PA 101: Philadelphia and Its Countryside West

This is where it all happened. Men like Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and John Hancock walked these very streets as they contemplated their next steps on the path to independence. Begin your day with a visit to the Independence Visitor’s Center where you’ll find a wealth of helpful information about the people and events that led to the birth of our nation. Then, tour the National Constitution Center where these historical events are vividly brought to life. Now, take a leisurely stroll back across the Mall to the Liberty Bell pavilion for a great photo opportunity and then across the street to Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence was written.

By now, you’re probably getting a little hungry. Well, you’re in luck because you’re only a few blocks away from some great places to grab lunch, do a little shopping and check out the local art scene as Old City is an easy 10-minute walk from Independence Mall. Or, if you prefer, ride in a horse drawn carriage where you’ll receive a quick—and usually quirky—history lesson from your carriage driver. In this part of the city, you’ll find the nations first post office started by Benjamin Franklin and the house where Betsy Ross stitched the very first flag of the United States. After lunch, hit the streets for some great shopping deals and be sure to check out one of the many art galleries in the district.

A great way to finish off your first day is by getting lost in the world-renowned Philadelphia Museum of Art. Before going in, however, you must have your picture made with Philly’s favorite son, Rocky Balboa, whose larger-than-life bronze likeness can be found just a few feet to the right of the museum steps. Once inside, you’ll be treated to breathtaking art collections and special exhibits featuring works from Chagall, Van Gogh and Picasso, just to name a few. Go ahead, allow yourself to get lost in here for a few hours before calling it a day.

Here’s hoping you got a good night’s rest because you’re gonna need it today. Your pursuit of  tax-free shopping (on clothes and shoes) begins this morning at the King of Prussia Mall, the largest shopping mall on the East Coast. Here you will find virtually anything your heart desires with more than 400 stores and restaurants, from high end fashion destinations to popular clothing boutiques to specialty shops. So, put on your walking shoes and get ready to shop `til you drop.

After spending the morning shopping at a feverish pace, you’ll be ready to relax and unwind among the shops and restaurants of West Chester. Here in this historic and picturesque small town, you’ll find that things move a little slower, but do so with a cosmopolitan flair. There are more than 60 shopping boutiques in the area along with several great dining options for lunch. But, don’t eat too much…we’ve still got another great stop after this.

There’s nothing better after a long day of shopping than to relax in the serene setting of Longwood Gardens. Spend an hour or so taking a leisurely stroll through these quiet pathways adorned with beautiful flowers and greenery. Or, grab a window table at The Café for a cup of coffee or tea and enjoy the breathtaking views. Next, just a few minutes from Longwood Gardens, you’ll end your day at Kennett Square with its unique collection of shops and galleries.