Growing up in North Jersey it was expected that I would move to New York. Well sorry New York, Philadelphia has a lot more to offer. Philadelphia is my city. The main reason I love Philadelphia is that it is a large city with a small-town feel. At least once a week I find myself bumping into people I went to college or previously worked with--the six degrees of separation really feels like two. And while this city has a small-town feel it is impossible to be bored here. There is so much to do and so many different options for entertainment, dining and nightlife. Here are some reasons why I love this city:
Although the Philadelphia Museum of Art is best known for its "Rocky" steps, the walls within are adorned with some of the most wonderful treasures in all of antiquity. Admission is free the first Sunday of every month and certain Wednesdays are pay-what-you-wish. Just down Benjamin Franklin Parkway you will find the Rodin Museum as well as the Barnes Museum. The nearby Please Touch Museum is a hit with the kids, and the Franklin Institute is a hit with children of all ages. Independence Hall lies right in the heart of center city, just across the street from the building that houses the Liberty Bell. Get lost in the Magic Gardens on South Street, designed by local legend Isaiah Zagar, or wander through the cozy indie galleries of Old City.
One great thing about this city is that you don’t need to own a car to get around, although owning a car is quite common and not at all taboo. With the Broad Street Line and Market Frankford Line as well as several regional rail lines, commuting to work or simply traveling to dinner makes getting around town a breeze. Even if you are not close to regional rail stops or the subway Septa bus lines provide a comprehensive network completely encompassing the city.
Philadelphia is a foody's paradise and it's hard not to be a little spoiled because of it. We are much more than just cheesesteaks--this city is loaded with seemingly limitless options, from hole-in-in-the-wall BYOBs to grandiose steakhouses to avant garde food trucks. Philadelphia has tons of restaurants peddling flavors from all over the globe, and they don’t have to be expensive. Some of my favorite food is from a local corner restaurant in my neighborhood. Each neighborhood has its own unique spots for night life and mind-blowing cuisine.
Philadelphia is utterly obsessed with its sports teams. From the superbowl winning champs the Eagles to the stalwart Phillies and every sport in between Philadelphia is united by its love for our professional and college teams. The fanaticism and insane energy this city brings when their favorite team plays a game is unparalleled. It's crazy how the mood of an entire city can hinge on a playoff victory or defeat.
As mentioned previously it is impossible to be bored in Philly and part of that has to do with the constant barrage of special events all around the city. From annual neighborhood festivals (2nd Street Festival is my personal favorite) to First Fridays in Old City, to seasonal flea markets and farmers markets, there is always something to do for people of any kind of interest. It's easy to get to know your local shop owners and restauranteurs and support their craft.
Philadelphia is ideally situated on the Atlantic Seaboard, just an easy car- or train-ride away from New York, Baltimore and Washington, D.C. The beaches of New Jersey and Delaware, the slopes of Appalachia and the picturesque farmhouses of Lancaster County provide a refreshing getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. The suburbs of Philadelphia each have their own unique charms as well.
I often find myself strolling down a Revolutionary War-era cobblestone street to get to a brand new condo building and I have to stop to appreciate how lucky I am to live in a place with so much history and culture.
Each neighborhood in this city has its own charm, culture and unique identity. While Philadelphians take pride in the City of Brotherly Love, they are also very proud of the neighborhood (and even the block) in which they reside. It's easy to notice a dramatic change between neighborhoods simply by crossing the street!