PretzelsDirect.com: The Original Philly Soft Pretzel

If you've lived in or traveled through the Philadelphia area, you know that we're serious about our pretzels. So much so that Pennsylvanian's consume 12 times the national average of ecach year. Pretzel baking has been in our blood since German settlers brought this tradition when settling here in the 1700's.

At PretzelsDirect.com, our soft pretzels are baked fresh daily in the Italian Market, the heart of South Philly. They are fresh packed after cooling and shipped direct to your door. Now no matter where you are in the country you can enjoy Philadelphia Soft Pretzels. Whether you're craving a snack, heading to a tailgate, or looking to send a gift to a business associate, Pretzels Direct has the perfect gift for you!

PretzelsDirect.com

Pat's vs Geno's: Philly Cheesesteak War!

Come to South Philly and experience the real deal!

Convention Center District

A beautiful centerpiece to this district in the heart of Center City, the state-of-the-art Pennsylvania Convention Center (PCC) spans six city blocks - and is still growing. When the current PCC expansion project is completed in 2010, the downtown facility will boast the largest convention center ballroom on the East Coast, the largest contiguous exhibit space in the Northeast, and 1 million square feet of saleable space for conventions, trade shows, and meetings from around the world.

Beyond its role as a meeting space, the Convention Center is a cultural destination unto itself, with an impressive $2 million contemporary art collection.

Outside of the PCC, convention attendees, tourists, and locals all love this district for its infinite world of shopping destinations, where anyone can take advantage of Philadelphia's TAX-FREE shopping on clothing and shoes. On one end, the Convention Center is neighbored by The Gallery at Market East, the country's largest downtown shopping complex. On the other end, at 13th and Market streets, Macy's offers the latest in fashion and merchandise - as well as a three-story tall organ and annual holiday light show.

Delicious food can be found all around the Convention Center. Just across the street, Reading Terminal Market - a restored Victorian train shed - houses the oldest continuous farmers market in North America, featuring authentic Philadelphia cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, Amish specialties, spices, flowers, fresh fish, and much more. Dining destinations like Maggiano's Little Italy, Hard Rock Café, The Field House, The Melting Pot, and SoleFood are all only one block away. And Chinatown, offering more than 50 authentic Asian restaurants, is within a short walking distance.

This bustling part of Center City is also conveniently close to the major theaters, museums, and concert halls on the Avenue of the Arts.

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McGillin’s Olde Ale House: Oldest Pub in Philadelphia

Not just your ordinary bar.

McGillin’s Olde Ale House threw open its doors the year Lincoln was elected president. That’s shortly after the Liberty Bell cracked and long before ground was broken for Philadelphia City Hall.

The beer taps have been flowing since 1860 -- making it the oldest continuously operating tavern in Philadelphia. It has outlasted Strawbridge’s, the Civil War and even Prohibition.

McGillin’s has become just like the fictional “Cheers”- with camaraderie, good food at a reasonable price and the best selection of local & regional beers on tap. McGillin's is Philadelphia's best Irish pub.

Location: It is located on Drury Street, an alley connecting 13th Street and South Juniper Street, between Chestnut Street and Sansom Street

South Philadelphia

Start walking south from Center City and within minutes you will notice the transformation as the imposing skyscrapers become charming clapboard houses and small local stores as you enter South Philadelphia.

Modest, longstanding family-owned eateries tell the neighborhood's story as the landing sport for centuries of immigrants. A wide selection of authentic restaurants, pubs, boutiques, theaters, and galleries flourish here thanks to South Philadelphia's large Italian, Irish, and Mexican populations.

This former shipbuilding port is one of the city's oldest areas. It has served as home for some celebrities like Chubby Checker, Kenny Gamble, and Frankie Avalon. It is still home to the Italian Market, Mummers, Melrose Diner, and a bocce league.

The Italian Market in Bella Vista remains the heart of the neighborhood even today. Order up some gourmet cheeses, octopus, and imported olives at the five-block, open-air market.

If you're in the mood for a sit-down meal, Dante & Luigi’s, Ralph’s Italian Restaurant, Tiramisu Ristorante Italiano, Vesuvio Restaurant & Bar, and Villa di Roma are just a few of the infinite Italian dining establishments.

South Philadelphia is home to the city's best-known cheesesteak rivals: Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks - both on the corner of Passyunk Avenue and 9th Street, and renowned for the sandwich that bears Philadelphia’s name. Further south, the Melrose Diner has served customers for more than 70 years, and don’t forget about Ms. Tootsie’s Restaurant Bar Lounge featuring southern cuisine.

Between bites there is much to do and see. On South 2nd Street, the Mummers Museum depicts the history of this eclectic group of elaborately costumed men and women, famous for their distinct strut down Broad Street during the annual New Year’s Day Parade.

Along the nearby waterfront, visit Fort Mifflin on the Delaware River to see the site of the greatest bombardment of the American Revolution and the oldest fortification in continuous use in the United States. Pennsylvania’s oldest church, Gloria Dei, with over 300 years of history, is also located in South Philadelphia.

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Rittenhouse Square District

The Scene: At the center of this posh neighborhood is a popular park called Rittenhouse Square, complete with a Parisian-style plaza and fountains.

Stroll Walnut Street, a.k.a. Rittenhouse Row, for some of the world's most famous retailers, high-end boutiques, and lively outdoor cafes.

A bustling business center by day, the district is a hotspot for elegant restaurants and cutting-edge cultural nightlife.

It is both an exciting area to visit and stay in, offering accommodations ranging from historic landmarks, five-diamond winners, bed and breakfasts, business hotels, and other luxurious properties.

The Big Thing: From free summer concerts to a dazzling Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony in December, Rittenhouse Square holds a variety of different events.

Rittenhouse is also the perfect neighborhood for indulgence, whether it's an extravagant European spa treatment or a candlelit dinner and night at the opera.

The district encompasses the southern stretch of the Avenue of the Arts where the glass-roof Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts shines as the stage for several performing arts groups.

Don't miss Center City Arts and Culture Week in October when top cultural organizations offer half-price tickets to hit shows.

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Philadelphia Flights and Travel Guide

When to Fly to Philadelphia

Peak Season:
Spring and fall are the best times to book flights to Philadelphia . Be aware, however, that Philadelphia is home to 300,000 students and 80 regional colleges and universities so plan your trip to avoid the fall arrival and spring exodus of all those students.

Off Peak Season
Winter is cold in Philadelphia, but if you can brave the weather you're likely to find cheap flights to Philadelphia and reduced hotel rates.

Getting Downtown Philadelphia
The airport is easily accessible from I-76, I-95, and I-476. The Ground Transportation System at the Airport provides taxicab ($28.50 Flat Fee to Center City), car rentals , shuttle-bus (Lady Liberty - $10 to Center City), limousine, and van operations. In addition, the Airport also offers SEPTA bus and regional rail service to Downtown Philadelphia and points in between.

Information phones are available at all baggage claim areas for each of the on-airport car rental agencies.

Getting Around Philadelphia
The Philly Phlash, a gas-engine trolley, provides quick and easy transportation between the Center City and most downtown hotels in Philadelphia. It is one of the best ways to get around to the 27 key locations including the Independence Visitor Center, Penn's Landing, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Phlash service runs every 12 minutes daily and cost $2 each time you board (children under 6 always ride free and seniors, 65 and over, ride free).

Phlash provides direct connections to all SEPTA and PATCO rail lines.

Where to stay:
Philadelphia has it all: history, diversity, and hidden beauty. No matter where you stay in Philadelphia, there's a hotel that's perfect for you. Search for Philadelphia hotels in Fairmount and South Street, Center City or Old City, or in South Philadelphia. The options are endless.

*Prices for taxi and shuttle service to Center City are subject to change without notice.

Mural Tours @ Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

"Art is the center of the Real World"

Isaiah Zagar is an award-winning mosaic mural artist whose work can be found on over 100 public walls throughout the city of Philadelphia and around the world.

Zagar's artwork is heavily influenced by his travels and the personal connections he has made with international folk and visionary artists.

Zagar's work is included in the permanent collections of numerous art institutions, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art, and the Hirshhorn Museum in Washington, D.C., and has been featured in solo exhibitions throughout the Philadelphia area.

Learn more at Philadelphia Magic Gardens

University City District: Not just your average neighborhood

A college town and residential neighborhood blended together, University City is a unique hybrid situated just minutes from City Hall and the heart of Center City.

True to the district's name, University City serves as a hub for education and research in Philadelphia. The University of Pennsylvania - started by Philadelphia's favorite founding father, Benjamin Franklin, in 1740 - is the geographic heart for a community of higher education, surrounded by Drexel University, the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, and Lincoln University Plaza. Meanwhile, in the western part of the district, you'll find streets lined with residential Victorian homes built at the turn of the 20th century, as well as a series of parks.

With so many universities, as well as the University City Science Center and its 2 million square-feet of real estate, it is no surprise that the district claims some of the world's leading research facilities in a wide range of fields. University City is also home to two of our nation's best medical institutions - the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

University City has some of Philadelphia's most intriguing cultural attractions. The University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (32nd and South) holds artifacts uncovered from around the world, including Egyptian mummies and a 12-ton sphinx. On the other side of Penn's campus is the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts (36th and Walnut) and the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA, at 36th and Sansom). Penn's International House also provides a venue for cultural events all year-round, even holding its own movie theater to showcase films from around the world.

A district with diverse cultures, University City touts dining destinations with a wide range of flavors and atmospheres. By the Schuylkill River, World Café Live (30th and Walnut) provides a stage for live musical performances by emerging and established talent every evening, and two floors of food and drinks. Fine dining options fill the heart of University City with White Dog Café (34th and Sansom), Las Tarascas en Zocalo (36th and Lancaster), and Steven Starr's Pod (36th and Sansom) - an Asian fusion restaurant with a sushi bar conveyor belt and chic décor. For a lower price, try New Delhi for Indian food, Delilah's and Café 3801 for American comfort food, and plenty of spots for Ethiopian and other African cuisines.

Manayunk

The Scene: Derived from the Lenape Indian phrase "where we go to drink," this riverside neighborhood grew up as a booming industrial district. The mill town has been reinvented as a trendy, historic neighborhood and a popular shopping and nightlife spot. Signs of English, Irish, German, Italian, and Polish roots are served up in the form of international cuisine and one-of-a-kind shops.

The Big Thing: More than 30 restaurants line Main Street, sharing sidewalks with approximately 20 home wares and furniture shops. The Manayunk Brewery, neighborhood taverns, and al fresco dining are very popular. Warmer months welcome a bustling happy hour scene and most shops and restaurants offer special deals and stay open late on Thursdays. Manayunk is also a prime recreation destination, offering kayak tours and hiking, along with a challenging hilly street called the “Manayunk Wall” for cyclists to test their stamina.

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City Food Tours Philadelphia - Don't Just See the City... TASTE it!

There’s more to Philly than its rich history. City Food Tours takes you beyond the Liberty Bell with a fun and unique way to experience the city!

All 4 of our fun-filled tours consist of:

-An entertaining Tour director sharing the inside scoop on how the tasted foods are made and how they have shaped history.

-Special pre-arranged tastings exclusive to our groups.

-A behind-the-scenes view of the industry through the eyes of proprietors and chefs, and the opportunity to ask any questions.

-Handy tips about what to look for in truly great food.

Less than 30 minutes of walking, making them great for people of all abilities!

2219 Locust St.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: (215) 360-1996
Fax: (530) 660-1996
www.cityfoodtours.com

AudioWalk & Tour of Historic Philadelphia

Visitors will enjoy a stroll through Historic Philadelphia at their own pace, away from the crowds. A lightweight CD player can be rented to hear a guide paint a colorful portrait of life in 18th-century Philadelphia.

To rent this 72-minute CD, with a convenient lightweight cd player and earphone(s), visit these convenient locations. Rental cost is $10 for one person, $14 for two, $16for three, and $20 for four people. All CD players rented must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older.

Independence Visitor Center
6th and Market Streets
Open 8:30am to 5pm daily.
Last rental at 2pm
Call 215-965-7676

Lights of Liberty
6th and Chestnut Streets
Open 11am to 5pm.
Last rental at 2pm
Closed Mondays
Call 215-LIBERTY (215-542-3789)

or visit www.ushistory.org/audiowalk/

PDF Map of Tour

The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia

Since Philadelphia is best seen by foot, The Constitutional is the best way to explore America's Birthplace. 75-minute guided tours of Historic Philadelphia, 20+ sites including Liberty Bell, Independence Hall. Weekends in Spring and Fall; Daily through Labor Day. Private and Group tours available year-round with advance reservations. Philly MP3 Audio Tours also offered.

Location: 6th and Market
Phone: (215) 525-1776
www.theconstitutional.com

How to see Philly

Leanr how to navigate the City of Brotherly Love like a true local. It's never been easier. Or more walkable!

WALKABLE: Thanks to founder William Penn's smart and simple grid street design, the heart of the city is easy to navigate - even for a first-time visitor. In fact, Center City is often praised as the msot walkable of America's big cities. The Schuylkill and Delaware rivers border Center City's 25 blocks, and streets running east and west are named after trees while north and south streets are numbered.

FRIENDLY: Color-coded directional signs let you know what district you're in and point toward area attractions. Dressed in teal uniforms and equipped with maps, Center City District goodwill ambassadors are available to give directions and answer questions seven days a week.

DIVERSE: From Chinatown and University City to Washington Square West, Philadelphia's neighborhoods offer one-of-a-kind ethnic and cultural experiences.

PHILLY LIKE A LOCAL: WHERE TO EAT AFTER DARK

Bars are closed. Stomach is growling. Where can I go?

If you're near south street, Lorenzo's is the place to get your slice. Take note - don't expect any slices with toppings. Proper way to order at Lorenzo's: I'll take a slice.

If you're near and can head to South Philly, well Geno's and Pat's is where the locals line up for late-night cheesesteaks. There are two windows, one for steaks and another one for fries/drinks. Caution - be prepared or the person will ring your neck. Visit - How to order a cheesesteak in South Philly

History of Elfreth's Alley

Elfreth's Alley — popularly known as "Our nation’s oldest residential street" – dates back to the first days of the eighteenth century. Twenty years after William Penn founded Pennsylvania and established Philadelphia as its capital, the town had grown into a thriving, prosperous mercantile center on the banks of the Delaware River.

Philadelphians had abandoned Penn’s plan for a "greene countrie towne" and instead created a cityscape similar to what they remembered in England. Wharves stretched out into the river, welcoming ships from around the world. Shops, taverns, and homes crowded the area along the river. Philadelphians made and sold items essential to life in the New World and to the trade that was a part of their daily lives.

Two of these colonial craftsmen, blacksmiths John Gilbert and Arthur Wells, owned the land where Elfreth’s Alley now sits. In 1702, each man gave up a portion of his land to create an alleyway along their property line that connected their smithies near the river with Second Street, one block away. By that date, Second was a major north-south road, connecting Philadelphia with towns north and west of the city and the frontier beyond.

In the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, numerous artisans and craftsmen resided on Elfreth’s Alley, often living and working in the same building. Even at that early date, Elfreth’s Alley had a diverse population. English colonists who worshipped at nearby Chris Church lived next door to Moses Mordecai, a Jewish merchant who was a leader of Mikveh Israel Synagogue. Cophie Douglass, a former slave, began his life as a free man in post-revolutionary Philadelphia while living on Elfreth’s Alley. During the Industrial Revolution of the nineteenth century, the Alley became a neighborhood of immigrants from Germany, Ireland, and other parts of Europe who sought new opportunities in America.

By the early twentieth century, the Alley had become a run-down, impoverished area and faced numerous demolition threats. In 1934, Alley resident Dorothy Ottey organized a group of men and women to save several colonial houses from demolition by absentee landlords. They called themselves the Elfreth's Alley Association and helped to rescue the street from additional threats, including construction of I-95 in the late 1950s.

Since 1702, Elfreth's Alley has been home to more than 3,000 people. Today thirty-two houses, built between 1728 and 1836, line the alley. They form one of the last intact early American streetscapes in the nation. Elfreth's Alley is a National Historic Landmark District, one of the first districts that celebrates the lives of everyday Americans.

Free performance at the Philadelphia Shakespeare Theatre: Henry IV, Part 1

Don’t miss this exquisite coming of age story that traces Prince Hal’s journey from a young irresponsible man, frequenting bars with the irresistible Falstaff, to his true position on the English throne as Henry V.

This production is offered FREE to the public and features our most talented young professionals.

Tickets are first come, first serve. Tickets are available three hours before show time, the day of performance.

Date: August 19 - 30, 2009
Location: 2111 Sansom Street (21st and Sansom)
For more information call 215.496.8001

1st Annual Pink Paws for Life Walk against Pet Cancer

Today is the day!

Pink Paws for Life will be holding our first Walk against Pet Cancer on August 16, 2009.

Early registration starts at 7:00 AM

Race begins at 9:00 AM

Start line: Lloyd Hall proceed to MLK drive (AKA West River Drive)

Learn more at PinkPawsForLife.org

Nicknames for Philadelphia

Philadelphia is known to the locals as "Philly"
Most tourist know Philly as being the "City of Brotherly Love"
In my opinion, this was a marketing nightmare - "The City that Loves you Back"
Cmon. Need I say more ... "Cradle of Liberty"
Meet you at the Quaker Meeting Room at 4 - "The Quaker City"
We all know this one - "The Birthplace of America"
Compared to what city? - "The City of Neighborhoods"

Hotels in Philadelphia

Finding a hotel in Philadelphia is easy.

Whether you're looking for a luxury high-rise hotel, a boutique hotel or a bed and breakfast - Philadelphia has a hotel for you.

Remember, most hotels in downtown Philadelphia are within walking distance to alot of tourist attractions.

Start your hotel search today - Philadelphia Hotels

Washington Square District

Reminiscent of a London square, Washington Square was created as one of William Penn's five original public plazas. Today the area serves as a relaxing, green open space surrounded by harmonious blocks of coveted residences, offices, and unique retail.

On the west side of the district, rainbow-painted street signs highlight Midtown Village's concentration of GLBT-focused bookstores, clubs, restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques.

Many "firsts" for America happened in Philadelphia, and the Washington Square District lays claim to some of these fames. In 1731, Benjamin Franklin created the Library Company of Philadelphia, the nation's first true public library that permitted the borrowing of books. And our nation's first hospital, Pennsylvania Hospital, was founded here in 1751, and still operates today at 8th and Spruce streets.
Additionally, the area features many of the colorful murals that are part of Philadelphia's internationally celebrated Mural Arts Program.

The district is also home to Antique Row on Pine Street, and Jewelers' Row on Sansom Street - America's oldest diamond district since 1851.

Founded in 1787, Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church on 6th and Lombard streets marks the oldest piece of ground in America continuously owned by African Americans.

When the sun goes down, the district offers plenty of places to wet your whistle. The Irish Pub and Moriarty's Restaurant & Irish Pub have dozens of brews on tap to go with delicious wings and burgers. For saki and sushi, there is the 1225 Raw Sushi & Saki Lounge. And at Azul Cantina and El Vez, you can kick back at the bar with margaritas and tequila drinks.

While the Avenue of the Arts runs along the district's western boundary, Washington Square also touts the Forrest Theatre , which hosts many of Broadway's celebrated musicals and plays at 11th and Walnut Streets.

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Fogo de Chão: Traditional Brazilian Steakhouse

If you want a dining experience like no other. Fogo de Chão (fo-go dèe shoun)creates the truly unique steakhouse atmosphere from Rio Grande do Sul in Southern Brazil.

Located at 13th and Chestnut, Fogo de Chão features meats that are seasoned to perfection and slow-roasted over an open flame to capture their individual flavor.

The savory cuts are presented on skewers and carved tableside by our authentic Gaúcho chefs, at the guests' request. Click - Menu via PDF

Made sure you try the fried bananas and guarana.

The Dining Experience
Step 1: Sit down, relax, and enjoy a drink while we explain the Fogo® dining experience.

Step 2: Visit our gourmet salad and sides bar. Enjoy over 30 items including fresh cut vegetables, imported cheeses, cured meats and Brazilian side dishes.

Step 3: Turn your card green side up, signaling that you are ready for our gaucho chefs to begin tableside service.

Step 4: Choose from the 15 cuts of delectable fire roasted meats that are brought to your table, sliced, and served by our gaucho chefs.

Step 5: When you are satisfied, flip the disc to the red side until you are ready for more offerings.

Step 6: If you wish, end the meal with one of our delicious desserts.

Fogo® Philadelphia
1337 Chestnut St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone:(215) 636-9700
Fax: (215) 636-9701
http://www.fogodechao.com

Inside Philadelphia Neighborhoods

Philadelphia has alot of character. Read, learn and explore!

1. North Philadelphia, Kensington, Richmond, Frankford
The North Philadelphia region of the city is divided into various neighborhoods that serveas cultural centers for African-American, Latino, & European communities to name just a few.

Throughout the vicinity, one can find a wide selection of living arrangements, which vary from large brownstones, brick row homes, townhomes & loft-style apartments. The North Philadelphia section of the city is home to the World Famous Freedom Theatre,

The Legendary Blue Horizon, Temple University’s Main Campus, Temple’s Health Science Campus and Temple’s Liacouras Center, while just south is the famed Avenue of the Arts home to the city’s rich cultural offerings.

2. Art Museum, Fairmount, Spring Garden
In this area of the city, one has easy access to scenic and recreational Kelly Drive and Fairmount Park. The Philadelphia Museum of Art serves as this neighborhood’s backyard, playground and meeting spot where one can enjoy views of the magnificent skyline & river.

Pennsylvania Avenue is home to some of the city’s largest & affluent apartment buildings while the smaller streets are filled with 19th century brick rowhomes.

3. Mount Airy, Roxborough, Manayunk, Chestnut Hill
These areas are all very popular residential sections of Philadelphia proper. The
popularity of these sections rests on a number of qualities among them being the unique character of the communities themselves as well as convenient access to Center City.

Mount Airy is located in the northwest section of Philadelphia with Germantown Avenue
as its main thoroughfare. Mt Airy prides itself on being one of the most ethnically and racially diverse neighborhoods of the city while also being one of the most historic.

Roxborough and Manayunk are located just minutes from Center City Philadelphia,
nestled along the banks of the Schuylkill River and the historic Manayunk Canal. These towns offer a hillside living similar to San Francisco. Main Street runs through the heart of Manayunk offering unique shopping and dining destinations.

Chestnut Hill, though technically within the city limits, is on the edge of the city adjoining Montgomery County and the full length of its western boundary overlooks the beautiful northwestern section of Fairmount Park. Convenient access to Center City by two rail lines and easy access to major automobile routes is also a plus.

If you would enjoy living in diverse, active, & family-oriented towns, while still being within the city limits, take a good look at Mount Airy, Roxborough, Manayunk & Chestnut Hill.

4. Northern Liberties
Musicians & artists have long been transforming this warehouse, rowhouse, and land of
former breweries district into Philly’s version of SoHo. Warehouse buildings lend themselves todevelopment as great living or working space for artists, music, art studios and nightclubs.

The neighborhood enjoys good food and jazz. Northern Liberties sits between Girard Avenue and Spring Garden Street.

5. Center City
Rittenhouse Square is a bustling commercial district and a gracious residential quarter. The Square itself is popular with parents, babysitters, children and students allowing for one of the best places in town to read or people-watch. The square is lined with apartment complexes, 19th century townhouses, luxury hotels, restaurants, and a lively sidewalk cafe’ scene.

Philadelphia’s Chinatown bustles with dozens of gift shops and Asian markets &
restaurants offering Taiwanese, Burmese, Thai, Vietnamese and other cuisine. The Pennsylvania Convention Center, Reading Terminal Market, and The Gallery at Market East are all within a short walk.

Washington Square is a lush green space just steps from Independence National HistoricPark. This old and historic neighborhood is home to cozy coffeehouses, Antique Row, and historic theatres.

6. Old City
Once a waterfront commercial and industrial district, Old City today is one of
Philadelphia’s most happening neighborhoods with a lively gallery, restaurant and club scene.

The turn-of-the-century buildings that characterize the neighborhood have been transformed intodramatic, light-filled loft apartments with spectacular views of the Delaware River and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.

7. Queen Village, Bella Vista, South Philadelphia
These well-established neighborhoods are full of longtime residents and new neighbors. Located in the center of everything is the Italian Market, an Old World style street market where you can find rare cuts of meat, fresh mozzarella and exotic spices. Nearby South Street offers funky shops, trendy restaurants and fulltime nightlife.

* Source: Temple University

Piano Bars in Philly

The Piano Bar@20th and Arch
A true Philadelphia experience. Great line-up of piano players.

Hours: Tues 6-12, Wed-Fri 5-close, Sat 7-2
http://pianobarat20thandarch.com

Tavern on Camac
Pure entertainment at the gay-friendly, Tavern on Camac. Great music with colorful patrons.

Hours: Mon-Wed 9pm-close, Thus-Sun 6pm-close
http://www.tavernoncamac.com/

Amtrak Deals: The Northeast is Going for a Great Price

- Valid on Northeast Regional service only.
- Discounted one-way Coach fares only.
- Valid for travel through December 16, 2009.
- 14-day advance purchase required.

Book Early and Save up to 25% on Northeast Regional

Just in time for the summer travel season. Amtrak has lowered fares on the Northeast Regional. You can save up to 25% off lowest available fares when you book 14 days in advance. Just choose the Adult or Child passenger type when booking to receive the promotional discount.