I was commissioned to write this guide to Philadelphia for a hotel booking engine’s new website. The client required a very specific structure with sub-sections set out in the brief. The tone of voice was to be simple and conversational, positive and friendly, and the style was to convey a passion for travel. See section 6 for the “Arts and Culture” guide.
A Philadelphia travel guide
Philadelphia: history, culture and a passion for food
The birthplace of American independence, Philadelphia is a city brimming with history. But Philly is also a city undergoing a cultural renewal: contemporary art and great new restaurants are around every corner. With its buzzing, multicultural neighborhoods that each have a distinctive personality, the “City of Brotherly Love” has mountains of charm and character.
The founding fathers
Wherever you look, you will see traces of the great political figures who shaped the history of America. From the Liberty Bell to City Hall, Philly is steeped in history. Through these monuments, you’ll discover the stories and moments that made Philadelphia what it is today.
Art at every turn
Philadelphia is a creative place, as you’ll see from the many colorful murals around the city. The biggest street art program in the world, the Mural Arts Program is a celebration of contemporary collaborative art. The steps outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art were made famous by the Rocky films, however, don’t miss the museum itself: it’s one of the largest and best art collections in the country.
Sporting Philly
Rocky certainly made Philadelphia famous for boxing, but the city has always had a great passion for sports in general. Baseball, basketball and football are almost a religion, and the city’s stadiums are hallowed ground for sports fans. Philadelphia also hosts many major international events such as the Philadelphia Marathon which draws a large crowd each year.
Rhythm and soul
Philadelphia has always had a strong musical tradition. It’s been home to many a jazz legend, including Dizzy Gilespie and John Coltrane, and the city’s still renowned for its vibrant jazz scene. You can catch some live jazz at one of the city’s many jazz clubs. Philadelphia also has a great classical music scene, with many ensembles including its world class orchestra, the Philadelphia Orchestra. The city has also seen great musical moments in soul, R’n’B and hip hop.
Gourmet delights
Eating in Philly is no longer just about finding the best Philly Cheesesteak, although sampling this iconic sandwich – a roll filled with slivers of beef and melted cheese – is a must during your stay. In terms of dining, Philadelphia is the rising star of the East Coast, its restaurant scene a hotbed of foodie innovation led by a new generation of passionate young chefs. Make a beeline for the Reading Terminal Market, a farmers’ market and complete gourmet experience, where you will find fresh cheeses and cured meat, fish, ice cream and so on. You’ll also find traditional Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods and organic produce sold by members of the Amish community.
Green walks
One of America’s most walkable cities, Philadelphia’s main sights are clustered in its center, making it a pleasure to explore on foot. The city also boasts many green spaces ideal for a relaxing stroll, from the chic Rittenhouse Square to the vast, rolling landscapes of Fairmount Park. This park in the north west of the city is 10 times the size of New York’s Central Park. Philadelphia aims to become the greenest city in America, and an eco-friendly and sustainable development drive is turning it into a true city of the future.
Section 2
What to see and do in Philadelphia: a guide to the sights
With cobbled streets in Old City and a host of monuments that bear witness to America’s independence, Philadelphia is – rightly – proud of its history. However, its great past has not stopped it from becoming a modern, forward-thinking city.
A symbol of independence
Philadelphians are proud of their city’s role in the founding of America as an independent nation and it makes sense to begin your visit in the Independence National Historical Park. Most of the city’s important historic sites can be found within the blocks that make up this park, an area that’s easily explored on foot. Stand in the shadow of Independence Hall, on Chestnut Street, and imagine the signing of the Declaration of Independence which took place here in 1776. Visit the Liberty Bell Center and learn the story behind the crack in the iconic Liberty Bell.
The modern alongside the ancient
Next, head west along Market Street into the heart of Center City, Philadelphia’s bustling commercial hub. Amid the skyscrapers and modern buildings, you’ll spot the majestic white marble clock tower of the Philadelphia City Hall, topped by a statue of the William Penn, the city’s founder. It was designed to be the tallest building in the world, although it was surpassed by the Washington Monument and the Eiffel Tower during its construction. However, it held the record of tallest habitable building in the world for 7 years.
Green spaces and big cats
Housed within the huge green spaces of Fairmount Park, next to the Schuykill river, Philadelphia Zoo is America’s oldest zoo. It is now home to over 1,300 animals with many rare species, including rhinos and jaguars. Watch as the monkeys scamper and the big cats roam over your head among a network of connecting tunnels. In warm weather, Fairmont Park is the perfect place to enjoy a stroll, especially along the banks of the Schuykill river.
Market treats
When you’ve worked up an appetite, slip into the bustling Reading Terminal Market and breathe in the heady scents of fresh farm produce: cheeses, meats, flowers, bread, oysters, barbecued meats and world cuisine. This is a great place to meet some of the people who have been trading here for generations, and to taste some of the flavors of Philly. The market is open 7 days a week, but the Amish stallholders don’t work on Sunday or Monday.
Italian Market
For a taste of Philadelphia’s international side, head to the open air Italian Market, in Bella Vista. You’ll find all kinds of Italian produce here, from beautiful vegetables to meats and cheeses. The market has evolved to reflect the city’s multi-cultural population, and you can now find authentic Mexican and Vietnamese street food stalls doing a roaring trade. The streets around the market are filled with cafes and restaurants serving up pizza, tacos or sizzling Korean barbecue.
South Street
Dive into the melting pot of South Street, where punks, hipsters, artists, kids, grandparents and people of all backgrounds mingle. Always buzzing, this street is lined with a colorful array of independent shops, galleries, cafes and restaurants, not to mention vintage stores and tattoo parlors. It’s also lively here after dark, with several underground hip-hop and indie rock music venues, where you can hear up-and-coming musicians playing.
Chinatown
As you pass beneath the ornate Chinese gateway on 10th and Arch Streets you will find yourself in the bustling streets of Chinatown, an area crammed with noodle joints wafting scented steam. Originally settled by Cantonese immigrants in the 19th century, this Asian enclave now has businesses offering products and food from all over China and South East Asia.
Section 3
Where to eat in Philadelphia: the art of eating well.
In a short space of time, Philadelphia has become a pioneer of modern American and international cuisine. You’ll find a host of restaurants serving up fresh, seasonal and local produce in original ways. It’s pretty much mandatory to try a Philly cheesesteak on your visit, the oozing cheesy deliciousness is unlike anything else, and a real part of the city’s identity.
Philly’s long and passionate relationship with food has led to the development of a whole new vocabulary. If you want a quick lunch to eat on the move, grab a “hoagie”, this is a submarine sandwich, usually a baguette filled with cold meat, salad and mayonnaise. Or fill up with a stromboni; similar to a calzoni, this is a folded pizza bread with a variety of fillings. Salted soft prezels, joined together in a chain, are a staple Philly snack.
Cheesesteak know-how
Sample the city’s most famous food, the cheesesteak, at the place where it’s said to be invented, Pat’s King of Steaks in South Philadelphia. It’s open 24 hours a day and there’s usually a line snaking out the door whatever time you go. To blend in with the locals you’ll need to know how to order. It will be assumed you’re ordering a cheesesteak, the only thing you need to specify is what kind of cheese (usually a choice of American, provolone or whiz), and whether you want fried onions or not (“with” or “without”). So, saying “Provolone, with” or “American, without” is the way to order your cheesesteak in true Philly style.
Pat’s King of Steaks, 1237 E. Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19147
Independence National Historical Park
Within the Independence National Historical Park you’ll find a sprinkling of classy, chic restaurants with a cozy atmosphere. One of the city’s most innovative restaurants is Fork, which serves up exciting combinations, such as raw vitello tonnato, grilled sweetbread with preserved sunchoke, or hand made chickpea pasta with spiced lamb ragu.
Fork, 306 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19106
215 625 9425
South Street
Along the city’s most buzzing street you’ll find plenty of trendy restaurants catering to a casual but discerning clientele. For contemporary, seasonal food in a cool setting, try Pumpkin. Chef Ian Moroney delivers beautifully balanced platefuls with simple and elegant flavors.
Pumpkin, 1713 South Street, Grad Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19146
215-545-4448
Chinatown
Head into Chinatown to sample some of the city’s best Asian fare. Ting Wong is a small, unassuming place that has a dedicated crowd of regulars who come back time and again for the steaming wonton soup and succulent roast duck.
Ting Wong, 138 North 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA
215-928-1883
http://www.phillychinatown.com/tingwong.htm
Vedge
Even if the words “vegan restaurant” would normally send you running for the hills, this may just be the one restaurant that will make you forget all about meat. Humble vegetables are elevated to superstar status with deep, smoky flavors and intense combinations at this restaurant that regularly tops lists of best restaurants – never mind vegan restaurants – in the US.
Vedge, 1221 Locust Street, Midtown Village, Philadelphia, PA
215 320 7500
Federal Donuts
If you’re in need of an energy boost while out and about, stop by Federal Donuts for a coffee and a fresh donut dusted with cinnamon brown sugar or vanilla spice. Or you could opt for the fancier glazed and sprinkled creations such as blueberry mascarpone, chocolate cake or grapefruit brulée.
Federal Donuts, 1632 Sansom Street, Philadelphia
215 665 1101
Section 4
Philadelphia shopping guide: where to go and what to buy
Philadelphia is a great place to find independent shops, even among the big chain stores of Center City. From the vintage boutiques and quirky stores on South Street to the gigantic King of Prussia Mall, you’ll need to make sure there’s plenty of room in your suitcase to bring back all the treasures you find.
Clothes and shoe shopping are tax free in Philly, so you can treat yourself to that extra “souvenir”. While away the day among the independent shops in South Philadelphia, or perhaps you’d prefer to browse the chic luxury stores near Rittenhouse Square or explore the city’s impressive malls.
King of Prussia Mall
The largest retail space in the United States, the King of Prussia Mall has over 400 stores and restaurants, making it a premier shopping destination for the East Coast. It’s located a half hour drive north west of the city center. The mall has a high concentration of top end, mid-range and high street brands across three areas: the Court, the Plaza and the Pavilion. There are also 8 department stores, including Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, where you’ll find luxury designer items. If you get peckish, you can choose from over 40 restaurants and cafes dotted around the mall and grouped in food courts.
Center City business district
If you’re in Philly on business, you’ll find plenty of stores around the business district, ideal for a quick shopping spree between meetings. Nestled among the glass and steel skyscrapers, just a block away from City Hall, The Shops at Liberty Place is a chic, urban mall with brands such as J. Crew, Kiehl’s and Nine West.
Avenue of the Arts
Heading south from City Hall, Avenue of the Arts is a stretch of South Broad Street, home to luxurious grand hotel The Bellevue, a Philadelphia institution. Step into the shopping arcade on the ground floor of the hotel, Shops at the Bellevue. You could pick up some stylish clothing at Nicole Miller or Ralph Lauren, or fall for something sparkly at Tiffany’s.
Rittenhouse Row
If chic fashion and luxury shops appeal, look no further than Rittenhouse Row, near the leafy haven of Rittenhouse Square. This upscale shopping area lying south west of City Hall is brimming with trendy and exclusive brands. Elegant restaurants, cafes and art galleries also populate this neighborhood.
South Street
Stretching 10 blocks, this bohemian strip with its colorful street art draws a great mix of shoppers. You’ll find boutiques selling handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, records as well as tattoo parlors among the hundreds of stores and eateries that line this street. Even if you don’t end up buying anything, South Street is a great place for people-watching.
Manayunk
In the north west of the city, Manayunk is a charming neighborhood with a small town feel. Wander among the independent shops, checking out high end fashion boutiques, vintage stores and art galleries, or crate digging at record stores. Shopping is thirsty work, so take your pick of the area’s many cafes, restaurants and wine bars. Most of the activity is concentrated on Main Street, which runs alongside the sleepy Schuylkill River. At the weekend, you may well find an art fair or street food festival taking place in Manayunk.
Section 5
Where to stay in Philadelphia – a travel guide to Philadelphia’s neighborhoods
You could choose to be right in the middle of the oldest part of Philadelphia, surrounded by historic monuments, or in a buzzy area with lots of bars and great people-watching. Or perhaps you’d prefer to stay in one of the tranquil, leafy neighborhoods where life happens at a more relaxing pace.
Old City
Among its cobbled streets and ancient monuments, Old City is home to many of Philadelphia’s most luxurious hotels. Sleep soundly in a 19th century style mansion, and enjoy being within easy reach of the city’s main sights.
Center City’s business district
Among the sleek skyscrapers you will find the city’s most contemporary hotels. A modern and practical option, the business district in Center City will be particularly convenient if you are in town on business and time is short. You’d also be close to some great eating options at Reading Terminal Market and Chinatown.
Rittenhouse Square.
For a truly chic stay, opt for one of the elegant boutique hotels around Rittenhouse Square. This is where you’ll find the international jet set, and celebrities hiding behind their shades. Stay here if you want to be near a fabulous array of high end shopping and dining options.
Society Hill
The section running east from Washington Square and south right down to South Street is known as Society Hill. This charming and upmarket district is a good choice for more affordable hotels within reach of Center City and the Old City. A tranquil residential area made up of stately red brick buildings and tree lined streets, Society Hill, as its name suggests, is a prestigious neighborhood.
University City
In west Philadelphia, the neighborhood known as University City is home to Philly’s two most prestigious academic institutions, The University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. It is characterized by the dynamic energy of its student population. Staying here would be easier on the wallet and you’d discover lots of fun late night hang-outs.
Manayunk
If you don’t mind being a little further from the center of town, Manayunk is a friendly neighborhood where there’s lots going on. You’ll soon become regulars at your local café and you may find you never want to leave Main Street with its buzzing vibe.
Section 6
Arts and culture in Philadelphia
Philadelphia has carved out a place in American culture, not just for its history, but also for its flourishing artistic scene. Music and nature combine with contemporary art in a cultural cocktail that is unique to this East Coast city.
A huge amount of art in Philadelphia is completely free to see, and you can visit it any time. That’s because it’s painted on walls and facades all over the city as part of the innovative Mural Arts Program. Public spaces such as the mosaic-covered courtyards of the Magic Gardens make great meeting points for the city’s inhabitants. The John F Kennedy Plaza is known as Love Park, after Robert Indiana’s famous sculpture which can be seen there.
The mural paintings
Originally an anti-graffiti drive, the Mural Arts Program encouraged the graffiti artists to work together and create something artistic in their neighborhoods. With over 3,600 murals dotted around the city, and more being created all the time, these works of art reflect the city’s modern history. You can take a guided tour of the world’s largest outdoor art gallery, or just stop by some of the most iconic works such as Legendary, on Broad & South Streets celebrating Philadelphia’s hip hop pioneers, The Roots, and Philly Painting, a bold, colorful work by Brazilian artists that revived a stretch of Germantown Avenue.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
If you’ve always wanted to run up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art like Rocky, now’s your chance. Once you’ve reenacted this iconic moment in cinema history, head inside the museum, where you will find one of the finest art collections in the country. With treasures from around the globe and across the ages, there’s something for every art-lover here. Admire medieval armor, wander among delicate Asian masterpieces, or lose yourself in the largest collection of Rodin’s work outside Paris. Go on a Friday after 5pm and you can sip a cocktail and listen to live music as you wander round the exhibitions.
Barnes Foundation
An eccentric early 20th century art collector, Albert Barnes built up a world class collection of impressionist and early modern art, which he displayed at his home in Merion, a Philadelphia suburb. In 2012, the Barnes Foundation moved to a newly built location in central Philadelphia. This contemporary building recreates the intimate feel of the collection with its quirky layout. Wander among paintings by Cezanne and Picasso displayed alongside African masks and unusual metalwork objects: it’s a surreal experience.
Landmarks
While walking around Philadelphia, you’ll often find yourself looking up, as Philly has a history of tall buildings. Philadelphia City Hall with its statue of William Penn was the tallest building in Philadelphia for a long time, and there was a tacit agreement that it would remain that way. In 1987 the shiny new Comcast Centre took the title of tallest building. The city’s sports teams suffered mysteriously bad luck from that year on, and this was known as “the curse of Billy Penn”. In 2007 a statue of William Penn was stuck on the top of the skyscraper, and – hey presto – the Philadelphia Phillies won the 2008 World Series.
Section 7
Family-friendly attractions in Philadelphia
With plenty of outdoor space in its parks and gardens, and interactive museums with a hands-on attitude, Philadelphia offers lots for visitors of all ages.
Educational fun
If you’re visiting with the family in tow, Philadelphia’s museums have you covered, with fun activities and hands-on exhibits for budding culture-vultures. They’ll be wide-eyed at the educational Franklin Institute with its live science shows, planetarium and IMAX cinema.
Franklin Institute, 222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States
+1 215-448-1200
Hands-on learning
Under-7s will love the Please Touch Museum, nestled in the green spaces of Fairmount Park. Entirely aimed at families with young kids, this pioneering institution has two floors of interactive exhibits where children can learn through play. Fire up their imaginations with the museum’s plays and puppet shows, music and art activities, or take a ride on the painted wooden horses of the traditional, century-old carousel.
Please Touch Museum, 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131
215 581 3181
http://www.pleasetouchmuseum.org
A palace of play
Playing is as important for kids now as it was over 100 years ago, when the Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse was built in the leafy open spaces of East Fairmount Park. This palace of fun was built purely for the enjoyment of the children of Philadelphia, a novel idea in 1899. With indoor and outdoor areas and a giant wooden slide that’s over a century old, it’s aimed at families with kids under 10, and what’s more, its completely free of charge.
Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse, 3500 Reservoir Drive, East Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, PA 19121-1095
215 765 4325
Nature activities
Sister Cities Park
In summer, cool off with a visit to Sister Cities Park on Logan Square. Kids will love running in and out of the 10 jets of water that spout from the ground. Each fountain jet represents one of Philadelphia’s 10 sister cities.
Adventure Aquarium
Just minutes from downtown Philadelphia, across the Delaware river and into Camden, New Jersey, you’ll find the Adventure Aquarium. As well as sea turtles, stingrays, and penguins, this gigantic aquarium has a thrilling 4D cinema experience with amazing special effects. The whole family will enjoy watching the hippos, marveling at the giant octopus and walking through the underwater shark tunnel.
Adventure Aquarium, 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ 08103, United States
856 365 3300
http://www.adventureaquarium.com
Sesame Place
Fans of Bert and Ernie can spend a fun day out at Sesame Place, the Sesame Street theme park. With lots of dry rides for the younger visitors, and a whole water park full of flumes, slides and waves, not to mention all the shows and parades, it’s sure to be an entertaining visit.
Sesame Place, 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA 19047, United States
866 464 3566
http://sesameplace.com/en/langhorne/
Eating out with the family
You’ll find restaurants all over Philadelphia where you can stop and refuel with the kids. The village of Collingsworth, just over the river in New Jersey is as cute as they come, and very welcoming to families.
Pizzeria Stella
A great place for fussy eaters, this Society Hill pizzeria welcomes families and larger groups. At Pizzeria Stella there’s a laid back vibe, and the crispy Neapolitan style pizzas come as plain or as inventive as you like.
Pizzeria Stella, 420 South 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215 320 8000
Section 8
Nightlife & Entertainment in Philadelphia
With a lively restaurant culture and a great music scene, it’s no surprise that Philadelphia’s nightlife is alive and kicking. And whether you’re into elegant cocktail bars or grimy dive bars, you’re bound to find something that’s just up your street.
Bars
You’ll find plenty of watering holes to choose from in Philly, from sports bars to swanky wine bars, with a great variety of styles and themes. The area from Broad to 11th between Chestnut and Pine Streets is fondly known as the Gayborhood. You’ll find loads of trendy, gay-friendly bars here, and everyone’s welcome.
The Industry
A casually hip corner bar and restaurant, The Industry has a great craft beer selection and a simple menu featuring gourmet style burgers and tasty bar snacks. The wooden plank walls and ceiling, and factory light fittings give the place an edgy, urban feel.
The Industry, 1401 East Moyamensing Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19147
215-271-9500
Hop Sing Laundromat
Step through the unmarked entrance in Chinatown and you will find yourself in a classy cocktail bar. Dark red tones and rich fabrics lend the place a decadent, Oriental feel. At Hop Sing Laundromat, the cocktails are a symphony of perfectly balanced flavors. Such divine artistry at the bar and top shelf liquor does – naturally – come at a price. You’ll need to be wearing the right kit to be let in though, no sneakers, shorts or t-shirts are allowed.
Hop Sing Laundromat, 1029 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Charlie was a sinner
“Small plates and strong drinks” are the order of the day at Charlie was a sinner, a hip vegan bar that’s all dark indigo shades, polished mahogany and candlelight. A sultry, elegant place to go for a late night drink.
Charlie was a sinner, 131 South 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
267 758 5372
Jazz nights
Philadelphia’s great jazz tradition is still alive and kicking, and there are several places you can catch some live jazz of an evening.
Chris’ Jazz Café
An upscale lounge bar and Philly’s top spot for live jazz, Chris’ Jazz Café has performances six nights a week. You can have cocktails or a full dinner while watching the show. Over the years this iconic jazz club has seen many jazz legends performing, from Jimmy Bruno to Pat Martino.
Chris’ Jazz Café, 1421 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA 19110, United States
215 568 3131
Bob & Barbara’s Lounge
The home of the citywide special – a can of PBR and a shot of Jim Beam – Bob & Barbara’s is a proper dive bar, with no cover charge. On Fridays and Saturdays there’s live jazz, or “liquor drinking music”, as the band like to call it. The place has been going since 1969, with a drag show on Thursday and an energy that brings in a mix of regulars and trendy young things.
Bob & Barbara’s Lounge, 1509 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146
215 545 4511
http://www.bobandbarbaras.com/
Performing arts
A great classical music tradition puts Philadelphia in the spotlight, thanks to world class venues such as the Kimmel Center. Top international musicians and home-grown talent perform here as part of the institution’s prestigious program. You could catch an opera or ballet here, or perhaps a concert from the Philadelphia Orchestra.
Kimmel Center, 300 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102
215-670-2300
Section 9
Philadelphia Travel Tips
Historic and crammed with culture, Philadelphia is a cosmopolitan and upbeat city that’s great to visit at any time of year. There’s always plenty going on, from food festivals to exhibitions so check what’s happening when you’re in town.
Best time to travel
Philadelphia is most pleasant in springtime, when you can enjoy the warm sunshine and cherry blossom in Fairmount Park. From March to May is an ideal time to visit. The summer’s best avoided as it’s hot and humid, with temperatures up to 100 Fahrenheit, and the city’s main attractions are most crowded at this time. However, September to October is a good time to visit, as temperatures are pleasant and the leaves turn a stunning gold in Rittenhouse Square and all around the city. Winters are cold and often bring snowstorms. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, you’ll find handmade decorations and artisan gifts at Love Park’s Christmas Market.
Not to miss
You’ll want to take a look at the iconic Liberty Bell, which has been a symbol of American independence for almost 200 years. The monuments in Old City witnessed several very important chapters of American history being written. Stand in Independence Hall and imagine Benjamin Franklin and the Founding Fathers drafting the Declaration of Independence. The city’s parks are also particular highlight, whatever the season, especially Fairmount Park with its cherry trees and winding paths along the river banks.
Getting around
The compact size of Philadelphia’s Center City makes it easily navigable on foot. The center is built to a simple grid system between the two rivers, and the five leafy squares offer the perfect place to stop and take your bearings. The city has an efficient subway, bus, trolley and suburban train system making it easy to explore the suburbs. There’s a direct train line from the airport to the city center, taking around 25 minutes. You can also find taxis throughout the city.
Cuisine
Philadelphia is most famous for its “cheesesteak”, a fresh roll filled with slivers of grilled beef and cheese, with or without fried onions and condiments. It’s served in markets and cafes all around the city, and all Philadelphians have their own opinion of where to find the “best” cheesesteak. However, the city is much more than its most famous sandwich. Philadelphia is in the throes of a culinary Renaissance that promotes a return to seasonal, farm fresh ingredients and innovative ideas. You’ll find some truly original and excellent restaurants run by the city’s hottest chefs.
Customs and etiquette
In Philadelphia customs and etiquette are generally the same as for the rest of the United States. You will be expected to leave a tip of 15-20% in restaurants and bars, this is not usually included on the bill unless you are in a large group. The sales tax is not included in the menu price but will appear on the bill. It’s also customary to tip the housekeeper at your hotel around $2 per day, to be left at the end of your stay.
Fast facts
Population: 1.553 million
Spoken languages: English
Electrical: 120 V; 60 Hz
Currency: US dollars
Phone calling code: +1 215 / +1 267
Emergency number: 911
Camilla Artault 