Friday, August 29, 2014

Exploring the City of Brotherly Love

Visit Philadelphia

Picking back up on my vacation recap, after NYC, Christina and I took a train to Philadelphia. Within an hour and a half ride, we arrived in the City of Brotherly Love and again decided to do our sightseeing via tour. We went with the The Big Bus Company Philadelphia two-day hop-on-hop-off bus. For $32 and we able to see all of the sites from the Rocky Steps, to the Betsy Ross House, to Antiques Row.

Philadelphia City Hall Love Statue - Philadelphia Elfreth's Alley, Philadelphia Philadelphia, Pennsylvania The Rocky Steps Pennsylvania Station Philadelphia church

Philadelphia really is beautiful. It's a great mix of history, lush landscapes, and a big city fit perfectly into a small area. Christina and I were surprised at how small, though. Coming from NYC where there is so much, so spread out, it was cool to be in an easy-to-navigate setting. You can realistically hit all of the major attractions in one full day but, because of the 1D concert, we split it into one and a half.

Spruce Street Harbor Park at Penn's Landing - Philadelphia Spruce Street Harbor Park at Penn's Landing - Philadelphia Spruce Street Harbor Park at Penn's Landing - Philly

One of my favorite things about the trip was the pop-up Spruce Street Harbor Park at Penn's Landing. Only around for the summer, the area right on the Delaware River Waterfront is transformed into a magical setting full of hammocks and lights everywhere. We got there too late for food, but had planned to kick back with burgers and beers and enjoy the riveride breeze. Even without the concessions, it was a cool park to explore. Hopefully this is something they continue each summer!

One last tip - if you travel to Philly stay at the amazing Courtyard Marriott Philadelphia Downtown. We were super impressed. It was an old, restored building right across the street from City Hall. The perfect central location. Plus the staff was incredibly friendly. When we'd see them outside of the hotel, walking down the street, they'd remember and greet us. City of Brotherly Love for sure!




7 comments:

Kerry @ Till Then Smile Often said...

That looks so fun with all the lights and the hammocks. Looks like a great city to visit.

SMD @ lifeaccordingtosteph said...

I'm so glad you liked the city. The Marriott is a great place to stay, right in the thick of it.

Nadine said...

Looks like you guys had a great time in Philly!!!

Crazy Shenanigans-JMO said...

I always here how dirty the city is but it looks really nice in your photos!

Selma @ Crazy Little World Of Mine said...

Philadelphia is my favorite city and all the things you listed, especially the fact that you can walk and hit all major attractions that way as well without problems and long drives (unlike NYC) is my favorite thing. Its reputation is just sad, and should be corrected by many many many people. :)

Loved the recap.

C said...

Your pictures really did turn out awesome. Great phone! I love the one of you in the big chair.

Mary said...

Your photos are incredible! I wish we would have had more time to explore. You just basically wrote my list of things to do the next time I'm in that awesome city! :)

(And yes, I'm incredibly far behind on my blog reading!!)