hidden gems in philadelphia

Fall is now in full swing. It consists of upscale pub fare, in a cozy atmosphere, served by friendly staff. The Bok Bar is located at 800 Mifflin Street, open from Wednesday through Saturday from 5 pm to 11 pm. Now 27 vendors are turning out gourmet fried chicken, Filipino comfort food, hand-pinched crab dumplings, and Korean tacos. Tweet LinkedIn Like Share. But while they are, their freshly baked pies, cookies, cakes, smoothies, and more are sure to keep you coming back. You may have visited several bars in Philadelphia, but if you have still not been to Bok Bar, you are missing something. For outdoor enthusiasts, there's the scenic Penn's Landing and the massive Fairmont Park. Freshman from all over are moving to Philadelphia for the first time. Written by Carlyle Property Management on 2.03.23 . Bartram's Garden is the perfect place for an afternoon picnic. Giving exact addresses would help. This phenomenon is known to happen due to the parabola effect, known in physics. With towering 350-year-old live oaks, semi-tropical plants, and waterfront views, this place is nothing short of otherworldly. Arch Enemy is one of the best, a large contemporary space where brightly colored, eye-catching images practically jump off the walls. You'll never get bored with the many stores to explore, delicious food options, and stunning waterfront views. A Concealed Gem. Featuring nearly a dozen themed treehouses, three ziplines and a bevy of outdoor activities, West Chesters Treehouse World offers both relaxing play in the sun, as well as some (light) thrills. Where: Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, 148 N. 8th Street. Family owned and operated since 1974, they proudly boast being the "Home of the 18 Incher" which is the size of their large steak. Turtle Rock Lighthouse was built in 1887 by Frank Thurwanger for $2,663 right next to the historic Boathouse Row. hands out samples. There is an abundance of alternative terms we can use, rather than calling something a "hidden gem". This list to help you get started in uncovering some of the citys best kept secrets. We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our site, show personalized content and targeted ads, analyze site traffic, and understand where our audiences come from. Once youve toured, tried or tasted the Philly basics, theres a whole lot more for you to see and do. While admission is free, visits must be scheduled in advance through the museums website. The recently renovated Flame Gallery features a monumental, 21-foot glass sculpture by Dale Chihuly. The lush canopy of the trees will provide you some shade, where the peaceful silence will adorn your time uniquely. To adore and adorn all of them, here is our ultimate list of the Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Philadelphia. This park is one of the best places to relax on a warm afternoon, surrounded by plants and trees. Mount Moriah Cemetery An abandoned cemetery lies in ruins as the surrounding forest swallows it. It is located at 780-782 S 2nd Street though it is tough to identify. Where: Museum for Art in Wood, 141 N. 3rd Street. The house was built in Japan during the 1950s before it made the journey first to NYC and then to Philadelphia. Join the locals for a jog, walk, or bike ride along the Schuylkill River Trail, which follows the river for about 10 miles through Philadelphia, passing by the Museum of Art and the University of Pennsylvania along the way. Hidden gem locations to check out in Philadelphia 1. "It's a typical Philadelphia-styled corner bar that's not typical. Filled with brightly painted Queen Anne Victorian twins and homes with other unique features, the neighborhoods are a delight for architecture lovers. Hidden gem locations to check out in Philadelphia 1. Over the past decade or more, Philly has increasingly become a top destination for foodies. You can reach here nay from Tuesday through Saturday from 5 pm to 10 pm. The cascading waterfall and singing birds almost make you forget about the busy city barely a block away. Where: Kids Castle Central Park, 425 Wells Road, Doylestown. Spread throughout the amusement parks 14 acres: massive treehouses with various themes, from pirates and trains to an enchanted village and birthday cake. Several rooms are set up as they might have been when the Rosenbach brothers lived here. Shofuso Japanese House and Garden It consists of upscale pub fare, in a cozy atmosphere, served by friendly staff." Taproom on 19th is located at 2400 South 19th Street in South Philadelphia. Come hungry and ready to shop. Royal Boucherie somehow manages to be everything to everyone: a brasserie for the business lunch crowd, a welcoming bar for the late-night set in the neighborhood, a fine dining experience for those who love French-inflected cuisine, and its even got a garden for summer nights that demand champagne and oysters. What stands out here is the delicious high-quality meat they use. In the lead-up to the American Institute of Architects 2016 Conference hosted in Philadelphia, some of the city's prominent members are letting us in on their favorite places to visit. Life sciences and art students use the area as part of their studies and plenty of other people come to enjoy the turtles, koi, and variety of wildflowers. Weekend in Philadelphia The Secret Sights of Historic Philadelphia Theyre easily identifiable and never fail to make us smile because theyre always a surprise. The museum is located just a few blocks from Independence Hall and is one of the areas hidden gems. Located at the Parkway Central Library flagship branch on Logan Square, the collection includes ancient cuneiform tablets, medieval manuscripts, original Beatrix Potter artwork, one of Edgar Allan Poes first printed poems and even Grip, Charles Dickens taxidermied pet bird and the inspiration for Poes The Raven. You can walk through the Japanese house and see all the rooms and murals on display. Cant make it for a guided tour? 4 Hidden Gem Restaurants in Philadelphia As hard as it is to believe, the Philadelphia food scene has more than just cheesesteaks. Thats just one of many new things I learned at the National Museum of American Jewish History, which isnt hidden so much as hidden in plain sight. This advertising content was produced in collaboration between Vox Creative and our sponsor, without involvement from Vox Media editorial staff. Around since 2005, this cozy shop in the eclectic Head House District takes a curated approach to the books it stocks, relying more on staff picks than bestseller lists and hosting a packed calendar of readings that are always worth checking out. Enjoy :) Bella Vista. The people who work there are the stores best resource: Full of great suggestions, theyre able to figure out the book youre looking for from even the vaguest of descriptions. The super-friendly servers dont mind if you linger over your fair-trade coffee. New York 212.682.7300; . Housing more than 100,000 books and manuscripts some over 5,000 years old the Free Library of Philadelphia Rare Book Collection is one of the largest public library special collections in the nation. One particularly popular section is the Boardwalk, which continues the trail out over the river from Locust Street to South Street. Participate in an authentic chanoyu tea ceremony demonstration; tour the interior to learn about Japanese temple living, art and architecture in the 1600s; and feed the fish in the pond. Its got a prime location just across the street from Independence Mall, and yet it was surprisingly quiet during my recent weekend visit. In addition to tours, PMG also offers special events including family programs, happy hours, and meditation workshops. Hence the name of the lovely pond at the parks centerthe BioPond. "My favorite hidden gem in Philly is the Tap Room on 19th," Kevin McElroy of Philly Rock Radio. The place is operating from Wednesday through Sunday from 8 am to 2 pm. If you didnt know to look for it, it would be very easy to pass by this nearly secret spot. Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel writer who has lived and worked in and around Philadelphia for nearly 20 years. drinker's), but I have some time to kill before a show at World Cafe Live. I've been digging a few places recently: Fette Sau for their happy hour BBQ offerings, I agree with the suggestion for Cosmi's sandwiches (seeded rolls are bomb), La Rosa on South Broad has some excellent pizza, Rib Rack at Bustleton/Tyson has my all-time favorite ribs, Royal Tavern IS dope, Fountain Porter's burger is a bit disappointing (IMHO) but the beer selection is high-level, I like . The cast is harmonious in providing a particularly smooth and fun experience in this luxurious pre-wedding atmosphere. 52 Fun Things to Do in Philadelphia. No one ever said Philadelphia didnt have enough Italian restaurants, so it would be easy to pass on Cry Baby but that would be a mistake. Thousands of murals grace the walls and buildings of Philadelphia thanks to the Mural Arts program. More from the Movie. 2023 Smarter Travel Media LLC. Where: Free Library of Philadelphia Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine Street. Visitors to the estate can enjoy the grounds and learn about the history of the house and the seven generations of the Chew family that lived here. In a city full of famous museums, there's one that is still hidden from the tourist trail - and it's the city's tastiest. For some snacks, do try their mixture of tasty Mexican food. The space can be accessed via the garages pedestrian entrance on 30th Street just south of Chestnut Street. Many of these were created as a part of Mural Arts Philadelphia, which works with artists and local communities to produce up to 100 public art projects each year. We spoke about Jaylen Johnson's game in a recent underclassmen post profiling new names to our 2025 rankings. This charming community is full of independent neighborhood haunts you need to check out. The top top-secret dining and drinking spots in Philadelphia and the Countryside Ahmed Alsoudani, in collaboration with The Fabric Workshop and Museum, I consent to receive email communications from visitphilly.com and agree to Visit Philadelphias, Photo courtesy Wise Owl Media for the Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion, Photo courtesy Wagner Free Institute of Science, Photo by Carlos Avendao for The Fabric Workshop & Museum, Photo by G. Widman for Visit Philadelphia, Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia, Photo courtesy Kids Castle Central Park. 151 S. 24th St., 215-496-9222. Stroll the acres of plants, trees, and gardens, and check out the historic home. This 1950s house was built in Japan, put on display at MoMA in New York City, then moved to Philadelphia to be a permanent tribute to Japanese culture. From top attractions to hidden gems, explore Philly and its suburbs. The castle is the centerpiece of the 30,000-square-foot Kids Castle Central Park playground, a year-round playscape spread out across four kingdoms with treehouses, swings, interactive games, plastic rock walls, a pirate ship and more. Its all those things and more: a space where you can pick up a julep strainer, some sarsaparilla bitters, and a bottle of damson gin before settling in at the copper bar in the back to sample the latest creations from the ever-increasing number of local distilleries. Dont miss springs Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival. By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. ), made with Bluecoat Gin, luxardo maraschino, creme de violette, and lemon juice. Where: Wharton Esherick Museum, 1520 Horse Shoe Trail, Malvern. Your email address will not be published. The Rodin Museum is the smallest museum on the parkway, and it is so underrated. Skip to content. Is it a bar? Leo's Steak Shop. Well, now's the time to plan a trip - just plan to wait if you're stopping by for weekend brunch. Occasional pop-up events turn the terrace into a beer garden with one of the best atmospheres in the city. I lived in Philly all these years and never heard of these places. The Pavilion is here since 1993, and since then, several wanders have made their way searching for this space. Though if you are new to the city, this lesser-known gem might not have introduced itself to you. With high ceilings and over 1,000 square feet of space, the location offers everything you'll need for a professional shoot. RATED. From the deck, you can see Independence Mall, which includes many of the most famous places in Old CityIndependence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Presidents House. If youre looking to uncover off the beaten path (but beloved by locals) places in a city, you should probably go straight to the source. ", Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia. In the decades since then, Fosters Main Street Tavern has become a popular local hangout for a good, affordable meal, some live music, and (of course) drinks in Beckley, West Virginia. Locals of Pennsport often choose it as their go-to brunch spot, especially for the cheesesteak hash. On Swarthmore Colleges gorgeous campus lies Scott Arboretum, a sprawling century-old, 425-acre botanic garden made up of rolling hills, flowering trees, walking trails, 4,000 plant varieties, a biostream, a pinetum (arboretum for conifers), 200 rose varieties and more. I typically avoid the area under the presumption it's expensive and/or full of students (i.e. Where: Chanticleer, 786 Church Road, Wayne. There's a reason that Philadelphia is listed among the myriad of "best cities to live" and "most interesting places to visit" lists. There are gardens, an arboretum, feed-friendly goats, native wildlife habitats, and a nature center. Founded in 1977, the FWM is the only museum of its kind in the world and displays garments, textiles, sculptures, drawings, paintings and more. This pocket park just off 17th Street occupies a narrow space between Chestnut and Ranstead. With 2 days in Philadelphia, you can visit some of the most important historical sights in the country, watch a professional sports game, peruse public markets, check out the excellent museums, go bar-hopping or stuff your face with cheesesteaks! For the outdoor lovers of Los Angeles, this abandoned bridge is a local treasure. The big attractions near the hotel, like the Liberty Bell and Independence Mall, are all technically part of Independence National Historical Park, although they look like theyre just part of the cityscape. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. It is the most discrete and inconspicuous spot in the city that will send you in confusion and shock. Its always fun to discover something new . Descriptions around the property identify the plants and explain those that had medicinal properties or other uses in the colonies, making a visit here both refreshing and a bit of a history lesson for those who are interested. The Hallmark Channel's newest original movie, "Hidden Gems," premieres on Saturday, June 4, at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central. The John F. Collins Park is a stunning landscape hidden somewhere in the bustling business district of Central city. It is notedly one of the largest cities in America and so teams with the top-rated attraction. Where: Fort Mifflin, 6400 Hog Island Road. Visiting at lunchtime? While you are here, sit at one end of the bench and let your companion sit at the other end. Grab a snack from the nearby food trucks and enjoy a few moments of calm. Tucked away in Philadelphias massive Fairmount Park is Shofuso, a 17th-century-style Japanese house that was built in Nagoya in 1953, exhibited at New York Citys Museum of Modern Art, and then moved to Philadelphia in 1957. Visitors can wander the River Trail and enjoy wildflowers, plants, and trees whose history stretches back centuries. Address: 5400 Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 12. Your email address will not be published. Zagar began working on the site in 1991, and it opened to the public in 2008. This urban enclave for outdoor recreation features 10 miles of low-lying trails for hiking and biking, as well as four-and-a-half miles of tidal creek (accessible via boat ramps) for canoeing, kayaking and fishing access. Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Definitely don't pass up on their baked goods . . A section of overgrown, unused rail lines has been revitalized into Rail Park. Bartenders at Randstad are one of the best in Philly, and there is no match to their cocktail talent. Stars of "Hidden Gems," Hunter King and Beau Mirchoff answer questions about their new movie. One of our favorite things about driving around the city (especially in South Philly) is finding the unexpected Zagar mosaics. This area is rich in maritime history and remains home to several piers and structures originating from the city . jason wolfe. February 8, 2022. Flowers, trees, and plants adorn this peaceful lushness amidst the concrete jungle. 15. Today the 70 stained glass mosaic steps were once littered and trashed. 'Freya Stark", Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. The Old City neighborhood is jam-packed with galleries, ranging from tiny, feisty upstarts to long-established landmarks. It is our mission to change the way the world perceives and utilizes our resources and inspire the discovery of life's hidden gems. She loves eating her way across the city, cheering on the Union, and uncovering the unique things that make the Philadelphia metro area special. Outside, there is ample space to explore the sections of the garden and the pond. The Japanese house, heavenly garden, and koi pond are the definition of a Philadelphia hidden gem. This hidden gem of a film is all you need in order to vicariously enjoy a sweet little Hawaiian vacation. Marrakesh 716 Moroccan $$Society Hill "We found the entrance which is sort of hidden and you have to use the knocker to be let it." more Outdoor seating Takeout 4. Indulge your sweet tooth at Shane Confectionery, which claims to be Americas oldest candy store. They showcase ancient statues, artwork, and artifacts collected from around the world. Dutch Country Market is only open four days a week. For more of Philadelphias hidden gems, check out our list of The 7 Wackiest Restaurants In Philadelphia Where Dining Is A Blast. Opened in 1992, the Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion is one of the largest insect museums in the nation. By choosing I Accept, you consent to our use of cookies and other tracking technologies. I'll be on bike so most of west Philly is fair game, but I'm already familiar with the offerings on Baltimore. Cherry Street Pier. Most menu items cost under $10. Surrounded by lavish murals and artistic plants like wild snapdragon, purple iris and lavender Polonia, the Mural Arts-funded installation rises at the intersection of Fountain and Umbria streets and continues across the Manayunk Canal Towpath and Schuylkill River Trail on to Venice Island. Whereas there are lots of well-known points of interest to take a look at just like the Liberty Bell, Independence Corridor, and the LOVE statue, there are additionally many lesser-known hidden [] This vast seven-acre field of hulking round stones in the middle of Bucks Countys Ringing Rocks County Park holds quite the secret. Dishes like painstakingly hand-made pastas encasing pork stuffing or enhancing rich rag and bite-sized meatballs atop creamy ricotta are elevated by a cocktail list that rivals those of the citys best bars. Where: Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center, Lansdowne Drive & Horticultural Drive. Isgro Pastries. We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Even though this museum had a blockbuster opening in 2017, its still underrated. Check out four of my favorites! document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Receive the latest articles, features, news, discounts, and more straight to your inbox. Hidden in plain sight, this spot is a local fave thanks to its homey feel and laid-back vibe, complete with exposed brick walls filled with colorful work from local artists. The city is teeming with parks and gardens, unique spaces, and other hidden attractions that even long-time residents may not know. Sign up for our free newsletter. Vietnamese, Cafe. Stay over. You can take off your shoes and walk through the house to appreciate the murals, created by contemporary Japanese artist Hiroshi Senju. The exhibits are arranged chronologically and are truly impressive, from the tent George Washington used as his headquarters for much of the war to child-sized slave shackles. I should know, I lived there for seven years and am very much a foodie myself. Beautiful John F. Collins Park is located on Chestnut Street, but it's easy to miss! The dishes are innovative delicious and." more Outdoor seating Delivery Takeout 3. The quiet space, which has been here in various forms since 1897, is surrounded by research labs and buildings of the Biology Department. The gallery doesnt hit the auction circuit or borrow from private collectors to bolster its display, instead offering makers the opportunity to create on-site. The concept of an all-day caf is ingenious, but there arent a whole lot of places where you can feel as comfortable with a cappuccino and sourdough waffles at 7:30 a.m. as you can with a glass of natural wine at 4 oclock or a romantic dinner of handmade pappardelle with spiced crab at 8 p.m. High Street on Market is that place, though: perfect for dates, lazy lunches, and days when you just want an (exquisitely made) sticky bun. Theres even a small animal farm on-site. Fairmount Park is full of hidden gems, and the Shofuso House is one of my favorites. Once threatened with demolition to make way for a cross-town highway, South Street has since become one of Philadelphias hippest districts, thanks in large part to visionaries like Isaiah Zagarthe artist behind Philadelphias Magic Gardens. Ornate gates mark the entrance to the charming John F. Collins Park. But thanks to a major overhaul in 2018, the food court has become a food hall. The kid has a ton of room to grow underneath his pads, a crucial step forward needs to be made in that area, he's young. Considered "The Metropolis of Brotherly Love," Philadelphia, PA is greatest identified for its wealthy historical past, world-famous cheesesteaks, and vibrant artwork and music tradition. As you wander around Philadelphia, its not uncommon to turn a corner and happen upon a colorful mural wall overlooking a parking lot or community garden. 21 Date Ideas in Philly for a . There is a broad range of options for the tours, including exploring different themes and neighborhoods around the city. El Jarocho Taqueria, 1138 S 13th St Philadelphia, PA 19147 215-463-2020. It is basically a cocktail bar, located only 3 minutes from the mutter museum. (The full trail covers some 60 miles, extending well outside the city.) From top attractions to hidden gems, explore Philly and its suburbs. ", Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world. Dating back to 1771, Fort Mifflin is the oldest active military facility in the nation and Americas only operating base predating the Declaration of Independence. The Park is one of the best places to visit in the locality, but one might simply walk away due to its hidden setting. Added in 2022: two inclusive play areas for children with a variety of abilities. Though whatever the reasons are, it is an experience on its own. A Secret Treasure. Bartrams Garden is one of the best places in the city to enjoy the outdoors. And its good really good. If you are a local Philly, you would have crossed by the John F. Collins Park once in your lifetime. SUMMER NIGHTS 2022 MOVIES . The menu of breakfast and lunch (it opens at 7 a.m. for those getting an early start on the day) is made up of well-priced sandwiches (BLT, chicken salad, egg salad), wraps, and breakfast dishes, and there are plenty of vegan and gluten-free options, including tempeh bacon.