I had a friend in town last weekend and we definitely did the touristy Philly thing. Thankfully he showed up during the window of absolutely great weather and I was able to proudly show off where I grew up, some classic Center City Philadelphia spots, and some of my favorite places in the area.
Here are a few images from our day in the city. We started out at the Independence Visitor Center of course and took the Phlash around. I could not get over the incredible clouds that hung out with us all day.
We stopped off at the Reading Terminal Market and enjoyed some really delicious vegetable lasagna and took in all the sights, sounds, and smells.
He got excited about the Franklin Institute (who wouldn’t?) so that was our next destination. If you grew up in the area, how many field trips did you take to the Franklin Institute?
Here are a few more of that stunning sky as seen from outside of the Franklin Institute. (Philadelphia City Hall to the southish and The Inquirer Building to the eastish.)
We came back to square one after a day of walking and wandering. (That’s the Bourse Building.)
We had big plans for going out dancing that night but were just too pooped to consider anything but watching movies and reminiscing.
It was a fantastic weekend that also included brunch at Carman’s Country Kitchen, a driving tour of Lower Merion and Narberth, 4 slices at Peace a Pizza (baked ziti is still my favorite), a visit to the Independence Seaport Museum, a leisurely drive through Valley Forge National Historical Park, scrumptious cheese and chocolate fondue at the Melting Pot, an introduction to the largest mall on the East Coast, and the purchase of some very strange shoes (for him, not me).
Sadly, there were no Wawa hoagies, soft pretzels, water ice, or cheesesteaks. There’s only so much Philly one can learn in a weekend. Maybe next time…
I love Philadelphia. I was shocked at what a great city this is. For me, it is the cat’s pajamas. I love everything about it. I love where I live. I love the people. I have been met with such kindness and affection here.
~ George Dzundza
