Snow Days: Philadelphia and The Countryside

Start your day with a trip down the Ben Franklin Parkway. This wide-open street flanked with colorful flags will guide you to the foot of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, a museum so great that even its stairs are famous. After you’ve done your best Rocky impersonation, step inside the historic halls and take a look around. You’ll see exhibits on Art in Revolutionary Philadelphia, tailoring, and over 200,000 pieces of artwork. And that’s just the tip of the art iceberg. Head outside and take in the Philadelphia skyline as our next destination is the tallest building in town.

You don’t have to even be in the city limits to get a glimpse of the Comcast Center towering over the city. Once you reach this 975-foot tall building, you’ll notice the giant HD video screen. It’s 2,000 square feet in fact. And best of all, during the holiday season it puts on a merry display. It’s like watching your favorite holiday show at home. Well, if your home has a humongous TV. Then if you’re feeling hungry, stop by the Markets and Shops at Comcast Center for a sit-down snack. Assuming you haven’t ruined your appetite with candy canes and hot cocoa. After that, you’ll hit the road and jingle a few blocks to your next destination.

The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts is housed in one of the city’s most historic buildings. The academy is known for its collection of 19th and 20th century American paintings and sculptures. Almost unrivaled, if we may say so. The work of the region’s top contemporary artists hangs on the walls and sits on display waiting for your appreciation and ogling. Stop by and embrace your inner art critic. The artwork loves the attention. Grab your gloves and hat as we head east toward the river to our next destination.

Just a short trip down Walnut Street takes you to our next stop. Over 100,000 pieces of hand-fired Favrile glass come together to make the enormous glass mosaic, Dream Garden. Artist Maxfield Parrish first produced this work of art in 1916 to be displayed in Philadelphia’s Curtis Building. These days, aficionados from around the world visit every day to get a glance at a masterpiece. Join them and see what all the fuss is about. We promise you won’t be disappointed.

There’s no better way to end a night in Philadelphia than with a show at the Kimmel Center for Performing Arts. Well, that and a tasty sandwich. From internationally acclaimed Broadway shows to world famous musicians, their stage is graced by unimaginable talent. Find out who’s on stage tonight and grab a ticket. You’re in for an amazing show.

Philadelphia is a big friendly city with a lot of stories to tell. Surely you’ll need a second day to get a better idea of what the City of Brotherly Love is all about. The art scene here has been bustling for over 200 years. And that means you’ll never know where the next great masterpiece will pop up. Grab a sturdy pair of walking shoes and bundle up with your warmest jacket. We’re taking you on a tour of our founding fathers’ stomping grounds.

Elfreth’s Alley is known as our nation’s oldest residential street. But don’t let the age fool you, there’s a lot of hustle and bustle happening here. This little cobblestone alley dates all the way back to the early 18th century. Travel back a couple hundred years and you would find a variety of artisans and craftsmen residing here, often working and living in the same building. During the Industrial Revolution, immigrants from Germany, Ireland, and other parts of Europe took up residence here as they sought the American Dream. You can’t help but feel like George Washington himself as you stroll past these red brick buildings. Don’t worry – powdered wigs aren’t required.

Take a break from the winter chills and grab a steaming cup of coffee at this Old City establishment. Grab a seat and read the local paper as your hands thaw from the warm beverage in your hand. After you’ve recharged with some caffeine and a bite to eat, you’ll be ready to hit the road in no time.

Old City has an abundance of boutique shops and art galleries full of local treasures. Take a stroll down 2nd and 3rd Streets between Race Street and Market Street and you’ll find an abundance of cool things to buy, eat, or gawk at. More Than Old, a small shop along 3rd Street, is full of an eclectic blend of collectibles and antiques. The Clay Studio along 2nd Street is a vibrant spot where creative folk gather to take classes, listen to lectures, or just shoot the breeze. And also along 2nd street is the Artists’ House, where the work of emerging artists proudly hangs on the walls. Take a gander at the soon-to-be-famous talent and make an inspired walk to our next stop.

When the sun sets over Old City, the energy of Philadelphia nightlife sweeps through the streets. At places like Tin Angel Acoustic Café you’ll see musical acts take the stage for unforgettable performances. Be sure to check their calendar to see who’s in front of the microphone tonight. Afterwards, stop by the Ritz Theatre for a bag of popcorn and an independent film. Maybe even something foreign. A little bit of subtitles never hurt anyone.