Philadelphia, or ‘Philly’ as it is warmly nicknamed, is known for big town glamour with small town charm. There are still many original colonial buildings and the origins of the country are regarded to be better preserved here than they are in Washington DC. For those looking for something a little more lively, the Philidelphia music scene is often regarded as one of the most exciting in the country, and the Philadelphia Eagles have gained huge successes in NFL of late.
After defying the odds and winning the Superbowl in 2018, the Eagles are on track for another victory in 2019. Whilst no team has won the Super Bowl consecutively since the Denver Broncos in 1998/1999, the Eagles are currently the third favourite to take the title again according to Bet365 NFL odds. If you’re interested in catching a game, the NFL season begins in September and runs until the beginning of February, but you’ll have to be quick to get a ticket because every Eagles game has sold out since 1999. If you’re heading to Philly off-season or you aren’t such a fan of football, there is still plenty to see in the city.
The Philidelphia Museum of Art should be on the list for fans of culture and those who simply want to run up the same steps as Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky. Here you’ll find some fine pieces by Picasso and Matisse, as well as complete rooms made up in the style of a Chinese temple and an Austrian country home. If that is stirring your cultural tastebuds, you could also take a trip to the Barnes Foundation, which was set up by the art collectorAlbert C. Barnes in the first half of the 20th century. Barnes collected works by Van Gogh, Cézanne and Renoir; he also held one of the largest collections of African folk art. A desegregated collection such as this was largely unheard of in Barnes’ time and it is now held in a reconstruction of Barnes’ home in the Philidelphia suburbs.
For music lovers, Philadelphia has a great reputation for live music. As well as having a burgeoning new music scene for those starting out in the business, Philly also plays host to many big name bands. Punk band The Menzingers got their first break on the Philadelphia music scene, and 90s favourite Boys II Men came out of the Philadelphia Motown scene.
Philadelphia is also no stranger to foodies and the city is lucky to have a huge amount of choice for those looking for something special. Head to Rittenhouse, where you will not only find a wealth of amazing restaurants but one of the original squares designed by William Penn. Often regarded as one of the most beautiful urban spaces in the country, Rittenhouse Square is a romantic spot to cosy away with a book in warm weather, or take a walk on crunching leaves in the autumn.
For those looking for East Coast glamour with quaint country charm, Philadelphia should be your next destination. Steeped in culture both old and new, there is something for every traveller in Philly. Hop accross from New York or spend an entire week getting lost in cobbled streets. Mosey around the carefully designed squares, treat yourself to a delicious lunch, and if you’re lucky enough to get a ticket, go and see thee the Eagles.