Advertisement. Stroll the acres of plants, trees, and gardens, and check out the historic home. The garden has century-old plants that were then used for medicinal purposes. Hidden gem locations to check out in Philadelphia 1. Travel Smarter! 2023 Smarter Travel Media LLC. 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. It is home to the most extensive collection of pizza memorabilia and collectibles in the world. . 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. Philadelphia is definitely filled with treasures, but not all treasures are easily spotted. . Hence the name of the lovely pond at the parks centerthe BioPond. The Park is one of the best places to visit in the locality, but one might simply walk away due to its hidden setting. Philadelphia is full till neck when it comes to hidden gems and exciting landmarks. Seek out Greater Philadelphias Hidden Bars & Restaurants for in-the-know dining and drinking. An Underrated Gem. Imagine stumbling upon Dr. Js size-15 high-tops at the Temple University Podiatry Schools Shoe Museum. Visitors can explore the collection on their own during library hours or take the daily 11 a.m. guided tour. 52 Fun Things to Do in Philadelphia. Theyre easily identifiable and never fail to make us smile because theyre always a surprise. Here is a list of six (somewhat) hidden gems that are undoubtedly worth checking out. Gifted to the American people by Japan after World War II, the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center is an oasis from the city in the heart of West Fairmount Park. High above the Schuylkill River in University City is Cira Green, located 12 stories up and 95 feet above the Cira Center South Garage. Below are my favorite hidden gems in every neighborhood that are worth checking out. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The people who work there are the stores best resource: Full of great suggestions, theyre able to figure out the book youre looking for from even the vaguest of descriptions. In his later life, Bartram became the Kings Botanist by King George III in recognition of his knowledge and accomplishments. Flowers, trees, and plants adorn this peaceful lushness amidst the concrete jungle. It's modeled after a Prohibition-era speakeasy, so you have to be in the know to head here for a drink. Escape the crowds at Center Citys Reading Terminal Market with a stroll down 9th Street in South Philly. Please also read our Privacy Notice and Terms of Use, which became effective December 20, 2019. The Pavilion in the Trees Unlike other crowdy spaces, it is quieter and comforting. 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 Graffiti Bar 377 Lounges Find out more about Hunter King and Beau Mirchoff. Now, it's a wide open park that shows off some of the best skyline views around. Mural Arts offers maps so you can take your own self-guided walking tour. This is a popular spot! Cherry Street Pier Located on the Delaware River, Cherry Street Pier is a public space that offers events, concessions, flea markets, and classes. 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 . Theres also a small water feature tucked somewhere in the corner. A hidden gem in the St. Ben's neighborhood Named for the 100-plus-year-old parish at its center, St. Ben's neighborhood lies on Chicago's north side and is a great area to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Chicago. Traveling over an hour to Amish country is not necessary when the best hidden gem is located in the Northeast section of Philadelphia. There is always a great rotating selection of craft beers and bourbons. About Hidden Gems. This park is one of the best places to relax on a warm afternoon, surrounded by plants and trees. ), made with Bluecoat Gin, luxardo maraschino, creme de violette, and lemon juice. 1. A short ride up I-95 in Northeast Philly, bug lovers (yep, such people exist) can view thousands of Phillys smallest residents up close. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Ornate gates mark the entrance to the charming John F. Collins Park. 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 7 Hidden Gems in Philadelphia Where You Can Grab The Best Burgers . Hidden gem locations to check out in Philadelphia 1. The Delaware River runs along the eastern border of our city. Fairmount Park's Pavilion in the Trees is one of the most beautiful places 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. 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. 19 days ago. The top top-secret dining and drinking spots in Philadelphia and the Countryside Ahmed Alsoudani, in collaboration with The Fabric Workshop and Museum, I consent to receive email communications from visitphilly.com and agree to Visit Philadelphias, Photo courtesy Wise Owl Media for the Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion, Photo courtesy Wagner Free Institute of Science, Photo by Carlos Avendao for The Fabric Workshop & Museum, Photo by G. Widman for Visit Philadelphia, Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia, Photo courtesy Kids Castle Central Park. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else.". 3.2. Some posts on this site contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Because there are absolutely no signages, one has to look for the red lantern to actually reach Royal Izakaya. By choosing I Accept, you consent to our use of cookies and other tracking technologies. The Penn Museum is home to a 15-ton Egyptian sphinx that's one of the coolest attractions in the city. Where: Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, 148 N. 8th Street. Behold: The only lighthouse in Philadelphia. 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. Founded in 1977, the FWM is the only museum of its kind in the world and displays garments, textiles, sculptures, drawings, paintings and more. Leo's Steak Shop. 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. You'll never get bored with the many stores to explore, delicious food options, and stunning waterfront views. 4 HIDDEN GEMS TO EXPLORE IN PHILADELPHIA. Originally, it was powered by gas,. 9 Best Hidden Gems in Philadelphia - Tripping.com The museum is a fascinating place for travelers interested in history and culture, telling the stories of Jewish people in the U.S. from the American Revolution to the Holocaust and beyond. 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Filled with brightly painted Queen Anne Victorian twins and homes with other unique features, the neighborhoods are a delight for architecture lovers. That said, here are the best hidden gems in the city of Philadelphia. The Best Photo Spots in Philly: Hidden Gem Edition - UNATION The cast is harmonious in providing a particularly smooth and fun experience in this luxurious pre-wedding atmosphere. Picture birdwatching on the shore of a quiet marsh at the John Heinz Wildlife Refuge. The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park is an ecological oasis on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania. The Museum has been sponsoring expeditions for more than 125 years, and their collection includes nearly 1 million historic artifacts. What stands out here is the delicious high-quality meat they use. Located in the Italian Market, Isgro's offers some of the best pastries in Philly. 11 Hidden Architectural Gems of Philadelphia - Drexel News Blog The Rosenbach of the Free Library of Philadelphia is a book lovers dream. These and other rare books and documents are displayed in a 19th-century townhouse near Rittenhouse Square, amid a collection of decorative arts and antique furniture. An Unknown Gem. Bartram's Garden is the oldest botanical garden in North America, and it's truly a hidden gem in Philadelphia. 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. Its traditional Japanese garden, complete with a pond, stone lanterns, and a small waterfall, is one of the citys most serene spots. This giant hotel also was a popular spot for long-term residents and famous guests like President Roosevelt, President Truman . The grounds, gardens, farm, and wildlife habitats are open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. The original garden and stone house can still be visited. But thanks to a major overhaul in 2018, the food court has become a food hall. 10 Other Words For "Hidden Gems" - GrammarhowCheesesteaks in Philadelphia: Hidden Gems - Philly Grub If you buy something or book a reservation from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. A Beaux Arts building just behind the Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel, the Bourse used to have a mall-style food court with supremely uninspired offerings (think fast food and generic hoagies). Located at the eastern edge of Old City, the store has been serving up chocolates and other sugary confections since 1863. Originally established by the Baldwin family in Delaware in 1934, Baldwins Book Barn has been offering used, rare and fine books; manuscripts; maps; paintings; prints; and more in West Chester since 1946. The site features a traditional-style Japanese house that visitors can walk through to see the rooms as well as a collection of murals on display that were inspired by the waterfall on the grounds. Its ivy-covered walls, wooden benches, and tables are welcoming for the lunch crowd or anyone looking to rest their feet for a moment in Center City. Where Was 'Hidden Gems' Filmed? See Cast Stories & Locations To adore and adorn all of them, here is our ultimate list of the Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Philadelphia. See our, 111 S Independence Mall E, Philadelphia, PA 19106, Walnut St & S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories. If you didnt know to look for it, it would be very easy to pass by this nearly secret spot. Kevin McElroy of Philly Rock Radio said his favorite hidden gem is Taproom on 19th because "It's a typical Philadelphia-styled corner bar that's not typical. Hidden Philadelphia: 10 Under-the-Radar Gems Worth Discovering 7 Hidden Gems in Philadelphia Some of the best hidden gems in Philly include: 1. The recently renovated Flame Gallery features a monumental, 21-foot glass sculpture by Dale Chihuly. Considered "The Metropolis of Brotherly Love," Philadelphia, PA is greatest identified for its wealthy historical past, world-famous cheesesteaks, and vibrant artwork and music tradition. With 2 days in Philadelphia, you can visit some of the most important historical sights in the country, watch a professional sports game, peruse public markets, check out the excellent museums, go bar-hopping or stuff your face with cheesesteaks! The family-friendly National Liberty Museum tells the stories of inspiring figures from around the globe, including Nelson Mandela, Malala Yousafzai, and the heroes of September 11, 2001as well as ordinary citizens who make a difference such as teachers and firefighters. Once you make it here, you'll be enjoying the best sushi and sake in the city. This advertising content was produced in collaboration between Vox Creative and our sponsor, without involvement from Vox Media editorial staff. 1. SUMMER NIGHTS 2022 MOVIES . 10 hidden gems in New York: Beyond the Brooklyn Bridge This pocket park just off 17th Street occupies a narrow space between Chestnut and Ranstead. Wagner Free Institute The Wagner Free Institute of Science offers a unique experience modern museums cannot the museum was built in the 1800s and hasn't changed much since. Many of the native plants on the grounds owe their cultivation to Bartrams efforts. Where: The Fabric Workshop and Museum, 1214 Arch Street. Theres even a small animal farm on-site. The Morris Arboretum is one of the most stunning places in the country. The benches at the Smith Memorial Arch in Fairmount Park are designed in such a way that you can sit on one end, whisper quietly, and be heard loud and clear on the other end. Around since 2005, this cozy shop in the eclectic Head House District takes a curated approach to the books it stocks, relying more on staff picks than bestseller lists and hosting a packed calendar of readings that are always worth checking out. Employees in period dress ring up your purchases at antique cash registers, just as they would have in the old days. Arch Enemy is one of the best, a large contemporary space where brightly colored, eye-catching images practically jump off the walls. The quarter-mile stretch of park will ultimately be three miles long, which will make the Rail Park twice the length of New Yorks famous High Line. Thats just one of many new things I learned at the National Museum of American Jewish History, which isnt hidden so much as hidden in plain sight. Hotel St George. One of our favorite things about driving around the city (especially in South Philly) is finding the unexpected Zagar mosaics. Beyond the Liberty Bell: Philadelphia's Best-Kept Secrets - Culture Trip With towering 350-year-old live oaks, semi-tropical plants, and waterfront views, this place is nothing short of otherworldly. The city is teeming with parks and gardens, unique spaces, and other hidden attractions that even long-time residents may not know. Or maybe youd prefer to buy two Philly hotel nights and get a third night for free? Definitely don't pass up on their baked goods . While walking down the lane, look for Ranstead room behind a nondescript door, dedicatedly a black metal door. Dating back to 1771, Fort Mifflin is the oldest active military facility in the nation and Americas only operating base predating the Declaration of Independence. The gardens here are incredible, and the events that the Shofuso House hosts are truly unique. The lush canopy of the trees will provide you some shade, where the peaceful silence will adorn your time uniquely. She loves eating her way across the city, cheering on the Union, and uncovering the unique things that make the Philadelphia metro area special. The atmosphere is energetic and fun a far cry from the Sbarros of yesteryear. It is located at 780-782 S 2nd Street though it is tough to identify. It is notedly one of the largest cities in America and so teams with the top-rated attraction. A confectionery has occupied the space at Letitia and Market for over 150 years, making it Americas oldest candy shop. Today the 70 stained glass mosaic steps were once littered and trashed. Most menu items cost under $10. 4 Hidden Gems to Explore in Philadelphia Pennsylvania Hospital was the first hospital in the United States, built in 1755 decades before the country even existed. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. Visitors can wander the River Trail and enjoy wildflowers, plants, and trees whose history stretches back centuries. If you are a local Philly, you would have crossed by the John F. Collins Park once in your lifetime. In the center is a statue of William Penn that was provided to the hospital by Penns grandson. Where some of them are overshadowed by the well-preached ones, some attractions are peacefully preserved from the limelight. If you are an art lover or interested in the quirky stuff, Fountain Street Steps is something you must dig out. There is a broad range of options for the tours, including exploring different themes and neighborhoods around the city. 33. r/nagpur. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen firesno humans or animals were harmed). Once youve visited all the top sites, whats next? It is a little hole-in-the-wall breakfast place that serves the most delicious breakfast in the region. What else would you expect from one of the prettiest college campuses in America, according to Architectural Digest? When you stay at one of many Philadelphia vacation rentals, you can easily experience fascinating museums, unique artwork, unusual sights, and lovely parks and gardens. However, only a few know that Philly is much more than that. Save Collection. Sarah Schlichter was hosted by Visit Philadelphia in her quest to discover hidden Philadelphia. 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. If youre a visitor with time on your hands or a local looking to explore something off the beaten path, there are lots of hidden gems in Philadelphia. Things to do in Philadelphia: The #1 List - Museum HackHidden Gems in Chicago You Won't Want to Miss - Redfin - RE-INSIDER 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. hands out samples. Opened in 1992, the Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion is one of the largest insect museums in the nation. Their rooftop hangout is always full of events categorized into art, taste, move, spark, and whatnot. Their breakfast game is strong and it won't break the bank. Today even though the hospital is not operating, the Pine Building is still anan functional space to explore. One particularly popular section is the Boardwalk, which continues the trail out over the river from Locust Street to South Street. Hidden Gems in Philadelphia: 17 Under-the-Radar Spots You Can't MissHidden Gems in Philly - The Odyssey Online Reveal is a superior antioxidant-rich, ready-to . Deep in the Chester County woods and atop a mountain near Valley Forge National Historical Park lived wood sculptor Wharton Esherick, the Dean of American Craftsmen. Upon his death in 1970, his hand-built, 12-acre rural modernist home, farmhouse and studio a National Historic Landmark for Architecture turned into the Wharton Esherick Museum, an immersive, interactive destination featuring more than 200 of his works on display. Its Pine Building located on Pine between 8th and 9th Streetis still in use today. 151 S. 24th St., 215-496-9222. Food Tales: Hidden Gems in Philly - Campus Philly If youre really in the mood to feel historic, order the Kite & Key cocktail (get it? Hidden Gems in Philadelphia - Menu, Photos, Ratings and Reviews of Hidden Restaurants in Philadelphia. The definitive list of hidden gems you need to try. Even the on-site caf stays on theme, with dishes like a tavern-style bread pudding taking inspiration from the era. 4 Philadelphia Hidden Gems You Have to Check OutSix of Philly's Hidden Gems - Econsult Solutions, Inc. Housing more than 100,000 books and manuscripts some over 5,000 years old the Free Library of Philadelphia Rare Book Collection is one of the largest public library special collections in the nation. 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). Royal Izakaya is a Japanese pub and a must-visit hidden gem to visit when in Philadelphia. Visit this fantastic hidden gem in Philadelphia and munch on the best Pizza of your life or you can explore their museum display and learn some unimaginable facts about Pizza. As finding an indie bookstore on a city street becomes more and more like sighting a unicorn, Head House Books reassures us that yes, magic does exist. But those celebrated Philly attractions are only half of the story. Visit Philadelphia: Black Greek Edition Golf Outing, Greater Philadelphias Hidden Bars & Restaurants, Worlds Most Beloved Independent Bookstores, Baldwin's Book Barn, 865 Lenape Road, West Chester, The Free Library of Philadelphia Rare Book Collection, Free Library of Philadelphia Rare Book Collection, Free Library of Philadelphia Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion, Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion, 8046 Frankford Avenue, The Shoe Museum at the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, Shoe Museum at the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, 148 N. 8th Street, Wagner Free Institute of Science, 1700 West Montgomery Avenue, The Fabric Workshop and Museum, 1214 Arch Street, Museum for Art in Wood, 141 N. 3rd Street, Wharton Esherick Museum, 1520 Horse Shoe Trail, Malvern, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, 8601 Lindbergh Boulevard, Kids Castle Central Park, 425 Wells Road, Doylestown, Ringing Rocks County Park, Ringing Rocks Road, Upper Black Eddy, Treehouse World, 1442 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester, Fountain Street Steps (Water Under The Bridge), Fountain Street Steps, 4800 Umbria Street, Peace Valley Lavender Farm, 802 New Galena Road, Doylestown, Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center, Lansdowne Drive & Horticultural Drive. Zagar began working on the site in 1991, and it opened to the public in 2008. Read on as we take a deep dive into what awaits you on your weekend visit to Philadelphia. Dutch Country Market is only open four days a week. Few and Far Between. The Dutch is a little hole-in-the-wall breakfast place that has a reputation for serving the best food in Pennsport. Then book the new Visit Philly 3-Day Stay package. 16 Hidden Gems in Philadelphia. The super-friendly servers dont mind if you linger over your fair-trade coffee. In 1986, Foster's Main Street Tavern opened. Our favorite thing about this spot, though, is the view. Even though this museum had a blockbuster opening in 2017, its still underrated. I have been a Philadelphia resident for over 12 years now and grew up just an hour outside of . Where: Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion, 8046 Frankford Avenue. Though if you are new to the city, this lesser-known gem might not have introduced itself to you. There's a reason that Philadelphia is listed among the myriad of "best cities to live" and "most interesting places to visit" lists. The place is operating from Wednesday through Sunday from 8 am to 2 pm. Grab a snack from the nearby food trucks and enjoy a few moments of calm. Let your eye follow the bright, rust-orange facade down the side of the Walnut Street bridge as it passes over 24th Street and you'll alight on the striped awning welcoming diners to Luigi Basile's 3-year-old BYOB. Turtle Rock Lighthouse was built in 1887 by Frank Thurwanger for $2,663 right next to the historic Boathouse Row. You'll never get bored with the many stores to explore, delicious food options, and stunning waterfront views. A wide variety of performers keep things . 12 hidden Philly-area restaurants worth finding Now 27 vendors are turning out gourmet fried chicken, Filipino comfort food, hand-pinched crab dumplings, and Korean tacos. . Once threatened with demolition to make way for a cross-town highway, South Street has since become one of Philadelphias hippest districts, thanks in large part to visionaries like Isaiah Zagarthe artist behind Philadelphias Magic Gardens. The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum just north of Philadelphia International Airport protects the largest freshwater tidal marsh in Pennsylvania. The Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM) in Market East exhibits modern art created from, on and with fabric and other related media. It consists of upscale pub fare, in a cozy atmosphere, served by friendly staff." Taproom on 19th is located at 2400 South 19th Street in South Philadelphia. The castle is the centerpiece of the 30,000-square-foot Kids Castle Central Park playground, a year-round playscape spread out across four kingdoms with treehouses, swings, interactive games, plastic rock walls, a pirate ship and more.