at Chris' Jazz Cafe
Chris' Cafe Live serves as a restaurant, bar and jazz concert venue. Listen to some old school jazz while you savor some delicious Cajun and Southern cuisine (their specialty!). When you're looking for a more laid-back night with friends, go here, grab a drink, and listen to some fine jazz classics. It'll be like you're transported back to the 1960's!
So there you have it. Next train to Philadelphia anyone!?
