Philadelphia, City of Cheesesteak

Currency: US Dollar

Language: English

Tax Refund: The United States of America does not have a national or federal sales tax system, which means that the government does not levy a sales tax. But instead each states have their own sales tax that is being levy to the resident and tourists. The sales tax varies. For example, Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire and Oregon do not levy a sales tax, while California has the highest state sales tax rate at 7.5%.

Attractions:

Liberty Bell

Probably the most famous attraction in the whole of Philly, this historical landmark is the icon of America and probably freedom. The bell was last rung in 1846. This 2086 pound of bell also come with an iconic crack that become famous. It is open daily from 9am to 7pm. Check out the bell when you are there and it is free to enter.

Independence Hall

The Georgian hall where the Deceleration of Independence and US Constitution was debated and signed. Come here for your fair share of American History. It is open daily from 8.30am to 5pm. Entrance is only by timed ticket from Mar to Dec. It is free but you are recommended to book online for a nominal fee of $1. No tickets are needed after 5pm.

Philadelphia City Hall

The largest municipal building in the United States, Philadelphia’s City Hall is an architectural treasure inside and out that’s served as the home for Philadelphia’s government for over 100 years. The public rooms are among the most lavish in the City. One of the best photo spot and view point is from the South Broad Street and Avenue of Arts. Open on weekdays from 8am to 5pm.

Congress Hall

Built as the Philadelphia County Courthouse, Congress Hall was home to the U.S. Congress from 1790 to 1800, when Philadelphia served as the temporary capital of the United States. Presidents Washington and Adams were both inaugurated in this building. It is open daily from 9am to 5pm and no tickets is required to enter, it operate on a first come first serve basis.

United States Mint

This is the nation’s first mint and currently it still mints the country circulating coins. It is currently possible to take a tour of the Philadelphia Mint. Tours are free and self-guided, taking about 45 mins. It is open from 9am to 4.30pm. You will be required to show an ID.

University of Pennsylvania

Located on the west side of the city, the grounds of the campus is very nice for a stroll and walk. The university is also one of the best in the country and world. Definitely have to check it out.

Philadelphia Museum of Art & Rocky Steps

Located in the huge vast Fairmont Park and on the banks of the river, to the west of the city lies the Museum of Art, the famous entry staircase have also been made famous by rocky. The steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art have become an international destination.

Magic Gardens

This funky folk art venue provides mosaicked galleries, a sculpture garden maze & educational programs. It is open from 11am to 6pm, closed on Tues. The works here are by mosaicist Isaiah Zagar. This place is an Instagram hotspot. The revitalization of the area, of derelict buildings are done by often adding colourful mosaics.

Shopping:

Italian Market

Like an old European market, the sidewalks are lined with stands selling cheap produce, hundred-year-old butcher shops, spice shops and Italian and Mexican delis. It is nice to have a stroll here. The place is open from 12pm to 10pm daily.

Reading Terminal Market

The Reading Terminal Market is home to many of Pennsylvania’s Amish merchants who sell their goods. Here, you can find some of the best baked goods and the freshest organic produce in the region. Additionally, the market features cheesesteaks as well, it’s a full block of diners, bakeries, coffee shops. This place have been standing since 1892. It is open from 8am to 6pm daily. Get the Roast Pork at DiNic.

Restaurants:

Pat’s King of Steaks

1237 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA

Owned and Operated by the Olivieri Family for Almost 90 Years, this is said as the inventor and birthplace of cheesesteak. The place is open 24 hours. They are still at their original location since they first started.

Jim’s Steak

400 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA

This store is especially popular with the locals and from them, it is the best, after all you can’t leave Phil without a taste of the famous cheesesteak. Jim’s Steaks have its history since 1939. The place is open almost 24hours daily, from 10am to 1am, making a cheesesteak perfect for anytime of the day.

Cantina Los Caballitos

1651 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148, USA

A very popular hangout for good Mexican food and potent margaritas. They even have a very nice outdoor area that is perfect in the day. Some of the favourite are the wings, chicken tacos, and enchiladas. They are open from 11am to 2am daily, with earlier timings on Sat and Sun. Happy hour are from 4 -6pm.

Isgro Pastries

1009 Christian St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA

Long established bake shop, famous for their Italians bakes. Located in Hawthorn district, just a short walk away from the magic garden. They are known for having the best Cannoli in Philly. Open from 8am to 6pm daily, sun till 4pm.

Federal Donuts

1632 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA

The best thing here is grabbing some of their famous Lavender donut. The perfect combination would be half-dozen donuts and a batch of fried chicken. The place is open daily from 7am to 7pm. There have multiple outlets around the city.

Morning Glory Diner

735 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA

This is a local, cash only diner where the homemade breakfast are perfect. Be prepared to wait at this place since they are Philadelphia most famous breakfast, order the morning potatoes and frittatas and you will not be disappointed. They are open from 7am to 3pm on weekdays and from 8am on weekends. Affordable prices.