Today I want to focus on one of my greatest loves -- the city of Philadelphia. I know there a people reading this saying to themselves (or maybe outloud) "You're kidding, right?" No way, Jose! There are very few things in this world that makes me feels as happy and hopeful as seeing the Philadelphia skyline coming closer and closer to me as I make my way into the city. My heart is lifting right at this moment just thinking about it. So, this is my quick & [not-so-dirty] guide to a weekend trip to the city of brotherly love.
HOTELS
For those of you who do not know me, let me be up front with you. I am a hotel snob. Really, I am. I have one hotel that I always stay at in the city (unless it is booked) -- The Latham. I also have two backup hotels...just in case. Loews & Club Quarters. It is always good to have plan B (and C), right?
Fair warning: This will probably be the most lengthy section because I feel very strongly about it.
The Latham
I am not exaggerating when I say this is as good as it gets. Can you honestly look at this and say you aren't in love with it already? There is so much class on the outside and you won't be disappointed on the inside either.
Plush bedding, comfortable seating areas situated right by the windows, modern bathrooms, and an in-room safe. My favorite part of the room, aside from the view, is silly; I do realize this. I love that there are reading lights attached to the headboard on each side of the bed. As an avid reader, it is this little detail that I first noticed and one of the reasons I keep going back. Silly? Perhaps. But the attention to detail does not start and end with lights...it is present in every aspect of the hotel and it is not lost on anyone.
I am not going to lie to you, there are some downsides. There always is. The most noticeable issue is that some of the rooms are small. I mean, SMALL. Now if you are traveling alone or just having a romantic getaway, you won't notice. Keep in mind that I said some of the rooms; I have had rooms that I was actually surprised how large they are also. In my experience, the higher the floor, the better the view, the smaller the room. I honestly have no idea if that is how the layout of the hotel truly is, but I assure you...giving up square footage for the view is entirely worth it. A pet peeve of mine is that the lobby is always busy. It does not matter if it is 3pm or 3am...it is always hopping. My biggest issue is that their valet is always full so guest generally have to go down the street (roughly a block...I honestly never pay attention) and park in the garage...then truck it up the sidewalk, luggage in tow, to front door.
Despite the cons, the area is wonderful. It is central to excellent restaurants & shopping, and is also fairly close to transportation (say, if you want to hop on the subway to go to a Phillies game). Worried about the price? Don't be. It seems they are always running some type of wonderful special -- just check their website. Also, if you join the iPrefer rewards program you have access to member benefits such as exclusive offers, priority access, and complimentary room upgrades.
Loews Hotel
Situated basically right down the street from City Hall, so if you are looking for a central location Loews is the place for you. With these luxurious and contemporary surroundings, you may feel as though you never want to leave. Plus, it is it's own little slice of history -- it is housed in the first skyscraper ever built in the city of Philadelphia. Pretty neat, huh?
Everything you could possibly want is in the building. There is a spa, a heated pool, cardio center and a restaurant & lounge. And did I mention that the refrigerator in the room comes full stocked? Oh yes, it is lovely. You know what is even better? The view! I took this shot with my phone during my last stay there...
Stunning. This view is worth everything. Can you tell I am a sucker for views?
I have to say the the hotel staff is wonderful. I mean it -- probably the most helpful and accommodating staff I have ever met. They are always ready and willing to offer assistance, give advice, grab a cab...you name it!
The biggest con for me was location. I know I said it is central and that is true. I should also state up front that I am biased because on my last stay I was essentially almost mugged just a few doors down the street. Needless to say, I was not up for exploring the area very much. It is a wonderful location in the daytime, but I wouldn't venture to far in the evening on foot. However, this is transit on the corner. But the doorman would be more than happy to grab you a cab!
Club Quarters
I honestly did not know this place existed until about a month ago. I had to travel into the city for business and it seemed everywhere was booked (I have yet to figure out what was going on that so many people were in town for) when suddenly I came across CQ on my internet hotel hunt. The location was perfect and I couldn't beat the price so I took the plunge and booked it. I did not regret it.
Since we are being totally honest here, there is nothing luxury about this hotel. It is primarily for business travelers who generally spend limited time in their room. Despite this, I found very little lacking from my stay. I had an average size room with a small kitchenette and bathroom. I was lucky enough to stay on the 12th floor, which is where the exercise room & water filling stations are located. That's right, water filling stations. They provide reusable plastic water bottles and you can fill them with cold water right outside of the elevator.
My favorite part: safety. You had to swipe your key in the elevator before moving from the main lobby to any of the above floors. My least favorite part: Entrance. When you enter the building, you get in an elevator that takes you to the main lobby. From the main lobby, you get into another elevator to get your floor. I am not a fan of elevator hopping -- it is strange, but not a deal breaker. The only thing I really truly hated was that the only windows in the room were two skylights above the bed. No views for me :(
The area is spectacular. Liberty Place is literally right across the street so feel free to go get your shop on! There is a Starbucks about a block away. It is close to Suburban Station and Love Park. You basically can get anywhere you need to from this location.
ATTRACTIONS
For the Go-with-the-Flow Artsy Folks
Most anyone knows that the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a must-see. I have never been able to see the whole thing in one day, but rather over several visits. Nevertheless, each time brings a new jaw-dropping experience. The beauty both on the exterior of this building as well as in the exhibits is sometimes overwhelming because there is so much to look at and so little time do it.
Dive right in to impressive archaeology & anthropology exhibits at the Penn Museum. Enjoy learning more about various cultures through educational displays (including Egypt, Africa, Greece, Rome, and more).
The Rodin Museum offers an absorbing indoor and outdoor experience of Auguste Rodin's career. The collection, spanning more than 140 pieces, spans from the museum to the awe-inspiring outdoor gardens.
Take in a show at the Kimmel Center. Offering theatre experiences in opera, ballet, Broadway spectaculars, and more; it is bound to be an experience you will not soon forget.
For the Trivia-winning History Buffs
Stop by the Liberty Bell Center and take in a true piece of not just Philadelphia, but national history.
Take a horse drawn carriage tour of Society Hill & Old City with 76 Carriage Company, complete with interesting historical and fun facts about the great city of Philadelphia. This is my personal favorite way to tour the city -- I love it!
For the Sexy Science Nerds
The Academy of Natural Sciences has wondrous exhibits just waiting for you to view. While I have yet to visit myself, I am looking forward to checking out the library & We Wrote the Book display. My inner book nerd is jumping for joy at the thought of it.
I beg you to not leave the city without visiting JFK Plaza AKA Love Park. I don't know why I love it so much. It just screams beauty and hope to me, I suppose.
FOOD
Everyone knows you can't go to Philly without getting a cheesesteak. There are tons of places to choose from so I recommend using this top 10 list to narrow it down for you. To be perfectly honest, my favorite and usual go-to for cheesesteaks is out in the 'burbs at Foster Boys. I love the city and I am sure there is a delish cheesesteak waiting for me there, but I love my go-to.
It took many trips to Philly before I finally visited Reading Terminal Market. Pick up some produce or satisfy your sweet tooth... the possibilities are endless here. My two cents...get the tiramisu.
I always visit Cosi (I got used to always having one nearby and now that I do not, I have to visit each time I am in the city) & Insomnia Cookies so both are highly recommended by me. Did I mention that the cookies travel straight from the oven to your hands (and soon thereafter, your stomach)...YUM!
I mentioned South Street earlier for my fellow shopaholics, but there are also a TON of restaurants there too. That is where I usually head when I want good, extremely large (and greasy) pizza! We all have our weaknesses (pretty much all food is mine).
Also, if you are an Anthony Bourdain fan, check out this Philly food itinerary inspired by none other than Mr. Bourdain himself.
I hope that you found this helpful & please don't hesitate to ask if you are curious about something I didn't mention. If I can help at all, I will!
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Philly today!
HOTELS
For those of you who do not know me, let me be up front with you. I am a hotel snob. Really, I am. I have one hotel that I always stay at in the city (unless it is booked) -- The Latham. I also have two backup hotels...just in case. Loews & Club Quarters. It is always good to have plan B (and C), right?
Fair warning: This will probably be the most lengthy section because I feel very strongly about it.
The Latham
I am not exaggerating when I say this is as good as it gets. Can you honestly look at this and say you aren't in love with it already? There is so much class on the outside and you won't be disappointed on the inside either.
Loews Hotel
Situated basically right down the street from City Hall, so if you are looking for a central location Loews is the place for you. With these luxurious and contemporary surroundings, you may feel as though you never want to leave. Plus, it is it's own little slice of history -- it is housed in the first skyscraper ever built in the city of Philadelphia. Pretty neat, huh?
Everything you could possibly want is in the building. There is a spa, a heated pool, cardio center and a restaurant & lounge. And did I mention that the refrigerator in the room comes full stocked? Oh yes, it is lovely. You know what is even better? The view! I took this shot with my phone during my last stay there...
© Manda Sanko
Stunning. This view is worth everything. Can you tell I am a sucker for views?
I have to say the the hotel staff is wonderful. I mean it -- probably the most helpful and accommodating staff I have ever met. They are always ready and willing to offer assistance, give advice, grab a cab...you name it!
The biggest con for me was location. I know I said it is central and that is true. I should also state up front that I am biased because on my last stay I was essentially almost mugged just a few doors down the street. Needless to say, I was not up for exploring the area very much. It is a wonderful location in the daytime, but I wouldn't venture to far in the evening on foot. However, this is transit on the corner. But the doorman would be more than happy to grab you a cab!
Club Quarters
I honestly did not know this place existed until about a month ago. I had to travel into the city for business and it seemed everywhere was booked (I have yet to figure out what was going on that so many people were in town for) when suddenly I came across CQ on my internet hotel hunt. The location was perfect and I couldn't beat the price so I took the plunge and booked it. I did not regret it.
Since we are being totally honest here, there is nothing luxury about this hotel. It is primarily for business travelers who generally spend limited time in their room. Despite this, I found very little lacking from my stay. I had an average size room with a small kitchenette and bathroom. I was lucky enough to stay on the 12th floor, which is where the exercise room & water filling stations are located. That's right, water filling stations. They provide reusable plastic water bottles and you can fill them with cold water right outside of the elevator.
My favorite part: safety. You had to swipe your key in the elevator before moving from the main lobby to any of the above floors. My least favorite part: Entrance. When you enter the building, you get in an elevator that takes you to the main lobby. From the main lobby, you get into another elevator to get your floor. I am not a fan of elevator hopping -- it is strange, but not a deal breaker. The only thing I really truly hated was that the only windows in the room were two skylights above the bed. No views for me :(
The area is spectacular. Liberty Place is literally right across the street so feel free to go get your shop on! There is a Starbucks about a block away. It is close to Suburban Station and Love Park. You basically can get anywhere you need to from this location.
ATTRACTIONS
For the Go-with-the-Flow Artsy Folks
Most anyone knows that the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a must-see. I have never been able to see the whole thing in one day, but rather over several visits. Nevertheless, each time brings a new jaw-dropping experience. The beauty both on the exterior of this building as well as in the exhibits is sometimes overwhelming because there is so much to look at and so little time do it.
Dive right in to impressive archaeology & anthropology exhibits at the Penn Museum. Enjoy learning more about various cultures through educational displays (including Egypt, Africa, Greece, Rome, and more).
Take in a show at the Kimmel Center. Offering theatre experiences in opera, ballet, Broadway spectaculars, and more; it is bound to be an experience you will not soon forget.
For the Trivia-winning History Buffs
Venture back to 1776 at Independence Hall to see up close and personal how our great nation came about.
Take a horse drawn carriage tour of Society Hill & Old City with 76 Carriage Company, complete with interesting historical and fun facts about the great city of Philadelphia. This is my personal favorite way to tour the city -- I love it!
For the Sexy Science Nerds
The Academy of Natural Sciences has wondrous exhibits just waiting for you to view. While I have yet to visit myself, I am looking forward to checking out the library & We Wrote the Book display. My inner book nerd is jumping for joy at the thought of it.
Be prepared to have your mind blown with the interactive exhibits at the Franklin Institute. Seriously, go. As someone who wishes they enjoyed science more (it was always my worst subject in school), I can tell you it is a must-have experience. I haven't visited in many years, but it is an experience I still remember (which is saying something for me -- I have the worst memory) and look forward to repeating.
For the Hopeless Shopaholics
The Shops at Liberty Place is a relatively small, but sufficient urban version of a shopping mall. Despite what some may consider lacking in size, I still manage to spend a pretty penny when visiting.
I tend to do most of my shopping near Rittenhouse Row. Leave the credit cards at home ladies, or you could do some serious damage!
There are tons of shops and boutiques on South Street. It gets pretty crazy at night on the weekends, so if you are not a people person (or if you simply lack patience, much like myself), then try mid-week.
My Personal Favorite
It is no secret that I love the Phillies so Citizens Bank Park is a must visit whenever I can. If you are not into baseball, just go for the food...it is delish! Bull's BBQ, owned by former Phillie Greg Luzinski, is to die for!
Penn's Landing is by far my favorite place in the state of Pennsylvania. I love to be near the water.
FOOD
Everyone knows you can't go to Philly without getting a cheesesteak. There are tons of places to choose from so I recommend using this top 10 list to narrow it down for you. To be perfectly honest, my favorite and usual go-to for cheesesteaks is out in the 'burbs at Foster Boys. I love the city and I am sure there is a delish cheesesteak waiting for me there, but I love my go-to.
It took many trips to Philly before I finally visited Reading Terminal Market. Pick up some produce or satisfy your sweet tooth... the possibilities are endless here. My two cents...get the tiramisu.
I always visit Cosi (I got used to always having one nearby and now that I do not, I have to visit each time I am in the city) & Insomnia Cookies so both are highly recommended by me. Did I mention that the cookies travel straight from the oven to your hands (and soon thereafter, your stomach)...YUM!
I mentioned South Street earlier for my fellow shopaholics, but there are also a TON of restaurants there too. That is where I usually head when I want good, extremely large (and greasy) pizza! We all have our weaknesses (pretty much all food is mine).
Also, if you are an Anthony Bourdain fan, check out this Philly food itinerary inspired by none other than Mr. Bourdain himself.
I hope that you found this helpful & please don't hesitate to ask if you are curious about something I didn't mention. If I can help at all, I will!
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Philly today!
No comments:
Post a Comment