Most people know that Philadelphia has been a huge player in our country almost since Europeans first set foot on the Continent. It was the setting for much of our earliest history, and today still serves as one of the prime historical locations to visit for those interested in United States history. Philly sometimes gets a bad reputation for its culture; however — a judgment that we just don't think is fair.
Lonely Planet just released its list of 2016's most unexpectedly exciting places to visit in the United States. Guess which city came in at number one? You've got it — PHILADELPHIA! Whether or not you are a fan of city life, you've gotta hand it to Philly. The city has a lot to offer in terms of history, art, events, architecture, food, and much more. Let's take a look in more depth...
First off, it's strikingly beautiful.
It's a striking city— from afar and up close.
Check out that skyline.
Rent prices and cost of living here aren't as sky-high as in many metropolitan areas, making it one of the more livable big cities in the Northeast.
The history is unparalleled elsewhere in our country.
You can't take more than a few steps without bumping into something historical, or onto something historical...
Speaking of Philly streets.
One block of Camac St., between Locust and Walnut Streets, is paved in Nicolson Pavement...meaning it's paved in wooden blocks. One of the weirdest and rarest forms of pavement, this method petered out quickly due to decay and a bad smell. This was back in the early 1900s, though one block of these wooden blocks remains in Philly. This is one of the last remaining examples of this type of road in the country. (Another example is on Roslyn St. in Pittsburgh.)
And Philadelphia doesn't neglect more recent history, either.
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial commemorates the American soldiers lost during the Vietnam War.
Big things happen here.
Who could forget Pope Francis' visit to Philadelphia this past summer?
It is home to some of the oldest and best restaurants in the United States.
You don't need me to tell you that Philadelphia has some of the best restaurants in the region. Pictured is McGillin's Olde Ale House, which is the oldest restaurant in the state of Pennsylvania.
Philadelphians value their art.
Like art? The Philadelphia Art Museum has one of the most expansive art collections in the country.
The Philadelphia Art Museum is far from your only art venue, however; be sure to check out the Barnes Foundation along with the other fantastic art museums and galleries in the city.
... Not only in galleries, but on the streets, as well.
Skip the museums altogether, if you don't want to go inside. Philadelphia has numerous public murals, including works by the likes of Keith Haring and more.
It is home to some of the most historic and also creepy locations.
Eastern State Penitentiary was the first prison of its kind in the Western hemisphere, and set the standard for solitary confinement in prisons nationwide (a trend that is slowly being overturned). Today, Eastern State Penitentiary stands as an ominous signifier of recent history...
Finally, who could forget the amazing Philadelphia Zoo?
It's one of the best zoos in the country— and a fantastic place to take your kids, friends, family, or a date.
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Philly is a city that you can't forget.
The City of Brotherly Love is one-of-a-kind. It's a place that everyone should visit.
I have to say that I agree with Lonely Planet's categorization of Philadelphia as a city worth visiting — and I'm proud to claim it as one of Pennsylvania's treasures. Do you have any interesting Philly stories?
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