Philadelphia Luxury City Guide: Founded in 1682 by William Penn, the city of Philadelphia has grown to become the fifth largest city in the nation, and is chock-full of American history, from the Liberty Bell to Independence Hall. Philadelphia's important position in history even made it the nation's capital from 1791 to 1800.
Since the writing of the Constitution in its hallowed city streets, Philadelphia has become one of the nation's cultural epicenters and a recent revitalization has allowed the city to earn the titles of "number one restaurant city," "America's friendliest city," and "the safest large city."
As the birthplace of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, Philadelphia offers a stunning array of things to do, from historical architectural adventures to chowing down on one of the city's eponymous sandwiches.
City Scene:
As one of the oldest cities in America, Philadelphia has also become one of the most diverse, with neighborhoods attracting denizens from all parts of the world and all walks of life.
The Rittenhouse Square District offers the best of Philadelphia. Stroll along Rittenhouse Row for some of the world's most famous retailers, high-end boutiques, and lively outdoor cafes. In this neighborhood, you can find all the best luxury indulgences, from European spa treatments to shopping at the unique boutiques found in The Shops at Liberty Place. At night, the area provides some great entertainment, especially along the Avenue of the Arts - home to the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Pennsylvania Ballet and the Mutter Museum and City Hall.
Just north of City Center is Manayunk, derived from the Native term meaning "where we go to drink." Manayunk has blossomed as an area where the young, hip crowd goes to unwind at the galleries, boutiques, eateries and bars that fill the area. The area is so crowded, that valet parking is practically a requirement, so taking a chauffeured limo is a great idea.
Must Sees & Do's:
A city with so much history is filled with things to do and places to go. Channel your inner Rocky by running up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The museum is one of the largest in the country and features art from Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Historic buildings are among the cities best-known attractions, including Betsey Ross House, City Hall, Congress Hall, Declaration House, as well as a host of others.
For something more modern, head out to Valley Forge and the King of Prussia Mall or Adventure Aquarium.
Wining and Dining:
In a city with so many restaurants, it's hard to pick a place. If you don't want to check out Geno's or Pat's, the city's most famous Philly cheesesteak stands, head to the city's decadent Barclay Prime, a steakhouse with a $100 version of the ooey-gooey sandwich. The steakhouse's take on the sandwich uses Kobe beef, butter poached lobster and shaved French black truffles, topped with imported Italian cheese on a homemade brioche bun and accompanied by a small bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne.
In the Rittenhouse area, get velvet rope service and enjoy the elegant martinis at Continental Midtown.
For the VIP:
In a city as luxurious as Philadelphia, it's easy to get spoiled in some of the most luxurious indulgences around.
Trophy Limousine can get you anywhere you want to go in the city, as well as some idyllic spots outside the city gates in style.
Gotham Dream Cars allows you to be the driver as you move throughout the city in your own dream car. They'll deliver and pick you up, and will also provide bonus services in any one of their exotic luxury cars, including Lambo and Ferrari.
The JustLuxe City Guides have been created for you, our discerning readers, to highlight the most sophisticated, the most popular and the most elegant locations in every destination.
Our local concierge continuously strives to ensure we feature the best of the best in luxury services, dining, hotels and more. Every city offers new things to enjoy, cultures to immerse yourself in and sights to see. We have sought out the best places to see, be seen or just be.
|