Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Welcome Summer Series: Philadelphia, PA


PHILADELPHIA, PA: For many, this may be an easy one-day trip... but of course, Philly's more fun when you stay!! Philly Overnight is offering hotel packages including free parking for 2 nights and a teddy bear at check-in!

IF YOU GO: Check out these Off the Beaten Path and Historic Philadelphia itineraries to plan your visit.

Here's a list of OUR suggestions:

1. FOR THE FAMILY~ Italian Market, which runs along approximately ten city blocks of Ninth Street in South Philadelphia, is one of the oldest and largest open-air markets in America. Make a day of it: pick out ingredients then enjoy cooking them at home! Easy parking at Anastasi Seafood (9th & Washington)... watch them make fresh pasta at Talluto's, pick up meat at Esposito's and stop by for a "Mozzarella lollypop" at Claudio's (really a small mozzarella ball on a toothpick)... sample cheeses at DiBruno Bros.
Stop for lunch and vote for yourself: Pat's or Geno's... or if don't feel like cooking, you must try Ralph's for a real South Philly home-made meal.


2. "OLD FAITHFUL" DAY TRIPS WITH LITTLE ONES~ Philadelphia Zoo and Adventure Aquarium are always a big hit. For something different, visit Franklin Square: playground and sand sculpture, or for a small fee, you can ride the carousel or play Philly-style themed miniature golf, and putt through the Liberty Bell's crack on the 18th hole.

3. OLDER CHILDREN / EDUCATIONAL~ Lights of Liberty an outdoor, nighttime sound and light spectacular. Headsets provide 3-D surround sound with an original musical score. Walter Cronkite, Ossie Davis, Charlton Heston and others narrate the story of our nation's birth as hand-painted images and dazzling special effects are projected upon the buildings where the historic events actually took place. The shows begin at dusk, departing every 15 minutes from PECO Energy Liberty Center.
Use the code: FUNSAVER for discounted tickets (more than 1/2 off).

4. OLD PHILLY STYLE~ City Tavern - When John Adams arrived in Philadelphia in August of 1774, to attend the First Continental Congress, he was greeted by leading citizens and immediately taken to the tavern he would call "the most genteel tavern in America." The tavern has been preserved with that "18th century feel"... their primay mission is to interpret the culinary experience inspired by the customs and foods of 18th Century Colonial America, including roasted duck, braised rabbit and "Martha Washington Style Colonial Turkey Pot Pie". This is unique watering hole is somewhat 'family friendly': enjoy sitting on the benches in the backyard as the kids play outside... and you must try the Champagne Shrub!

5. GIRL'S NIGHT OUT~ SIPS Happy Hour: Wednesday nights through August 26th from 5 - 7 pm, Center City bars and resturants host summer happy hours with $4 cocktails, $3 wine, $2 beer and half-priced appetizers... some restaurants even offer a 15% dinner discount after 7 pm. If you're in town mid-week, be sure to take advantage of these great offers! May we suggest: Mace's Crossing, both Irish Pubs and Tir Na Nog great for drinks, for a different dinner check out Roy's Hawiian Fusion!

YOUR suggestions???

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