Downtown Philadelphia in a Day
Philadelphia’s newest museum - Calder Gardens, featuring Alexander Calder sculptures
If you’re on the east coast and in Philly for a short trip or work meeting, there’s a lot to do if you can add on just a few hours - take some additional time to explore downtown Philly’s mix of history, art, and great food, as I did recently. From iconic landmarks to cozy cafés, there’s plenty to do here even if you’re short on time. The downtown area is very walkable, which makes it easy to fit in a surprising amount between meetings and your train back home. Be sure to scroll to the bottom for the best recommendation - Philly’s newest and most exciting museum.
Where to stay
This was a day trip, but from previous occasions staying overnight, there are a couple of places worth recommending. Try The Notary, one of many Marriott properties downtown (or the Ritz Carlton if you want more luxury - both are in unique, historic buildings adjacent to City Hall).
Another option on Rittenhouse Square is The Rittenhouse.
Places to eat
Have breakfast at Parc, a popular cafe with inviting French bistro-style patio dining.
Enjoy a spectacular lunch at Vernick Fish in the Four Seasons. From appetizer to dessert, everything consumed here was fabulous.
Stop for caviar at Biederman’s Caviar - a pop up on the sidewalk adjacent to the Four Seasons.
Have an early dinner at Morimoto, with stylish decor and great sushi. Sit at the bar to see your dishes prepared and consider splurging on the chef’s omakase menu.
Things to do
Visit City Hall or just admire the architecture from afar.
City Hall (Second Empire style architecture) houses the Mayor’s office and city council
Take a stroll through Rittenhouse Square Park.
Stop and view the Philadelphia Holocaust Memorial Plaza, near both City Hall and the Notary Hotel (and on the way to lunch at Vernick Fish.)
Visit museums and libraries, described below in their own words:
Academy of Natural Sciences: “A leading natural history museum dedicated to understanding the natural world and inspiring everyone to care for it”
Philadelphia Free Library: “A place that advances literacy, guides learning, and inspires curiosity”
Franklin Institute: “Helping people understand science and technology in ways that empower them to make decisions about critical issues that affect their lives”
Philadelphia Museum of Art: “Art for All” (and home to the Rocky steps)
Rodin Museum: “One of the word’s greatest collections of works by Auguste Rodin in an elegant Beaux Arts-style building”
Eastern State Penitentiary: “America’s first penitentiary, advancing public understanding of the criminal justice system”
And, saving the best for last, visit Philadelphia’s newest and most unique museum, Calder Gardens, which celebrates the sculptures of Alexander Calder and features 250 plant varieties as well as magnificent modern spaces within the museum building designed by Herzog & de Meuron.
Calder statue at the entrance to the museum on the Calder Gardens grounds
