Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Hotels and City Guide

Philadelphia City and Travel Guide

Philadelphia has a unique place in American hearts and history as it has seen the beginnings to so many of the country’s defining moments. Not only has it long held the reputation of being the “City of Brotherly Love,” but it actually has an abundance of nicknames that have accrued over the years, including “The Friendliest City,” “Philly,” “The Most Honest City,” “The Safest City,” and very recently, “The City That Loves You Back.” With so many monikers, monuments, and creative firsts like the “Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich,” it’s difficult to imagine that you may be looking for much more in a destination. Read more on Philadelphia here, including information on its districts.

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Philadelphia City Facts

Philadelphia Population - 5,325,000 (Source: UN Population Estimate Revision 2003)
USA Population - 300,038,000 (Source: UN Population Estimate Revision 2003)
Currency - US Dollar ($) = 100 cents
Time Zone - GMT - 5 hours(Daylight Saving Time is observed)
Language - English

All About Philadelphia

The city of Philadelphia is the most populous in the state of Pennsylvania, and it has the sixth greatest population among major cities in the United States. Rich with history, it was also known at the time as the social mecca of the 13 original American colonies, as well as being the geographic center of the colonies. Benjamin Franklin, one of Philadelphia’s most famous sons, played a significant role in the American Revolution, and his words and actions helped win independence and freedom for the United States. Many of his speeches emanated from the streets of Philadelphia, forever aligning the city with those historical events.

From that starting point, Philadelphia has continued to climb in importance, adding the biggest and best cultural and educational institutions to its portfolio. Also considered to be home to one of the largest concentrations of higher learning institutions in America, here you’ll find a natural abundance of students and intellectual gathering places. Many of those institutions are some of the most important law schools in the nation including the University of Pennsylvania Law, Temple University Beasley School of Law, Rutgers University School of Law (Camden, NJ, just across the river), Drexel Earle Mack School of Law, Widener University School of Law, and Villanova University School of Law. The headquarters of the American Law Institute is also located in the city.

Deeming this a university town, though, barely scratches the surface of what this city holds. Historical and cultural sites are packed into the very walkable streets of the city, allowing visitors to easily view the scenic vistas while traversing from one destination to another. Historical sites to see in the city include the Liberty Bell, the Franklin Institute (so named for Benjamin Franklin, of course), the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Independence Hall. The famous “Avenue of the Arts” is just south of City Hall and contains many of the cultural venues, including museums, art galleries, and theatres. Philadelphia is also home to America’s first zoo, another very worthwhile point of interest. As far as art collections go, the city offers what has been called the best collection of public art in the United States.

Philadelphia is regarded as the city having the most American history packed into one square mile because many of the historical events took place within a stone’s throw of each other. The Constitution of the United States was written here in 1787. The very concept of the United States itself was conceived in this city, declared, and ratified. Philadelphia was also the very first capital of the United States from 1791 to 1800.

To walk the same streets that Benjamin Franklin and numerous first forefathers of the United States walked is an experience most can’t pass up. In fact, much of the historical significance has been so well preserved that several older sections of streets and neighborhoods of the city seem as though Ben Franklin could be glimpsed turning a cobbled street corner at any given moment.

History and culture certainly play an essential role in the attractiveness of this city, but so does the shape of the city itself. Due to its long and diverse history, it easily offers one of the greatest collections of urban architecture in the country. Some of the older neighborhoods have undergone a revitalization that has proven to spice up some of the prominent residential areas. There are many architectural instances of grandeur that remain, however, to showcase the talents of the early builders. There is a fair amount of green space, as well, that highlights the architectural efforts. Fairmount Park offers a wealth of exploratory opportunities when you visit that section of the city as it is the largest landscaped park in the nation.

With a location that easily reaches New York City at only 90 miles in distance, Philadelphia is convenient in travel time to a key portion of the Eastern United States. The amount of history that Philadelphia and its surrounding areas can offer children for field trips is practically inexhaustible. The city, however, also offers complements to their abundance of history to broaden the horizons of all. Night clubs and spectacular theatre performances are also present and available to provide entertainment.

Along with the old, the city also encompasses the new: new restaurants, trendy shopping areas, and hip night spots from which to enjoy the atmosphere that is Philly. The city has been called a paradise for shoppers, with some saying it offers the world’s largest mall. Travelers to Philadelphia on business or pleasure, or a combination of both, will not be left wanting for experiences to attract their attention. History, culture, fine dining, shopping, entertainment, and the arts offer exciting opportunities to be explored. If ever there was a location with something for everyone, truly, it is Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Districts

Perhaps one of the most remarkable features about the city is the distinctness of its neighborhoods. Residents will often identify themselves by neighborhood instead of using the city name. Over 100 neighborhoods have been identified in the city. Those born in Philadelphia are more likely than others born elsewhere to remain in, or return to, the city to maintain that feeling of home and belonging.

Center City District

Easily the most striking feature of this area is the beautiful City Hall, which boasts a rather large statue of William Penn at the top. Here you’ll also find some of the most popular attractions like the Museum of American Art and the Reading Terminal Market, as well as delicious eateries and excellent shopping experiences.

Penn’s Landing District

A beautiful riverfront park and lots of great restaurants and shops are a huge part of this district, but so is the historical significance. Englishman William Penn stepped ashore at Penn’s Landing, and it has remained an important area for locals and tourists alike. The Independence Seaport Museum is here as is the U.S.S. Olympia.

Italian Market District

One of the biggest outdoor-style markets in the country, this area is just a short walk from the Center City District. You can find a number of museums and dining options as well as some of the freshest food in the city when you visit.

Manayunk District

Just west of the Center City District, this is a historic area that has become synonymous with high-end fashion boutiques and restaurants. While many tourists make a stop here each year, it’s almost more popular with the locals than it is with the visitors.

South Street District

This is considered to be one of the most popular districts in the city for funky new vibes. Lots of new age shops and tattoo artists blend here to meet at coffee bars and hip new cafes that play second to no one in terms of unique atmosphere.

Rittenhouse Square

The ideal location if you’re looking for elegance within the city, Rittenhouse Square was one of the original squares in the city. Some of the townhouses that once surrounded it are still standing, and while there are lots of modern hotels and apartments, it’s still the ideal place for a picnic in the city.

Historic District

You must walk through the Historic District and surround yourself with the sights and sounds of “America’s most historic square mile.” This is the place where it all happened – the Declaration of Independence was approved, the U.S. Constitution adopted – at Independence Hall. The Liberty Bell is here, along with Congress Hall, Carpenters’ Hall, Franklin Court, Old City Hall, and the Declaration House. Take a few moments and stop to reflect on the beginnings that is now the United States.

Old City

The Old City was where the heart of the community beat, where immigrants first came to blend into the fabric that made America. Four particular sights of interest in this neighborhood include the Betsy Ross House, Elfreth's Alley, Christ Church, and the Independence National Historic Park. Added in this mix today are restaurants, cafes, art galleries, theatre and dance production companies, and many wonderful shopping opportunities.

Benjamin Franklin Parkway

One of the first roads to familiarize yourself with is Benjamin Franklin Parkway. This parkway has been likened to the Champs-Elysées in Paris. It is a cultural highway that runs from City Hall to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Hotels in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania