Philadelphia is most definitely one of the most underrated cities in this country. Being located where it is, almost directly between New York City and Washington D.C., Philadelphia is often overlooked as a tourist destination. While Philadelphia may not be able to offer as much glitz and glam as New York or as much political importance as Washington, Philadelphia is still a wonderful place to visit.
1. Philadelphia is the birthplace of our country
While people look to D.C. for anything and everything political in our country, people tend to forget that without Philadelphia, without the Declaration of Independence being signed here in the city of brotherly love, there would be none of that. I will admit, I’ve lived in the area my entire life and I’ve only done the historical tour once on a fifth-grade class field trip, but people still tend to overlook Philadelphia for its historical significance.
2. Philly is a huge foodie town
There is more to Philly than just cheesesteaks. If you consider yourself to be a foodie, there are countless places to visit here. A walk through the Reading Terminal, or Chinatown or Rittenhouse Square or even the Italian Market will yield a multitude of well known places with a few hidden gems that even the pickiest of eaters will be able to enjoy. As far as the cheesesteaks go, take it from a Philadelphian, stay away from Pat’s and Geno’s. If you want a real Philly cheesesteak hit up D’Alessandro’s right outside the city or Jim’s on South Street and you will not be disappointed.
3. Philadelphia has so, so much to offer millennials
For those who want to pursue a college education, Philly isn’t a bad place to shop around for schools. We have schools ranging from Penn to Drexel to Temple. Philadelphia even has a selection of art schools like Tyler or Moore. Philly is also filled with tons and tons of opportunities for small businesses to grow.
4. Philadelphia is immensely culturally rich
The Art Museum, The Mutter Museum, The Franklin Institute. For as much culture as you’ll find in a city like New York, you’ll find more in Philly. Center City, the Italian Market, the Northeast, University City, Olde City; there are so many neighborhoods in Philadelphia in which you’ll find countless types of people, food and scenery. You’ll feel like you’re in a whole new town with each neighborhood you explore.
5. Our sports scene is one of the best in the country
Despite how wonderfully our teams have been playing over the past few years, our fans will never, ever give up on our teams. Growing up a Mets fan, I’ve learned firsthand that Philly sports fans are absolutely relentless with fans of opposing teams. Food has been thrown at me, I’ve been booed at and obscenities have been yelled at me. As much as I hate it, I have to give Philly fans their props for being as loyal as they are.
