Philadelphia gained renown for its Philly cheesesteak sandwich, crafted from thinly sliced beefsteak and melted cheese enveloped within a roll. Notable establishments for an authentic Philly cheesesteak include Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks. A key figure in the founding of the United States, Benjamin Franklin exerted considerable influence upon Philadelphia. He initiated the city's inaugural public library, established its primary fire department, and laid the foundation for the University of Pennsylvania. The Philadelphia Museum of Art achieved prominence due to its iconic "Rocky Steps," prominently showcased in the "Rocky" film series. Tourists frequently reenact the memorable scene featuring Rocky Balboa's spirited sprint up these steps during their museum visits. Philadelphia holds the distinction of hosting the pioneering medical school in the United States, known as the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. In 1957, the city achieved a medical milestone by successfully separating conjoined twins for the first time.
The weather during a Philadelphia vacation can vary from minute to minute. But, for warm, sunny days and crisp, comfortable nights during your Philadelphia sightseeing trip, May and September are your best bets. During the hot and often oppressively humid summer months, Philadelphia hosts millions of domestic and international tourists; so, you should expect crowds. The holiday lights sparkle in Philadelphia during the winter months; and, you can take advantage of low hotel rates to go along with the low temperatures.
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Tranportation Authority can drop you just a short walk from any Philadelphia attraction you want to visit. It iss quite safe and a one-way fare only costs a couple bucks. For seamless Philadelphia day tours, pick up an Independence Pass. For $13, you get unlimited rides on the subway, bus, and trolley for one day. A family of 5 with one or two adults gets the same deal for $30. Drivers in Philadelphia can be quite aggressive. If this is your first time to Philly, you might want to avoid driving. A Hop-On, Hop-Off tour is what to do in Philadelphia because you can use it like the public system and you know it will hit all the major stops.
Drivers in Philadelphia don't stop for pedestrians, period. It doesn't matter what the law says or what basic regard for human life would dictate. Be very careful when crossing the street during your Philadelphia tour. Common crimes near tourist areas are pickpocketing, scams, and petty theft. You should split up your valuables equally between your front pocket, any inside pocket, and your money belt. Before you leave your hotel, research and save your travel directions for your Philadelphia day trip. You should have your transportation passes in hand and present a confident and aware demeanour to avoid looking like a potential victim.
Philadelphia is renowned for its dynamic artistic community. Be sure not to overlook the Mural Arts Program, the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts, as well as diverse museums such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation.