One of the city's most unique parks and outdoor spaces, Race Street Pier stands close to the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, jutting out into the Delaware River. Manicured lawns cover one part of the pier, while a beautiful raised promenade occupies the rest of the space. From joggers in the morning to picnicking families and tourists looking for some calm by the river, the park sees a lot of visitors throughout the day, and is an excellent bet for people-watching. Panoramic vistas of the city make it a favorite hangout for photographers. Check website for more.
This 92-acre public garden is populated with rare, exotic and large trees presented in four different environments: The English Park, Rose Garden, Swan Pond and Japanese Garden all offer a multitude of species and phylum of plants specific to each area. The generally Victorian tone of the gardens radiates a sense of romance and natural splendor. University of Pennsylvania students conduct botanical experiments and studies that are also on display.
During the day this park is alive with skateboarders, sunbathers and dog walkers; at night couples stroll on romantic walks. The natural sanctuary of lovely trees and green grass is surrounded by one of the city's most upscale eating, shopping and residential districts. Renamed Rittenhouse Square in 1825 for esteemed clockmaker and astronomer David Rittenhouse, this spot is the ideal place to take refuge from modern distractions. A few steps down the path at any of the six gates, and the noise and traffic of the city seem to disappear.
Built between 1698-1700, Gloria Dei (Old Swedes') Church survives today as the oldest church in Pennsylvania. The church is known as Old Swedes because Swedish pioneers were the first to settle the area in 1646. There is a fine collection of religious historical and religious artifacts the church has acquired over three centuries, including bronze crosses and 18th Century bibles in Swedish and English. The building itself is a perfectly preserved example of 18th Century public architecture. Today the church is still owned and maintained by its congregation of Episcopalians. The church is part of the Independence National Historical Park system.
The Rosenbach Museum & Library is cozily nestled away in a residential area within the two historic townhouses at 2008 and 2010 Delancey Place. The 19th-century townhouses boasts original manuscripts and handwritten copies of some of the world's most important literary works. The most highly prized of all the rarities on display is the original handwritten manuscript for James Joyce's 'Ulysses'. The museum celebrates 'Ulysses' every June 16th with the Bloomsday festival. Apart from the library's extensive collection, the historic house museum also showcases period furniture and decorative artwork from the 16th to the 20th Centuries making for a diverse chronicle of historic culture and the literary arts.
If happiness really comes in small packages then the Philly Improv Theater is a classic example that will suit the quote. The tiny little theater, though small on size delivers a great punch of attitude. The theater is home to some of the most talented artists who perform on weekly basis and tickle the neighborhood's funny bone. This is a comedy club, theater and is a BYOB, it is like all the right elements came together to present you with Philly Improv Theater. All shows here are simply hilarious, the kind that will crack you up even after a week! Moreover, these improvs are cheaper and sure to make you have a good time. Besides, what is the guarantee to have a good drink? You bring it yourself to the Philly Improv Theater.
Located on Carter Drive in West Chester, The Center for Performing Arts is a prestigious institute that offers several instructional programs on performing arts. Be it dance, music or theater, the CPFA has a volley of distinguished programs on offer. The campus includes an auditorium where several of the institute's productions are staged. For the schedule of interesting courses and events, check their website.
This 92-acre public garden is populated with rare, exotic and large trees presented in four different environments: The English Park, Rose Garden, Swan Pond and Japanese Garden all offer a multitude of species and phylum of plants specific to each area. The generally Victorian tone of the gardens radiates a sense of romance and natural splendor. University of Pennsylvania students conduct botanical experiments and studies that are also on display.
During the day this park is alive with skateboarders, sunbathers and dog walkers; at night couples stroll on romantic walks. The natural sanctuary of lovely trees and green grass is surrounded by one of the city's most upscale eating, shopping and residential districts. Renamed Rittenhouse Square in 1825 for esteemed clockmaker and astronomer David Rittenhouse, this spot is the ideal place to take refuge from modern distractions. A few steps down the path at any of the six gates, and the noise and traffic of the city seem to disappear.
Built between 1698-1700, Gloria Dei (Old Swedes') Church survives today as the oldest church in Pennsylvania. The church is known as Old Swedes because Swedish pioneers were the first to settle the area in 1646. There is a fine collection of religious historical and religious artifacts the church has acquired over three centuries, including bronze crosses and 18th Century bibles in Swedish and English. The building itself is a perfectly preserved example of 18th Century public architecture. Today the church is still owned and maintained by its congregation of Episcopalians. The church is part of the Independence National Historical Park system.
Established in 1927, the Lansdowne Theater is a significant landmark in the borough of Lansdowne. Although it shut down completely, after a fire in 1987, the Historic Lansdowne Theater Corporation, that operates it, has managed to still keep it alive in the hearts of locals. Tours inside the theater can be arranged, and it is often sought for photography sessions and magazine features. It is said that the Lansdowne Theater is one of the most haunted places in town, which is why, ghost-busting teams and occult enthusiasts frequently camp out here. Haunted or not, the theater is undoubtedly, a local gem and definitely worth a visit.