Formerly the largest prison facility in America, the Eastern State Penitentiary is now Philadelphia’s major tourist attraction. What was once the most expensive prison in the country now stands in ruins, but that does not stop curious tourists from visiting the attraction. A first-of-its-kind, the penitentiary implemented previously unheard ideas of incarceration, which prioritized reformation over punishment. Today, the vaulted cell blocks and central rotunda invite many a tourists keen on knowing the eventful history of this fascinating establishment. What adds to the curiosity of the masses is the fact that the prison was home to notorious inmates such as ‘Slick Willie’ Sutton and Al Capone.
Union Transfer is a joint collaboration of Four Corners Management, R5 Productions and The Bowery Presents. Housed in a historic brick structure dating back to 1889, this music venue opened in 2011 and is now among the prominent concert spaces in town. It features three fully equipped bars and a few concession stands. Most of their shows are for all ages. Some of their previous listings are Metermaids, Jello Biafra, The Antlers, Mischief Brew, Sage Francis and Guantanamo School of Medicine.
A working-class Philadelphian himself, Dr Albert Coombs Barnes established the foundation in 1922 to promote appreciation of the fine arts among the common man. Over the years, the Barnes Foundation has procured one of the most noteworthy collections of early French modern and post-impressionist paintings in the world. Works by artists like Renoir, Cezanne, Monet, Picasso and Rousseau are part of the collection. The collection has only toured once and then only a fraction of it was sent out. It is necessary to call ahead for a reserved admission ticket.
Please Touch Museum is a must-visit when in town. Located in Memorial Hall, it features whimsical installations, interactive exhibits and optical illusions. Create music with your feet by stepping on the Walking Piano, meet characters from Alice in Wonderland, cross rivers in the rainforest and manoeuvre a flying machine. Visitors can attend activities and programs on various topics, from history to science, in an educational yet fun way. Make a pit stop at their Please Taste Café, or attend a folk performance or puppet show at their theatre. A popular attraction among children is their wooden carousel and yearly themed Storybook Ball where their favourite fairy tales come alive.
Franklin Music Hall, formerly known as The Electric Factory, has built a reputation for showcasing the best of rock, electronic and pop music. If a band has toured the East Coast they are likely to have performed here. Top classic rock artists like Neil Young and Blue Oyster Cult have performed here in the past. It is a great place to check out the local music scene. Private parties can also be held at this dynamic venue.
Located close to Evans Pond, the Croft Farm Arts Center was once a mill and a farm which has since been converted into a multipurpose venue. The center hosts a variety of local and cultural events, meetings and seminars. Within the large space, the Croft Farm Arts Center is home to smaller venues such as the Carriage House, the Kay Evans House, and four studio rooms. In the past, the center has hosted classical concerts, cabaret shows and photography exhibitions.
The Goldie Paley Gallery at Moore College of Art and Design features contemporary art, architecture, photography and crafts by national and international artists. The mission of the gallery is to seek out and present works of art that might not otherwise be seen by the Philadelphia community. Goldie Paley Gallery inspires creative thought by featuring artists who are not always in the mainstream of cultural consciousness, but whose art is often cutting-edge and profound.
A place where the art resides, The Iron Factory has worked hard to provide the right platform for artists and dancers to grow. A communal rental space which supports many artists and gives them a space to rehearse and learn more about the various art forms. This place organizes weekly classes and workshops for those who want to learn more and has a small studio which can be rented out by artists.
Indian King Tavern, also known as Creighton House or Creighton Tavern, is a colonial structure built around 1750. The historical building is of political significance as it is the site where New Jersey transitioned from being a colony into a state. The tavern is also significant for being the site of many important political meetings, including the 1777 New Jersey Assembly that ratified the Declaration of Independence. Restored into a museum, it features antique furniture from the 18th Century, along with other artifacts used by the settlers.
Located at the juncture of South Hicks and Dickinson Street, Tralfamadore is a performance and event venue playing host to talented local musicians, singers, and other artists. Describing itself as a "zoo", it promises to showcase talented "humans" at their creative best. With consistently excellent ratings, the venue has quickly established itself as a hot spot for music and art lovers across the city. From the sound to the lighting and the well-curated performance list, attendees have only good to talk about. So, head to this entertaining "zoo" and have an evening to remember!