A Historical Day in Old Philadelphia

A Historical Day in Old Philadelphia

By- Jennifer West

Whether moving to the city for the first time, or only visiting for a day, it’s hard to miss the historic architecture and thematically colonial influences on the city of Philadelphia. Planning a romantic tour through the rich history can be difficult, so we’ve done it for you, creating a guide for your history-loving date.

Independence Mall, the hub of Historic Philadelphia, exemplifies the museum-rich city by crafting a central area to the milieu of historic sites. This stretch of green provides not only an easy and memorable place to park, but simple access to guided tours (and gift shops). If you’re prone to fly alone, Independence Mall is bookended by Independence Hall and the National Constitution Center, with other landmarks as the Betsy Ross House, and the Museum of the Revolutionary War close by.

Independence Hall (image source: visitphilly.com)

For a sweet treat in the middle of the day, The Franklin Fountain is right around the corner on Market Street. The historic feel and delicious ice cream make this old-time soda fountain an ice cream haven. If you prefer chocolate, only two doors down resides Shane Confectionery, home to classic confections, chocolates, caramels and historic drinking chocolate.

Shane Confectionery (image source: theconstitutional.com)

For a look into the lives of revolutionaries themselves, Christ Church rests a few blocks away on American Street. The church is open to visitors on most weekdays and weekends sparing time for service. It offers tours of the church itself and the burial ground which rests famous names as Benjamin Franklin.

Christ Church (image source: armondscavophotography.com)

For a place to settle for a warm meal, look no further than the authentic cuisine of City Tavern located on South 2nd St. at Walnut St. The restaurant offers a historic dining experience, with local flavors reminiscent of the history of the area such as braised rabbit and cornmeal fried oysters.

City Tavern (image source: citytavern.com)

After exploring the daytime sites, why not wrap up the evening with a show at one of Philadelphia’s many concert venues. Philadelphia is a hub not only of concerts, but theatrical performances as well, hosting touring shows at locations like the Walnut Street Theatre. Luckily, the city offers plenty of public transportation in case the venue is more than a short walk away.

Disney’s Aladdin Jr at Walnut Street Theatre (imagine source: singerskitchen.com)

With a host of other historic sites, sounds, and eats, Philadelphia is certainly a place to be explored with a partner. Make sure you check online for seasonal offerings such as the Christmas

Village.

Christmas Village (image source: Philadelphia Magazine)