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Big City, Big Sights, Big History

This is such a big city! Upon arrival, we were amazed at the sheer size of it. The streets were full of historical landmarks that make you want to stop and check out everything. It’s truly a unique city; It has a character and charisma that I haven’t seen anywhere else.

The historic streets and the beautiful buildings are very interesting. You don’t have to be a historian to realize that these structures have been here a very long time – and that they have been preserved so beautifully.

At some of the stops we made along the way, we talked to some really friendly people. They gave us advice on places to eat, and what we simply had to see. We definitely took their advice. Locals know best about their city, of course.

During the ride from the airport we knew we were in for an amazing experience. We noticed tourist attractions available on virtually every corner. We checked into The Westin, Philadelphia (beautiful accommodations, I might add) where the staff was extremely helpful with anything we needed. Our room was comfortable and lovely.

We ended today’s short adventure with a meal at Geno’s Steaks. Now, I’ve heard about Philly’s infamous cheesesteaks being the best and, I must admit, they are pretty decent. But based on today’s small sampling, Pittsburgh definitely cooks up a better cheesesteak. Sorry Philly! It’s all Pennsylvania, right? A taste of Pat’s King of Steaks, right across the street from Geno’s, will decide. We’ll check that one out soon and see who really champions the cheesesteak.

And Then We Meet Ms. Tootsie...

Today, we started with a tour of the Eastern State Penitentiary. It was absolutely amazing. Walking through the dilapidated cells, you could actually sense the horror and emotion once experienced within its walls. We learned that Al Capone was once an inmate there. We saw his cell, and I couldn’t believe how small it was! There’s just so much history here – so many stories. If that was the only tour we took during the trip, I would have gone home happy.

But, we then tried a different kind of tour. We jumped on this neat little contraption called “The Duck.” Women built these vehicles during World War II to be used by the military (as we learned during our ride). “Ride the Ducks” took us on a great tour of the city while giving us interesting tidbits of history about the very first United States Post Office, Ben Franklin’s Burial Site and The Betsy Ross House, among other sights we saw. But get this: At one point, “The Duck” actually drives into the Delaware River and turns into a boat! You have to get here and try it. Loved it. Loved it. Loved it!

As our stomachs quickly started to rumble from hunger, we stopped by a highly recommended, upscale soul food restaurant. It’s called Ms. Tootsies.  It had a great atmosphere and wonderful food. It’s located at 1314 South Street, right on the way to a really great shopping district. I was even thinking of stopping there again on the way back!

This city is so diverse in the types of food and entertainment it offers. There’s literally something different around every corner. What ever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it here.

To find some more stuff to do, we went to the Independence Visitor Center that offers ticket purchases to all the local tours and events. There were men dressed in authentic, historical outfits and people more than willing to tell you about all that Philly has to offer, including the Liberty Bell, which is located directly across the street.

Towards the end of the day, we talked to a very friendly man conducting the horse-and-buggy tours. He gave us some great advice on how to get around the city in a fashionable and cost-efficient way. The Philly Phlash trolley is just $4.00 for an all-day pass around Center City. Can’t beat that deal with a stick.

Landmarks, Landscapes and A Landing: All In One Day

Back to the battle of the cheese steaks today. We sampled Pat’s King of Steaks, right across from Geno’s, and they were really good. I don’t know which was better, I really enjoyed them both. So, whose cheesesteak wins? Philly or Pittsburgh? I’ll leave that for you to decide.

To continue with our daily slice of Philly history, we went to the burial site of Ben Franklin. Ben himself (ok, an impersonator) was there for photos, and tourists surrounded the place. Philadelphia is such an educational and entertaining city that it’s sure to be fun for the whole family.

And it’s so beautiful! The historical landmarks and well-maintained landscapes are a real treat for the eyes. It’s wonderful that Philly has been able to maintain these old buildings around the city with some of them, as we’ve learned, dating back to the 1700’s. They are still standing with the integrity and beauty that they surely had the day they were built.

The locals are always so helpful. We found out from a local guy about a free concert at Penn’s Landing that night, as well as movies there on other nights. Not even knowing what “Penn’s Landing” was, we decided to explore.

Penn’s Landing is a little port of sorts right beside the Delaware River. It offers entertainment and food that everyone is sure to enjoy.

But probably the best discovery of the day came by way of a local favorite called “water ice.” Now, these Philadelphians, they pronounce it like “wood-er ice.” Their accents are so funny. However you want to say it, it was a nice summertime treat to enjoy while taking in the free jazz concert.

The Simpler Side of the City

After experiencing the city-side of Philly, we thought we’d check out its Countryside. Just about an hour outside of Philadelphia is the quietest little retreat called Kutztown, Pennsylvania. There, we found Crystal Cave.

Crystal Cave was really nice. Traveling 85 feet underground we saw some awesome rock formations. You go in with a guide, of course, and they give you lots of information about these natural creations. We learned that the “crystals” formed when water leaked through tiny cracks within the cave ceiling and mixed with natural chemicals over centuries. They had special names for each formation. If you visit, look for “Abraham Lincoln,” and the “Indian Chief”.  And before you leave, make sure you toss a coin into the wishing well.

An interesting fact was that no matter what time of the year it is, the Cave’s temperature is always a chilly 52 degrees. Our tour guide explained that back in the 1800’s, when the Cave was first discovered, locals would end their long workdays with dancing and parties at the largest space in the Cave – they called it “The Ballroom.”

In the nearby Amish communities, we found a simple life (especially compared to the city) with homemade furniture, locally grown fruits and veggies, and a few horse-and-buggies. We uncovered a little fruit stand and enjoyed the freshest fruit we’ve had in a while.

On the way back to Philly, we made sure to try a local Dutch delicacy called “shoofly pie.” To clear up some misconceptions: There are no shoes, or flies, involved. Just lots of sweet molasses baked with the right amount of love. Yum.