Going on touristy activities like visiting the Liberty Bell, catching a game down at the sports complex, or grabbing a cheesesteak wit are all rites of passage for Philadelphians. While Philly is one of the most historically significant cities in the world that has a fantastic group of sports teams and equally tasty food, this is stuff you would file under ‘been there, done that.’ And while there’s nothing wrong with going to your favorite places, Philadelphia has plenty of hidden gems in its city limits that are worthy of checking out.
After Hours Di Bruno Bros. – 834 Chestnut St. or 930 S. 9th St.
Di Bruno Bros. is a famous and popular chain of delis in the Philadelphia area that specialize in cheeses, cured meats, and other deli specialities. Their historic 9th Street and Franklin Market stores stay open after hours with reservations to give people a look behind the deli counter. These BYOB parties provide you with tutorials from the deli’s cheesemongers, discounted prices on virtually anything edible in the shop, and pairings for your drink of choice.
Love Letter Murals – 45th to 63rd Streets along the Market Street corridor
Composed of a series of 50 rooftop murals from 45th to 63rd Streets along Market Street, artist Steve Powers calls his creation ‘a letter for one, with meaning for all.’ This popular and high profile collection of art that has been covered by The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and PBS can be seen with a great view from scheduled train tours hosted by Philadelphia’s Mural Arts Program. For an unofficial tour, simply take a ride on the El or explore Market Street from the sidewalk.
The Dream Garden at the Curtis Center – 601 Walnut St.
You don’t have to go to the Philadelphia Art Museum to see one of the city’s most prized pieces of art. In the lobby of the Curtis Center, you’ll find Dream Garden, a 15-foot by 49-foot mosaic of more than 100,000 pieces of favrile glass. The work, which has been on public display since 1916, is breathtaking, but few know of its existence and location.
Lucky Strike Philadelphia – 1336 Chestnut St.
Whether you want to book a party or meet up with just a few of your friends, Lucky Strike Philadelphia should get a nod. With 24 bowling lanes, 10 billiards tables, ping pong, local DJ’s, and plenty of TV’s to air Philly sports games, the venue also has a full bar and kitchen.
Painting with a Twist – 1520 Locust St. or 629 E. Passyunk Ave. 19102
For those that want a relaxing and creative outing, look no further than the art studio, Painting with a Twist. The studio is BYOB and is instructed by professional artists over either two or three-hour sessions, focusing on recreating well-known paintings. Whether you want a relaxing night of alone time, or are interested in meeting some new, like-minded people, keep it on your list.