One of my most recent trips was to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, which is often referred to as “The City of Brotherly Love”. Compared to other states that I’ve visited, Philadelphia isn’t very large in size or population, but is filled with tons of history that contributed to the growth and development of our great country today. Being that one of my favorite movies is National Treasure, both the original and the sequel, I decided to go on a little adventure of my own in Philly!
With Philadelphia being the home of many important artifacts of the United States, I dedicated one of my days to touring the city and visiting the different monuments and museums. My first stop was none other than the Liberty Bell which in itself is very monumental in America’s Independence. While visiting, I learned that Philadelphia served as the national capital from 1790-1800. And though that actual building of the Capitol is no longer standing, they have since built a small replica near the Liberty Bell. I also visited the Independence Hall, Philadelphia Museum of Art, the grave of Benjamin Franklin, the Christ Church, and the home of Betsy Ross.
Philadelphia is famous for their cheese steaks, so upon my first day of arriving it was a must that a stop be made at either Geno’s or Pat’s Steaks, two of the city’s best and rivalry Philly cheese steak restaurants. Although I am not a food critic, I will say that I was not very impressed. Another place that I was blown away by was the Reading Terminal Market, which has fresh produce market, a number of different restaurants and meat markets of all kinds. The market had food from all over! You name it they had it.
One thing that I strongly disliked about the city was the roads and highways. Being from Texas I am spoiled by wide roads, convenient exits, underpasses at every corner and gas stations and restaurants every mile or two along the way. Philly was the complete opposite, which is a huge negative for a tourist, in a rented vehicle and absolutely no idea of where things are located. Thank goodness for GPS! Another thing that shocked me was the rude people. For a town to be deemed “The City of Brotherly Love”, they weren’t so friendly at all!
Sounds like an interesting trip. I'm surprised that you did not like the cheese steaks. My friend lived in Philly for sometime and thats all she could talk about. I'm sorry to hear that the city was not enjoyable.
ReplyDeleteI tried to make the best of it! It was quite the experience to say the least. I went to visit a friend and that's all she spoke about as well. I'll stick to cheeseburgers instead!
ReplyDeleteI was in Philly this past March and had mixed feelings towards the city as well. My hotel was right next to the Reading Terminal Market so we ate there like twice a day. It is one of my favorite places! I have to agree about the cheesesteaks. I was slightly disappointed in them as well. The first was not that great, but then I had one from a place in the RT Market and it was better. I think that it is one of those things that you just have to find the place that you love.
ReplyDeleteI've always wanted to go to Philly too but only for the history. When you go up north, you have to be aware that people aren't friendly and if you look at them while walking on the sidewalk, watch out! My fiancee went with me to Chicago to visit my parents when they were there and we had interesting experience downtown. She couldn't stop smiling and saying hello which made a few people actually cross to the other side of the road...
ReplyDeleteThat's funny about the people crossing to the other side of the road. One day when walking, I accidentally bumped into a lady. I turned to tell her excuse me and she gave me the most horrible look! Another lady that was standing nearby who had moved there from Oklahoma said that people in Philly don't know what the words "excuse me" mean.
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