Philadelphia Travel Guide
By Michele Rosenthal
(Flower Girl Adventures)
We recently styled and produced a fashion photoshoot in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I always research before for we shoot on location and am fortunate to have traveled to Philly many times. Philly is a city rich in history, culture, food, sports, and shopping. Inhabited by the Lenape and then founded in 1682 by William Penn, Philadelphia became an important city in the American Revolution.
You may have visited the famous Philadelphia flower show or have enjoyed a Philly cheesesteak and famous pretzel, attended a concert, or walked through the Historic Old City. There is something for everyone to do in the City of Brotherly Love.
We have outlined the most well-known stops in Philly along with the world-renowned Philadelphia Flower Show and where to get the most Instagramable cocktails in town (we love the Ritz). Check out the Philadelphia travel and info site below to make your getaway even easier!
What To See
“Philadelphia, Pennsylvania’s largest city, is notable for its rich history, on display at the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall (where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed) and other American Revolutionary sites. Also iconic are the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, immortalized by Sylvester Stallone’s triumphant run in the film "Rocky." Source Google
What To Do
Visit Morgan Pier for a great view of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge! Other Famous spots such as the Liberty Bell, Old City, Independence Hall, Stadiums, The Zoo, Rodin museum, Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia Museum of Art are some of the many things to do for families, kids, teens, adults, and groups.
Where To Eat
We love tapas and cocktails at The Ritz Philly. This is a perfect spot for the adults to go out and relax after a long day sightseeing with the kids. Perhaps the grandparents can come along and babysit, giving mom and dad some much-needed time together!
Grab world-famous Philly cheesesteaks at the Reading Market or have high tea at the Rittenhouse Hotel in the charming Mary Cassat Garden tea room. Mary Cassat is a beloved artist from the Philadelphia area whose art is featured in the local museums.
City Tavern
(Sadly, as of the writing of this article, City Tavern is closed)
"Established in 1773, City Tavern Restaurant, once called "the most genteel tavern in America." by John Adams, continues this tradition today. Step back in time to colonial Philadelphia when revolution was brewing, ales were flowing and dining was an experience. Emmy award-winning chef, Walter Staib, recreates the 18th-century dishes Washington, Jefferson, and Hamilton enjoyed. Their costumed waitstaff is ready to greet you Thursday through Sunday from 3:00 Pm. Savor authentic 18th-century recipes including West Indies pepperpot soup, turkey pot pie, tenderloin tips with mushrooms, even fried tofu from a 1770 letter penned by Philadelphia's own Benjamin Franklin. Raise a glass of ale brewed from researching the founding fathers. Huzzah! Visit today!" - hopefully, City Tavern will reopen again soon!!
Bar Scene
Order a dry ice cocktail at The Ritz Philadelphia. It’s the perfect Instagram-worthy photo. We like Tapas at a high-top table by the bar!
Philadelphia Flower Show
“The Philadelphia Flower Show, started in 1829 by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, introduces the gardening public to thousands of plants, gardens, and design concepts. PHS is firmly committed to building upon the grandeur of these designs to explore the use of organic and sustainable gardening practices. Acres of plants and gardens also make up the largest horticultural competition in the world, all vying for blue ribbons and the coveted “Best in Show.” Show attendees at all levels of gardening (even non-gardeners!) are invited to participate in curated daily gardening activities and enjoy themed food and shopping experiences. The Philadelphia Flower Show has been honored as the best overall event in the world by the International Festivals & Events Association, competing with events such as the Kentucky Derby Festival, Tournament of Roses Parade, Indianapolis 500 Festival, and other international celebrations.” (Source: PHS)
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What To Wear
For Teens & Tweens
For Mom
For Brunch & Beyond with the family
Date Night - Cocktails at The Ritz Philly for women
Daytime Excursions
Summer Beauty
Philly Cheese Steak Recipe
We absolutely love Bobby Flay’s Philly Cheesesteak recipe. We modify it a bit: caramelize the onions, then add regular red, green, yellow, and orange bell peppers to the same pan, omitting the other peppers in the recipe. After they are sautéed, we add button mushrooms, seasoned with salt and pepper, adding more butter and olive oil after each addition. We grill the hoagie buns with butter and olive oil first, before assembling the cheesesteak. Either way, this recipe is a winner and that provolone cheese sauce is so yummy!!!
Places To Stay
Sofitel
The Ritz
Rittenhouse
Our Philadelphia Photoshoot featured below was so much fun! We shot in so many wonderful locations.
The Paris House is your one-stop shop for unforgettable events, editorial and personal fashion styling, and floral arrangements sourced from the New York City Flower District. Whether designing elaborate sets at our rooftop-accessible studio, planning events of any scale, or hosting music video shoots at our eclectic country home and gardens, we are always creating gorgeous moments for our clients and business partners. Company founder, Michele Rosenthal, has 30 years of experience and has studied at the Fashion Institute of Technology and holds degrees in Interior Design and Business Marketing. Whatever your needs are, we will make your vision come to life. We are content creators, memory makers, and portfolio builders.
Below photos by Christen Holly Photography
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