The Liberty Bell, Philly cheesesteaks, Eagles games and more await you in Philadelphia. Find out more about the American city that has them all. Foodies, history nerds and football aficionados alike, get ready to pack your bags and book your flight to the City of Brotherly Love.
By Lucia Cannizzaro
www.curlylines.squarespace.com
The American Revolution, Declaration of Independence and the Liberty Bell: My two cents on Philadelphia’s history
As Europeans, we often overlook and roll our eyes when someone breaches the subject of US history. “Does the US even have any history?” It’s a common joke that everyone has heard at least once in their lifetime. To answer this question: yes, they do, and a big chunk of it took place in Philadelphia.
While the UK still mourns the loss of their precious tea in the waters of the Boston Harbor, many might not know that three years after this episode took place, the Declaration of Independence was signed in Philadelphia. The American Revolution would last for another seven years, but that is a story for another day.
Sick of drinking bitter tea and eating stale crumpets, the Founding Fathers finally declared their independence from British rule on July 4th, 1776. Why was Philadelphia the chosen city for such a major event in American history, you might ask? Between one sold-out stage on Broadway and a rap battle with Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson found the time to write this important document at a residence situated in this lovely city, which you can still visit (now called Declaration House)
The Liberty Bell was first commissioned in 1751 from a London-based foundry and cracked the first time it was rung upon its arrival in Philly. No comment there. However, it was fixed just in time to be rung at the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence. This is the reason why thousands of visitors every year still queue for hours to see this majestic, cracked piece of copper.
If you want to find out more about the American Revolution, George Washington’s sleeping habits and the Declaration of Independence, definitely pay a visit to the Museum of the American Revolution.
Not satisfied? Then, take a short walk to Betsy Ross’ house, situated in the lovely neighbourhood of Old City. Discover another often unsung female hero who created the second official American flag.
Finish the day with a visit to Elfreth’s Alley, a historic street in Philadelphia that dates back to 1703 and also hosts a museum reopening in April 2024.
Find out what to do, see and eat in Philadelphia
History aside, there are many other things to do in Philadelphia. First of all, head to the Philadelphia Museum of Art to see the iconic Rocky Steps. Looking for your moment of fame? Head to the top of the steps but don’t forget to bring a spare lung with you, just in case.
Next, walk around the Center City District and check out the City Hall topped off with William Penn’s statue (the founder of Pennsylvania). Get another view of Philly from the top of the observation deck, and then head towards South Philly.
This city is home to many Italian immigrants, among others, so you can’t leave without visiting the Italian Market situated on South 9th Street. Pay a visit to Claudio’s to try authentic Italian cured meats and other products. Among these shops and delis lies South Philly Barbacoa. Featured on an episode of Chef’s Table (a Netflix documentary), this Mexican eatery is run by award-winning Cristina Martinez, an undocumented immigrant who has become known worldwide for her barbacoa (beef stew).
While you walk around the streets of South Philly, you might start noticing colourful mosaics on building walls, often half-hidden in tiny alleyways. Head towards Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens to be completely mesmerised by the work of Isaiah Zagar, an American artist native to this city. This place is definitely my favourite part of Philly. His work can be found on over 200 walls across the city, but it reaches its full artistic expression in this courtyard. His mosaics are made with handmade tiles, bottles, bicycle wheels, old toilet sets (you know where to dump them now), mirrors and many more peculiar objects, culminating in a myriad of colours glimmering in the sun.
Check out rivals Geno’s and Pat’s for the original Philly cheesesteaks
While you’re in South Philly, you can’t miss Geno’s and Pat’s Philly cheesesteaks. Famously known for being rivals—and it doesn’t help that they’re opposite each other—these two eateries make some of the best cheesesteaks in Philadelphia. Grab one of each (without getting caught) and pick your favourite.
If you fancy something slightly lighter, you should try Philly’s hoagies – a sandwich filled with your choice of cured meats, cheeses, raw onions and peppers.
Looking for something sweet? You can get the Tastykakes from most convenience stores. These little snack cakes come in various flavours, from Butterscotch Krimpets and Peanut Butter Kandy Kakes to Chocolate Juniors and Creme Filled Chocolate Cupcakes. Get ready for your glucose levels to go way up!
Get yourself tickets to go see the Philadelphia Eagles, 76ers or Flyers
I’m not going to pretend that I’m an expert in either of these sports, but one thing I know is that going to see the Eagles, 76ers or Flyers play is an unforgettable experience. And a true American tradition.
The Eagles are Philadelphia’s NFL football team, and they last won the Super Bowl in 2018. When they win, the whole city turns green, so going to one of their games is a lot of fun, thanks to the adrenaline and vibrant community.
The same thing applies to the 76ers, Philly’s NBA basketball team, who usually play in the famous Wells Fargo Center, and the Flyers, Philly’s NHL ice hockey team.
While it’s not always sunny in Philadelphia, it’s definitely never boring there. You can also find many shopping outlets with incredible deals, and you can easily get to Amish Country or New York in under two hours by car. Visit America’s birthplace next time you find yourself on the East Coast, and don’t forget to check out Paddy’s Pub for a true Philly experience.
10 Things to Do & See in Philadelphia
- Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
- American Revolution Museum
- Elfreth’s Alley
- Betsy Ross’s house
- The Italian Market
- Geno’s and Pat’s Philly Cheesesteaks
- Eagles Game
- City Hall Observation Deck
- South Philly Barbacoa
- Paddy’s Pub
About me:
I’m Lucia Cannizzaro, a Content Strategist and Copywriter living in London, UK. I’m originally Italian, so I like to write my poems, travel writing pieces and other work in both languages when I can, constantly trying to blend these two sides of me. I have a blog, curlylines_, which I use as a sort of personal diary, and then a work portfolio—you can find both links on all my articles.
When I’m not writing or reading about the struggles of being a 20-something woman, I like to run, visit museums, go to the cinema and have a drink with my friends. Oh, and of course, I like to travel when the finances allow it.
www.curlylines.squarespace.com
https://copyfol.io/edit/gpr9mf6b
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March/April 2024 | Life Lovers Magazine.
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