Philadelphia: Do it Like a Local

There are as many hidden gems for a tourist to uncover as there are popular attractions in Philadelphia. Grounded in its historical sites like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, the City of Brotherly Love is also filled with more modern and eclectic places that are worth adding to your criteria. Philadelphia is diverse and it has character that can't be defined by one particular neighborhood, but by the many that span this big city. In Philadelphia, you'll find sports fans who are fiercely loyal, and not ashamed to show it, talented artists and musicians and best of all, you'll find plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants where these locals come together. As the advertisement says: Visit Philly. You won't be disappointed.

Rittenhouse Square is a place where you can truly get lost, in a good way. On a nice day you'll find locals taking a nap on the park's lawn, walking their dogs or having a late brunch in the patio seating that spills out onto the sidewalks during the warmer months. Philadelphia's skyline towers over pedestrians as they walk along the p... More >
Rittenhouse Square is a place where you can truly get lost, in a good way. On a nice day you'll find locals taking a nap on the park's lawn, walking their dogs or having a late brunch in the patio seating that spills out onto the sidewalks during the warmer months. Philadelphia's skyline towers over pedestrians as they walk along the pathways that slice through the square, each leading to a different part of the city. To experience Rittenhouse Square at its best, I suggest grabbing a coffee and a book and sitting on a bench in the park - you'll experience some of the best people watching you've ever seen.
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Even if you're not from the area, in the Bishop's Collar it always feels like you could run into an old friend. Especially during happy hour, the place is packed with a friendly crowd. Whether you're interested in just a bite or a full meal, you'll be shocked at your final bill - the Bishop's Collar is incredibly affordable. And the food is great too! My favorite is the Turkey Burger, but thoughtful and surprising finishing touches are included in every dish. The "Bishop's Collar" refers to a perfectly poured pint of Guinness, but the pub has a beer menu that's is so eclectic; you'll find yourself asking for a new kind with each order.
From a sex toy store to a lovely boutique to a family restaurant to a local cafe, South Street truly has it all.
Every block of South Street is as diverse as the next. The street is vibrant and alive. You'll find some of the finest restaurants and some of the greatest dive bars as you meander the crowded sidewalks. From a sex toy store to a lovely boutique to a family restaurant to a local cafe, South Street truly has it all. Start at the top, wh... More >
Every block of South Street is as diverse as the next. The street is vibrant and alive. You'll find some of the finest restaurants and some of the greatest dive bars as you meander the crowded sidewalks. From a sex toy store to a lovely boutique to a family restaurant to a local cafe, South Street truly has it all. Start at the top, where you'll find gardens of recycled garbage and mosaics made of glass, then make your way to the end for an up close view of the Delaware River - and don't forget to stop at all the shops in between.
Located in Northern Liberties, the decor of North Third does not reflect its food. The restaurant is dark and decorated with things like scary masks and skulls - you can get through an entire meal and still uncover a new eclectic piece hanging on the walls or from the ceiling. While the decor is dark, the atmosphere is warm and the foo... More >
Located in Northern Liberties, the decor of North Third does not reflect its food. The restaurant is dark and decorated with things like scary masks and skulls - you can get through an entire meal and still uncover a new eclectic piece hanging on the walls or from the ceiling. While the decor is dark, the atmosphere is warm and the food is amazing. They can take a simple dish like roasted chicken and mashed potatoes, and pile it all together in a way that screams gourmet. At North Third you will experience a charming juxtaposition of rebellious expression and dining at its finest.
You've seen the infamous "LOVE" statue so many times in movies, and probably travel books, but you've never really "seen" it until you've stood in front of it. Love Park is flooded with local Philadelphians wandering the city, and a handful of photo snapping tourists depending on the time of year. But no matter when you visit Philadelp... More >
You've seen the infamous "LOVE" statue so many times in movies, and probably travel books, but you've never really "seen" it until you've stood in front of it. Love Park is flooded with local Philadelphians wandering the city, and a handful of photo snapping tourists depending on the time of year. But no matter when you visit Philadelphia, taking a stroll through Love Park is not an activity to skip. Some of Philadelphia's greatest buildings frame the park's central fountain, which shoots beautiful lights at night in addition to water. When youre in Love Park, you're in Philadelphia.
The staff is friendly and the rooms are very clean and spacious.
Staying at The Windsor Suites is a perfect way to settle into Philadelphia and be in the heart of it all. The building itself is intriguing - a giant cylinder overlooking a stretch of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. If you're lucky, you'll get a room with a balcony that gives you a front row seat to the hustle and bustle of the city. The staff is friendly and the rooms are very clean and spacious. The Windsor Suites is defin... More
Staying at The Windsor Suites is a perfect way to settle into Philadelphia and be in the heart of it all. The building itself is intriguing - a giant cylinder overlooking a stretch of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. If you're lucky, you'll get a room with a balcony that gives you a front row seat to the hustle and bustle of the city. The staff is friendly and the rooms are very clean and spacious. The Windsor Suites is definitely a place you can make yourself at home.
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About the Author

Susan Forshner Frechette
Susan Forshner Frechette
I am a PR girl with a passion for blogging, networking in every capacity and all things social media. You can also find me here: transienttravels.com @susanforshner
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