Philly, located in southeastern Pennsylvania, is an intriguing city whose history as the former capital of the United States is essential to the fabric of American culture and values. It is a city steeped in history, but it has also continued to change over the centuries. Today it is a fun city with hopping nightlife, a vibrant arts scene, and gorgeous parks to complement the many monuments and historic sites. It’s the perfect city for museum-hopping, taking long walks, and fueling up on street food.

The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were both composed in Philadelphia, which led to the colonies breaking from England and bringing a strong government into existence respectively. Today you can tour the Independence National Historic Park, which includes Constitution Hall, Independence Hall, and the Liberty Bell.

The Franklin Institute Science Center is named for Benjamin Franklin who is not only known for his political leadership, but also his contributions to science such as the invention of the lightning rod. Exhibits include Wright Brothers artifacts, a giant heart, and the story of electricity including ways we might be able to use it in the future with a nod to sustainability.

There are many other museums in Philadelphia to explore from the Atwater Kent Museum of Philadelphia History to the National Museum of American Jewish History. The Free Library of Philadelphia also offers a guided tour of its collection of rare books, which includes a Gutenberg Bible, several medieval manuscripts and a literary item that isn’t a book: Charles Dickens raven Grip who has been stuffed for preservation.

The most iconic item on the menu of Philadelphia specialties is the cheesesteak. The cheesesteak is street food at its best: thinly sliced beef, cheese, onions, and green peppers on a hearty roll. Pat’s King of Steaks made the first Philly Cheesesteak in 1933 and Pat’s is still open today in South Philly. The original, authentic version is made with Cheez Whiz with or without onions, but a couple other types of cheese are available, too.

Once you’ve satisfied your needs for a cheesesteak, you’ll find many other dining options in Philadelphia. Reading Terminal Market is a large fresh market where you can assemble fruits, meats, cheeses, and baked goods for a picnic or dine in at the take out stands. (You can get a cheesesteak at Reading, too.)

Additionally, TastyKake and Kraft/Nabisco are both located in Philly so you might be able to get harder to find flavors or items from these companies here. Other easy to grab foods are soft pretzels and Goldenberg’s Peanut Chews.

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