Looking for a leisurely family trip that’s chock full of history, public art and fun, all rolled up in an easy city location….welcome to Philadelphia! Whether it’s running the Rocky steps, devouring a cheesesteak, touring Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, or visiting a museum on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia offers up some exciting activities that are also homeschool worthy (but don’t tell the kids, they’ll just think it’s fun)! Top it all off with five-star luxury travel in a city that is easy to reach by car or plane. You can thank these Luxury Travel Consultants later, because right now we are off to The City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Running the “Rocky” steps (actually The Art Museum Steps) is considered a rite of passage when visiting Philadelphia and should not be missed. Simply hum the movie’s theme song until you reach the top to where the movie action actually happened. Pump your fists at the bigger than life sculpture, originally created for Rocky III, and then became a real-life monument of the fictional Rocky Balboa commemorated in bronze in 1980 and donated to the City of Philadelphia by actor Sylvester Stallone himself. Speaking of public art, check out LOVE Park where the famous pop art sculpture of the words LOVE is housed. This very popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, serves as the entrance to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The park’s real name is actually John F. Kennedy Plaza but received its nickname due to its famous LOVE sculpture.
The Benjamin Franklin Parkway, was modeled after the Avenue des Champs-Élysées in Paris and is sometimes called “Philadelphia’s most artistic mile”. Some of the city’s most important cultural institutions are housed here, including the Barnes Foundation, The Franklin Institute, The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, the Rodin Museum and the crowning Philadelphia Museum of Art. While historical attractions abound in Philly, Independence Hall holds monumental significance to the development of the nation. In 1776, the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence in the building’s Assembly Room. Today, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is the centerpiece of Independence National Historical Park which includes The Liberty Bell, whose inscription still rings loud and clear: “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof.” This cracked, but mighty bell was, and still is, a symbol to abolitionists, suffragists and other freedom-seekers around the world. Let WIT put together a look and learn tour for the family complete with docent and transportation. We can build an itinerary around whatever your kids are studying in school!
From Redding Market with stalls and vendors, to The Italian Market, the world's OLDEST and largest outdoor market, that has not changed in 100 years, no Philadelphia experience is complete without a nod to the city’s most iconic culinary offering: the Philly Cheesesteak. A mouthwatering crusty roll filled with delicately sautéed rib eye beef, and usually Cheez Whiz cheese on top. Making its official debut in 1930 when hot dog vendor Pat Olivieri decided to experiment with various ingredients, the city takes its famous edible tradition very seriously and can be found in sub shops, delis and even some pizzerias situated around the city. Don’t leave town without trying one of these!
Four Seasons Hotel
Right in the center of the city, are three acclaimed and highly recommended hotels: Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center, The Ritz Carlton Philadelphia and Loews Philadelphia Hotel. First, we visit the skyline’s tallest tower at Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center. Located atop a 60-story landmark building, the newly opened hotel’s infinity-edge pool is a must see! Discover restaurants by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and James Beard Award-winner Greg Vernick, and a 57th-floor spa sanctuary. Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia provides a superb experience with its 219 rooms, including 39 suites, all of which are located on the 48th to 56th floors for the most stunning views of the city. Here in the sky is the perfect landing pad as you easily explore the heart of the city just outside your door.
The Ritz-Carlton
Next up is the iconic city landmark, The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia. We are delighted about the newly renovated guest rooms, suites, and public spaces all inspired by the building’s banking history and the local cultural arts scene. Check out the extensive art collection within the hotel as it pays homage to the robust Philly art community. The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia Center City hotel features 301 guest rooms and suites with all the modern amenities that the savviest travelers would expect. We love booking our clients in the exclusive Ritz-Carlton Club floor, complete with a Club Lounge on the 30th floor, which features continuous culinary presentations throughout the day.
Loews Philadelphia Hotel
Our final destination is Loews Philadelphia Hotel, which is topped by the red neon letters PSFS, for the former tenant, Pennsylvania Savings Fund Society. This 1930s building was the country's first skyscraper designed in the ultramodern international style that was all the rage in the 1930’s. Now the 581 newly renovated guestrooms, including 12 suites and 54 club rooms are decked out with all the comforts one could want, including complimentary toys and games available for children. Don’t miss the 15,000-square-foot state-of-the-art fitness center for a sauna and a steam. From here you can plot your next adventure in charming Philly!
WIT has very close relationships with these properties, so we can extend exclusive perks and special amenities to our clients. Typically, you will receive complimentary breakfast for two daily, $100 or more resort credit to be utilized during your stay, room upgrade, either at the time of booking or arrival, and early check-in/late checkout, both subject to availability.
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