Exploring Philadelphia, PA: An Ideal Destination for History Buffs, Art Lovers, Foodies & More
A travel job in Philadelphia brings the opportunity to enjoy one of America’s most exciting cities. Whether you’re into history, art, good food and drink, or perhaps all of the above, you’ll be glad that you scored a travel assignment in the birthplace of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Lucky you, because a three-month or longer assignment as a travel therapist, allied travel assignment or another healthcare traveling job, means that you’ll have plenty of time to savor the best the city offers.
A Walking Tour of the Old City
There are 35 square blocks that make up the Old City, which are lined with buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, many of which have hosted historical events through the years. One of the best ways to explore this area is by taking a walking tour. There are multiple options, including self-guided tours where you’ll follow the footsteps of the Founding Fathers. You can download the Philadelphia Map and Walks app on the iTunes app store or at Google Play. Either will turn your smartphone into a personal tour guide, using GPS to take you from one stop to the next.
Must-Visits For History Buffs
While gazing at the historical buildings is a must for history buffs, there are multiple places where you’ll want to go in and do a little exploring too, like Independence Hall. This is the very spot where the Founding Fathers of America met to debate and eventually sign both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Even the most cynical can’t help but be moved when stepping inside. Available by guided tour only, take the After Hours tour, and you’ll get dinner at the 18th-century City Tavern too.
Be sure to pay homage to the famously cracked Liberty Bell, located at the Independence National Historical Park, and to really understand why our country’s past still matters today, visit the National Constitution Center, an interactive, multi-media museum. A few blocks from Christ Church is its burial grounds, where you’ll be able to view the graves Benjamin Franklin, his wife and a number of other signers of the Declaration of Independence.
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Tour the Street Murals and Browse Art Museums
If you’re into art, you’ll find it inside and out. Philadelphia’s Mural Arts Program has become one of the country’s largest public art projects, with buildings throughout the city used as a canvas for colorful works. Local artists have created over 3,600 murals that can be viewed by taking a tour.
Of course, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a must, and for more than one reason. The steps of the museum were spotlighted in the “Rocky” films, and many come here just to re-enact the character’s famous training regimen. Whether or not you want to become one of the countless others who’ve accomplished that goat, be sure to go inside. The vast art collection is made up of works from all corners of the globe, and through the ages. It’s considered one of the nation’s most important art destinations, with everything from Renaissance, impressionist and Asian works to contemporary masterpieces.
The Barnes Foundation is another must-visit, holding one of the leading collections of French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings in the world. You’ll discover nearly four dozen Picassos, and over 180 Renoirs, along with works by Monet, Van Gogh, Degas and many other greats.
Sampling Philadelphia’s Best Foods
It may take more than three months to sample the best Philadelphia has to offer when it comes to food. Start at the Reading Terminal Market, the historic market that began operating in 1892, America’s oldest farmers’ market, it’s a popular place for both locals and tourists to purchase fresh produce, seafood, meat and a variety of local foods, including the delectable fresh-baked items at the Amish-owned Beiler’s Bakery, as well as to enjoy lunch, with the artisanal grilled cheese sandwiches a particular favorite.
While you’re in the city, be sure to try Philly’s famous cheesesteak. While it’s up for debate, many say the best can be had at Pat’s King of Steaks, home of the original Philly cheesesteak, owned and operated by the Olivieri family for nearly 90 years. Its founder, Pat Olivieri, invented the sandwich in 1930. There are also numerous fine dining restaurants, farm-to-table eateries and food trucks like the popular Sweet Box Cupcake Truck with a menu of artisan delights like snickerdoodle and bacon maple pancake.
One things for sure, you won’t get bored or hungry while on a travel job in Philadelphia.
