We The Youth Mural 22nd and Ellsworth Streets, South Philadelphia Philadelphia is a city full of intricate murals, all with their own story to tell; and the We The Youth mural is no exception. Formerly known as the Wood Turning Center, the four-decade-old center features temporary and permanent collections consisting of 1,200 wood art-related objects and a 25,000-item research library on the history of woodturning and woodworking. Go to the back door of the spa, press the buzzer, tell the person on the intercom that you are there to see a man about a . Hidden gem locations to check out in Philadelphia 1. It consists of upscale pub fare, in a cozy atmosphere, served by friendly staff. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor. Mount Moriah Cemetery An abandoned cemetery lies in ruins as the surrounding forest swallows it. There is an abundance of alternative terms we can use, rather than calling something a "hidden gem". For the last 15 years, Laura has covered US and international destinations for her site Travel Addicts and has written about travel-related topics for various publications and websites. I have been a Philadelphia resident for over 12 years now and grew up just an hour outside of . Our favorite thing about this spot, though, is the view. (The full trail covers some 60 miles, extending well outside the city.) Note that tickets are timed and must be purchased in advance. Beyond the books, there are other special items to see. I typically avoid the area under the presumption it's expensive and/or full of students (i.e. In addition to tours, PMG also offers special events including family programs, happy hours, and meditation workshops. (The lavender lollipops come on a plantable seed-laced stick! Where: Museum for Art in Wood, 141 N. 3rd Street. And as not to distract from the striking visuals, no plants are labeled. Where: Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion, 8046 Frankford Avenue. Once youre done creating your stone song, explore the rest of the sprawling 123-acre park, a dense forest for hikers, walkers, bikers and picnickers. 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. With free admission, the arboretum offers both daily staff-led and self-guided tours, as well as lectures, excursions, classes and wellness events. You can browse the pizza-related toys, books, ads, and other unusual items while munching on pizza topped with brisket, buffalo sauce, or just any other topping your heart desires. Find out more about the movie! Dont miss springs Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival. Any day near the Smith Memorial Arch in Fairmount Park, consider checking out the Whispering bench. Flowers, trees, and plants adorn this peaceful lushness amidst the concrete jungle. Across 35 acres of Delaware County, this botanical pleasure garden features more than 5,000 plants on the grounds of the century-old former Rosengarten manor. Even though this museum had a blockbuster opening in 2017, its still underrated. 20 Hidden Bars & Restaurants in Philadelphia Visit Philadelphia Uwishunu Article last updated on February 10, 2023 20 Hidden Bars & Restaurants in Philadelphia The top top-secret dining and drinking spots in Philadelphia and the Countryside. Grab a snack from the nearby food trucks and enjoy a few moments of calm. Cira Green / Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center / Chanticleer Sort by: Near Me 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. The Pavilion in the Trees is an observation deck and one of the most beautiful places in Philadelphia. Meet the Stars. 15. Literature lovers wont want to miss a stop at The Rosenbach, where you can see a re-creation of the poet Marianne Moores New York City living room, discover the personal letters of George Washington, and marvel over James Joyces Ulysses manuscript. The Japanese house, heavenly garden, and koi pond are the definition of a Philadelphia hidden gem. Watch popular content from the following creators: pao_philadelphia(@pao_philadelphia), pao_philadelphia(@pao_philadelphia), Shi(@ynrs_shi), bon_nappetit(@bon_nappetit), NatNat_215(@natnat_215), Alliah K. Cosmetics (@alliahk.cosmetics), Del_cartier(@del_cartier), Britta Grace(@britta_grace), pao_philadelphia(@pao . Attractions . This is the best kind of neighborhood restaurant: welcoming and friendly with an approachable menu. The cascading waterfall and singing birds almost make you forget about the busy city barely a block away. Instead, visitors are encouraged to engage in conversation with the gardeners themselves. The Hallmark Channel's newest original movie, "Hidden Gems," premieres on Saturday, June 4, at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central. Drexel's own Harris Steinberg, executive director of the Lindy Institute for Urban Innovation and distinguished professor of architecture and interiors in the Westphal College of For outdoor enthusiasts, there's the scenic Penn's Landing and the massive Fairmont Park. Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Plus, the nachos and appetites are great for sharing. If you are in the city with your partner, it is an ideal space for a date night experience. It began in the 1800s as a hunting lodge, built by Joseph Jefferson, a theater actor who played Rip Van Winkle many times. 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When here, make sure you try their sushi, oyster, and meat sandwiches. 10 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Philadelphia To adore and adorn all of them, here is our ultimate list of the Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Philadelphia. Shane is known for its creations like the Pennsylvania Dutch Christmas gift called Clear Toy Candy, its buttercreams based on a 100-year-old recipe, and the creations they make with the honey from the beehives they keep on their store roof. If you are an art lover or interested in the quirky stuff, Fountain Street Steps is something you must dig out. No reservation, thus walk in and grab yourself a seat. However, the artist Paul Santoleri beautified the entire space and brought it to life. If you stop in, dont miss the variety of drinking chocolates available in the caf in the back. Pull up a seat at the long bar, order some farro risotto and a glass of Italian red, and feel right at home. It offers Philadelphias most admirable skyline views, especially when the city is glowing during the night hours. Whats your favorite Philly secret? Today even though the hospital is not operating, the Pine Building is still anan functional space to explore. Behold: The only lighthouse 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. Rising through the trees is the eight-story (you read that right) Kids Castle, a massive wooden play structure with labyrinthine passages, twisty tube slides, drawbridges, overlooks and a kids elevator, all protected by a giant dragon. More than 3,000 lavender plants representing two species and multiple varieties grow on the facilitys sunny hillside. Where: John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, 8601 Lindbergh Boulevard. 'Freya Stark", Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. Or maybe youd prefer to buy two Philly hotel nights and get a third night for free? The museum is located just a few blocks from Independence Hall and is one of the areas hidden gems. Head back upstairs to take in the view overlooking Independence Hall that many rooms offer. Come hungry and ready to shop. Menu is similar to Basile's other restaurant (Old City's Radicchio Cafe), offering inexpensive . Is it a club for people who really, really care about cocktails? If you are a local Philly, you would have crossed by the John F. Collins Park once in your lifetime. Share your thoughts (and photos) in the comments below! Youll see everything from a jewelry chest that belonged to Charles II to an unusual clock made by Marie Antoinettes clock maker. The 18th-Century Garden is a faithful recreation of what a typical Philadelphia garden looked like a few hundred years ago, with well-kept paths, pergola, and the same kinds of flowers the founding fathers enjoyed, while the Magnolia Garden is peaceful at any time of year but is in full, colorful bloom in spring. Please try again later. hands out samples. It's a chance to explore hidden gems that you won't find anywhere else, from iconic parks to historic buildings, and artsy streets, and discover street art in unexpected places. High above the Schuylkill River in University City is Cira Green, located 12 stories up and 95 feet above the Cira Center South Garage. Created in 2015 by mosaic artist Beth Clevenstine and muralist Paul Santoleri, Water Under the Bridge (better known as the Fountain Street Steps) is an ornate urban staircase in Manayunk featuring 70 brightly colored glass steps creating the illusion of a mosaic waterfall. Where: Wharton Esherick Museum, 1520 Horse Shoe Trail, Malvern. Known as the hidden attraction in Philadelphia, the Fountain Street steps is at Cresson Street. Seek out Greater Philadelphias Hidden Bars & Restaurants for in-the-know dining and drinking. So, for the city adventurers like me, who are always on the hunt for new spots to explore, here are 5 hidden gems for photos in Philadelphia. 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. Youve snapped a selfie with the Liberty Bell, toured the hallowed halls where the Declaration of Independence was signed, and climbed Rockys steps up to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. You can explore all of that and the mansion. The space can be accessed via the garages pedestrian entrance on 30th Street just south of Chestnut Street. The showstopper here: the attractions ornate architecture, from Renaissance neoclassical corridors and staircases to Moorish, Egyptian and Knights Templar-inspired grand halls. The John F. Collins Park is a stunning landscape hidden somewhere in the bustling business district of Central city. 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. The super-friendly servers dont mind if you linger over your fair-trade coffee. Philadelphia doesn't run short of beautiful gardens. But the massive temple is, in fact, not a church, but the 150-year-old Grand Lodge headquarters of the Freemasons of Pennsylvania. This botanical garden is nestled in the heart of the University of . Philadelphia is one of the largest cities in the country, and there are so many parks, restaurants, streets and museums here that are worth exploring. Every Sunday, the market shed fills with vendors from around the region selling their wares in the building whose history dates to 1745. Freshman from all over are moving to Philadelphia for the first time. This pocket park just off 17th Street occupies a narrow space between Chestnut and Ranstead. Bartram's Garden is the oldest botanical garden in North America, and it's truly a hidden gem in Philadelphia. Named by Architectural Digest as one of the Worlds Most Beloved Independent Bookstores, the bookshop, located inside a two-century-old five-story stone barn, houses a collection of more 300,000 items crowded in every square inch of the space. 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. Cherry Street Pier Located on the Delaware River, Cherry Street Pier is a public space that offers events, concessions, flea markets, and classes. Once youve visited all the top sites, whats next? Bartram's Garden is the oldest botanical garden in North America, and it's truly a hidden gem in Philadelphia. The only way to fully experience Philly? If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Dutch Country Market is only open four days a week. 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. "This is a quaint restaurant in a hidden gem in Philadelphia. Art lovers and anyone in search of a fun time should keep in mind that the first Friday of every month means a lively neighborhood-wide party, with art galleries and shops throughout Old City staying open late so locals can stroll around drinking wine and checking out the latest creations. The Old City neighborhood is jam-packed with galleries, ranging from tiny, feisty upstarts to long-established landmarks. Below are 21 of Greater Philadelphias best-kept secret places to visit and explore that will make you a legit Philly insider. A land of enchantment for kids 5-12 awaits just south of Doylestown within the 108-acre Central Park. The Rodin Museum is the smallest museum on the parkway, and it is so underrated. Filled with brightly painted Queen Anne Victorian twins and homes with other unique features, the neighborhoods are a delight for architecture lovers. The Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM) in Market East exhibits modern art created from, on and with fabric and other related media. More places to explore this summer. Reviews on Hidden Gems in Philadelphia, PA - Hop Sing Laundromat, Creme Brulee Bistro & Cafe, Isot Mediterranean Cuisine, Heung Fa Chun Sweet House, Treble & Bass Bar, Xun Yu Si Kao, Siu Kee Duck House, Bartram's Garden, Perla, La Nonna Chef Mike Solomonov is a local expert who guides viewers on a food tour in the latest edition of Walk With T+L to discover some hidden gems across the city. Add to that an impressive list of world-famous pop culture spots from the Rocky Steps to LOVE Park to that glowing South Philly intersection thats home to cheesesteak bliss. The Headhouse Farmers Market is one of the best places around for produce, flowers, and artisanal food and is the best farmers market in the city. With high ceilings and over 1,000 square feet of space, the location offers everything you'll need for a professional shoot. The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park is an ecological oasis on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania. Though mind it, your mobile signal will not work here; thus, grab a map before to not get lost on the way. Heres where youll find the Italian Market, one of Americas oldest open-air markets. 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. Many of the native plants on the grounds owe their cultivation to Bartrams efforts. ", Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia. Its always fun to discover something new . But those celebrated Philly attractions are only half of the story. 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. Hidden Gem in Philadelphia. Read on as we take a deep dive into what awaits you on your weekend visit to Philadelphia. The menu sticks to homestyle items such as fried chicken and waffles . 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. Then book the new Visit Philly 3-Day Stay package. Known as the hidden attraction in Philadelphia, the Fountain Street steps is at Cresson Street. An Untapped Treasure. 1. . Mural Arts offers maps so you can take your own self-guided walking tour. 15 Philly Restaurants With Great Private Dining Rooms. Plus, the Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel has partnered with Cry Baby Pasta to give guests an exclusive experience: Hotel guests are given a key that entitles them to a specially created drink. Founded in 1977, the FWM is the only museum of its kind in the world and displays garments, textiles, sculptures, drawings, paintings and more. From top attractions to hidden gems, explore Philly and its suburbs. The colonial nods include modern portraits of Franklin and the on-premise restaurant and bar, Franklin Social and Franklin Social Lounge, are hidden neighborhood gems for contemporary American dishes and craft beers. It also has a garden patio that has a vibe that's hard to find elsewhere in Philly. Though if you are a traveler in Philly, you might not have even heard or seen the Dutch. Rocco's Sausage at Home Depot. This is truly a unique experience - from the rowdy crowd in the front of the restaurant to the quiet, reservation-only sushi bar hidden in the back. Museum of Ice Cream. What stands out here is the delicious high-quality meat they use. I lived in Philly all these years and never heard of these places. The bridge to nowhere is an anomaly located in the San Gabriel National Forest of Los Angeles. The cast is harmonious in providing a particularly smooth and fun experience in this luxurious pre-wedding atmosphere. "My favorite hidden gem in Philly is the Tap Room on 19th," Kevin McElroy of Philly Rock Radio. Fall is now in full swing. Visiting at lunchtime? Vietnam & Cambodia: 9-Night, Ultra-Small Group National Museum of American Jewish History, The 10 Best Museums in the World (and How to Skip the Lines), The 8 Best Spots for Shopping in Philadelphia, 22 Amazing Philadelphia Restaurants (That Arent Known for Cheesesteaks). A variety of events are frequently held at the house. Leo's Steak Shop. Book the Visit Philly Overnight Package and get free hotel parking and choose-your-own-adventure perks, including tickets to Disney100: The Exhibition at The Franklin Institute. Today the 70 stained glass mosaic steps were once littered and trashed. With towering 350-year-old live oaks, semi-tropical plants, and waterfront views, this place is nothing short of otherworldly. You can walk through the Japanese house and see all the rooms and murals on display. Fountain Street Steps Fountain Street Steps, though, are just steps, but the most gorgeous of all. Sign up for our free newsletter. Written by Carlyle Property Management on 2.03.23 . Family owned and operated since 1974, they proudly boast being the "Home of the 18 Incher" which is the size of their large steak. Escape the crowds at Center Citys Reading Terminal Market with a stroll down 9th Street in South Philly. Its got a prime location just across the street from Independence Mall, and yet it was surprisingly quiet during my recent weekend visit. The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum just north of Philadelphia International Airport protects the largest freshwater tidal marsh in Pennsylvania. Please also read our Privacy Notice and Terms of Use, which became effective December 20, 2019. 3.2. Philadelphia is definitely filled with treasures, but not all treasures are easily spotted. Down a narrow Center City alleyway, off the beaten path in South Philly or tucked away in the nearby countryside, Greater Philadelphia is home to scores of lesser-known attractions that even the hardiest of locals may not be familiar with. See our, 111 S Independence Mall E, Philadelphia, PA 19106, Walnut St & S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106. The menu (and the customer service) is consistent and consistently good. 19 days ago. 21 Date Ideas in Philly for a . James G. Kaskey Memorial Park. Turtle Rock Lighthouse was built in 1887 by Frank Thurwanger for $2,663 right next to the historic Boathouse Row. Is it a store? The quiet space, which has been here in various forms since 1897, is surrounded by research labs and buildings of the Biology Department. Indulge your sweet tooth at Shane Confectionery, which claims to be Americas oldest candy store. For the outdoor lovers of Los Angeles, this abandoned bridge is a local treasure. It is a pizzeria and the first pizza museum in the world. This list to help you get started in uncovering some of the citys best kept secrets. Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. (2023). Hence the name of the lovely pond at the parks centerthe BioPond. 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.