Philadelphia is the largest city in the U.S. state of Pennsylvania and is a unique blend of history and progress. The city that is informally referred to as Philly, is located on the Fall Line separating the Atlantic Coastal Plain from the Piedmont. It is home to many national historic sites that relate to the founding of the United States, making it a centrepiece of early American history.
Philadelphia is one of the world's richest cities and is the birthplace of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. There are probably not many people in the world that have not heard of the U.S. city of Philadelphia, but for those of you out there who haven't, here are just a few suggestions of what this fantastic city has to offer:
1. Philadelphia Museum of Art
When it comes to art, Philadelphia truly knows what it is talking about. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the country and is home to over 200 galleries that are filled with treasures that span the continents and cultures.
The museum is the resting place of many renowned collections, acclaimed special exhibitions, and enriching and educational programs. The travelling exhibitions that pass through the museum's walls each year equate to over 25, so it is safe to say that there will always be something new and interesting here. Over 225,000 works of art make this one of the great institutions of the world!
2. Philadelphia Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo is where there is always something new. This is the perfect place for the kids and adults alike to interact with the animals and learns about the world's most interesting creatures. Popular attractions in the zoo that the whole family can enjoy include a visit to the primates, the barn yard animals, fruit bats, red panda feedings and the pelicans. Popular exhibits include the African Plains, Australian Animals, Carnivore Kingdom, and the Reptile and Amphibian House.
The animals that call this place home are just the start of what the zoo has to offer. There are also some great rides for the kids including the Amazon Rainforest Carousel, Draft Horse and Pony Rides and the Swan Boats.
3. Old City Hall and Independence Hall
To experience the very best of history that Philadelphia has to offer, you simply must pay a visit to Old City Hall and Independence Hall. Old City Hall stands in front of Liberty Bell and is nestled between Independence Hall and Congress Hall. Old City Hall was the home of the first Supreme Court and the political history of this simply oozes out of the building's walls. Independence Hall is another monumental building when it comes to Philadelphia's political past and is definitely worth a look at.
4. Valley Forge National Historic Park
The Valley Forge National Historic Park encompasses an area of great historical significance. The park consists of numerous farmsteads, north and south of the Schuylkill River, which served as the 1777-1778 winter encampments for General Washington's Troops.
The parks other sole purpose is to protect an area for preservation of native biodiversity. This allows it to be home to an abundance of natural resources and the ideal place for walking, biking, hiking, driving or even boating on the Schuylkill River. These 3500 acres of fields and forests are guaranteed to be the source of much recreational fun and adventure on your trip to Philadelphia.
5. Please Touch Museum
The Please Touch Museum is the ultimate children's museum of Philadelphia. The kids can learn about anything their little hearts should desire, all in a fun and educational way. Exhibits and shows that the museum produces include the City Capers, Flight Fantasy, Roadside Attraction and the Liberty Arm and Touch exhibition. This is guaranteed to be one that the kids never forget!
Christine Barton
