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Guide to Philadelphia, USA - Pennsylvania
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PhiladelphiaHome to some of the most patriotic American flag-wavers in the United States, Philadelphia is a testament to the founding fathers dreams. The city has definitely experienced renovations and innovations since its creation in the late-17^th to 18^th centuries. High-rises stand where colonial homes and marketplaces existed; transportation is no longer done horse-drawn carriage. But youre bound to come across nuances, and sometimes blatant imagery of the history that dominates however subtly the buildings and the people who inhabit them. Its museums and performing arts centers are among the best in the world, and no one can resist one of its famous cheese steaks! Philadelphia is a thriving metropolis with one foot in the door of the past, and a hand with a grasp on the future.
When to go:
Philadelphia experiences what most east-central US cities do every year. Oppressive heat in the summer, heavy snowfall during the winter, and warm, yet cool spring and autumn days. Youre most-likely to desire an escape from the searing sun and slushy roads, so youve got spring and autumn to choose from. The season to bring the least visitors out of the two is spring; youll get blooming flowers without bumping shoulders. But if you wish to see some of the after-effects of the extensive celebrations from July and the rest of the summer, visit during autumn. Youll probably see more American flags hanging off the side of buildings at this time than at any other (though Flags are known to protrude from numerous edifices throughout the year).
Getting there and around:
Philadelphia may not be the busiest airport in the country but it sure seems that a lot of arrivals are from international cities. Philadelphia International Airport has connections with a great number of European, Canadian, Asian, African, and Caribbean cities, though, of course, the majority of flights it takes in are from domestic locations. At arrival, youll be pleased with all the services the airport has to offer, especially the fact that the terminal is so close to the city (8km/5mi). The citys main transportation services are run by SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation System), and they include a few rail lines that connect directly to the airport. Riding the train will save you time (if your plane arrival coincides with the arrival of one of the trains, that
is) and money.
We advise using the SEPTA for travel throughout Philadelphia as well. You can reach almost any destination you wish on the underground and above-ground lines that run throughout the center and to suburban locales (however, the center of the city is close-knit, enough to allow a short walk to and from many of its attractions).
Attractions:
Independence National Historic Park is one of Philadelphias chief attractions. Here youll find the majority of the citys historic sites, dating back to the 18^th century. Its known as the birthplace of American government, and holds the Pennsylvania State House, which allows tours; the most notable room inside is the Assembly Room, where delegates from the original 13 colonies congregated to approve and sign the Declaration of Independence. The Liberty Bell and Museum are also located here.
Youll find the largest US Mint in the Old City of Philadelphia, where, among understated colonial-style housing exists the oldest known residential street in the country, Elfreths Alley. Some of the citys finest museums are also located in the Old City, including: The National Museum of American Jewish History and the African American Museum of Philadelphia.
The most captivating museum in the city, however, is the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Visit and youll see why it receives such high marks from those in the art-critic community.
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