Time is a precious commodity for some of us and we understand that taking time off doesn’t seem like it could be a reality. Not because you can’t but sometimes, we find ourselves lost in our work, whether we are passionate about it or not. In our latest travel series, we spend an allocated amount of time in places that we think that you should visit.
Philadelphia is considered the “Birthplace of America” and by that title alone it attracts a multitude of people. Not only that, the city boasts more outdoor sculptures and murals than any other city in the country.
Here is how we spent our 72 hours in Philadelphia.
Thursday
Kimpton Hotel Palomar, 4:00 PM.
We checked into the Kimpton Hotel Palomar and were immediately impressed by the chic decor. Our spacious rooms boasted luxurious amenities such as Etro bath products and the beds were appointed in Frette linens. Once we had settled in, we visited the One Liberty Observation Deck, that is within close proximity from the hotel. Atop the 56 stories, we absorbed a 360-degree view from the windows of the city’s skyline.
Philadelphia Distilling, 6:00 PM.
We made our way to the Philadelphia Distillery known for its Bluecoat Gins and Vieux Carré absinthe. We took a tour of the space, met some of the talented distillers, and learned about the warehouse’s history.
Once the tour had concluded, we enjoyed some drinks from the cocktail menu that consisted of a delectable balance of classical drinks and in-house concoctions. The cocktails were mostly centred around plants and herbal ingredients. We were particularly pleased with The Bay Bloody Marry cocktail and we recommended you opt for the optional crab claw as an additional garnish. To cap the night, we then proceed to eat a late dinner at the Harp & Crown to feast on delicious menu created by Chef Michael Schulson.
Friday
Mural Mile Walking Tour, 10:00 AM.
The next day, we woke up to a delectable breakfast at the hotel’s cozy restaurant, Square 1682. From there, we headed to Philadelphia’s Mural Walk, that has produced more than 3,800 murals to date.
Since its establishment back in 1984, Mural Arts has morphed from an anti-graffiti to a city beautification initiative, hosted by artists internationally. Our tour was guide was Brandon Davis, CEO and Founder of American Dreaming, a Philadelphia based Design Agency.For lunch, we ate at Vista Peru, an upscale Peruvian fare with an extensive Pisco bar.
The Barnes Foundation, 3:30 PM.
Since Philadelphia was the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, it was essential for us to take the Historic District Tour. During that walk, we were able to see many historical sites such as the National Constitutions Centre, the Independence Hall, and the Liberty Bell. At the end of the tour, we continued to The Barnes Foundation. The museum has amassed one of the world’s finest collection of French impressionist, post-impressionist, early-modern paintings from artists such as Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, and more.For dinner, we attended the swanky Taiwanese restaurant, Danlu, headlined by chef Patrick Feury.
Saturday
Penn Museum, 10:30 AM.
The next day, we went to the Penn Museum, which has been internationally recognized for its archeological and anthropological exhibitions. We were mesmerized by the Egyptian mummies, the Mayan monuments, as well as the Buddhist, Etruscan, Greek, and Roman sculptures.Afterwards, we wanted to indulge in the sandwich most associated with Philadelphia – the Philly Cheesesteak. To do so, we went to North Philadelphia to Max’s Steak, a place known for its cameo in the movie Creed.
Johnson House Historic Site, 1:00 PM.
This is where we were was truly enthralled by the trip. The Johnson House was established back in the 1800s and was a shelter for runaway Africans slaves. The house played a crucial to the Underground Railroad movement. It was where people like Harriet Tubman was sheltered.Meticulously placed in all areas on the house was an array of collars, ankle shackles, and educational material was on display. Its storied past is expressed within the rustic hardwood floors, cabinets, and its stone and brick exterior.
Coloured Girls Museum, 02:30 PM.
Afterwards we made our way through Germantown to the three-story Victorian House that is home to the Coloured Girls Museum. This cultural memoir museum honours the stories, experiences, and history of Coloured women. Every room has, not only a curative purpose, but a symbolic one as well. Our hostess, Vashti Dubois, the Executive Director and Founder of the institution, was extremely warm and welcoming.
Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books, 03:30 PM.
Within the Germantown district, we went to Marc Lamont Hill’s part bookstore and part café, Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books. Created to honour Hill’s uncle, the place includes numerous books, literature, and magazines by African-American authors. For our last meal of the trip we went to Tasties, a Soul Food restaurant lead by Chef Barbara Devan.
Words: Abraham Berchan
Photography: Naskademini
